Pioneer VSX-21TXH, VSX-23TXH Operating Instruction

Operating Instructions
audio/video multi-channel receiver
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Product Name: AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER Model Number: VSX-23TXH, VSX-21TXH Responsible Party Name: PIONEER ELECTRONICS SERVICE, INC. Address: 1925 E. DOMINGUEZ ST. LONG BEACH, CA 90801-1760, U.S.A. Phone: 1-800-421-1404
IMPORTANT NOTICE
THE SERIAL NUMBER FOR THIS EQUIPMENT IS LOCATED IN THE REAR. PLEASE WRITE THIS SERIAL NUMBER ON YOUR ENCLOSED WARRANTY CARD AND KEEP IN A SECURE AREA. THIS IS FOR YOUR SECURITY.
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NOTE:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: — Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. — Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. — Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. — Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
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This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
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Information to User
Alterations or modifications carried out without appropriate authorization may invalidate the user’s right to operate the equipment.
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CAUTION
This product satisfies FCC regulations when shielded cables and connectors are used to connect the unit to other equipment. To prevent electromagnetic interference with electric appliances such as radios and televisions, use shielded cables and connectors for connections.
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WARNING
This equipment is not waterproof. To prevent a fire or shock hazard, do not place any container filled with liquid near this equipment (such as a vase or flower pot) or expose it to dripping, splashing, rain or moisture.
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WARNING
The voltage of the available power supply differs according to country or region. Be sure that the power supply voltage of the area where this unit will be used meets the required voltage (e.g., 230 V or 120 V) written on the rear panel.
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Before plugging in for the first time, read the following
section carefully.
This product is for general household purposes. Any failure due to use for other than household purposes (such as long-term use for business purposes in a restaurant or use in a car or ship) and which requires repair will be charged for even during the warranty period.
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CAUTION
To prevent fire hazard, the Class 2 Wiring Cable should be used for connection with speaker, and should be routed away from hazards to avoid damage to the insulation of the cable.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient 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 QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
IMPORTANT
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Read these instructions. Keep these instructions. Heed all warnings. Follow all instructions. Do not use this apparatus near water. Clean only with dry cloth. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
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Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
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WARNING
To prevent a fire hazard, do not place any naked flame sources (such as a lighted candle) on the equipment.
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VENTILATION CAUTION
When installing this unit, make sure to leave space around the unit for ventilation to improve heat radiation (at least 60 cm at top, 10 cm at rear, and 30 cm at each side).
WARNING
Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the product, and to protect it from overheating. To prevent fire hazard, the openings should never be blocked or covered with items (such as newspapers, table-cloths, curtains) or by operating the equipment on thick carpet or a bed.
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Operating Environment
Operating environment temperature and humidity: +5 °C to +35 °C (+41 °F to +95 °F); less than 85 %RH (cooling vents not blocked) Do not install this unit in a poorly ventilated area, or in locations exposed to high humidity or direct sunlight (or strong artificial light)
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If the AC plug of this unit does not match the AC outlet you want to use, the plug must be removed and appropriate one fitted. Replacement and mounting of an AC plug on the power supply cord of this unit should be performed only by qualified service personnel. If connected to an AC outlet, the cut-off plug can cause severe electrical shock. Make sure it is properly disposed of after removal. The equipment should be disconnected by removing the mains plug from the wall socket when left unused for a long period of time (for example, when on vacation).
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CAUTION
The STANDBY/ON switch on this unit will not completely shut off all power from the AC outlet. Since the power cord serves as the main disconnect device for the unit, you will need to unplug it from the AC outlet to shut down all power. Therefore, make sure the unit has been installed so that the power cord can be easily unplugged from the AC outlet in case of an accident. To avoid fire hazard, the power cord should also be unplugged from the AC outlet when left unused for a long period of time (for example, when on vacation).
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WARNING: Handling the cord on this product or
cords associated with accessories sold with the product will expose you to chemicals listed on proposition 65 known to the State of California and other governmental entities to cause cancer and birth defect or other reproductive harm.
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Contents

