Pioneer VSX-511S User manual

AUDIO/VIDEO STEREO RECEIVER
VSX-5O1
VSX-511S
-
o The demonstration mode is activated by turning on the power
switch while holding down the RETURN button (from power
standby condition). The demonstration will appear on the display.
. Press the POWER switch to cancel the demonstration.
. Activating the demonstration mode causes memory contents to
return to their original default condition except tuner.
. lllustration shows model VSX-501.
Thank you for buying this Pioneer product.
Please read through these operating instructions so you will know how
to operate your model properly. After you have finished reading the
instructions, put them away in a safe place for future reJerence.
ln some countries or regions, the shape of the power plug and power
outlet may sometimes differ from that shown in the explanatory
drawings. However, the method of connecting and operating the unit
is the same.
WARNING: To pREVENT FIRE oR sHocK HAZARD, Do Nor
EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
lFor U.S. and Canadian modelsl
The serial number for this equipment is located on the rear panel. Please
write this serial number on your enclosed warranty card and keep it in
a secu[e area. This is for your security.
Note to CATV system installer
This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer's attention
to Article 82O-4O of the NEC that provides guidelines for proper
grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be
connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point
of cable entry as practical.
lFor Canadian modell
CAUTION: ro pREVENT ELEcrRtc sHocK Do Nor usE rHts
(POLARIZED) PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE OR
OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO
PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.
ATTENTION: pouR pREVENtR LES cHocs ELEcrRtouEs NE
PAS UTILISER CETTE FICHE POLARISEE AVEC UN PROLONGATEUR
UNE PRISE DE COURANT OU UNE AUTRE SORTIE DE COURANT,
SAUF SI LES LAMES PEUVENT ETRE INSEREES A FOND SANS EN
LAISSER AUCUNE PARTIE A DECOUVERT.
RETURN function
This function returns the unit to a set of initial settings and ready
to broadcast tuner. This is helpful during troubleshooting or when
no sound is output. For details, refer to page 1 9.
() rrloNeerl'
The Art of Entertainment

r
IMPORTANT CAUTI()N
The lightning flash with arrowhead, within an equ lateral
triangle, is intended to a ert the user to the presence of
uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the prod!ct's
enclosure that may be ol suffic ent magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT REMOVE COVER {OR BACK}. NO USER.
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
OUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle ls
intended to alert the user 1o the presence oJ important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instrdctions in
the literature accompanVinq the appliance
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ INSTRUCTIONS All the safetv and operating
instructions should be read before the appliance is
operated.
RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS The safety and operating
instructions should be retained for future
reference-
HEED WARNING All warnings on the appliance and in
the operating instructions should be adhered to
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS All operatins and use
instructions shou d be followed
WATER AND MOISTURE The appliance should not
be used near water for example, near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimming pool, etc
LOCATION The appliance should be installed in a
stable location.
WALL OR CEILING MOUNTING - The appliance
should not be mounted to a wall or ceiling,
VENTILATION The appliance should be situated so
that its location or position does not interfere with
its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance
should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar
surface that may blockthe ventilation openings; or,
placed in a buill-in installation, such as a bookcase
or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through
the ventilation openings
HEAT - The appliance should be situated away from
heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers)
that produce heat
POWER SOURCES - The appliance should be
connected to a power supply only of the type
described in the operating instruclions or as
marked on the appliance
POWER-CORDPROTECTION Power-supplycords
should be routed so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them Pay particular attention to cords al
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the apPliance
POLARIZATION - lf your purchased product is
provided with a polarized power plug, please read
the following instructions, This product is equipped
with a polarized alternating current line plug (a plus
having one blade wider than the other) This plug
will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a
safety feature. lf you are unable to insert the plug
fullv into the outlet, try reversing the plug- lf the
plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to
replace your obsolete outlel Do not deleat the
safety purpose of the polarized plug.
CLEANING - The appliance should be cleaned only
with a polishing cloth or a soft drv cloth. Never
clean with furniture wax, benzine, insecticides or
other volatile liquids since they may corrode the
ca bin et
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POWER LINES An outdoor antenna should be located
away from power lines.
NONUSE PERIODS - The power cord ol the appliance
should be unplugged from the outlet when left
unused for a long period of time-
OBJECT AND LIOUID ENTRY - Care should be taken
so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled
into the enclosure through openings
DAMAGE REOUIRING SERVICE - The appliance
should be serviced by a Pioneer authorized service
center or qualified service personnel when:
O The power-supply cord or the plug has been
da maged.
O Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into
the appliance-
O The appliance has been exposed to rain
a The appliance does not appear to operate normally
or exhibits a marked change in performance
O The appliance has been dropped or the enclosure
da maged
SERVICING - The user should not attempt to service
the appliance beyond that described in the
operating instructions. All other servicing should
be referred to qualified service personnel
GROUND CLAI\,4PS
SERVICE GROUNDING
ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTTON 810 - 20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTTON 810 - 21)
OUTDOOR ANTENNA GROUNDING lf an outside
antenna is connected to the antenna terminal, be
sure the antenna svstem is grounded so as to
provide some protection againsl voltage surges
and built up static charges
ln the U,S.A. seclion 810 of the National Electrical
Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides inlormation with
respect to proper grounding of the mast and
supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire
to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding
conductors, location of antenna discharge unit,
connection to grounding electrodes, and
requirements Jor the grounding electrode See Fig
CART An appliance and cart combination should be
movedwith care Ouickstops, excessiveforce, and
uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart
combination to overturn
NEC NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE
FIG. A ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)

