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Pioneer has today announced it has joined the likes of Arcam, Denon and Marantz by adding IMAX Enhanced compatibility to new AV receivers. Both the VSX-LX504 and VSX-LX304 will handle the proprietary soundmixes of IMAX Enhanced content delivered via DTS:X – when a future firmware update arrives.

Both models are nine-channel designs, enabling 7.2.2 or 5.2.4 immersive audio setups, and feature 7 x HDMI inputs/ 2 x HDMI outputs with HDCP 2.2/4K HDR passthrough (including Dolby Vision and HLG).

Audio features shared between the AVRs include Pioneer's MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System) auto EQ/calibration tool; a Dialogue Enhancement mode; Personal Preset facility that saves volume and surround sound settings to up to three inputs; and a Reflex Optimizer function designed to improve performance from upfiring, reflective Dolby Atmos speakers.

Smart skills enabled by the AVRs' integrated Wi-Fi/Ethernet include Chromecast Built-in and Google Assistant interaction, Apple Airplay 2, and support for the DTS Play-Fi and Flareconnect multiroom standards. A net radio client is joined by Spotify, Deezer, Tidal and Amazon Music integration.

Hi-res music playback includes support for DSD (2.8/5.6/11.2MHz) and 192kHz/24-bit FLAC, WAV, AIFF and ALAC.

The more powerful VSX-LX504 is priced at £1,200, while the step-down VSX-LX304 will sell for £900. Pioneer says both models will be available from May in black and silver finishes.

Visit www.pioneer-audiovisual.eu for more info.