VSX-919AH or RX-V663 ???

[reyz]

Hi, I need help in deciding which receiver I should get, considering I have a LG 50" Plasma and intending to get a LG BD370 (but if i get Pioneer receiver, I should probably get a Pioneer BDP-320??)

Pioneer VX-919AH

Features
7.1 channel a/v reciever

• Power: 120 Watts x 7
• Decodes of high-definition audio (Dolby TrueHD, dts HD MA)
• iPod digital USB connection support; with analog to digital audio upconversion
• Full 1080p standard dvd and analog up-conversion through HDMI
• 4 HDMI ports (3 in/1 out)
• 3 Digital Inputs (2 coax/ 1 optical)
• Full color graphic output support for iPod media content
• P.H.A.T. II @ 1 kHz
• Full Color GUI / OSD
• iPod 2nd Zone with OSD – access and control iPod content via multi-zone with full color jacket art graphics
• New Preset Glow Remote Control
• 2 Channel Presicion Quartz Lock System (PQLS) – Syncs audio and video information (content) coming from a connected Pioneer Blu-ray Disc player to ensure HD content is decoded and played back accurately on a HDTV
• Multi-channel Auto Level Control
• Multi- channel Sound Retriever
• Neural THX / WMA-9 Pro
• Advanced MCACC is Pioneer’s room calibration feature that delivers ensures studio quality sound for an array of room configurations. Evidence of Pioneer’s relentless pursuit of multi-channel stereophonic precision, Advanced MCACC immediately optimizes acoustics in a room, making subtle adjustments to connected speakers and neutralizes the sound field of the primary listening area with meticulous fine-tuning.
• KURO Link – When a Pioneer A/V receiver is connected to a Pioneer KURO, users can control both devices utilizing just the television remote control. Volume, power, play and channels are just some of the options that can be controlled with the single remote.
• Analog to Analog Video Conversion – Up / Down
• Analog to HDMI Up-conversion
• PureCinema Video Processing – Improved technology ensures smooth, high quality playback of standard definition content when shown on a connected HDTV
• 3D Noise Reduction
• 3D Y/C Separation
• Multi-Zone A/V Pre-out: Allows 2 room audio enjoyment. For example, 5.1 surround sound in a living room while a CD is being output in another room. 2 zone environments can also enjoy Sirius & iPod sources.
• New Preset Remote Control
• Released Date: April 2009
• Price: $400

RX-V663BL 7.1-CHANNEL DIGITAL HOME THEATER RECEIVER
High-Performance Home Theater Receiver features full support for HD audio formats, HDMI video up-conversion and de-interlacing, iPod and Bluetooth audio compatibility, improved YPAO, Adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control), multi-zone custom installation facility, and four SCENE buttons.
MAIN FEATURES

• High Sound Quality
• HD Audio format support: Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital TrueHD, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio and DTS-HD Master Audio
• 7-channel 665W powerful surround sound (95W x 7)
• Digital ToP-ART and High Current Amplification
• Pure Direct for higher fidelity sound reproduction
• Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DACs used in all channels
• Assignable amplifiers for bi-amp connection
• Advanced Features
• 4 SCENE buttons offering greater operating ease (with 18 preset SCENE templates)
• XM ready with XM HD Surround powered by Neural Surround
• SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready
• Improved YPAO for automatic speaker setup
• iPod compatibility via Yamaha Universal Dock
• Bluetooth (A2DP) compatibility with Yamaha Bluetooth® Wireless Audio Receiver (YBA-10)
• Superior multi-zone control compatibility
• High Picture Quality
• 1080p-compatible HDMI (2 in/1 out)
• Supports Deep Color (up to 36 bit), x.v.Color, a double speed Refresh Rates of 120Hz and 1080p/24Hz transmission, and Auto Lip-Sync compenzation
• Analog video to HDMI digital video upconversion and deinterlacing with TBC
  