CONTENTS
BEFORE OPERATING, ADJUST THE POSITION OF THESE SWITCHES .......... 4
FEATURES ..........5
ACCESSORY ITEMS ............. 5
BLOCK DTAGRAM .......... 6
SURROUND EFFECT ,....... 6
DOLBY 3CH LOGTC .............. 6
DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND, DOLBY 3CH LOGIC CENTER MODE ............. 7
SPEAKER INSTALLATION..... .............7
SIMULATED STEREO ............. 7
......8
Basic audio system connections ....... 9
Basic video system connections ....... 1 0
Speaker connections ...... 1 1
Applications ...... 12
Multi-Room connections ..... 1 3
1L
16
21
DIRECT ACCESS TUNING .... 21
AUTO TUNING ,........ 21
MANUAL TUNING ....... 22
PRESET TUNING ....... 22
HITS (Hyper lntelligent Tuning System) ............23
RECEIVING FM SIMULCAST TV PROGRAMS ..... 24
......24
PLAYBACK
RECORDING WITH A CASSETTE DECK.
VIDEO RECORDING
HINTS FOR BETTER RECEPTION.......
Receiver control buttons
Operating other components
Programming .......
TROUBLESHOOTING
SPECIFICATIONS .
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24
25
25
26
26
27
28
29
30
35
36
37
40
44
46

BEFORE OPERATING. ADJUST THE POSITION OF THESE SWITCHES
TWO VOLTAGE SELECTOR SWITCHES
Only multi-voltage models are provided with these switches. U.S.,
Canadian, European, U.K. and Australian models are not provided with
these switches.
Mains voltages in Saudi Arabia are 127 V and22Oy only. Never use
this model with 110 V setting in Saudi Arabia.
The line voltage selector switches are on the rear panel. Before your
model is shipped from the factory, these switches are set to the power
requirements of the destination. Check that they are set properly before
plugging the power cord into the household wall socket. lf the voltage
is not properly set or if you move to an area where the voltage
requirements differ, adjust the selector switches as follows.
1. Use a medium-size screwdriver.
2. First, insert a screwdriver in the groove of the voltage selector at
the right, and adjust so that the tip of the groove points to the voltage
value of your area.
3. Next, insert a screwdriver in the groove of the voltage selector at
the left and adjust until the voltage is the same as at the right.
TWO VOLTAGE SELECTORS
'I 10V 120- l2-7V
SEE INSTRUCTDN MANUAL
NOTE:
Both switches must be in the same switch
setting; otherwise, unit can be damaged.
CHANNEL STEP/FM DE EMPHASIS SWITCH
(Not available on U.S. and Canadian models)
The unit has been factory preset to the channel allocation and de_
emphasis value for the area in which it is to be sold. lf these values are
set incorrectly, the frequency display may stop at the wrong frequency,
or sound may be distorted, resulting in an inability to reproduce reception
signals at their proper sound quality, For this reason, be sure to confirm
that the values are set correctly before first using the unit.
t100 kHz/10 kHz/75 psJ position:
Setto this position for areas with an FM reception step of 1OO kHz,
AM 10 kHz, and de-emphasis 7b ps,
I50 kHz/9 kHz/50 psl position:
Set to this position, for areas with an FM reception step of 50 kHz,
AM 9 kHz, and de-emphasis 50 ps.
NOTE:
When unsure about the channel allocation and de-emphasis values for
your area, consult your dealer for correct information.
4
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/5OpS < lF{1ts gkHz
lOOkHz< l-lFlOkHz
CAUTION: TWO VOLTAGE SELECTORS
AC 110V AC 220V AC 240V
4
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F
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U
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F
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10v
2OV 127V
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220V
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FEATURES
The VSX-501A/SX-51 1S combines the functions of receiver, wireless
remote control, audio-visual selector and surround processor. lt will play
a central role in your enjoyment of audio-video media.
. BUILT-IN DIGITAL DELAY, DOLBY SURROUND
CIRCUIT
You can enjoy STUDIO and SIMULATED surround playback. And
thanks to the built-in DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND decoder, you
can also enjoy the superb imaging and sensation of movement
provided by DOLBY SURROUND when using software bearing the
D0 lootsy sungouNo-l mark. (When not using rear speakers,
DOLBY 3CH LOGIC lets you enjoy the ambience of a wide, spacious
sound field.)
With SIMULATED and DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND, changing the
delay time lets you enjoy a wider sound lield eJfect.
. LARGE, MOTOR-DRIVEN VOLUME KNOB
The large volume knob contributes to operational convenience and
positive response. You can even operate it via remote control. When
you change the volume setting using the remote control unit, the knob
turns by itself, making it easy to keep track of the current setting.
. VIDEO SIGNAL SELECTOR (Simulcast function)
Allows free combination of various audio-visual sources during playback
and over-dubbing, enabling you to produce your own original video
product.
. TWO-WAY VCR COPYING AND MONITORING
VCR 1 - VCR 2: Copying of video cassette tapes can be performed
in either direction.
LD - VCR 1, VCR 2: Allows simultaneous production of two copies
from video disc or compact disc with video.
. ACOUSTIC MEMORY FUNCTION
Five types (A-E) of tone control settings can be preset. The settings
for loudness and flat tone response functions can also be selected
quickly.
. CUSTOM MEMORY FUNCTION
Stations can be preset according to the genre of the material broadcast,
and Memory Scan of a particular genre can be carried out.
. 9O/60/30-MINUTE SLEEP TIMER FUNCTION
. MULTI-ROOM REMOTE JACK
The optional l\4R-100 Multi+oom remote control unit can be connected
to the Multi-room remote lN jack.
vsx-5011
. AV REMOTE CONTROL UNIT
With the attached remote control unit you can operate any Pioneer audio
or video component bearing the ffi mark.
vsx-51 1sl
. AV PROGRAMMABLE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT
With the attached programmable remote control unit, you can operate
any Pioneer audio or video component bearing the ffi mark.
lf you use the LEARN function, remote commands of components not
bearing the ffi mark can be memorized, giving you remote control over
a component's functions.
You can also use the MULTI-COMMAND to memorize up to seven
commands in order, letting you transmit them at the push of a single
button.
ACCESSORY ITEMS
FM T-type Antenna
vsx-501
AA/ remote control unit Dry cell battery x 2
(size "AAA" (R03/UM-4))
vsx-s11s
Audio/Video programmable Alkaline dry cell battery x 2
remote control unit (size "AA" (LR6/AM-3))
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na

