PIONEER VSA-AX10

First pic's and characteristics

It was at the IFA in Berlin that we were able to discover, on the Pioneer stand, the next integrated unit, called the VSA-AX10. Hot out of the same labs that brought you the AX-10 (processor, amplifier, DVD player and speakers) - see news - this latest babe is the first amplifier to benefit from the highest evolution of the THX Ultra Label - THX Ultra II. In other words, and to recap the principle, it should be underlined that this certification applies here to all new multi-channel standards available. For example, in DTS ES mode, as well as in most of the DTS modes proposed on the machine, it will be possible to add a THX correction mode (action, drama, etc...), which had until now only been possible in Dolby Prologic and Digital modes and this, whatever amplifier is certified.

In terms of power, we have ourselves here a real monster, able to deliver almost 170 watts (8 ohms) to 7 channels...By the way, do you know how much that would measure on the Richter Scale? Me neither!!!

Leading the 2001-2002 catalogue, this powerful but discreet machine (in comparison to the competition) benefits from all the versions of decoding available to the greater public in terms of surround sound, such as DTS ES, DPII, AAC, AC3, Dolby EX... - you know the rest - as well as a new generation of Digital/Analogue converters capable of managing absolutely all sampling frequencies: 32 KHz, 44.1 KHz, 48 KHz, 88.2 KHz, 96 KHz, 176.4 KHz and 196 KHz, as well as all resolutions, from 16 to 24 bits.

Designed around an extremely rigid chassis and by the same token quite heavy, weighing in at 28 Kg, the VSX-A10 is only available in “Gold” finish. It will in any case be available on the European market from this coming Winter, at a price of 4600 Euros...Dear Santa...(!).

NB: We’re waiting to get more ample technical information... so stay tuned!

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