Pioneer VSA-AX10Ai-S User manual

VSA-AX10Ai-S Multi-Channel Stereophonic Amplifier

The sonic evolution continues with the latest version of Pioneer’s multi-channel stereophonic amplifier, the
VSA-AX10Ai-S. For connoisseurs who desire the very best, this amplifier offers the ultimate high fidelity stereo and multi-
channel music replay, together with reference-class decoding of the latest movie soundtrack and audio formats.
Audiophiles will certainly recognise the original design philosophy of the VSA-AX10, a revolutionary best-in-class award
winner from 2001 created by an experienced team of Pioneer audio amplifier designers and sound engineering experts
from London’s AIR Studios. Like its predecessors, the VSA-AX10Ai-S brings the best studio reference monitoring
currently available directly to any home listening environment.
Audio aficionados will be drawn to the wealth of state-of-the-art internal
components, AIR Studios sound tuning and THX Ultra2 certification. But the
true beauty of the VSA-AX10Ai-S is Pioneer’s unique MCACC, the world's
first automatic sound field adjustment system for a multi-channel
environment. The MCACC for the VSA-AX10Ai-S has been improved to
'Advanced' MCACC with a new 3-D calibration method. Advanced MCACC
takes room reverberation effects into account, ensuring even more precise calibration for perfect tonal balance in any listening room. Plus, of course, there’s the i.LINK
interface first introduced in 2002’s VSA-AX10i-S model, delivering digital-to-digital, high resolution audio from DVD-Audio and SACD sources with stable signal transfer
thanks to Pioneer’s jitter-free PQLS (Precision Quartz Lock System). Truly up-to-the-minute, 2004’s VSA-AX10Ai-S incorporates the latest surround formats such as Dolby
Pro Logic IIx, as well as world-first Windows Media Audio 9 Professional compatibility. WMA9 Pro is the latest e-audio format, which assures ultimate multi-channel audio
quality with up to 768 Kbps high transfer bit rate, as well as 96 kHz/24-bit resolution. With sufficient power delivery and transparency to preserve the enormous dynamic
range and pure clarity of today’s higher resolution digital recordings, the VSA-AX10Ai-S includes symmetrically positioned 7-channel A.D.E. MOSFET discrete power
amplifiers, exclusive to Pioneer. With this amplifier in your home, you are certain to hear your favourite stereo and multi-channel recordings just like the professionals
heard it at the mixing desk. Clearly, the Pioneer VSA-AX10Ai-S amplifier continues the home ‘monitor reference’ standard.
A REFERENCE IN STUDIO-QUALITY SOUND
PRECISION: PIONEER’S VSA-AX10Ai-S

Professional Sound Studio =Conventional Living Room
Why can’t home listening be just like sitting at the recording engineer’s
mixing desk? This is the question that Pioneer’s Advanced Multi-Channel
Stereophonic Philosophy answers. Designed to reproduce music and film
soundtracks as close to the original master recording as possible, this
concept truly focuses on recreating the natural sound and spine-tingling passion of the
original performance. To level up the sonic performance of your home system to that of a
professional sound studio, Pioneer integrated three basic professional audio design
principles in the VSA-AX10Ai-S development process. First of all, premium-quality sound
requires the choicest parts, like state-of-the-art Burr-Brown D/A converters selectively
chosen for Pioneer, twin SHARC Melody Ultra processors with Motorola 48-bit processing
DSP, i.LINK for high-quality digital audio transmission, and an ideal construction with no
compromises. Secondly, reproducing precisely accurate sound means calibrating to the
acoustic environment, in order to create a studio-quality listening environment tailored to
each living room. To achieve these precise sound field adjustments Pioneer created an easy-
to-use automatic Advanced Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration system, as well as fine
manual settings thanks to specially designed audio signals. As a result of the new 3-D
calibration method which considers room reverberation characteristics — proven from
Pioneer research to have a major effect on precise tonal balance —, even more precise
calibration is achieved for any room environment. Thirdly, the aim is to reproduce the art in
sound. To do this, Pioneer partnered with the world’s most experienced sound engineers
from AIR Studios in London. Their expertise — along with meeting the demanding
requirements of THX Ultra2 and reproduction of the latest surround formats — substantially
contributed to the fact that this revolutionary multi-channel stereophonic amplifier can
reproduce emotional and passionate sound precisely as the original artist intended. A
concert at home has never been so spectacular.
STEP 1
Quality Reproduction
High-quality equipment which meets requirements of professional engineers
Highest Quality Equipment
Best possible parts and materials available for home sound equipment
STEP 3
STEP 2 Precise Sound Reproduction
Pioneer’s unique Advanced Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration system
Professional Expertise
Sound tuning by AIR Studios, THX Ultra2 certification
and reproduction of the latest surround formats
Advanced Multi-Channel Stereophonic Philosophy
Artistic Reproduction
Fine sound tuning by professional sound engineers
Precise Reproduction
Measurement and calibration for trim level,
distance and frequency response

Ultra rigid construction
To offer even more stability and rigid support for the heavy 10 kg transformer, an extra 2.0 mm thick steel stabiliser is
attached to the transformer frame. This carefully designed construction was implemented after thorough simulation by
advanced CAD (Computer Aided Design) technology. The chassis is prevented from causing unwanted vibration during
sound reproduction, ensuring maximum transparency of delicate audio signals.