BLOCK DIAGRAM
AUDIO
^Nr o-.Fnffi-l--
exoro@@<
co(9-
rAPEI(_
LD(F
VCR I(H
vcR2(H
rv(F
ON
;t
VIDEO
FEC F__n",.
SURROUND EFFECT
Thisunithasabuilt-insurroundprocessorforaddingpresenceandan
expansive effect to the sound.
O STUDIO:
Select this position to enjoy the effect of listening to music in a recording
studio.
The source sound is output as it is through the Jront speakers' with
reverberation output through the rear speakers'
This is particularly suitable for a source that has a lot of reverberation'
. SIMULATED SURROUND:
The "SlMULATED" creates effects of reverberated and reflected sound
f rom the walls and ceiling similar to a concert hall' These sound-eff ects
added to the actual sound from the source make you feel as if you were
in a more expanded space' The different ranges of the expanded space
choose the sIMULATED SURRoUND mode if the source sound signal
is mono. Little or no sound will be heard from the surround speakers
iftheSTUDloorDOLBYPRoLoclcSURRoUNDmodeisSelected.
Combining the rs results
in your belng hich has
comparatively from the
front 3 chann n that of
ordinary stereo regeneration.
DOLBY 3CH LOGIC can be used with stereo sources not encoded with
DOLBY SURROUND.
. DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND o Discs and
yback.
he size and
e crosstalk,
ons wh
ed natu
ing and
When using DOLBY time setting of
20 ms is commonlY ou Prefer'
Even ifthey do not b ark' some video
recordings may be Dolby Surround encoded'
Note:
Dolby Surround will not operate correctly if the signal passes through
a graphic equalizer'
When using Dolby Surround, turn off the TAPE 2 MONIToR or set
the graphic equ alizer for flat response or to its "through" (or off)
setting, if You have one in use'
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation. Additionally licensed under one or more of the
following patents: U.S. numbers 3,632,886' 3'746'792 and
3,959,590; Canadian numbers 1,004,603 and 1'O37'877'
"Dolby" and the double-D svmbol f,lflare trademarks of Dolbv
Laboratories Licensing Corporation'
by Laboratories Licensing Corporation
brevets suivants: U.S.A. 3'632'886,
Canada 1,004.603 et 1,O37 ,877 '
fe-O [[ sont des marques de DolbY
Laboratories Licensing Corporation'

