Pioneer announces a 2019 AV receiver-- the VSX-934, a mid-range model with support for 5.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio setups, allowing customers to enjoy 3D audio without installing speakers in the ceiling.
Being an update on the VSX-933, the VSX-934 supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual:X technology (via future firmware update) to create "virtual" height and surround sound if the space lacks speakers in the specific positions. Meanwhile DTS Neural:X and Dolby Surround technologies upmix "2D" soundtrack formats to reproduce surround sound with a "wrap-around" feeling from audio encoded on DVD, Blu-ray discs or select video streaming services.
The AVR delivers 165W per channel (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 1-ch driven), and supports 4 ohm speakers. Direct Energy Amplification delivers wide-band frequency reproduction with "excellent" spatial organisation with multichannel and stereo sources. It supports DTS Play-Fi, FlareConnect and "Works with Sonos" platforms, high resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHZ and DSD 5.6, and music streaming services including Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music, Deezer and TuneIn radio.
Connectivity comes through HDMI complete with 4K/HDR passthrough and an MM phono input for turntables. On the wireless side the VSX-934 supports Bluetooth, wifi (over 5 and 2.4GHz bands) and AirPlay 2. An intuitive GUI promises easy operation, with quick access to receiver functions such as personal presets and setup guidance. A new OSD provides detailed audio and video information during playback.