Unwanted vibrations reduced thanks to Transformer Stabiliser
Combined with the 3-D space frame, the
stable cast iron base realises heretofore
unknown chassis rigidity. The heavy 4 kg
cast iron base, made by TAOC — known
as the quality audiophile accessory
brand —, overwhelmingly enhances the
strength and stability of the chassis. And
it serves to support and intercept
external vibration thanks to its specially
designed material — 10 times more anti-
resonant than steel. The base contacts
the frame at 15 points with the newly
developed, patent-pending pivot-shape
for crystal-clear and even deeper bass
sound.
Stable cast iron base for ultimate chassis rigidity
This revolutionary 3-D space frame construction reinforces the physical strength of
the amplifiers. Unlike traditional 2-D chassis designs, each part is fixed to the frame
from various angles, so the unit has the strength to support the heavy 10 kg
transformer, without any distortion. The double-layered chassis ensures an
extremely strong and rigid base for the 3-D frames. In addition, the chassis is copper-
plated to suppress signal interference between circuits and reduce ground
impedance. This 3-D space frame works simultaneously with the concentrated direct
construction to further minimise signal interference as well as reduce the signal
path. Each circuit is separated — allowing a more direct and extremely pure signal
route — which results in an open and fresh sound.
Innovative frame design concept and concentrated direct
construction design for superior support
High-quality amplifier design
Since this amplifier incorporates 7-channel, high power units, it generates a huge amount of energy. The
chimney-shaped heat sink acts as a natural cooling system, releasing excess heat from the power
elements which could otherwise adversely affect operation. As no cooling fan is needed, there is less
resonance compared to general cooling systems, and the sound remains transparent to the source input
signal.
Chimney-shaped heat sink for efficient heat dissipation and low resonance
To balance electrical, physical and magnetic elements between the 7 channels for the most precise
sound stage reproduction, Pioneer designed each power amplifier symmetrically on each side of the
heat sink. This ‘symmetrical power train’ creates a uniform sound field for all channels.
7-channel symmetrical power train design for precise sound imaging
Pioneer’s exclusive Advanced Direct Energy (A.D.E.) MOSFET produces an
amazingly efficient, high-end sound quality with an impressive 170 watts (DIN) of
equally amplified power for each channel, to ensure consistent sound quality for
multi-channel applications. This highly advanced circuitry is designed to offer
high stability combined with low energy loss and ultra linear amplification. A new
AC/DC isolated amplifier module — designed especially to optimise the A.D.E. MOSFET performance under any condition —,
combined with the built-in temperature adjustment of the bias circuitry, regulates the drift of the bias point and minimises
power imbalances that can cause distortion in the sound stage.
7-channel Advanced Direct Energy MOSFET for solid high
performance audio
3-D space frame with direct
construction design:
1) Power supply 2) Video block
3) Amplifier 4) Audio block
5) i.LINK block
6) Digital block
Cast iron base and 3-D space frame construction
Based on a tri-concept philosophy combining ultra rigid construction, the best-in-class amplifier design and advanced digital processing, only the most select parts as well as cutting-edge Pioneer
technology are found in the VSA-AX10Ai-S. Highly stable, solid-grade materials create the ultra rigid construction for the highest sound clarity. In addition, top-performance components like
A.D.E. MOSFET are the secret to high-quality amplifier design. Finally, high-end advanced technology, like i.LINK, is responsible for high-quality digital audio transfers and advanced digital processing.
It is clear that the VSA-AX10Ai-S was designed with a quest for pure sound perfection.
STEP 1
Pioneer has developed a state-of-the-art large power transformer, weighing in at 10 kg, to guarantee a
stable and superabundant power supply for each individual circuit. Designed for audio, this power
supply avoids S/N ratio degradation caused by any internal energy loss and magnetic leakage, and
reduces interference caused by vibration. Even at maximum volume, it delivers a constantly strong
current with low impedance.
High regulation power transformer for stable power supply
The VSA-AX10Ai-S uses two 33,000µF large capacitors, designed exclusively for audio, for extra stability
and instant response to large power swings. The low loss thick copper bus-bar, attached to the
capacitors, maximises the power transmission. The huge capacitors and bus-bar combined ensure clean
and smooth power delivery at all times, even during sudden surges and continuous high volume
demands.
Large capacitors for clean and stable power at all times
Highest quality equipment
1
2
3
5
4
6AC/DC isolated
amplifier module
Advanced Direct
Energy MOSFET
Amplifier section
with symmetrical
power train design
Chimney-shaped
large heat sink
Large power supply
transformer
Large electrolytic
capacitors
4

It’s no understatement that the VSA-AX10Ai-S is completely up-to-the-minute with the latest surround formats. This
amplifier is the first in the world to incorporate a WMA9 Pro decoder, the first digital surround sound coding
technology for the Web — developed by Microsoft. When connected to a multi-channel-equipped PC, you are able
to enjoy high resolution stereo (96 kHz/24-bit) or 5.1-channel surround audio at 128 k – 768 Kbps compression
rates. At any given bit rate, 5-channel WMA9 Pro will bring you higher fidelity than other sound compression algorithms thanks to the latest
audio codec technology.
Windows Media™ Audio 9 Professional
Advanced processing in the digital domain
* The i.LINK interface is also known as IEEE1394 or FireWire. FireWire is a trademark. ‘i.LINK’ and the ‘i.LINK’ logo are trademarks.