I
DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND. DOLBY 3CH LOGIC CENTER MODE
You can choose Jrom the following settings:
Center Mode Ghoices:
When using a center speaker:
o NORMAL - Low range frequencies, which have little effect on
directionality and positioning, are routed to the left and right front
speakers. So you can use a relatively small size speaker as the center
speaker.
. WIDE - lf you use a large size center speaker, choose this setting'
The full frequency range of the Dolby Surround center channel, from
low to high, is routed to the center speaker.
When not using a clnter spesker: DOLBY PRO LOGIC SUFROUND
o PHANTOM - The signal which would have been sent to the center
speaker is divided equally between the left and right front speakers'
With DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND, monaural source sound will be
heard only from the center channel at settings other than the PHANTOM
position.
SPEAKER INSTALLATION
To get the most out of the surround system, place the speakers as
shown below.
An example of sPeaker Positioning
lf the rear speakers are positioned at an extreme distance, the surround
level becomes unable to adjust and the surround effect will not be fully
achieved.
NOTE:
o To avoid interterence with the picture on a nearby TV set, use
magneticallY shielded speaker systems' This is particularly important
for the center speaker since it is usualty located closest to the TV'
. Position the left and right channel speakers at equal distances from
the TV set and approximately six feet from each other'
. Position the center speaker above, below, or behind the TV set' Sound
mav not appear to coincide with the picture if you position it next to
the TV set.
. Rear speakers are best positioned slightly above ear level'
Listening area
REAR
Front left
speaker
Rear laft
speaker
This function transforms monaural signals into simulated stereo sound'
Use it when you wish to experience a sense of stereo presence when
listening to AM broadcasts, and other monaural signal sources'
NOTE:
The simulated stereo function can also be used with stereo sound
sources, but it will result in an effect somewhat different from the nomal
stereo sound.
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Setting Up the AM Antenna
. lnsert the claw on the bottom of the antenna into the groove in
the leg.
r Place the antenna on a level surface and rotate it to locate the
orientation that yields the best reception.
. Use the attachment hole in the leg to screw to wall or other
location, then insert the claw on the bottom of the antenna into
the groove in the leg (fixing the antenna in the direction that gives
the best reception).
POWER-CORD CAUTION
Handle the power cord by the plug. Do not pull out the plug by tugging
the cord and never touch the power cord when your hands are wet as
this could cause a short circuit or electric shock. Do not place the unit,
a piece of furniture, etc., on the power cord, or pinch the cord. Never
make a knot in the cord or tie it with other cords. The power cords
should be routed such that they are not likely to be stepped on. A
damaged power cord can cause fire or give you an electrical shock.
Check the power cord once in a while. When you find it damaged, ask
your nearest PIONEER authorized servicd center or your dealer for a
replacement.
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Precaution regarding installation position of cassette
deck.
lf the cassette deck is installed in the @ positions shown in the
drawing below, it may be adversely affected during playback. lf
possible, it's better to install it in the @ position.
er

CONNECTIONS
BASIC AUDIO SYSTEM CONNECTIONS
Accessory
FM-T type antenna
NOTE FOR FM T.TYPE ANTENNA
Stretch the antenna out to its full length, and affix it to a wall, etc.
NOTE FOR AM LOOP ANTENNA
The antenna should be placed at a distance from the receiver, and should
not be allowed to touch metallic objects.
Avoid placing it near CD players, personal computers, television sets,
and other devices generating radio frequencies.
d
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Turntable
CD player
vsx-501A/sx-s1 1s
Cassette deck
Turntable
Cassette deck 1/DAT lPower cord connection examplel

CONNECTIONS
BASIC VIDEO SYSTEM CONNECTIONS
TV monitor
VSX-501/VSX-s11S
V DEO
N OUT
ol-]
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TV tuner

