Pioneer VSX-819HK 5.1-channel A/V receiver

iPhone, meet Pioneer

As the VSX-819H was designed specifically as a high definition control center with HDMI® connectivity for sources such as Blu-ray Disc® players and HD-audio decoding capabilities, you're assured ultimate performance. Even with portable entertainment demands increasing every day and devices such as the iPhone® becoming the de facto choice for many with respect to enjoying their photos, videos and music, the VSX-819H still delivers. Connecting to your iPhone, iPod® and iTouch® devices, the VSX819H has never been easier with a front USB port and included cable. And because it works with iPhone certified, the VSX819H delivers a multitude of features designed to bring the entertainment stored on your iPhone into your home theater. Music and movies are automatically muted with incoming calls; compressed music files are greatly enhanced with Advanced Sound Retriever; consistent volume is maintained with Auto Level Control — all while the control of your media remains in the palm of your hand through the iPhone itself or the VSX-819H's remote.

Best performance in any room, automatically

To achieve optimal audio performance, your speaker output needs to be fine-tuned to the listening room. Room size and shape, floor and wall textures, the quality and relative size of your speakers; all of these factors affect performance. Pioneer has a solution. The VSX819H offers the most precise acoustic calibration available without professional support. It's called the Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System, or MCACC, and it works in any room regardless of shape or size. Automatic MCACC set-up uses a microphone to monitor a room's acoustic environment, then determines the size and number of speakers, as well as channel level and listener-to-speaker distances. The VSX819H even has a 5-band equalizer with EQ memory for more precise adjustment. With MCACC, you can have the ultimate home entertainment system; one that's customized for your own home.

Digital audio processing from the big boys

Audiophiles look to Dolby and dts digital audio decoding for the highest level in home audio performance. As an audiophile, you look to the Pioneer VXS819H, featuring the most advanced Dolby and dts technologies. First, Dolby TruHD delivers tantalizing sound that is bit-for-bit identical to the studio master, unlocking the true high-definition experience. Second, Dolby Digital Plus combines the efficiency needed to meet future broadcast demands with the power and flexibility to realize the full audio potential of the upcoming high-definition experience. This multi-channel audio standard was designed for the formats of the future, but remains fully compatible with all current AV receivers. Third, Dolby Pro Logic IIx includes an added center-rear channel. Finally, dts-DH Master Audio, Neo:6, 96/24, and ES deliver sound quality that matches the clear and vivid images of high-definition video. Movies come alive with sound as lifelike as the picture, and music becomes as real as a live performance.

Quality connections

Three HDMI video switching connections (2 in, 1 out) make it easy to change inputs. To enjoy cinema-quality sound, just connect a Pioneer Blu-ray player and surround system speakers and you're ready. For CD-R/RW, MD, and other recording media, this receiver has one digital coaxial and two optical audio inputs, plus two optical digital outputs. You also get three component video inputs and one output to maintain the signal integrity from such digital sources as DVD and DTV. On the VSX819H's front panel, you'll find an A/V connection, the USB iPod DIRECT input, and a minijack input that's used for other portable music players as well as for the MCACC calibration microphone.

Pioneer innovation, quality, and lifestyle

Pioneer is a company full of engineers who have difficulty accepting the words it can't be done. Frequently, industry experts say something is impossible, only to have Pioneer prove them wrong. So when everyone said that a vehicle was too harsh an environment for the sensitive laser needed to play CDs, Pioneer created the world's first in-car CD player. Pioneer had a hand in creating the new Blu-ray Disc format to play movies at home in HD or to record huge volumes of data from your computer. In an era when computers are out of date as soon as you buy them and some A/V components are easier to replace than to repair, Pioneer takes pride in developing products that last. Pioneer manufactures most of their products directly; so when your component comes from a Pioneer factory, you know it's survived the most rigorous quality assurance testing. It's one thing to create nifty new gadgets, but consumers know that nifty is not the same as useful. Pioneer listens when consumers talk about the products they want to buy, and then does its best to make products that exceed your expectations.