** When connected to a source player (DVD player, CD/SACD player) with compatible feature such as PQLS.
Clearly high resolution sounds (multi-channel and 2-channel) from DVD-Audio and SACD have enhanced the realism of listening to music
at home. But some of the fine details are lost in the digital-to-analogue conversion and subsequent analogue transfer from the player to
the amplifier, where possibly an additional analogue-to-digital conversion is performed for extended digital signal processing. To
preserve the finer details during digital signal processing, the VSA-AX10Ai-S features the i.LINK* Advanced Resolution Digital Audio
Interface. i.LINK supports device-to-device digital audio data transfers of all major compressed and uncompressed formats including
operational commands. This advanced digital audio interface uses only one digital cable instead of multiple analogue cables, in order to
easily connect the VSA-AX10Ai-S with any i.LINK-equipped audio source component — for example a DVD-Audio/Video/SACD/CD player
— to handle multi-channel DVD-Audio and SACD discs, not to mention digital audio from DVD-Video and CD. Pioneer’s PQLS (Precision
Quartz Lock System) enables the amplifier to conform the speed of the DVD player’s signal transfer to its own clock speed. Hence, jitter
resulting from the signal transmission is reduced to an absolute minimum**.
i.LINK (Advanced Resolution Digital Audio Interface) and PQLS for digital-to-digital transmission
The VSA-AX10Ai-S uses a sampling frequency of 176.4 kHz/32-bit in order to make the conversion from
2-channel DSD to PCM. The resulting signal is virtually indistinguishable from the original. For multi-
channel SACD, the sampling frequency is 88.2 kHz. SACD reproduction now also benefits from the new
alternative SACD gain setting. The gain in the digital domain (for SACD) is increased by 6 dB, resulting
in a higher dynamic range. Both of these features ensure that SACD source sound reproduction is as
true to the original as possible.
Enhanced SACD sound quality
The VSA-AX10Ai-S uses twin 32-bit SHARC Melody Ultra floating-point
processors and 48-bit processing Motorola DSP engines, such as those
widely used in pro audio equipment. Pioneer engineers created the most
advanced digital processing module, the Ultra Digital Core Engine,
optimised for the DSPs. It features a short signal path thanks to the latest
6-layered circuitry board design and an exclusive processing algorithm. The
Ultra Digital Core Engine processes the data with extreme precision, and
delivers more powerful multi-channel sound decoding and processing than
ever before. This engine can handle all the latest surround formats, and
makes high-definition-quality 96 kHz/24-bit processing possible for Dolby
Pro Logic IIx, THX and DTS Neo:6, for the first time in the industry.
New Ultra Digital Core Engine for more powerful signal processing
For pure digital-to-digital audio signal transfers, connect the VSA-AX10Ai-S with an i.LINK-equipped
DVD-Audio/Video/SACD/CD player, such as the DV-868AVi-S or DV-757Ai.
Exclusive for Pioneer, specially selected top-of-the-line Burr-Brown 192 kHz/24-bit digital-to-analogue converters
drive each of the eight channels independently. Sound is accurately reproduced, true to the original signal, with a
remarkable signal-to-noise ratio. These are the best multi-bit type D/A converters for high resolution, strong and
stable sound, with a perfect signal from input to output.
Dolby Pro Logic IIx expands upon the popular
Dolby Pro Logic II technology. With Dolby Pro
Logic IIx, this amplifier has the ability to
process 2- or 5-channel sources into 5.1-, 6.1- or 7.1-channel output
according to the speaker configuration. Dolby Pro Logic IIx creates a
highly immersive, natural sound field and gives added depth and
dimension to music and movies. Use the Movie and Music modes to
match the sound experience even more closely to the source. Three
additional Music parameters are also available: Dolby Center Width
(focuses the vocal balance to the centre and front), Dolby Panorama
(creates a seamless surround effect) and Dolby Dimension (creates a
deeper or shallower surround field).
Pioneer has mounted highly accurate 192 kHz/24-bit A/D converters on all eight channels individually
to precisely reproduce DVD-Audio and SACD sound sources when using players with 6-channel
analogue outputs. For two-channel analogue sources, four A/D converters are used for each channel
for further precise conversion. This ensures truly superb 2-channel stereo reproduction. Of course,
bypassing all A/D, DSP and subsequent D/A conversion by directly routeing the analogue input to the
power amplifier is equally possible.
192 kHz/24-bit A/D converters for precision analogue source reproduction
Jitterless Data Transfer thanks to i.LINK’s PQLS (Precision Quartz Lock System) Function
Ultra Digital Core Engine
i.LINK
IN/OUT
Clocking
crystal
i.LINK
IN/OUT
DAC
AV decoder
Data memory
Data output
Servo
circuit
Control data transfer*
* DVD player clock
frequency controlled by
amplifier
Data transfer
DVD player A/V multi-channel amplifier
DV-868AVi-S DV-757Ai
High-end 192 kHz/24-bit D/A converters for solid sound
Dolby Pro Logic IIx
Burr-Brown
PCM1704 DAC
Less spacious surround image Smooth and spacious surround and
natural centre image
Stereo Surround BackMono Suround Back
i.LINK circuit board
5

STEP 2
Pioneer started a revolution with the world’s first calibration technology for a home amplifier, the Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration system (MCACC). Created by Pioneer experts in cooperation with
AIR Studios professional sound engineers, Pioneer strived to bring professional studio-quality sound to the home environment. Now Pioneer introduces Advanced MCACC, for even more accurate sound
calibration adjusted to your listening environment. What you get is fine-tuned audio personalised for your home — heard exactly the way the recording engineers intended.