CONNECTIONS
SPEAKER CONNECTIONS
Center/Rear speaker cord
connection
O Push the lever down.
@ lnsert the cord.
@ eutt tne lever back.
NOTE:
lJse speakers of impedance 8 Q -
Front speaker cord connection
O Push the lever up (or down).
@ lnsert the cord.
@ Release the lever.
-,
@
vsx-5014/sx-51 1S
affir@
I lt I I ri+ill, i
F-r - ,,.,
NOTE:
When connecting a super woofer svstem such as the Pioneer S-Wl OOO,
connect it to the same speaker terminals (A or B) to which the front
speakers are connected, Connecting the front speakers and super
woofet system to terminals A and B respectively will result in reduced
volume from the front speakers.
Super woofer |TEAR I
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CONNECTIONS
APPLICATIONS
Cassette deck 2
-
-
EEEEEEI
AUDIO
NOTE:
DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND and DOLBY 3CH LOGIC will not
operate correctly if the signal passes through a graphic equalizer.
When using DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND or DOLBY 3CH LOGIC,
turn off the TAPE 2 MONITOR button or set the graphic equalizer
for flat response or to its "through" (or off) setting, if you have one
tn use.
When using a graphic equalizer
Graphic Bqualizer
From L and R To L and R
REC jacks PLAY jacks
VSX-501/VSX-s11S
v oEo
N OUT
L
R
(REC) (PLAY)
IN OUT
I
EEEEE
VCB 2
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CONNECTIONS
MULTI-ROOM CONNECTIONS
lSet-up examplel NOTE:
Be careful not to make the wrong connections
for CONTROL IN/OUT (black) and MULTI-
ROOM REMOTE lN lgreen).
Speakers B
,/
Remote control unit Speakers B
Speakers A
Speakers A
Speaker (L) TV monitor Speaker (R)
. lf you connect to the CONTROL jacks of
other components, such as a CD player or
cassette deck, bearing the ffi mark, you can
also enjoy remote control of these
components from Sub Room. (For details
concerning connections, refer to page 1 5.)
vsx-501^/sx-51 1s
* lllustration shows U.S. and Canadian models.
Speaker (L) Speaker (R)
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A/V system (including VSX-501
or VSX-S1'1S)
-\
\
lMain Room I \
Main Room Sub Room

e FM/AM ANTENNA terminats
Use these antenna terminals for reception of normal FM and AM
broadcasts.
@rnee 2 MoNtToR jacks
Connect the second cassette deck to these jacks.
Connecting for Recording
The tape recording jack (REC) on the cassette deck should be connected
to the REC side of the TAPE 2 MONITOR jack on the receiver with a
pin plug connecting cord.
Connecting for Playback
Connect the TAPE PLAy jack on the cassette deck to the pLAy side
of the TAPE 2 MONITOR jack on the receiver with a pin plug connecting
cord.
@ fnpe I/DAT jacks
Use these to connect the first cassette deck or DAT (digital audio tape)
deck.
Connecting for Recording
The tape recording jack (REC) on the cassette deck or DAT should be
connected to the REC side of the TApE 1 /DAT jack on the receiver with
a pin plug connecting cord.
Connecting for Playback
Connect the PLAY jack on the cassette deck or DAT to the pLAy side
of the TAPE 1/DAT jack on the receiver with a pin plug connecting cord.
@voeo our (TV MoNtroRljack
Connect to monitor TV or to TV sets with video input terminals for
watching program materials from a VCR 1 , 2 or LD player connected
to this unit.
@vcn 2 jacks
tvlDEo ouTl
When copying program material from the video component connected
to the VCR 1 or LD jacks, connect to the VIDEO INpUT jacks of the
VCR used for recording.
TAUDIO OUT (1, R}l
When copying program materials from the video component connected
to the VCR 1 or LD jacks, or when recording music from an audio
component source, connect to the AUDIO INpUT jacks of the VCR used
for recording.
TVIDEO IN]
When monitoring the video image from a VCR used for copying, connect
its VIDEO OUTPUT jacks here.
TAUDIO IN (1, R}l
When monitoring the audio channel from a VCR used for copying,
connect its AUDIO OUTPUT jacks here.
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REAR PANEL FACILITIES
@vcn l jacks
TVIDEO OUT]
When copying program material from the video component connected
to the VCR 2 or LD jacks, connect to the VIDEO INPUT jacks of the
VCR used for recording.
TAUDIO OUT (1, R}l
When copying program material from the video component connected
to the VCR 2 or LD jacks, or when recording music from an audio
component source, connect to the AUDIO INPUT jacks of the VCR used
for recording.
IVIDEO IN1
When monitoring the video image from a VCR used for playing, connect
its VIDEO OUTPUT jacks here.
TAUDIO IN (1, R}]
When monitoring the audio channel from a VCR used for playing,
connect its AUDIO OUTPUT jacks here.
@ cerufen SPEAKER terminats
Connect the center speaker to these terminals.
NOTE:
Do not allow any of the cord's conductors to ptotrude from the terminals
ot touch any other conductors. Malfunctioning or breakdowns may
occur when conductors come into contact with each other.
Use center speakers of impedance 8 Q- 1 6 Q.
@ REAR SPEAKERS terminats
Connect the rear speakers to these terminals.
NOTE:
Do not allow any of the cord's conductors to ptotrude from the terminals
or touch any other conductors. Malfunctioning or breakdowns may
occur when conductots come into contact with each other.
Use rear speakers of impedance I 0- I 6 A.
@ FRONT SPEAKERS terminats
A: Connect to the first set of speakers.
B: Connect to the second set of speakers.
Speaker lead wire preparation and connection.
NOTE:
Do not allow any of the cotd's conductors to protrude from the terminals
or touch any other conductors. Malfunctioning or breakdowns may
occur when conductors come into contact with each other.
Use speakers of impedance I A- I 6 g.
@ PHONO input jacks
Connect to the output cables from a turntable.
OGND terminal
Connect the turntable ground lead to this terminal.
@ CD input jacks
Connect to the output jacks of a compact disc player.
@ TV lacks (input)
pse these jacks if you wish to connect a TV tuner with both video and
audio outputs.
IVIDEO IN]
Connect the TV tuner's VIDEO OUTPUT to this jack.
TAUDIO IN (1, R}]
Connect the TV tuner's AUDIO OUTPUT to these jacks.
@ LD lacks
TVIDEO INI
When watching the video image from a LD player, connect its VIDEO
OUTPUT jacks here.
IAUDTO rN (1, R)1
When playing back the audio channel from a LD player, connect its
AUDIO OUTPUT jacks here.
@ coNTRoL lN/oUT jacks
lN: Connect this jack to other Pioneer components (main unit or
remote control unit) when using those components to control
this unit.
OUT: Connect this jack to other Pioneer components when using the
remote control of this unit to control the other components.
NOTE:
The receiver's remote sensor does not function when a plug is insened
in lN jack. To operate, point the remote control unit at the remote sensot
on the component to which the receiver's IN jack is connected.
When using the
MR-100
To the CONTROL lN
jack of the Pioneer
component bearing
the ffi mark.
@ MULT|-ROOM REMOTE lN jack
Connect to the separately sold MR-100 Multi-Room remote control unit.
@Ac ourLETs
lU.S. and Canadian modelsl
TSWITCHED TOTAL 1OO W (0,8 A} MAX]
Power supplied through these outlets is turned on and off by the
receiver's POWER switch. Total electrical power consumption of
connected equipment should not exceed 'l0O W (0.8 A).
IUNSWITCHED 100 W (0.8 A) MAXI
Power flows continually to this outlet, regardless of whether the receiver
is switched ON or OFF. Electrical power consumption of the connected
equipment should not exceed 100 W (0.8 A).
The equipment should be disconnected by removing the power plug
from the wall socket when not in regular use, e.g. when on vacation.
lMulti-voltage modell
SWITCHED TOTAL 1OO W MAX
Power supplied through these outlets is turned on and off by the
receiver's POWER switch. Total electrical power consumption of
connected equipment should not exceed 1OO W.
UNSWITCHED 1OO W MAX
Power flows continually to this outlet, regardless of whether the receiver
is switched ON or OFF. Electrical power consumption of the connected
equipment should not exceed 100 W.
15
<AR81378>

