Listening to your system

Listening with virtual surround back speakers

• Default setting: VIRTUAL SB OFF

If you don’t have real surround back speakers connected, you can use the Virtual Surround Back feature to simulate one.

Sometimes the material may sound better in the 5.1 format for which it was originally encoded. In this case you can have the amplifier only apply this effect to 6.1 encoded sources like Dolby Digital EX or DTS-ES (VSB AUTO), or you can simply switch it off (VSB OFF).

Note that this feature only works when the surround channels are active and the surround back speaker is set to NO in Speaker Systems on page 52. It is also available when the speaker system has been set to SP AB (see Switching the speaker system on page 75).

See also Using the surround back channel above.

Press SB CH MODE repeatedly to cycle through the virtual surround back channel options.

The remote control menu for this step is shown below (see note at the start of this chapter if you need help).

AMPLIFIER 3/3

TV

AMPLIFIER CONT

INPUT

SB CH

MODE

SPEAKER

INPUT

A/B

ATT

VIDEO

DISPLAY

SELECT

DIMMER

TAPE2

STATUS

MONITOR

ACOUSTIC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHLEVEL

SBCH

CAL.

MIDNIGHT

LOUDNESS

TONE

OPTION

 

 

DIGITALNR

INPUTATT

SELECT

 

MODE

PHONES

SPSYSTEM

SIGNAL

VIDEO

TAPE2

STREAM

SETUP

 

 

VIDEOINPUT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A/B

SELECT

SELECT

MONITOR

DIRECT

MIC

DIGITALIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S-VIDEO

VIDEO

L AUDIO R

Each press cycles through the options as follows:

VSB AUTO

VSB ON

VSB OFF

Note

• You can’t select the virtual surround back setting when you’ve selected SP B as the speaker setting (see Caution on page 75) or when Bi-Surroundis selected in Speaker Systems on page 52.

You can’t use the virtual surround back setting when Stream Direct is on or when STEREO, or one of the THX modes is selected.

05

Creating a center speaker effect

If you don’t have a center speaker connected, the center speaker channel is mixed to your two front speakers. However, using the Real Phantom setting, you can create a center speaker effect for an effective front surround effect.

1Press OPTION repeatedly to select R.PHANTOM. The remote control menu for this step is shown below (see note at the start of this chapter if you need help).

 

AMPLIFIER

2/3

AMPLIFIER

 

TV

 

CONT

MIDNIGHT

DIGITAL NR

 

TONE

LOUDNESS

OPTION

+

CH LEVEL

+

ACOUSTIC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHLEVEL

SBCH

CAL.

MIDNIGHT

LOUDNESS

TONE

OPTION

 

 

DIGITALNR

INPUTATT

SELECT

 

MODE

PHONES

SPSYSTEM

SIGNAL

VIDEO

TAPE2

STREAM

SETUP

 

 

VIDEOINPUT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A/B

SELECT

SELECT

MONITOR

DIRECT

MIC

DIGITALIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S-VIDEO

VIDEO

L AUDIO R

2Use the (OPTION) +/– buttons to change the setting.

Mid – A subtle center speaker effect is applied to the front left and right channels.

Max – A strong center speaker effect is applied to the front left and right channels.

OFF – The center speaker effect is switched off.

Note

Real Phantom is automatically switched off and R.PHANTOM won’t appear in the display (in step 1) if Stream Direct or the STEREO listening mode is switched on. The center speaker must also be set to NO in Speaker Systems on page 52.

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Image 47
Pioneer VSA-AX10Ai manual Creating a center speaker effect, VSB Auto VSB on VSB OFF

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.