Advanced Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System
Advanced MCACC features a newly developed, patent-pending 3-D
Calibration method. This feature is the fruit of two years of Pioneer
research, with practical field tests and analysis for actual room calibration
data, since MCACC was first introduced. Advanced MCACC obtains even
more precise measurements, as the 3-D Calibration method takes
reverberation — the time factor or third axis — into account, as well as
existing frequency and level readings at each band. The frequency
response for an indirect signal differs from direct sound, caused by
obstacles in the room or the room characteristics. The human brain
analyses and confirms the sonic information much more on direct sound
than indirect, i.e. the tonal balance, position for each sound image and
sound field generated among speakers. The 3-D Calibration method
calibrates the frequency balance mainly based on the direct sound,
MCACC makes it easy to recreate the perfect
listening environment. Hooked up with the
(included) set-up microphone, the system
automatically confirms speaker presence and
speaker size. Next the amplifier emits a series of
test tones which enables MCACC to automatically
adjust the distance (channel delay) between speakers relative to the listening
position within 5 cm, channel level in 0.5 dB steps and frequency balance with
Pioneer’s exclusive ‘Envelope Calibration Method’. This method enables
moderate adjustments for frequency response, ignoring steep peaks and dips,
and avoiding intensive phase shift which deteriorates the smooth sound stage
between speakers. VSA-AX10Ai-S features a 9-band digital equaliser, which gives
the best result with the ‘Envelope Calibration Method’, as confirmed from 5 years'
research at the Pioneer R&D Centre. There are two modes for adjusting the
frequency balance between speakers: ‘All Channel Adjust’ mode flattens the
frequency response for all speakers and ‘Front Channel Align’ mode synchronises
other speakers to the front speakers. Two ‘Custom’ user presets are available to
memorise manual settings. With these professional level calibrations, MCACC
produces a true three-dimensional sound field.
Automatic Frequency Response Alignment with new
3-D Calibration method
Automatic Surround Set-up
The Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration system (MCACC) works just like a professional sound stage right in your living room. The beauty of this automatic sound field adjustment system is that you are able to automatically or manually
precision-tune your home system to your living room just like a sound professional, but with minimum effort. Using a calibration microphone (included) that plugs into the amplifier, the MCACC system monitors your sound environment
and measures the acoustics in the room. It then automatically adjusts various sound parameters on each channel to neutralise characteristics that tarnish the original sound. And the new Advanced MCACC with 3-D calibration method
enables even more accurate tonal measurement and calibration, as it considers the effects of room reverberation. This tonal calibration technology is so far developed that it calibrates both direct and indirect sounds simultaneously.
Advanced MCACC is the first technology to realise tonal calibration focused on direct sound, which leads to improved sound calibration.
Standard MCACC (2-D Calibration): only frequency
and level are measured
Advanced MCACC (3-D Calibration): frequency,
level and timimg are taken into account
Precise sound reproduction
Frequency (Hz)Frequency (Hz)
Speaker level (dB)
Time (ms)
100.0 dB
dB
dB
After
CalibrationAll Channel Adjust Mode – Front Left Channel Example
Example of Envelope Calibration MethodAutomatic Sound Pressure Level Adjustment
Front Channel Align Mode – Surround Channel Example
10 Hz 100 Hz 1 kHz 20 kHZ
FL C FR LS SB SB RS SW
10 Hz 100 Hz 1 kHz 20 kHZ
20.0 dB
100.0 dB
20.0 dB
The speaker distance, trim level and tone are not
uniform before adjustment. After adjustment, the
system is automatically equalised.
Calibration
microphone
FL C FR LS SB SB RS SW
Automatic Mutual Distance Adjustment
2-dimensional Adjustment 3-dimensional Adjustment
Before
Calibration
After
Calibration
Before
Calibration
Set-up microphone
Speaker level (dB)
6

The VSA-AX10Ai-S includes an additional tool, a
Reference Calibration Disc (included with the
amplifier), to calibrate the physical speaker
positions even more precisely. This special
DVD-Video disc contains two types of signals in
DTS format: one for fine speaker distance
adjustment and one for fine speaker angle
adjustment. For fine speaker distance
adjustment, the speakers’ distance can be set
with an accuracy of less than 1 cm by listening to
the unique test tone, and then, taking the Front
Left speaker as the reference speaker, moving the
others speakers in turn so that the test tone
emanates from exactly in between them. For fine speaker angle adjustment, a voice moves around the listening position in 30° steps — like the arms of
a clock —, so the speaker angle can be adjusted to the ideal direction envisioned by the sound designer (ITU-R speaker setting standard used for multi-
channel music monitoring). These two adjustments work perfectly with MCACC for the best possible sound stage in a room.
Advanced MCACC includes an additional automatic adjustment to ensure that the sound
reproduction is even more perfectly matched to your room — the correction for room size.
What the human ear/brain perceives as a flat frequency response is a subjective
phenomenon dependent on distance between the listener and the sound source; our
perception changes according to the size of the room. High frequencies decrease more for
larger rooms due to the psycho-acoustic effect, according to scientific research. The
VSA-AX10Ai-S automatically compensates for this difference by applying the famous
‘X-Curve’, according to
room size. ‘X-Curve’ is
widely used in acoustic
designing for film
theatres and dubbing
stages. You will hear the
sound as it should be
heard.