REAR PANEL FACILITIES
NOTE:
o This unit should be disconnected by removing the power plug from
the wall socket when not in regular use, e.g. when on vacation.
. Do not connect appliances with high powet consumption such as
heaters, irons, or television sefs ro these AC OUTLETS in order to
avoid overheating and fire risk.
This can cause the receiver to malfunction.
CAUTION:
DO NOT CONNECT MONITOR OR TV SET.
@ Power cord
* lllustration shows model VSX-501.
16
<AR81378>

FRONT PANEL FACILITIES
e POWER STANDBY/ON switch/STANDBY indicator
This is the switch for electric power.
ON: When set to the ON position, power is supplied and the
unit becomes operational.
STANDBY: When set to STANDBY position, the main power flow is
cut and the unit is no longer fully operational. A minute
flow of power feeds the unit to maintain operation
readiness.
The STANDBY indicator lights when the power is
STANDBY, and goes out during ON.
lTimer ON/OFF possiblel
When the unit is switched ON, ON/OFF control can be performed by
means of the optional timer.
NOTE:
When the power is initially turned ON, muting will be applied to prcvent
sound from being output for about 5 seconds.
@v-slcrunl (vtDEo stcNAL) sELEcroR button
Use to change the video signal in sequence leaving the sound
unchanged.
_*VCR 1 -+ VCR 2 _ LD_ TV_ OFF.
[-vvn,-vL -l
The current setting is shown by an indicator on the display section.
@ Remote sensor
@nuro soURcE CONTRoL buttons (See page 28)
1, 2 buttons:
These buttons are for memorizing and recalling your current settings.
Both 1 and 2 canbe used to memorize settings. lf you connect another
component, such as a CD player, to the CONTROL OUT jack on the
rear panel, the signals to switch power on and start play are also
transmitted.
MEMORY:
Use when memorizing settings to a 'l , 2 button.
@ UeuOnY button (See page 22)
Pressing this button will result in the memorization of the current
broadcast band, reception frequency, and FM AUTO/MONO mode.
This button is also used for custom memory operation.
@ cUSToM MEMo SEL button (See page 22)
Recall a genre name with this button.
r- ROCK- POP- JAZZ- NEWS - OTHER-
tt
O scnru button
Operate when the INPUT SELECTOR is set to TUNER. Station
frequencies assigned to the STATION CALL buttons are tuned in, one
after another, beginning with the current station no., for approximately
5 seconds each. The display section SCAN indicator will light. Press
the button again and the tuner remains tuned in to the station playing
when the button was pressed the second time.
Station frequencies not assigned station numbers in the memory are
skipped.
When you have selected a CUSTOM I\TEMORY genre, memory scan
is performed on the stations in that genre.
@ ru rvlooe AUTo/MoNo button
Use to select the auto stereo mode or monaural mode when listening
to FM broadcasts. The monaural mode has been selected when the FM
MONO indicator in the display section is lit.
Auto stereo mod€:
Normally, leave in this mode for reception. When a stereo FM broadcast
is received, it will be automatically reproduced in stereo.
Monaural mode:
When receiving distant stations or stations with weak broadcast signals,
the input signal may be weak, thus resulting in increased noise during
FM stereo broadcasts. ln this event, setting the receiver to the monaural
mode will reduce the noise. ln this case, however, FM stereo broadcasts
will be reproduced in monaural sound.
NOTE:
This button has no effect on reception of AM broadcasts.
@ Tuning buttons
AUTO/MANUAL tuning selector button: (Page 21, 221
Use to select the tuning mode. To select the AUTO tuning mode, press
this button to light the AUTO TUNING indicator in the display section.
To select the MANUAL tuning mode, switch off the AUTO TUNING
indicator.
AUTO tuning
When the - or + TUNING button is pressed, the receiver automatically
scans the broadcast station frequencies. When a broadcast is detected,
the scanning stops at that frequency.
NOTE:
Pressing the TUNING button (- or + ) while scanning is taking place
causes scanning to stop.
MANUAL tuning
This lets you manually tune to particular broadcast frequencies. Each
press of the + or - button raises or lowers the frequency by one tuning
step. For continuous scanning, keep the button pressed, then release
it to stop scanning.
DIRECT ACGESS tuning button: (Page 211
