Front Panel

Names of Parts and Basic Operations

1 2	3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 - = ~ ! @ # $ % ^ &
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
				MASTER
				VOLUME
STANDBY
	MPX	/ DTS	DSP	Cinema
	CLASS MEMORY MODE	/ DTS	MODE	Re - EQ
STANDBY/ON	CLASS MEMORY MODE		MODE	Re - EQ
STANDBY/ON
	TUNING	SIGNAL		DIGITAL
	STATION SELECT	SELECT MIDNIGHT		NR
	FREQUENCY

							DOWN			UP
		BASS			TREBLE
SPEAKERS	LOUDNESS	–	+	–	+	DIRECT	TAPE 2	VIDEO INPUT
SPEAKERS	LOUDNESS	–	+	–	+	DIRECT	MONITOR	VIDEO	L	AUDIO R
PHONES							S-VIDEO	VIDEO	L	AUDIO R

VCR 1

VCR 2

DVD/LD

TV/SAT

FM/AM

MD/TAPE 1

VIDEO

DVD 5.1CH

* ()_ +

	1 STANDBY/ON button	9 BASS (+/–) button
	1 STANDBY/ON button	Press to adjust low frequencies in the range of ±6.
	Press to switch the receiver on or put in standby.	Press to adjust low frequencies in the range of ±6.

2STANDBY indicator

Lights when the receiver is in standby mode. (Please note that this receiver consumes a small amount of power (2.5 W) during the standby mode.)

0Display (Refer to page 24)

-TREBLE (+/–) button

Used to adjust high frequencies in the range of ±6.

3CLASS button

Press repeatedly to switch the preset station classes. (Refer to “Memorizing Frequency Tuned Stations” on page 38 and “Recalling the Memorizing Stations” on page 39)

4MEMORY button

Press to memorize a preset station.

(Refer to “Memorizing Frequency Tuned Stations” on page 38)

5MPX MODE button

Press to switch between auto stereo and monaural (“MONO”) reception of FM broadcasts. When the broadcast signal is weak, selecting “MONO” will improve the sound quality.

6TUNING SELECT button

Press to switch between STATION and FREQUENCY.

7SPEAKERS button

Press repeatedly to switch between A and B speaker systems as follows.

3A 3 B 3A+B 3 OFF

8LOUDNESS button

Switches the loudness on or off. Use to raise the level of the bass and treble so they can be more easily heard when listening at low volumes.

=DIRECT button

Switches direct playback on or off. Use to bypass the receiver’s tone control circuitry or level control for higher fidelity to the program source. When DIRECT is ON, Dolby, DSP, LOUDNESS, DIGITAL NR and MIDNIGHT mode are automatically turned OFF.

~Remote sensor

Point the remote control toward the remote sensor to operate the receiver.

! /DTS button

Press repeatedly to select the standard Dolby/DTS mode and the ADVANCED THEATER modes. (Refer to page 30, 32)

@SIGNAL SELECT button

Use to select input signals for the digital components. First press DVD/LD, TV/SAT, MD/TAPE 1, CD or VCR 1 ((, Function buttons) to select the component, then press SIGNAL SELECT repeatedly to select one of the following:

ANALOG : Selects the analog (R and L) audio signals.

DIGITAL : Selects the digital audio signals. This receiver automatically detects and displays the format of the signal being input. AC-3 lights when Dolby Digital signals are input, and DTS lights when DTS signals are input. (AC-3 and DTS decoding is switched automatically.)

VSX-21 specifications

The Pioneer VSX-21 is a high-performance AV receiver that caters to both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Known for its robust features, advanced technologies, and solid build quality, the VSX-21 offers an immersive audio-visual experience that enhances any entertainment setup.

One of the standout features of the VSX-21 is its support for multichannel audio formats. It is equipped with Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, allowing users to experience high-definition sound that matches the quality of high-definition video. This capability make the VSX-21 an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy movies and music in their most dynamic and powerful form.

In terms of connectivity, the VSX-21 includes multiple HDMI inputs, offering seamless integration with modern devices such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. With support for 4K pass-through, it ensures that users can enjoy ultra-high-definition content without sacrificing image quality. Additionally, the receiver features an advanced HDMI switching capability, enabling users to easily switch between different sources with just a single remote control.

Another significant characteristic of the Pioneer VSX-21 is its powerful amplification. With a significant output power, it can drive a wide variety of speakers, delivering rich sound even at high volumes. The receiver's Class D3 amplification technology further optimizes power efficiency, reducing energy consumption while maintaining impressive audio performance.

The VSX-21 also incorporates advanced audio calibration technology, such as Pioneer’s MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System). This system automatically adjusts the audio settings based on the room’s acoustics, ensuring optimal sound quality regardless of the space in which the receiver is placed.

The user interface of the VSX-21 is intuitive, featuring an easy-to-navigate menu system that allows users to customize their audio and video settings. The front panel is well-designed, featuring direct access buttons and a large display that simplifies operation.

In summary, the Pioneer VSX-21 stands out in the crowded AV receiver market with its combination of advanced audio technologies, versatile connectivity options, and smart features such as audio calibration. It is a compelling choice for anyone looking to create an exceptional home theater system or simply elevate their music listening experience. With its ability to deliver cinematic sound and visual brilliance, the VSX-21 remains a reliable and high-performing component in any modern entertainment setup.

Pioneer VSX-21 manual Front Panel

Models: VSX-21