Pioneer today introduced the SC-LX501 Network AV Receiver. A 7.1 channel network AV receiver, the SC-LX501 features Multi-Room Audio*1, which allows for the wireless distribution of a variety of sound sources -- including LPs and streaming services -- in different rooms, and the latest network functions, such as Google Cast*2 and TIDAL*2 streaming services. The unit also incorporates MCACC*3, an automatic room calibration technology that adjusts specifically to your environment to deliver optimized object-based audio and works in sync with the Reflex Optimizer, a new feature to deliver an ideal object-based audio reproduction through the featured Direct Energy HD amplifiers, allowing simultaneous output from all channels with no power loss.

A new user friendly GUI, allows you quick access to your network settings and simplifies the initial set up of the product with easy-to-understand on-screen guidance.

The SC-LX501 is scheduled to ship from August onwards for a SRP of 1299 EUR.

Features of the Pioneer SC-LX501 include:

Powerful Sound Control

• 7.1-channel receiver with 560W multi-channel simultaneous drive (8 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 1.0 %) / 270W/ch (4 ohms, 1 kHz, 1ch Driven IEC) / 160W/ch (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 1ch Driven IEC);
• Incorporates a high grade 384 kHz/32 bit DAC (AK4458) produced by AKM, so you can enjoy clear, detailed sound thanks to the low distortions achieved by this high-quality digital filter.

Perfect Acoustic Set-Up
Pioneer makes it easy to set up the perfect surround sound environment with its Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC). With the custom microphone, the system automatically compensates for differences in speaker size, level and distance, and equalizes response.

As an innovative solution for the phase lag between the subwoofer and the main channel speakers caused by the network filter, Phase Control compensates the delayed bass to improve sound synchronization, making low sound more dynamic, while delivering clear reproduction of sound in the middle as well as high frequency bands.

The new Reflex Optimizer feature was designed to maximize object-based audio reproduction with Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers and generate the best sound experience from stand alone and/or add-on speakers, allowing you to fully enjoy the latest 3D, immersive sound technologies.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X™* Support
The latest Dolby Atmos object-based audio technology creates a three-dimensional sound field that reproduces the movement of sound. This unprecedented realistic sense is achieved by adding information on the movement of sound, including positional information and timing as metadata, producing a rich and immersive surround-sound space. In addition, DTS:X will be supported through a firmware update this Fall at no cost.

Tremendous Visual Acuity
The SC-LX501 supports 4K/60p/4:4:4 24-bit video signal transmission with HDCP 2.2 technology, ensuring compatibility with the many upcoming UltraHD (4K) sources and televisions. So when you’re ready to upgrade your visual experience, your audio experience will also be ready.

Pioneer’s “Super Resolution” which was developed for the company’s BDP-LX88 Universal player has been integrated in the SC-LX501 to allow the picture quality of a 4K video signals through the upscaling of HD-quality content.

In addition, the SC-LX501 is prepared for the next generation video standard HDR*5 (High Dynamic Range) and BT.2020?6.

Google Cast
The SC-LX501 is Google Cast ready so you can use your mobile device to send your favorite music, radio, or podcast to your Google Cast compatible speaker or Chromecast Audio. You can control the audio from anywhere in the house using Cast-enabled apps running on your personal device—iPhone®, iPad®, iPod touch®, Mac®, Android phone and tablet, and Windows® laptop, and Chromebook. Discover apps at g.co/cast/audioapps.

Multi-Room Audio
The SC-LX501 has a Powered Zone 2 and Zone 2 Line Out and will support FireConnect by BlackFire Research™?1 a stable wireless protocol that mirrors any audio source connected to the receiver—from vinyl to streaming audio—on an optional FireConnect compatible speaker(s)* in another room. The optional FireConnect compatible Wi-Fi speaker(s) to be released in late 2016.

Internet Radio and Online Music
Enjoy a limitless flow of music, sports, talk, and news entertainment from internet radio stations and on-line music services, including TuneIn, Spotify®, TIDAL, and DEEZER.

High-Fidelity Networked Audio
Through a Wi-Fi connection that supports dual band 5 GHz (11a/n) and 2.4 GHz (11b/g/n) which provides transmission with fewer interruptions, high-fidelity high-resolution sound sources can be accessed wirelessly. Music can also easily be enjoyed through Bluetooth® wireless technology and AirPlay®.

Hi-Res Audio Support
In addition to high-resolution sound source (192 kHz / 24-bit) in FLAC, WAV, AIFF and Apple lossless file formats, DSD (2.8/5.6/11.2 MHz) *7 and Dolby® TrueHD® files are supported, giving you the ability to play a wide array of high-resolution sound sources.