Included With Purchase

Auto MCACC setup microphone, remote control, batteries for remote (2 AA), AM loop antenna, FM wire antenna, Operating Instructions.

Write A Review

Good Sound and Video with a Variety of Problems (March 03, 2010)

Ease of Use		(3/5.0)
Value		(5/5.0)
Performance		(4/5.0)
Overall Rating		(3/5.0)

Reviewed By: Rob S. - New York, NY

All audio and video coming through the receiver sounded and looked great - we used all 3 HDMI inputs - one each for Samsung Cable boxPVR, Apple TV and DVD player. Theres a 2 to 5 second pause when switching inputs, the HDMI and receiver seems to need time to figure things out. The inputs are labeled on the back and on the display BDDVD, TVSat and DVRVCR. These cannot be changed on the display and so you must know whats into what. The one HDMI out went to a Samsung 40 LCD TV.

One thing to note here is that this receiver only does HDMI switching, i.e. if the signal doesnt come in on HDMI its not going out on HDMI, a limitation which only applies to video as the audio obviously is routed to the speakers. Thus, the OSD for system setup and iPod control requires a composite video hookup, meaning to use those functions you have to run additional wires to the TV and switch inputs on the TV - something I didnt want to do. For the setup, I just used the little display on the front of the unit and the auto calibration with the mic on the top of the sofa back. It seemed to do a fine job.

The remote is pretty pathetic, but hey, this is the low end unit. Its not illuminated and quite dark in tone, a problem - does anyone watch TV with a reading light on. Also, it has no provision for entering the Samsung cable boxPVR so thats irritating. It does have a separate section for controlling the TV which is useful for powering it on and off.

So, in the middle of the USCanada hockey game, the receiver made a last popping sound and turned off, never to come back to life. I phoned Vanns and explained that the unit was well ventilated, with only 3 HDMI inputs and a very clean power supply. It wasnt warm at all when it stopped powering up permanently. They gave me the number for Pioneer which I then phoned and I was told Id have to send the unit in for service. So I called back Vanns and they said theyd certainly take it back, just make sure I had the original box. So our UPS guy just left with it, Vanns supplied the label, the pickup everything.

Also, fwiw, the Vanns customer service has been great all along. The Pioneer reps stood out in contrast as somewhat brusk and not really wanting to spend time explaining things. And the warranty service basically involves transporting your receiver to a service center and then waiting for some indeterminate time for it to be fixed. Given the centrality of an AV receiver in many peoples home av setups it seems they could offer you a loaner or something when their equipment fails.

Ive now ordered the top of the line Pioneer AV receiver not Elite, the 1019, which Im hoping will address some of the shortcomings of the remote, has one more HDMI input, and a variety of other added features.

Execlent Value (February 15, 2010)

Ease of Use		(4/5.0)
Value		(5/5.0)
Performance		(5/5.0)
Overall Rating		(5/5.0)

Reviewed By: Michael R. - Westerly, RI

This reciever works great. No problems hooking it up right out of the back. The back is easily laid out and readible. The manual can answer any questions you may have. I would recommend this reciever if your only looking for 5.1. I didnt have space for the 7.1 system, and didnt want to over pay for the additional features. Im glad I went with the Pioneer.

Pioneer VSX-819HK (February 12, 2010)

Ease of Use		(4/5.0)
Value		(5/5.0)
Performance		(4/5.0)
Overall Rating		(4/5.0)

Reviewed By: Michael E. - Lehi, UT

Great receiver for the price. Packed with features like the ipod interface with on screen menu. If you only need a 5.1 this is a great choice

Worthwhile Entry-level Receiver (February 12, 2010)

Ease of Use		(3/5.0)
Value		(5/5.0)
Performance		(5/5.0)
Overall Rating		(5/5.0)

Reviewed By: James R. - Fairmont, NC

I purchased this receiver to compliment a Pioneer Kuro PDP-5010 primarily for the surround sound feature. I am satisfied with the purchase. My room measures about 20x12 and I watch moves with the receiver volume set around 50... and that is loud enough. The ipod dock is a helpful add-on. The detail that escaped my attention at purchase was the height of the receiver. It doesnt fit between the shelves of my TV stand nor can it be placed on the top shelf as the TV rests on the shelf instead of being mounted. Measure your stand before purchasing. That caused a cable management problem, but the receiver works as intended. Complaints have been made about the outdated user interface, but I could care less. I dont consider it part of the entertainment value and prefer the cheaper price to the look of a GUI.