• Surround Realism
• • Fine-tuned CINEMA DSP and Adaptive DSP level
• Improved Compressed Music Enhancer
• Adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control)
• Other Notable Features
• XM Satellite Radio ready with XM HD Surround powered by Neural Surround
• SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready
• 40-station preset tuning / Auto preset tuning
• HD Audio LPCM 7.1-channel reception (up to 192kHz)
• High dynamic power and Linear Damping
• Low Jitter PLL Circuitry
• Assignable amplifiers for bi-amp connection
• Initial Volume and Maximum Volume Setting
• iPod song titles displayed in English and Western European languages ISO 8859-1 (Latin 1) on the front panel and on-screen display
• SILENT CINEMA and Virtual CINEMA DSP
• Dialogue Lift for dialogue to screen center
• Preout terminals for front, center, surround and surround back, and dual mono subwoofer out
• 9 selectable subwoofer crossover frequencies
• Subwoofer phase select
• 8-channel or 6-channel external input
• Speaker A, B, A+B selection
• Preset remote unit

I know that technically the Yammy would have better sound quality, with its higher-end processing circuitry, e.g. Digital ToP-ART, Burr-Brown DACs. Plus the fact that it has 17 CINEMA DSP Programmes and pre-out terminals.

However, the Pioneer has full iPod/iPhone compatibility (unlike Yammy which requires the additional Universal Dock), better video-processing (has analog-to-HDMI 1080p unlike Yammy which only converts to 480p HDMI although I suppose with a upscaling blu-ray player, this isn't really much of an issue as one could just bitstream the upscaled DVD video and bypass through the receiver, into the plasma?). But also, the Pioneer boasts 120Wx7 instead of the Yammy's 95Wx7 power output!

But otherwise they have pretty much similar functionality!

Considering that I'm going to get a 5.1 speaker setup (either looking at the Yammy 5.1 speakers in my sig or possibly a packaged Pioneer 5.1 setup [HTP-RS7] if i get the Pioneer receiver) and my room is about 300sq feet? Plus I'll prob get the BD370 or BDP-320 blu-ray player?

Hope someone could give me a fairly unbiased comparison and determine which one would suit my needs best?

Really need help on this one as it's my first HT!!

[Scarriere]

There's a lot of more qualified people that'll be more help on comparing the two, but I'll give my two bits.
I am on my third Yamaha receiver (RX-V863) and have never been disappointed. The modest power rating won't be a factor, my previous receiver (992?) had 90 or 95 X 6 and it was plenty. When I was coming home from night shift and my room mate was partying, I could hear the music from a block away. I was concerned about blowing up my speakers and the neighbours. Power isn't an issue, in my opinion.
I can't say anything on the Pioneer, other than a buddy of mine has one and is very happy as well.
You have narrowed your choices to well-recommended brands and won't be wrong when you eventually take the plunge. See it there is relevent threads here.
I have always bought Yamaha receivers and always will.
Happy hunting!

[Acquiesce]

I have a Pioneer VSX-1018 and I am very happy with it.

I don't think you can go wrong with either..

Also, the blu-ray player doesn't have to match.

[lojack1976]

I think either receiver is a good choice, but my vote is for the Pioneer.

[callas01]

I would vote the yamaha because of the pre-outs. lets say you upgrade to better speakers and want add an amp, you don't have to upgrade the reciever. Don't be fooled by the watts rating either, I doubt that the pioneer actually pulls 120 watts when running 5 or more channels and the yamaha, 5 or more channels is about 47 wpc.

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by callas01

I would vote the yamaha because of the pre-outs. lets say you upgrade to better speakers and want add an amp, you don't have to upgrade the reciever. Don't be fooled by the watts rating either, I doubt that the pioneer actually pulls 120 watts when running 5 or more channels and the yamaha, 5 or more channels is about 47 wpc.

This is exactly why I got the Pioner SC-05 for myself, as it does actually put out 130 watts when running on 7 channels and has pre-outs. I know I'll be adding an Emotiva amp down the road, and I'll get the added performance of a seperate amp down the road...