* X-curve is authorised as an
international standard, ISO 2969.
Precise Speaker Setting Alignment
‘X-curve’ adjustment*: automatic correction for room size
Adjust speaker direction
FL
C
FR
Rotate
Axis of rotation
X-curve Adjustment
20 Hz 50 Hz 100 Hz 200 Hz 500 Hz 1 kHz 2 kHz 5 kHz 10 kHz 20 kHz
+5 dB
+0 dB
-5 dB
-10 dB
-15 dB
-20 dB
Advantage in Calibration Points with Advanced MCACC
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160
Boundary of measurement and calibration points with standard MCACC: 80 – 160 ms
Boundary of measurement with Advanced MCACC: 0 – 160 ms
Boundary of automatic calibration points with Advanced MCACC: automatically selected from
20 – 40 ms and 60 – 80 ms
Boundary of manual calibration points: manually selected from within the Advanced MCACC
measurement boundary of 20 – 80 ms (20 ms frames with 10 ms steps). For the 80 – 160 ms range,
standard MCACC will be applied.
63.0
62.0
61.0
60.0
59.0
58.0
57.0
56.0
55.0
54.0
53.0
Level (dB)
Fine adjustment of speaker distance
LS RS
Reference Calibration Disc
Time (ms)
You can see the reverberation characteristics either on-
screen (OSD) in a simple 2-D image or even a 3-D colour
graphic image on PC displays, by connecting a RS-232C
cable (not included) to your PC, and downloading
software
from the Pioneer website. This is a
useful tool to visualise proper settings
for your specific environment.
Speaker level (dB)
Example of a room with no reverberation — nonexistent in a
home environment
Frequency (Hz)
Time (ms)
Speaker level (dB)
Example of a room with a large amount of reverberation
Time (ms)
Frequency (Hz)
RS-232C terminal on back
panel
7
making it possible to achieve measurements even closer to the direct sound. The
calibration timing is variable in 0 – 160 ms, whereas timing is fixed for the calibration
technology used so far. The timing is automatically set by Pioneer’s original
algorithm or manually, if preferred.

THX Ultra2 means enjoying exciting eight-channel playback performances from any multi-
channel programme over the widest possible seating area. Pioneer was the first to
introduce THX Ultra2 certification with the original masterpiece, VSA-AX10. With THX
Ultra2 certification, the VSA-AX10Ai-S has set the pace for the next generation. Whereas
original THX Ultra was intended for Dolby Pro Logic sources, THX Ultra2 is entirely adapted to recent high-
quality digital formats such as DTS and Dolby Digital. A true breakthrough in home entertainment
technology, THX Ultra2 ensures optimal multi-channel music and film enjoyment. In addition to THX Cinema
and THX Surround EX, THX Ultra2 technology includes two new modes featuring THX exclusive technology,
ASA (Advanced Speaker Array). THX Ultra2 Cinema allows non-Surround EX-encoded, Dolby Digital 5.1 and
DTS 5.1 material to be played on a seven-speaker configuration. For music playback, THX Music Mode can
handle all types of music formats, including high resolution DVD-Audio and SACD multi-channel music
recordings.
Some of the most talented sound engineers from one of the world’s leading recording
studios, AIR Studios in London, contributed an unquestionable amount of expertise to
this revolutionary multi-channel stereophonic amplifier, to replicate a professional sound
studio at your home. AIR Studios was founded by Sir George Martin, the legendary
Beatles producer and an Academy Award®-nominated composer. Established in 1969,
AIR Studios is now a state-of-the-art recording complex with matchless facilities for film scoring, rock,
pop, classical and orchestral work, post-production and live events. Many popular and renowned musical
talents, like Madonna, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Robbie Williams, Oasis and Coldplay have worked in
this unique and inspirational recording environment. It has also served as the soundstage for movies
such as Harry Potter, Fantasia, Star Wars: Shadow of the Empire, Lord of the Rings and David Arnold’s
scores for contemporary James Bond blockbusters.
Heir to the VSA-AX10’s world-first 96 kHz/24-bit decoder, the VSA-AX10Ai-S reproduces high-quality sound, exactly as
recorded on 96 kHz, 24-bit master tapes in the studio. The latest audio format by DTS — the multi-platform DTS 96/24
— was the first compressed surround format technology to support 96 kHz and 24-bit sound resolution and multi-
channel capabilities. With its super low audio compression rate, all your discs with DTS-encoded audio soundtracks will sound rich and
sophisticated. Backwards compatible with existing DTS decoders, you’ll also be able to enjoy traditional DTS discs.
THX Surround EX/Dolby Digital EX
DTS Extended Surround Discrete 6.1 is a true 6.1-channel format where an additional Surround Back audio channel is
discretely encoded into the DTS bit stream offering enhanced spatialisation over the surround channels for complete
360-degree sound localisation and surround panoramas. The VSA-AX10Ai-S features a DTS ES decoder that will allow
you to play back discrete 6.1-channel content from DVDs. You will also welcome full compatibility with any DTS ES or
5.1-channel recording.
DTS ES Matrix 6.1 is where the additional Surround Back audio channel is ‘matrixed’ into the rear left and right surround channels in the
DTS data stream. The DTS ES decoder then extracts the Surround Back channel that is placed behind you and puts you right in the middle
of the action.
