AV Receiver Reviews

Connections
Inputs: Video: Component video (3), S-video (4), composite video (4)
Audio: Coaxial digital (2), optical digital (3) 5.1-channel analog (1), stereo analog (7), 1/4-inch headphone
Outputs:
Video: Component video (1), S-video (2), composite video (2)
Audio: Stereo analog (2), preamp (7.1)
Additional: IR jack (2)

Features
Processing Modes: Dolby: Digital 5.1, EX, Pro Logic II; DTS: DTS, ES, 96/24, Neo:6
Other: Neutral Surround, advanced movie, advanced music, TV surround, sports, advanced game, expanded (multichannel), 7-stereo, virtual surround, headphone surround
THX Certification: No
Audio D/A Converter: 24-bit/192-kilohertz
Number of Amp Channels: 7
Power Rating (watts per channel): 110, into 8 ohms
Frequency Response: –3 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 6.25 x 16.6 x 13.8
Weight (pounds): 20.3
Price: $299

Ratings: Pioneer VSX-816 A/V Receiver

Build Quality: 80
• Weight about average for a budget receiver
• Plastic front panel

Value: 95
• Auto setup, EQ, and XM all in the same package
• At $299, it's an incredible bargain

Features: 94
• You can tweak room correction and save as custom settings
• There's no Howard Stern on XM, but would you miss him?

Performance: 87
• Midrange makes a good first impression
• Lightweight bass

Ergonomics: 85
• XM navigation easier with onscreen display
• LCD-readout remote could use larger volume up/down buttons

Overall Rating: 89
Features are the VSX-816's strengths. You get XM satellite radio, auto setup, and room equalization in one $299 package—an incredible bargain. Midrange is good but lightweight. Bass will require your system to lean more heavily on its subwoofer.

General information

VSX-816 A/V Receiver, $299
Pioneer Electronics
(800) PIONEER
www.pioneerelectronics.com