[callas01]

Originally Posted by forsberg21

This is exactly why I got the Pioner SC-05 for myself, as it does actually put out 130 watts when running on 7 channels and has pre-outs. I know I'll be adding an Emotiva amp down the road, and I'll get the added performance of a seperate amp down the road...

which is why I am gonna get a Marantz next time I upgrade.

[JasonR]

Originally Posted by callas01

I would vote the yamaha because of the pre-outs. lets say you upgrade to better speakers and want add an amp, you don't have to upgrade the reciever. Don't be fooled by the watts rating either, I doubt that the pioneer actually pulls 120 watts when running 5 or more channels and the yamaha, 5 or more channels is about 47 wpc.

Pre-outs FTW!

[got rice]

I see where you're coming from with matching the AVR and BDP with Pioneer, I did that a there are advantages, PLQS, GUI, other things I can't think of. But yes I like having matching components.

However on the flip side pre outs are EXTREMELY important. You may not think so now, since this is your first AVR, but please trust this suggestion. I've only owned Yamaha for 15+ years and they both outlasted the technology with no issues.

My 1st suggestion would be to find a pioneer with preouts with the BDP 320.

2nd the LG-BDP and the Yammy, only because I'm not familiar with the LG BDP's. The PQ and AQ on the BDP-320 is really good.

[dg5150]

I have had the 919 for a week now and I am very happy with it. Paid $350 from Amazon, you get a lot of receiver for a little money. This receiver does so much more than the one it is replacing, which cost $100 more 8 years ago. If you decide on the Pioneer you won't be disappointed. The iPod control is great, BTW.

[devilfan9500]

I did a lot of searching courtesy of c-net i narrowed my decision to onkyo,pioneer,and sony I was patient and purchased the pioneer vsx-919 and I can tell you it was the best decision I've made to date with my home theater. check out c-net for comparisons they are very good. they reviewed the vsx -1019 the only difference is the 1019 has 4 hdmi inputs the 919 has 3 and slightly less power. and i can tell ya the MACC set-up in the pioneer is the sh!t.

[Newmason]

I as well have had my 919 about a week. I ordered it off of newegg for 329 and it showed up with a smalll dent on the top. Online chatted with them and they credited me 20 bucks for the receiver bringing to total to 309! Talk about happy dance. No issues here yet and the auto calibration GUI is amazing although I have had to do some changes in the initial tests for my likeness. I have a huge room so it takes alot to fill it with sound. And eveyone is right only downside is there Are no ore outs for an amp and the subwoofer out port will not turn your sub on and off when he receiver is powered down or up

[lucv13]

Originally Posted by callas01

which is why I am gonna get a Marantz next time I upgrade.

+1

[reyz]

firstly, thanks for all the strong responses! but im sorry to have to bombard with some more questions.. =P

Originally Posted by Scarriere

There's a lot of more qualified people that'll be more help on comparing the two, but I'll give my two bits.
I am on my third Yamaha receiver (RX-V863) and have never been disappointed. The modest power rating won't be a factor, my previous receiver (992?) had 90 or 95 X 6 and it was plenty. When I was coming home from night shift and my room mate was partying, I could hear the music from a block away. I was concerned about blowing up my speakers and the neighbours. Power isn't an issue, in my opinion.
I can't say anything on the Pioneer, other than a buddy of mine has one and is very happy as well.
You have narrowed your choices to well-recommended brands and won't be wrong when you eventually take the plunge. See it there is relevent threads here.
I have always bought Yamaha receivers and always will.
Happy hunting!

yes, i've heard this one before too. i know power ratings aren't all that important, its the ohms that matter, right? the lower the ohms the more pressure and hence higher output levels. i know the yammy has an adjustable ohm rating under its Dynamic Power down to 4 or even 2 ohms and hence 195-240W output levels. is this accurate? and does the vsx-919ah have this functionality as well?

the yammy 5.1 speaker setup i'm looking to get have these ratings:

Yamaha NS325F Floor
• 200 W Dynamic Power
• Sensitivity (dB/2.83V,1m) : 88
• Frequency Response : 40 Hz - 50,000 Hz
• Input Power (Maximum/Normal) : 200 W / 50 W
• Impedance : 6 ohms