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 reference.
Flow of settings on the receiver . . . . . . . . . 7
01 Before you start
Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Checking what’s in the box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Installing the receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Loading the batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Operating range of remote control unit . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
02 Controls and displays
Remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
03 Connecting your equipment
Rear panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Determining the speakers’ application . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Other speaker connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Placing the speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
THX speaker system setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Some tips for improving sound quality . . . . . . . . . . 18
Connecting the speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Installing your speaker system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Standard 5.1/6.1/7.1-channel surround
connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Bi-amping your speakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Bi-wiring your speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Selecting the Surr Back system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
ZONE 2 setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Speaker B setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Bi-Am
pin
g setup . .
About the audio connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
About the video converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Connecting your TV and playback components . . . . . 24
Connecting using HDMI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Connecting your DVD player with no HDMI output
Connecting your TV with no HDMI input . . . . . . . . . 26
Connecting an HDD/DVD recorder, VCR and
other video sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Connecting a satellite/cable receiver or
other set-top box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Connecting the multichannel analog inputs . . . . . . . 29
Connecting other audio components. . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
About the WMA9 Pro decoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Connecting additional amplifiers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Connecting AM/FM antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Connecting external antennas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Connecting an XM Radio tuner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Connecting a SiriusConnect™ tuner . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
MULTI-ZONE setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Making MULTI-ZONE connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Connecting an IR receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Operating other Pioneer components with
this unit’s sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
. . . 25
Switching components on and off using
the 12 volt trigger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Connecting a PC fo Connecting an HDMI-equipped component to
the front panel input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Connecting a component to the front panel inputs
Connecting an iPod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Connecting a USB device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Plugging in the receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
r Adva
nced MCACC output . . .
04 Basic Setup
Switching the speaker impedance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Changing the OSD display language
(OSD Language) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Automatically setting up for surround sound
(Auto MCACC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Problems when using the Auto MCACC Setup . . . . 43
The Input Setup menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Input function default and possible settings . . . . . . 44
05 Basic playback
Playing a source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Playing a source with HDMI connection . . . . . . . . . 45
Selecting the multichannel analog inp uts . . . . . . . . 46
Playing an iPod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Playing back audio files stored on an iPod . . . . . . . 46
Playing a USB device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Playing back audio files stored
on a USB memory device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Playing back photo files stored
on a USB memory device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
About playable file formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Listening to the radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Improving FM sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Using Neural THX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Tuning directly to a station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Saving station presets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Naming station presets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Listening to station presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Listening to Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Listening to XM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Using XM HD Surround . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Saving channel presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Using the XM Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Listening to SIRIUS Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Saving channel presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Using the SIRIUS Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
06 Listening to your system
Auto playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Listening in surround sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Standard surround sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Using the Home THX modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Using the Advanced surround effects . . . . . . . . . . . 58
. . 36
. . . 38
5
En
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Listening in stereo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Using Front Stage Surround Advance . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Using Stream Direct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Using surround back channel processing . . . . . . . . . 59
Using the Virtual Surround Back mode . . . . . . . . . . 60
Setting the Up Mix function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Selecting MCACC presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Choosing the input signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Better sound using Phase Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
07 KURO LINK
Making the KURO LINK connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Cautions on the KURO LINK function . . . . . . . . . . . 63
About connections with a product of a different
brand that supports the KURO LINK function . . . . . 64
KURO LINK Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Setting the PQLS function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Before using synchronization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Synchronized amp mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Synchronized amp mode operations . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Canceling synchronized amp mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