DTS NEO:6 modes apply conventional 2-channel signals to the high-precision
digital matrix decoder and achieves 6.1-channel surround playback. High-
precision input signal detection and matrix processing enable a full band
reproduction for all 6.1 channels. It also improves the separation between the different channels to almost
the same level as that of a digital discrete system. DTS NEO:6 Cinema Mode decodes with an emphasis on
separation performance to achieve the same atmosphere with 2-channel sources recorded in conventional
surround formats as it does with 6.1-channel sources. The original 2-channel signal is distributed into
6 channels thanks to the sophisticated DTS matrix decoding technology. Meanwhile, the effect of the
surround signal output from the centre and surround channels adds a natural sense of expansion to the
sound field. In DTS NEO:6 Music Mode the front channel signals bypass the decoder and are played directly,
so accurate music reproduction is achieved.
STEP 3 Professional expertise
The final step to high fidelity reproduction according to Pioneer’s Advanced Multi-Channel Stereophonic Philosophy is reproducing the art in sound. Pioneer pulls it all together with professional
expertise from two sources: a finely tuned product design with professional sound recording studio input from AIR Studios, and Pioneer experience and knowledge regarding surround sound formats
and technology. You can be sure that this THX Ultra2-certified amplifier is packed with the latest sound format technology including Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS 96/24 as well as THX Surround EX, Dolby
Digital EX, DTS ES and DTS NEO:6, delivering sound with the same passion and emotion as the original artist intended.
THX Ultra2 processing and certificationAIR Studios sound tuning
AIR Studios control room
DTS 96/24 decoding
THX Surround EX/Dolby Digital EX is a joint development of Dolby
Laboratories and THX. EX technology creates an extra ‘Surround Back’
channel, which may have been added when the programme was mixed.
By decoding the surround back channel from the left and right surround channels of 5.1 soundtracks, this
additional surround back channel allows more detailed imaging behind the listener and brings more depth
and better sound localisation than ever before, to give you the feel of 6.1 channels. THX Surround EX/Dolby
Digital EX is compatible with existing Dolby Digital 5.1 so that a Dolby Digital decoder can decode signals
of Surround EX as normal 5.1 signals.
DTS ES Decoding
DTS NEO:6
8

Many people enjoy listening to music on their PC, but without proper (outboard) amplification, it is hard to do justice to the
sound quality of PC audio sources. Thanks to this unique USB terminal, you can amplify 2-channel audio as well as multi-
channel audio from your PC, creating an overwhelming sound experience compared to what is usually achieved through
typical PC audio systems.
Pioneer’s ‘Audio Scaler’ technology improves the sound quality of both stereo and
multi-channel sources (such as CD, MD, DVD) to a level approaching that of
DVD-Audio. Hi-Bit conversion first expands the bit length of the linear PCM signal
to 24 bits. The result is more detailed sound with less deterioration, closer to the
original signal. At the same time, Pioneer’s high-sampling digital filter technology
enlarges the frequency bandwidth, restoring a sense of the high frequencies which
were present in the original recording. The final result is a more relaxed, musical
sound quality.
3. Music/Movie Discrete speaker configuration ready
The latest multi-channel music recordings
require a ITU-R standard speaker setting for
monitoring, whereas movie soundtracks are
monitored with a diffused speaker setting. For
the ultimate performance of both movies and
music, the Music/Movie Discrete speaker
configuration feature is an extremely
convenient solution enabling you to switch
between movie speaker setting and music
speaker setting just by selecting THX Music
mode / THX Cinema mode as needed. Now
there’s no need to reposition and reconnect
speakers each time you want to enjoy
multi-channel sound from either movie or
DVD-Audio/SACD sources in their purest
forms.
2. Bi-Surround mode
Rectangle-shaped rooms pose a particular audio challenge, as the audio must
cover a much longer area from front to back. Bi-Surround mode addresses this
problem. Two sets of surround speakers are driven by different amplifiers; two of
these are switched from surround back amplifiers. So the sound envelops the
whole area of the room in dramatic surround sound.
1. Bi-Amp mode
In Bi-Amp mode, the VSA-AX10Ai-S allows you to use a separate amplifier for the high frequency driver and the low
frequency driver of your front pair of speakers, for better crossover performance. Your speakers must be bi-ampable to
do this — equipped with separate terminals for high and low. In Bi-Amp mode, both the front and the surround back
speaker terminals of the VSA-AX10Ai-S will be used to drive the front speakers. VSA-AX10Ai-S comes with newly designed touch panel remote
control. This remote control is exceptionally thin on account of the
special built-in rechargeable battery. Thanks to a large LCD touch
panel and a wide variety of preset codes with learning capability, the
operation is simpler and smoother than ever before.
For people who don’t want to set a centre speaker in their room, this mode generates a distinct centre sound image by
adopting the latest HRTF (Head Related Transfer Function). The resulting sound is extremely close to that of when a centre
speaker is used.
Multi-channel USB terminal for pure PC audio playbackAudio Scaler
Versatile Speaker Configurations
Hi-Bit
Conversion
High
Sampling
Bit
Sampling Frequency
Movie Discrete speaker
configuration
Speakers turned off
Music Discrete speaker
configuration
Speakers turned off
Sleek-designed large touch panel remote control
Real Phantom mode
More exciting features
Original
Signal
Large touch panel
remote control Close-up of touch panel
Bi-Surround Mode
Surround back speakers are
moved
9

Since their launch, the VSA-AX10 and VSA-AX10i-S — precursors to the VSA-AX10Ai-S — have established themselves as clear favourites with industry trendsetters. They have won numerous prestigious awards,
and received sensational press reviews and accolades from experts all over the world. These audio masterpieces are considered to be the finest amplifiers in their class. Here’s a sampling of the overwhelming
response from audio experts regarding the VSA-AX10i-S.