Yamaha NS-C325
• Frequency Response 60 Hz - 50 kHz
• Sensitivity 88 dB/2.83 V/1 m
• Input Power (Maximum / Nominal) 200W / 50W
• Crossover Frequencies 2.5 kHz
• Impedance 6 Ohms

Yamaha NS-M325 Surrounds
• Frequency Response: 65 Hz - 50 kHz
• Sensitivity: 86 dB/2.83 V/1 m
• Input Power (Maximum / Nominal): 120W / 30W
• Crossover Frequencies: 2.5 kHz
• Impedance: 6 Ohms

Yamaha YST-SW325B Subwoofer
• High 170W Dynamic Power
• 20cm (8”) Multi-Range Driver with Magnetic Shielding
• 25-180Hz Low Frequency Reproduction

i certainly want to be able to hit the dynamic max power levels of the speakers during those brief loud sequences and I suppose the yammy would certainly be able to with its adjustable ohm but would this apply for the Pioneer too? (cant seem to find anywhere online that says the VSX-919ah can other than it has an impedance of 8ohms)

Originally Posted by got rice

I see where you're coming from with matching the AVR and BDP with Pioneer, I did that a there are advantages, PLQS, GUI, other things I can't think of. But yes I like having matching components.

However on the flip side pre outs are EXTREMELY important. You may not think so now, since this is your first AVR, but please trust this suggestion. I've only owned Yamaha for 15+ years and they both outlasted the technology with no issues.

My 1st suggestion would be to find a pioneer with preouts with the BDP 320.

2nd the LG-BDP and the Yammy, only because I'm not familiar with the LG BDP's. The PQ and AQ on the BDP-320 is really good.

Originally Posted by callas01

I would vote the yamaha because of the pre-outs. lets say you upgrade to better speakers and want add an amp, you don't have to upgrade the reciever. Don't be fooled by the watts rating either, I doubt that the pioneer actually pulls 120 watts when running 5 or more channels and the yamaha, 5 or more channels is about 47 wpc.

hmmm i guess if this setup would be in my folks home, i dont think they would be needing a receiver with pre-outs. anywhere near reference audio levels are probably more than good enough for them (they're nearing their sixties) and i'm pretty sure the Pioneer would be capable given my aforementioned speaker setup? anyone beg to differ? the yammy specs say that min rms output power is 95wpc though, but again the pioneer aren't so clear on min rms output power or max output power.. it just says that its 120wpc

got rice, LG BD370 is alright IMO. the reviews only says that it does not upscale DVDs to similar quality (but still 1080p) that players in the same price range do. and ALSO, if your HDTV is not 1080p/24fps compliant, you won't get the best HD PQ there is in the market. im assuming my LG 50PG70 is 1080p/24fps compliant though, and besides the Pioneer and Yammy receivers do have the Deep Color (30/36 bit), x.v.Color and 1080p/24fps video processing standards, so its safe to assume that high PQ shouldnt be a problem with my setup?

Originally Posted by devilfan9500

I did a lot of searching courtesy of c-net i narrowed my decision to onkyo,pioneer,and sony I was patient and purchased the pioneer vsx-919 and I can tell you it was the best decision I've made to date with my home theater. check out c-net for comparisons they are very good. they reviewed the vsx -1019 the only difference is the 1019 has 4 hdmi inputs the 919 has 3 and slightly less power. and i can tell ya the MACC set-up in the pioneer is the sh!t.

if that's the case i'd certainly be getting the vsx-919 too!