08 Using other functions
Setting the Audio options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Setting the Video options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Switching the speaker system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Using the MULTI-ZONE controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Making an audio or a video recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Reducing the level of an analog signal . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Using the sleep timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Dimming the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Switching the HDMI output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Checking your system settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Resetting the system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Default system settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
09 Controlling the rest of your system
Operating multiple receivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Setting the remote to control other components . . . . 73
Selecting preset codes directly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Resetting the remote control presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Default preset codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Controls the components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
10 The Advanced MCACC menu
Making receiver settings from the Advanced
MCACC menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Automatic MCACC (Expert) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Manual MCACC setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Fine Channel Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Fine Speaker Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Standing Wave. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Acoustic Calibration EQ Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Acoustic Calibration EQ Professional. . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Checking MCACC Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Speaker Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Channel Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Speaker Distance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Standing Wave. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Acoustic Cal EQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Output PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Data Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Renaming MCACC presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Copying MCACC preset data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Clearing MCACC presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
11 The system and the other setup
Making receiver settings from the System Setup
menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Manual speaker setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Surround back speaker setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Speaker Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Channel Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Speaker Distance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
X-Curve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
THX Audio Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
The Other Setup menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Multi Channel Input Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
ZONE Audio Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Power ON Level Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Volume Limit Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Remote Control Mode Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Flicker Reduction Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
12 Additional information
Speaker Setting Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Positional relationship between speakers and
monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
No sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Other audio problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Professional Calibration EQ graphical output . . . . 102
Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
HDMI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Important information regarding the HDMI
connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
USB interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
XM radio messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
SIRIUS radio messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Surround sound formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Dolby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
DTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Windows Media Audio 9 Professional . . . . . . . . . . 108
About iPod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
About THX Abou
About SIRIUS and XM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Auto Surround, ALC and Stream Direct with
different input signal formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Preset code list. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Cleaning the unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Our philosophy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
t Neural – THX
Surround . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Flow of settings on the receiver
The unit is a full-fledged AV receiver equipped with an abundance of functions and terminals. It can be used easily after following the procedure below to make the connections and settings.
The colors of the steps indicate the following:
Required setting item
Setting to be made as necessary
1 Before you start
• Checking what’s in the box (page 9)
•Loading the batteries (page 9)
2 Determining the speakers’ application (page 17)
•7.1ch surround connection
•5.1ch surround & Front Bi-amping connection
•5.1ch surround & ZONE 2 connection
•5.1ch surround & Speaker B connection
3 Connecting the speakers
•Placing the speakers (page 18)
•Connecting the speakers (page 19)
•Standard 5.1/6.1/7.1-channel surround connections (page 20)
•Bi-amping your speakers (page 21)
4 Connecting the components
• About the audio connection (page 22)
• About the video converter (page 23)
•Connecting your TV and playback components (page 24)
• Connecting AM/FM antennas (page 31)
• Plugging in the receiver (page 39)
5 Switching the speaker impedance (page 40)
(Only if the impedance of the connected speakers is 6 Ω to 8 Ω)
6Power On
7 Changing the OSD display language (OSD
Language) (page 40)
8
Surround back speaker setting (page 91)
9 MCACC speaker settings
• Automatically setting up for surround sound (Auto MCACC) (page 41)
10 The Input Setup menu (page 43)
(When using connections other than the recommended connections)
11 Switching the HDMI output (page 71)
(VSX-23TXH model only)
12 Basic playback (page 45)
13 Adjusting the sound and picture quality as desired
• Using the various listening modes
• Using surround back channel processing (page 59)
•Better sound using Phase Control (page 61)
•Measure the all EQ type (SYMMETRY/ALL CH ADJ/ FRONT ALIGN) (page 78)
• Change the channel level while listening (Tip on page 92)
• Switches on/off the Acoustic Calibration EQ, Sound retriever or Dialog Enhancement (page 66)
• Setting the PQLS function (page 65)
• Setting the Audio options (Tone, Loudness or Sound delay, etc.) (page 66)
• Setting the Video options (page 68)
14 Other optional adjustments and settings
•KURO LINK Setup (page 64)
• The Advanced MCACC menu (page 77)
• The system and the other setup (page 90)
15 Making maximum use of the remote control
•Operating multiple receivers (page 73)
• Setting the remote to control other components (page 73)
En
7
01