When this button is pressed, the STATION CALL buttons function as
ten-key number buttons for direct input of the desired reception
frequency. Press again to cancel this mode.
lf the input station falls outside of the receiver's tuning range, the display
section will display a message: "UPPER" if the frequency is too high
and "LOWER" if it is too low.
HITS (Hvper lntelligentTuning Systeml button: lPage 23)
Press this button, and search automatically begins up and down the
frequency {or stations that can be received. When a station that can
be received is found, the search operation stops.
17
<AR81378>

FRONT PANEL FACILITIES
@STAT|ON CALL buttons
Up to 30 FM or AM stations can be preset at random.
These buttons are used to preset and recall desired broadcasting
stations, FM AUTO/MONO mode.
NOTE:
. Pressing STATION CALL bufton will select TTJNER as the source,
regardless of what other listening source or function was selected.
. They are also used when performing direct access tuning.
@ SIMULATED srEREo button
Press to produce a simulated stereo effect when listening to monaural
sources (for example, normal AM or TV broadcasts).
"SIMULATED STEREO,, appears on the display section.
NOTE:
o This effect is not ptoduced through the rear speakers.
c Use with the STJRROUND MODE in the OFF.
@SURROUND MODE selector buttons
SIMULATED SURROUND:
Select this setting when listening to music or a monaural source, etc.
STUDIO:
Select this setting to enjoy the effect of listening to music in a recording
studio.
DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND:
Select this setting when w_atching video tapes or video discs bearing
tfre [[ loor-eyEuRnouNp I mart.
@ BALANCE buttons
Use them to adjust the sound volume balance between left and right
speakers.
L: Press to decrease the sound on the right side.
R; Press to decrease the sound on the left side.
Press L and R together to bring the vorume barance back to center.
NOTE:
The left+ight sound volume balance cannot be adjusted on the rear
speakers.
@TREBLE control buttons
use to adjust the high-frequency rever. press the + button to increase
the high-frequency level, and the - button to decrease it.
The TONE indicator appears on the display section.
When both buttons ( +, - ) of the TREBLE control are pressed
simultaneously, the treble response will be set to the flat (normal)
condition.
@ BASS control buttons
use to adjust the row-frequency rever, press the + button to increase
the low-frequency level, and the - button to decrease it.
The TONE indicator appears on the display section.
When both buttons (+, -) of the BASS control are pressed
simultaneously, the bass response will be set to the flat (normal)
condition.
@ DELAv TIME buttons
Operates when the STMULATED SURROUND or DOLBy pRO LOGTC
SURROUND mode is ON.
Switches to surround delay time in g steps. For DOLBy pRO LOGIC
SURROUND, 20 ms is standard.
Changes in 2 ms steps.
.l 6 ms * 1g ms _ ms * 30 ms
@ ooley 3cH Loctc button
Sele -source regeneration and rear speakers
ate r)Vish to use the front L, front R,
and audio/visual material bearing the
DO
@ nnnsrrn voLUME controt
Use it to simultaneously adjust the sound volume from the front, center
and rear speakers.
@ PHoNES jack
Connect the plug on your headphones to this jack. Set all SPEAKERS
A and B switches to OFF if you want to cut the sound from speakers
and listen to it only through the headphones.
@ SPEAKERS buttons (A, B) rgpp -gg
ON/OFF switches for the A and B speaker systems.
NOTE:
speakers when both A and B
f speakers has been connected
@ eaNo (FM/AM) button
Use this to switch between FM and AM frequency band reception.
@TUNING buttons
+: Performs tuning from the currently displayed station frequency in
ascending f requency order.
- : Performs tuning in order of descending frequencies,
@ lrueur SELECToR buttons
VCR 1: Press when performing playback on a first VCR unit.
VCR 2: Press when performing playback on a second VCR unit.
!D, Press when performing playback on a LD player.
IYI Press when using a TV tuner connected to the TV jacks.
TAPE 1/DAT:
Press when performing playback on a DAT or cassette deck.
TAPE 2 MONITOR:
Press when performing playback on a second cassette deck
or second D
cD: press when lng'
TUNER: Press when player'
PHONO: Press when playing records on turntable.
18
<AR81378>