Originally Posted by Newmason

I as well have had my 919 about a week. I ordered it off of newegg for 329 and it showed up with a smalll dent on the top. Online chatted with them and they credited me 20 bucks for the receiver bringing to total to 309! Talk about happy dance. No issues here yet and the auto calibration GUI is amazing although I have had to do some changes in the initial tests for my likeness. I have a huge room so it takes alot to fill it with sound. And eveyone is right only downside is there Are no ore outs for an amp and the subwoofer out port will not turn your sub on and off when he receiver is powered down or up

oh you gotta be careful with newegg, they aren't an authorized reseller under pioneer! but if your unit's working alright, then shouldnt be a problem

btw, just a final holla, is there a difference between the VSX-919AH and the VSX-919AH-K? they look pretty much the same but the VSX-919AH-K, an EU variant i suppose, has 140wpc instead of the former's 120wpc and its impedance is 6ohm instead of the former's 8ohm. can anyone enlighten me on whether the K model is better?

http://www.pioneer.eu/eur/products/4...H-K/index.html
http://www.productwiki.com/pioneer-vsx-919ah

and LAST BUT NOT LEAST,

the Yammy v663 has a feature called 'Adaptive DRC' which helps improve the "fullness" of sound when playing music or movies at less than reference/high volumes. Across the board, owners seem to really appreciate it and it looks like a feature that has real practical significance. Heard the Pioneer has DRC as well, but an online review stated that they found the DRC in Pioneer's to be not as effective as other receivers from Denon such as the 1610..


THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING THIS!

[Newmason]

On the U.S pioneer the website has it listed as the 919AH-K, which I am guessing the K stands for Kuro, as it has the ability to be paired with the Kuro. They call it Kuro Link. Either way the 919AH-K is the 2009 model.

As far as newegg goes, wont Pioneer still honor there manufacture warrenty on there not Elite line of receivers?

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by Newmason

On the U.S pioneer the website has it listed as the 919AH-K, which I am guessing the K stands for Kuro, as it has the ability to be paired with the Kuro. They call it Kuro Link. Either way the 919AH-K is the 2009 model.

As far as newegg goes, wont Pioneer still honor there manufacture warrenty on there not Elite line of receivers?

Newmason, my understanding is that Pioneer will honor the warranty on Elite models if it is purchased on their website only. At least I was told this last week when I purchased my SC-05 (I actually had to call in my order instead to 6th Ave, who is an authorized dealer, and this is how I got around the website warranty Elite thing that Pioneer does). Again, I was told this is for the Elite's only.

[Newmason]

Then there shouldnt be a problem with Newegg selling these receivers and Pioneer honoring there manuf warranty.

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by Newmason

Then there shouldnt be a problem with Newegg selling these receivers and Pioneer honoring there manuf warranty.

I would call NewEgg first and verify. If it is an Elite receiver, I am told Pioneer will not honor it, even if they are an authorized dealer, becuase you bought it online from someone else but Pioneer themselves.

[Newmason]

Ill get ahold of newegg and pioneer and verify this before we all jump to an assumption, but I would agree with the elite deal, as they are not a cheap product, where as these vsx's are under $500 for all models.

[callas01]

Reyz

Look here see where it says "continuos average output power of 90 watts per channel, min., 8ohm, from 20hz to 20khz with no more then .02% total harmonic distortion

Front (Stereo) .......90W + 90W
Power output (1kHz, 6 ohm, 0.05% 1 channel driven) .....120 W per channel

OK, translation is that with 1 channel driven you get 120W, in 2 channel you get (apparently and probably accurate) 90 watts x2 channels (this is Stereo)

Just as a general rule, anytime they measure using 1kHz, you can probably bet that you are not getting the stated watts per channel. The amp you listed in the specs at the top of the page said P.H.A.T. II @ 1kHz, I would venture to say that you will not be getting better then 90 watts per channel in full surround, and that you will in fact be getting lower wpc with 3 or more channel running.

This is very typical of Entry-Mid level receivers.

The yamaha states that minimum RMS output power for Front, Center, Surround, Surround Back 20Hz to 20kHz , .06% THD, 8 ohm .........95W

However here is the bench test. 2 channel it excells and then drops to 60 wpc with 5 channels and 47 wpc with 7.

THIS is why I say get the one with pre-outs. What they tell you and what you get are not always the same. Set yourself up so that you can have great flexibility.

PS, I am not partial to Yamaha or Pioneer. Just want you to get the best reciever possible, that can withstand upgrades. If you get a Pioneer, great get it with Pre-outs, Sony-get it with Pre-outs.