Before you start

Chapter 1:
Before you start

Features

• Advanced Direct Energy design
This receiver offers a new advancement in discrete design unique to Pioneer for high-power drivability, low distortion and stable imaging. Through a circuit design that minimizes the energy loss of the amplifier for each of the channels, this receiver generates equal amplifier power to all channels, eliminating the possibility of one channel dominating a particular sound field.
• Easy setup using Advanced MCACC
The Auto MCACC Setup provides a quick but accurate surround sound setup, which includes the advanced features of Professional Acoustic Calibration EQ. This innovative technology measures the reverb characteristics of your listening area, allowing you to customize your system calibration with the help of a graphical output that can be displayed on-screen or using computer. With the additional benefits of numerous MCACC preset memories, standing wave control and microphone measurements from a series of reference points, your home theater experience can be truly customized for optimal surroun
• THX Select2 Plus certified design
This receiver bears the THX Select2 Plus logo, which means it has passed a rigorous series of quality and performance tests covering every aspect of the product. This includes testing of pre-amplifier and power amplifier
performance and operation, and hundreds of other parameters in both the digital and analog domain, making your home theater experience as faithful as possible to what the director intended.
• Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, including Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS 96/24, DTS-ES, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-EXPRESS and DTS-HD Master Audio
Dolby Digital and DTS decoding brings theater sound right into your home with up to six channels of surround
sound, including a special LFE (Low Frequency Effects) channel for deep, realistic sound effects.
The built-in Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS Neo:6 decoders not only provide full surround sound decoding for Dolby Surround sources, but will also gener ate convincing surround sound for any stereo source.
Also, with the addition of a surround back speaker, you can take advantage of the built-in Dolby Digital EX and DTS-ES decoders for six-channel surround sound.
d sound.
Furthermore, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD, which are designed for the next-generation high­definition media such as Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD, support up to 7.1 channels and 8 channels respectively.
DTS-EXPRESS is a low-bitrate encoding technology supporti rates ranging from 24 kbps to 256 kbps (this encoding is available only when signals are delivered to this receiver as primary audio).
DTS-HD Master Audio delivers audio signals to listeners without any loss of data with its high transfer rates.
• Phase Control
The Phase Control technology incorporated into this receiver’s design provides coherent sound reproduction
through the use of phase matching for an optimal sound image at your listening position.
• Sound Retriever
The Sound Retriever feature employs DSP technology to restore sound pressure and smooth jagged artifacts left
over after compression. This helps bring CD quality sound back to WMA and MP3 audio files and achieves a richer sense of presence when playing Dolby Digital, DTS or WMA 9 Pro audio formats recorded in multiple channels on DVDs and other discs.
• Front Stage Surround Advance
With the Front Stage Surround Advance feature, you can enjoy seamless, natural surround sound effects using only the front speakers, without deteriorating the quality of the original sound.
• Auto Level Control
When the source is played in Auto level control mode (ALC), this receiver automatically equalizes the playback sound level according to the variation in recording levels.
• HDMI and digital video conversion
This receiver is compatible with the HDMI digital video format, providing you with high-definition digital video/ audio via a single cable.
High-quality sound formats such as DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD are supported while this receiver is also compatible with the Deep Color feature. You can operate this receiver in synchronization with your Pioneer component that supports the KURO LINK function by connecting your component to this receiver via HDMI. Also, the built-in digital video converter of this receiver makes both de-interlacing and up-scaling possible, and analog video signals being input are converted and output as digital video signals at the HDMI terminal.
ng up to
5.1 channels, with fixed data transfer
8
En
Before you start
7 m (23 ft.)
30°
30°
• XM and SIRIUS Ready
With the XM and SIRIUS Radio terminals, you’ll be up and running in no time. This receiver’s enhanced compatibility makes XM HD Surround playback as well as on-screen control of your XM and SIRIUS Radio an added possibility.
• iPod/iPhone and USB Ready
This receiver has the terminals for connecting an iPod/ iPhone unit and a USB mass storage device.
The iPod terminal is ready for handling digital audio and video, and this receiver’s enhanced compatibility makes on-screen control of your iPod an added possibility.
The USB terminal allows you to listen to two-channel audio from a USB mass storage device connected to this receiver.

Checking what’s in the box

Please check that you’ve received the following supplied accessories:
•Setup microphone (cable: 5 m (16.4 ft.))
• Remote control unit
• AA size IEC R6 dry cell batteries (to confirm system operation) x2
•AM loop antenna
•FM wire antenna
•iPod cable
•Power cord
•Warranty card
•These operating instructions

Installing the receiver

• When installing this unit, make sure to put it on a level and stable surface.
Don’t install it on the following places: – on a color TV (the screen may distort) – near a cassette deck (or close to a device that gives off a magnetic field). This may interfere with the sound. – in direct sunlight – in damp or wet areas – in extremely hot or cold areas – in places where there is vibration or other movement – in places that are very dusty – in places that have hot fumes or oils (such as a kitchen)
• Do not touch this receiver’s bottom panel while the power is turned on. The bottom panel gets hot when the power is on, and touching it could cause burns.