FRONT PANEL FACILITIES
@ACOUSTIC buttons (See page 26)
MEMORY:
Pressing this button will result in the memorization of the sound quality
(tone control condition). Press again to cancel this mode.
SELECT:
. This button is used to preset the five acoustic memories (A-E).
. This button is also used to recall previously set sound quality settings.
Each time you press the button, the sound quality setting advances
in the order shown below.
r-FLAT+ LOUDNESS-+ A- B- C- D+ E I
t--l
FLAT: For flat (normal) frequency response,
LOUDNESS: Emphasizes the low- and high-frequency ranges.
Produces a fuller sense of sound, particularly when
listening at low volume.
Memorized acoustic memory settings.
@ RETURN button
Press this button to return the receiver into the initial state, TUNER is
selected at this initial state. Adjust the sound level by using the
MASTER VOLUME control.
. TAPE 2 MON|TOR........ OFF
. SURROUND MODE.....,. OFF
. MUTING ..................... OFF
. BALANCE............,. CENTER
. FUNCTION .............. TUNER
The HITS function searches for
frequencies displayed.
NOTE:
broadcast stations among the
lf no sound is output after the RETURN button is pressed, make sure
that SPEAKERS buttons are turned on.
@ MUTTNG button
Press to temporarily cut off the sound volume. The display section
MUTING indicator will flash. When pressed again, the sound will return
to its previous level.
19
<AR81378>
. V-SIGNAL SELECTOR.... OFF
. TONE ...... flat
A-E:
@ neser button
Use this when normal operation becomes impossible because of external
influences such as static electricity or lightning, or when operation is
impossible even when operation buttons are pressed. Press this button
to return to normal operating conditions.
lf you press this button when the power is ON, the unit switches to
POWER STANDBY, and the entire contents of the memory are erased.

FRONT PANEL FACILITIES
KHz
@ cnnnncrER/LEVEL/BALANcE disptay
o This displays the name of the component selected with the INPUT
SELECTOR and V-SIGNAL SELECTOR, etc.
. lt also displays the level and balance settings during adjustment.
@ DOLBY 3CH LOGIC indicator
@ suRRouND MODE indicators
@ Frequency/Band display
@ fnPe 2 indicator
Lights up when the INPUT SELECTOR is set to TAPE 2 MONITOR ON.
@ fOrue level indicator
Shows the settings of the BASS and TREBLE buttons.
@ Acousrlc display
€) DELAY indicator
O SIMULATED STEREo indicator
e ncousTc/DELAY TIME/LEVEL/SLEEP TIME display
. lndicates delay time (ms) when using DOLBY PRO LOGIC
SURROUND,
. lndicates rear level and center level (dB).
o lndicates sleep timer settings (min).
o Displays Acoustic memory letters A to E.
20
<ARB1378>
@ CENTER MoDE indicators
These display the center mode (NORMAL, WIDE, PHANTOM) during
DOLBY PRO LOGIC SURROUND and DOLBY 3CH LOGIC operation
(Refer to page 6, 7).
@ Tuning indicators
TUNED: Lights up when a station is tuned.
FM MONO: Lights up when the FIV MONO mode is selected with the
FM MODE AUTO/MONO button.
STEREO: Lights up when a stereo FM broadcast is being received.
@ scnru indicator
Lights up during memory scan operation.
@ nuro ruNtNG indicator
Lights up when in the auto tuning mode.
@ SEARCH indicator
@ sTATloN disptay
lndicates the channel (ch) selected with the STATION CALL buttons.
ffiF^nt