Pioneer Receivers VSX-819HK (February 11, 2010)

Ease of Use		(5/5.0)
Value		(4/5.0)
Performance		(5/5.0)
Overall Rating		(5/5.0)

Reviewed By: Jose P. - Los Angeles, Ca

Unit is working with no issues have this hooked up to my bose speakers sounds very good!

Twice satisfied (February 11, 2010)

Ease of Use		(5/5.0)
Value		(5/5.0)
Performance		(5/5.0)
Overall Rating		(5/5.0)

Reviewed By: Greg K. - Parrish, FL

I now own two of these Pioneer receivers and am satisfied with the products. It is user friendly to set up and operate. If you have an Ipod, it is a must have for the price since it syncs right into the Ipod and can be managed right on your tv.

Not for older people (December 31, 2009)

Ease of Use		(3/5.0)
Value		(4/5.0)
Performance		(5/5.0)
Overall Rating		(4/5.0)

Reviewed By: Victor U. - Tacoma, WA

I purchased Pioneer 819 to replace my aging Sony receiver. Since 2001, Sony served me well, but last year thermal expansionscontractions of motherboard cracked soldering on front screen chip pins, causing loss of visual information.

I should say, that quality of sound on Pioneer 819 is superior to my previous unit and separation between channels is exceptional, which results in better Surround audio. There is a solid feel in frequencies reproduction tested on Transformers blu ray disc. Base is vivid and mid and highs are interwoven in nearly palpable sound mesh

Yet. I was promised by a salesperson in BestBuy, that regardsless of what input I use for the sourse, it will be uploaded to TV via HDMI cable. That is not true. My old DVD player region free, I use for European movies being plugged to Pioneer via composite cable, did not get to TV through HDMI... I had to run additional cable.

Automatic calibration of channels is a semi joke. You should plug your receiver to TV with component cable in order to use that feature. HDMI CABLE WILL NOT WORK!!!

Remote feels cheap, my aging eyes requre stronger glasses to read info on the buttons

Having USB input futureproofs this receiver... otherwise, there must be better value at the market..

Rare Gem,... (December 01, 2009)

Ease of Use		(5/5.0)
Value		(5/5.0)
Performance		(5/5.0)
Overall Rating		(5/5.0)

Reviewed By: P. c. - Lubbock, TX

I purchased the Pioneer VSX-1019 here at Vanns at an excellent price, with free shipping. Arrived in 3 days bnib.

I have read extensively about this receiver prior to placing my order. I had it hooked up to my entertainment system in less then an hour. My HT Samsung TV PN58B650, 4 Polk Monitors M-70 for front, 2 Polk Monitors M-60 surround, CS2 central speaker and 2 Polk PSW505 SUBS 12 , 300-450 Watts, via Monster Y splitter.

All what I can say is WOW, WOW, The sound coming out of the speakers is unbelievable and the VSX 1019 is able to drive all these monsters with ease, and no overheating.

