Additional information

DTS 96/24

DTS 96/24 is an extension of the original DTS Digital Surround which offers high quality 96 kHz / 24-bit audio using a DTS 96/24 decoder. This format is also fully backward compatible with all existing decoders. This means that DVD players can play this software using a conventional DTS 5.1 channel decoder.

“DTS”, “DTS-ES”, “DTS 96/24” and “Neo:6” are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.

Windows Media® Audio 9 Professional

Windows Media® Audio 9 Professional (WMA9 Pro) is a discrete surround format developed by Microsoft Corporation.

WMA9 Pro can support up to 5.1/7.1 channel playback with sampling rates up to 24-bit/96kHz. Using the unique WMA compression techniques, WMA9 Pro can deliver multichannel music and soundtracks over high-speed internet networks at low bit rates with minimal audio degradation. Playback may be enjoyed with the Windows Media® Player 9 Series (or other third-party media player) on a personal computer, or with an AV amplifier with on- board WMA9 Pro decoding.

Windows Media® and the Windows logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

PCM (Pulse Code Modulation)

PCM (also known as Linear PCM) is a digital audio coding system that does not use compression to reduce the amount of data needed to represent the analog audio. PCM audio can be found on CDs and some DVDs.

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THX Cinema™ processing

THX engineers developed patented technologies to accurately translate the sound from the movie theater environment into the home, correcting the tonal and spatial errors that occur. When the THX indicator shows in the display, THX features are automatically added in Cinema modes (see Using the Home THX modes on page 41).

Re-Equalization™

The tonal balance of a film soundtrack will be excessively bright and harsh when played back over audio equipment in the home because film soundtracks were designed to be played back in large movie theaters using very different professional equipment. Re-Equalization restores the correct tonal balance for watching a movie soundtrack in a small home environment.

Timbre Matching™

This feature filters the sound going to the surround speakers so that it more closely matches the sound coming from the front speakers. This ensures seamless panning between the front and surround speakers.

Adaptive Decorrelation™

By slightly changing one surround channel's time and phase relationship with respect to the other surround channel, Adaptive Decorrelation expands the listening position and creates the same spacious surround experience as in a movie theater using only two speakers.

THX Ultra2™

Before any home theater component can be THX Ultra2™ certified, it must incorporate all the features described here and also pass a rigorous series of quality and performance tests. THX Ultra2™ requirements cover every aspect of the product including pre-amplifier performance and operation, and hundreds of other parameters in both the digital and analog domain.

About THX®

THX is an exclusive set of standards and technologies established by the world-renowned film production company, Lucasfilm Ltd. These were designed to make film soundtracks, in both movie theaters and in your home theater, as faithful as possible to what the director intended.

The THX technologies are explained below. See www.thx.com for more detailed information.

THX Surround EX™

THX Surround EX-Dolby Digital Surround EX is a joint development of THX Ltd. and Dolby Laboratories. This technology reproduces an additional surround back channel, bringing greater depth, spacious ambience, sound localization and detailed imaging behind the listener.

This product may also engage the THX Surround EX mode during the playback of 5.1 channel material that is not Dolby Digital Surround EX encoded. In such case the information delivered to the surround back channel may have unpredictable results.

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Pioneer VSA-AX10Ai manual About THX, Windows Media Audio 9 Professional, PCM Pulse Code Modulation

VSA-AX10Ai specifications

The Pioneer VSA-AX10Ai is a high-end, multi-channel home theater receiver that stands out for its robust performance and cutting-edge technologies. Launched as a flagship model, it combines advanced audio processing capabilities with a formidable power output, catering to both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of the VSA-AX10Ai is its Direct Energy HD Amplification technology, which incorporates a Class D amplifier design. This technology not only ensures high power efficiency but also minimizes distortion, delivering pristine sound quality at high volumes. The receiver boasts a substantial output of 200 watts per channel over eight channels, making it an ideal choice for driving large, demanding speaker systems.

In terms of audio decoding, the VSA-AX10Ai supports a multitude of formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. This feature allows the receiver to provide a cinematic surround sound experience, ensuring that every detail of the soundtrack is delivered with accuracy and clarity. The device is also equipped with a high-quality 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, assuring top-notch sound reproduction from a variety of sources.

The VSA-AX10Ai features Pioneer’s sophisticated MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System), which automatically calibrates the audio output to match the room's acoustics. By measuring sound from each speaker and adjusting levels, delays, and equalization, it ensures a balanced sound field, regardless of room shape or speaker placement.

Connectivity is extensive, with multiple HDMI inputs offering 4K pass-through and upscaling capabilities. This makes the receiver well-suited for modern home theater setups that require integration with 4K Ultra HD displays. It also includes legacy inputs, ensuring compatibility with older audio and video equipment.

Another noteworthy characteristic is the receiver’s build quality. The VSA-AX10Ai features a rigid chassis designed to minimize vibration as well as a premium-grade power supply, which contributes to its overall reliability and performance.

Overall, the Pioneer VSA-AX10Ai encapsulates the essence of high-fidelity home audio and video. With its extensive feature set, exceptional sound quality, and robust performance capabilities, it remains a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive and immersive home theater experience. Whether for music playback or movie watching, this receiver delivers an unparalleled audio experience that stands the test of time.