05Playing sources

Introduction to Sound Modes

There are three basic sound options: Stereo/ Direct, Standard or Advanced Surround.

the surround back speakers in your setup. For more on this, refer to the table on the next page.

Choose one of the following to add depth to a 2 channel source:

Stereo/Direct

When you select STEREO or DIRECT, you will hear the source through just the front left and right speakers (and possibly your subwoofer depending on your speaker settings). Dolby Digital and DTS multichannel sources are downmixed to stereo.

In STEREO, you’ll hear the audio with your surround settings and you can still use the Midnight, Loudness, and Tone control func- tions.

With DIRECT, you will bypass all effects and surround settings so that the audio remains as close to the source audio signal as possible.

If you switch on Midnight listening, Loudness, or the Tone controls when DIRECT is selected, the receiver automati- cally switches to STEREO.

Standard mode

The standard mode can be used to decode Dolby Digital, DTS, or Dolby Surround sources. The other surround sound options (next column) can add multichannel sound to regular stereo sources. If you play a Dolby Digital or DTS source the receiver will change to that mode automatically.

You can identify Dolby Digital software by the

1or marks. Most Dolby Surround software is marked 3, but unmarked software may also incorporate Dolby Surround. Depending on the source, the 6.1 channel setting (page 38), and the sound mode you have selected, you may not get sound from

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Pro Logic

This mode gives 4.1 channel surround sound. It is less sensitive to the quality of the source material, so may be useful when Pro Logic II Movie/ Music modes don’t give good results.

Pro Logic II Movie

This mode gives 5.1 channel surround sound. It is suitable for movies, especially those recorded in Dolby Surround. The channel separation and movement of surround effects is comparable to Dolby Digital 5.1.

Pro Logic II Music

This mode gives 5.1 channel surround sound and is suitable for music. The surround effect is more enveloping than Pro Logic II Movie.

Neo:6 Cinema

This mode gives 6.1 channel surround sound and is suitable for movies. The Neo:6 Cinema mode delivers good channel separation for movie soundtracks.

Neo:6 Music

This mode gives 6.1 channel surround sound and is suitable for music. The Neo:6 Music mode plays the stereo source as is through the front left/right speakers, and generates a natural, ambient surround and center sound.

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Pioneer VSX-41 manual Playing sources Introduction to Sound Modes, Stereo/Direct, Standard mode

VSX-41 specifications

The Pioneer VSX-41 is a versatile AV receiver that exemplifies the brand's commitment to quality home entertainment. Known for its robust performance, the VSX-41 incorporates advanced technologies and features that cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

One of the standout characteristics of the VSX-41 is its multi-channel amplification system that delivers a powerful output of 100 watts per channel. This ensures that audiences can enjoy their favorite movies and music with rich, immersive sound. The receiver supports a wide range of audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, allowing for a cinema-quality experience right in the comfort of home.

The VSX-41 also features Pioneer's proprietary MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System) technology. This system optimizes the sound to suit the specific acoustics of the room, providing a customized listening experience. By analyzing the speakers’ output, MCACC adjusts the levels and equalization settings to ensure that audio playback is balanced and clear, irrespective of room characteristics.

Connectivity is another strong suit for the VSX-41. It comes equipped with multiple HDMI inputs, allowing for seamless integration with various digital devices, such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. This AV receiver is fully compatible with 3D video, ensuring that users can make the most of modern video technology.

In addition to HDMI, the VSX-41 offers a range of inputs, including optical and coaxial digital audio inputs, as well as analog connections. This versatility allows users to hook up virtually any audio source—be it old or new—making it a future-proof choice for home theater enthusiasts.

The VSX-41 also supports various streaming services via its network capabilities. Users can easily access their favorite music channels and playlists through popular services such as Spotify and Pandora. This connectivity is further enhanced by the inclusion of a USB port, making it simple to play music directly from a USB drive.

Furthermore, the receiver is designed with energy efficiency in mind, adhering to Energy Star guidelines. This not only reduces power consumption but also promotes sustainable living without sacrificing audio performance.

Overall, the Pioneer VSX-41 combines power, versatility, and technology, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio-visual experience at home. With its array of features and high-quality sound reproduction, it stands out in the crowded market of AV receivers, satisfying both audiophiles and everyday users.