‘Best Buy guarantee’
Award winner ‘Best AV amplifier over £1,000’
‘With a list of features long enough to fill a small book and the latest and greatest processing options, it delivers fresh
technology with style’
‘The VSA-AX10i represents the top of the amplifier evolutionary chain; with its i.LINK feature and THX Ultra2 certification,
the flag's at the top the mast’
‘The VSA-AX10i has established itself as the leading amp in its category,…’
Award winner ‘Best Buy over £2,000’
Award winner ‘Best high-end amplifier’
‘The phrase “state of the art” is bandied around too much, but the VSA-AX10i is so far ahead of the game that it truly
deserves the accolade’
Home Cinema Choice, May 2002
Essential Home Cinema magazine, September 2003
What Hi-Fi? Sound & Vision, 2003 Awards edition
What Video and Widescreen TV magazine, December 2003
Expert praise
Other features
• Universal video converter for easy and better signal transfer
• Wide-range video circuitry for high-quality signal processing for HD sources
• Pioneer exclusive Advanced Cinema DSP mode for more realistic movie experience &
Pioneer exclusive Advanced Concert DSP mode for more realistic music experience
• Wide-range technology for reproducing the ultimate DVD-Audio and SACD high resolution sources
• Precision Gain Management Volume for high-end S/N ratio of 115 dB
• High-quality audiophile speaker terminals for stable and precise signal transfer
• RF demodulator and phono input for versatile connectivity
• Discrete local power regulator for clean sound
• Ultra-low noise, shot-key type diode for minimised energy loss
• Direct current bus-bar for high current power supply to A.D.E. MOSFET
• Double thick copper-plated print board and lead-free design for transparent sound
• Pre-out and power-In terminals for system expansion
• OFC AC cable for stable power transfer
• Sound delay (up to 6 frames in 0.1 frame steps) for perfect Audio/Video synchronisation
10

VSA-AX10Ai-S
170 W + 170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W + 170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W + 170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W + 170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• (Dolby Pro Logic IIx)
•
•
•
•
•
• (Ultra2)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
JAZZ
ROCK
DANCE
5/6/7-CH STEREO
CONSTRUCTION
3-D Space Frame Construction
Copper-plated Chassis
Direct Construction
Double-layered Chassis
Transformer Stabiliser
TAOC Stable Cast Iron Base
AMPLIFIER DESIGN
Accurate Imaging System
Large Electrolytic Capacitors
Thick Copper Bus-Bar
Power Amplifier Design
Symmetrical Power Train Design
Front L & R Bi-Amplifier Function
ADVANCED MULTI-CHANNEL ACOUSTIC
CALIBRATION SYSTEM (MCACC)
MCACC
Set-up Microphone
Speaker System Detection
Auto Surround Set-Up Trim
Auto Surround Set-Up Delay
Acoustic Calibration EQ
3-D Calibration Method
Compensation Adjustment (X-curve)
Reference Calibration Disc
AUDIO FEATURES
AIR Studios Sound Tuning
DSP (Digital Signal Processor)
D/A Converter
A/D Converter
Flexible A/D Converter System
Audio Scaler (Hi-bit/Hi-sampling)
Precision Gain Management (PGM) Volume Control
Analogue Downmixing for Centre Channel
DNR (Digital Noise Reduction)
Midnight Listening Mode
Stream Direct
•
•
•
•
•
•
• (Advanced)
•
•
•
•
33,000 µF x 2
•
• (A.D.E. MOSFET)
•
•
• (Advanced)
•
•
•
•
9-band (Auto/Manual)
•
•
•
•
SHARC Melody Ultra 32-bit Floating-
point x 2, Motorola 24-bit double
precision equivalent to 48-bit
• (192 kHz/24-bit)
• (192 kHz/24-bit, all channel)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Bass/Treble Tone Controls
Loudness
VIDEO FEATURES
Video Signal Selector
Video Converter
CONVENIENCES
On-Screen Display (GUI)
Remote Control
Multi-Operation System (Macro)
Remote Control Illumination
DVD Control
Satellite Tuner Control
CD Magazine Control
Digital TV Set-top Box Control
Rechargeable
Function Rename
FL Dimmer
Sound Delay
TERMINALS
i.LINK (Advanced Resolution
Digital Audio Interface)
USB
Custom Installer Ready (RS-232C)
12 V Trigger Terminal
Multi-channel Input
RF Input for Dolby Digital (Demodulator)
Digital Audio Input
Coaxial
Optical
Digital Audio Output (Optical)
Audio/Video Input
Audio/Video Output
Phono Input
S-Video Input/Output
Component Input/Output
Preamp Output
Power Amp Input
A/V Input on Front
SR (System Remote) Terminal
Speaker A/B
Speaker Terminals
+/- 6 dB (100 Hz/10 kHz)
•
•
•
• (Including Component)
LCD Touch Panel,
Preset & Learning
•
LCD Backlight
•
•
•
•
• (charger station incl.)