Pros
. HDMI connectivity with 1080p up conversion.
.Pure sound 0.05 THD. No distortion at very high volumes and very clear lows appeases to the musical ears.
. Image quality is unbeatable.
. Up conversion from 480i to 1080p is outstanding
. Very accurate auto calibration MCCAC via included microphone.
. Slick, Piano Black finish with large blue screen you can actually read from across the room.
. Easy remote to operate, though, not backlit.
.Multiple HD sounds decoders excellent with all DVDs & bd.
.Does not overheats just give it enough room to breath.
.Capable of driving my 4 M-70s, running in AB, with ease and excellent sound n reproduction.
. Multi channel input, great with my SACD Yamaha palyer, exceptionlal sound quality.
. Binding posts in the back.
Cons
. Sub Xovers is not very detailed, 60-80-100-150-200 Hz only.
.Manual take a deep breath before you read it. It is a great exercise for anger control. Try Yoga before reading it.
.Remote not backlit with small buttons, functional though.

Whatever small cons I mentioned, it does not alter the outcome of my verdict The VSX-1019 is a rare Gem, it rivals the more expensive AV receivers and beats hands down all other mid entry receivers. I have compared it to other receivers I own such as Sony STR-DN1000, STR DH800, YAMAHA RX-V565, ONKYO 806 AND 505 AND 8555. BTW it is very similar to my VSX-919 which lacks 1 HDMI input and one coax digital audio input and ability to up convert to 1080i only.

All in all excellent receiver. Vann had it shipped in less then 3 days. Excellent service.

Hope this would help.

pioneer 819-hk receiver (June 19, 2009)

Ease of Use		(5/5.0)
Value		(5/5.0)
Performance		(4/5.0)
Overall Rating		(4/5.0)

Reviewed By: brian j. - kentwood, michigan

I recently purchased this receiver. So far i am pleasently surprised with performance. a little background I have a PS3 as my blue ray by far the best blueray on the market, 2 mirage bi-pole floor spreakers front paradigm center, rear and 12 sub. The sound quality great. I have tried different receivers and they just didnt make the cut. The MAC makes for a very smooth tech free setup but you can manually set your receiver also.
I will keep updating my review as i learn and try more things with the receiver.

p.s. with the PS3, dont forget to reset audio output settings for better sound quality.

Comparison Specifications

Dolby Digital 5.1/Pro Logic IIx / TrueHD / Plus / EX, DTS 96/24, DTS-HD master audio, DTS-HD high resolution, DTS-Express, DTS NEO:1
600 watts total output (110 W x 5 channels (1 kHz w/0.05% THD @ 8 ohms)
3 HDMI inputs, 1 output /3 component video in, 1 output
1 coaxial, 2 optical digital audio in/2 optical out connections
6 multichannel analog audio inputs, Digital USB w/ OSD (works with iPhone / iPod)
5 A/V (4 in/1 out), 3 AV (3 in/ 1 Rec. out), 1 headphone out connections
Digital engine: Aureus by Texas Instruments
8 + 1 Advanced Surround Modes
Luminous preset remote control

Additional Specifications

MCACC auto speaker calibration, 5-band EQ, Symmetric EQ, phase control, calibration memory (1)
SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready with OSD
192KHz/24-bit audio DAC
Pioneer Discrete Advanced Direct Energy power amplifier design
Front Stage Surround Advance
Front A/V in/iPod Direct in
Sound Retriever for enhanced portable audio playback
Speaker A+B setup, subwoofer preamp output
Analog multi-ch. input (5.1)

Manufacturer Specifications

AM/FM radio tuner with 30 random preset stations
Preamp output: sub / surround back L/R
Volume limit setup (off/custom)
Stream Direct for pure, unprocessed digital sound
Large speaker terminals
On-screen display, 4-step fluorescent display dimmer, sound delay (lip-sync), tone control, Midnight Mode, sleep timer
Front minijack for MCACC microphone/portable audio player / AC Outlet
Power/consumption 120VAC 60Hz/350 watts (0.5 watts standby)
HDMI 1080p Video repeater / Deep Color / xvYCC / aspect ratio adjust

Dimensional Specifications

Dimensions: 16.56" W x 6.25" H x 13.88" D
Weight: 19.13 lbs

Pioneer VSX-819HK Warranty Details

One-year parts and labor warranty

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Pioneer VSX-819HK (Black)

5.1-channel A/V receiver