•
4 steps
6 frame/0.1 frame step
2
• (Multi-channel)
•
2
• (7.1 ch)
•
7 (assignable)
3
4 (includes Front in)
2
5A/7AV
2A/3AV + 1V
•
7/5 (includes Front in)
3/1 (assignable)
• All (7.1 ch)
FL/FR
•
• (In/Out)
Versatile Speaker Configuration
All large high-quality
gold-plated solid type
FEATURES
POWER OUTPUT
Stereo (DIN)
Surround (DIN) Front
Centre
Rear (Surround)
Surround Back
SURROUND FORMAT
Dolby Digital
Dolby Digital EX/THX Surround EX
DTS
DTS ES Discrete 6.1
DTS ES Matrix 6.1
DTS Neo:6 Cinema
DTS Neo:6 Music
DTS 96/24
Dolby Pro Logic
Dolby Pro Logic II Movie
Dolby Pro Logic II Music
Dolby Pro Logic IIx Movie
Dolby Pro Logic IIx Music
Windows Media Audio 9 Professional
THX
THX Cinema
THX Ultra2 Cinema
THX MusicMode
PIONEER ORIGINAL
SURROUND MODE
Advanced Cinema
ACTION
MUSICAL
DRAMA
SCI-FI
MONOFILM
5-D/7-D THEATER
Advanced Concert
CLASSICAL
CHAMBER
SPECIFICATIONS
AMPLIFIER SECTION
Rated Power Output
Surround (DIN)
Front Channels
Centre Channel
Rear Channels
Surround Back Channels
Input (Sensitivity/Impedance)
PHONO (MM)
Line (DVD, CD, etc.)
Frequency Response
PHONO (MM)
Line (DVD, CD, etc.)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
(DIN; continuous rated power output/50 mW)
PHONO (MM)
Line (DVD, CD, etc.)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF)
PHONO (MM)
Line (DVD, CD, etc.)
VIDEO SECTION
Input (Sensitivity/Impedance)
COMPONENT VIDEO
Frequency Response (HDTV compatible)
MISCELLANEOUS
Power Requirements
Power Consumption
Power Consumption in Standby Mode
Dimensions
(W x H x D)
Weight
VSA-AX10Ai-S
150 W + 150 W
(20 – 20,000 Hz,
0.09 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W + 170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W + 170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
170 W + 170 W
(1 kHz, 1 % THD, 6 Ω)
4.7 mV/47 kΩ
382 mV/47 kΩ
20 – 20,000 Hz
+/- 0.3 dB
5 – 100,000 Hz
+0 dB, -3 dB
70/68 dB
93/73 dB
86 dB
105 dB
1 V p-p/75 Ω
5 Hz – 100 MHz
+0 dB, -3 dB
AC 220 – 230 V
50/60 Hz
725 W
0.65 W
440 x 210 x 476 mm
34 kg
VSA-AX10Ai-S rear panel, features and specifications
VSA-AX10Ai-S Open Front Panel
170 W x 7 DIN
Od
VSA-AX10Ai-S Rear Panel Connections
11

GREAT BRITAIN: PIONEER GB Limited
Pioneer House, Hollybush Hill,
Stoke Poges, Slough
Buckinghamshire SL2 4QP
Tel.: [phone]
SWEDEN: PIONEER SCANDINAVIA AB
Nyckelvägen 2, S-142 82 Trångsund
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
DANMARK: PIONEER DANMARK A/S
Helgeshøj Allé 26, DK-2630 Tåstrup
Tlf.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
NORWAY: PIONEER NORGE AS
Sinsenveien 53A, N-0585 Oslo
Postboks 353 Økern, N-0513 Oslo
Tlf.: [phone] – Fax: [phone]
Forget yesterday’s limits, this is tomorrow’s technology, Pioneer style. So surround yourself with Pioneer — at work or play. You’ll come alive. We promise.
In-Car
AV/Navigation
Plasma TV TAD Professional
Speakers
DVD Recorders
PIONEER WORLD
Published by:
PIONEER EUROPE N.V.
Haven 1087, Keetberglaan 1, B-9120 Melsele
Tel.: + 32 (0)3 570 05 11
Copyright 2004 by Pioneer Europe N.V.
All rights reserved.
Disclaimer:
Features and specifications of the products described or
illustrated in this catalogue are correct at the time of printing
but could change as production changes might occur. This
catalogue may contain typographical errors and the colours of
the depicted products may deviate slightly from reality.
Consult your Pioneer dealer to ensure that actual features and
specifications match your requirements. This catalogue may
contain references to products that may or will not be available
in your country.
04-A-VSA-AX10Ai-EN – Printed in Belgium. As a part of Pioneer’s commitment to a cleaner environment and the protection of the earth, this catalogue has been printed on chlorine-free paper.
For detailed information concerning
Pioneer’s Environmental policy,
please visit the following site:
http://www.pioneer.co.jp/environment/e/
“Dolby”, the double-D symbol, “Dolby Surround”, “Pro Logic” and “Dolby Digital”, are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories. “DTS” and “DTS Digital Surround” are registered trademarks of Digital Theater
Systems, Inc. THX and Ultra 2 are trademarks or registered trademarks of THX Ltd. Surround EX is a
jointly developed technology of THX and Dolby Laboratories and is a trademark of Dolby Laboratories.
The i.LINK interface is also known as IEEE1394. Firewire is a trademark. “i.LINK” and the “i.LINK” logo are
trademarks. Microsoft Windows Media, and the Windows logo are trademarks, or registered trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the
property of their respective companies.
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