Loading the batteries

CAUTION
Incorrect use of batteries may result in such hazards as leakage and bursting. Observe the following precautions:
•Never use new and old batteries together.
• Insert the plus and minus sides of the batteries properly according to the marks in the battery case.
•Batteries with the same shape may have different voltages. Do not use different batteries together.
•When disposing of used batteries, please comply with governmental regulations or environmental public instruction’s rules that apply in your country or area.
WARNING Do not use or store batteries in dire
xcessively hot place, such as inside a car or
other e near a heater. This can cause batteries to leak, overheat, explode or catch fire. It can also reduce the life or performance of batteries.
ct sunlight or

Operating range of remote control unit

The remote control may not work properly if:
•There are obstacles between the remote control and the receiver’s remote sensor.
•Direct sunlight or fluorescent light is shining onto the remote sensor.
•The receiver is located near a device that is emitting infrared rays.
•The receiver is operated simultaneously with another infrared remote control unit.
01
9
En
DVD BD DVR HDMI
TV CD CD-R
TUNER
INPUT
SELECT
VIDEO
iPod USB SIRIUSXM
INPUT
T.EDIT GUIDE
TOP MENU BAND
MUTE
RETURNCATEGORY
iPod CTRL
HOME MENU
LIST
TOOLS
AUDIO
PARAMETER
VOL
AUTO/ALC/
DIRECT
PHASE CTRLTHX STATUS
REMOTE
SETUP
ZONE 2
MAIN
ZONE 3
HDD DVD
STANDARD
STEREO
MENU
ADV SURR
CH
TV CONTROL
123
SLEEP
HDMI OUT
MCACCSIGNAL SEL
456
DIMMERA.ATTSBch
789
CLASS
MASTER VOLUME
CH LEVELD.ACCESS
0
ENTER
RECEIVER
SOURCE
ENTER
ANT
AUDIO
INFO
DISP
MPX PQLS
MEMORY
CH
RECEIVER
TUNE
PRESET PRESET
TUNE
VIDEO
PARAMETER
RECEIVER
TV CTRL
1
2
3
7
8
9
11
10
4
5
6
13
12
14
15
16 17
02
10
En

Controls and displays

Chapter 2:
Controls and displays

Remote control

1
RECEIVER
This switches between standby and on for this receiver.
2 Input function buttons
Press to select control of other components (see Controlling the rest of your system on page 73).
3 Number buttons and other receiver/component controls
Use the number buttons to directly select a radio frequency (page 51) or the tracks on a CD, DVD, etc.
The remote has been conveniently color-coded according to component control using the following system:
White – Receiver control, TV Control
Blue – Other controls
ENTER can be used to enter commands for TV or DTV. Press first to access:
RECEIVER
INPUT SELECT – Use to select the input function (page 45).
VSX-23TXH only: HDMI OUT – Switch the HDMI output terminal (page 71).
SIGNAL SEL – Use to select an input signal (page 61). MCACC – Press to switch between MCACC presets
(page 61). SLEEP – Use to put the receiver in sleep mode and
select the amount of time before sleep (page 71).
SBch
– Use to select the surround back/virtual surround
back channel mode A.ATT – Attenuates (lowers) the level of an analog
input signal to prevent distortion (page 70).
DIMMER – Dims or brightens the display (page 71). CH LEVEL – Press repeatedly to select a channel,
then use / to adjust the level (page 92).
Press TUNER first to access:
D.ACCESS – After pressing, you can access a radio station directly using the number buttons (page 51).
CLASS – Switches between the seven banks (classes) of radio station presets (page 51).
4
TV CONTROL
These buttons are dedicated to control the TV assigned to TV operation selector switch. Thus if you only have one TV to hook up to this system assign it to the TV operation selector switch (see page 74 for more on this).
– Use to turn on/off the power of the TV.
INPUT – Use to select the TV input signal. CH +/– – Use to select channels. VOL +/– – Use to adjust the volume on your TV.
(page 59)
buttons
.
Controls and displays
RECEIVER
02
5 Tuner/component control buttons/
These button controls can be accessed after you have selected the corresponding input function button (DVD, DVR, TV, etc.). The BAND and T.EDIT tuner controls are explained on page 51.
Press first to access:
RECEIVER
AUDIO PARAMETER – Use to access the Audio options (page 66).
VIDEO PARAMETER – Use to access the Video options (page 68).
HOME MENU – Use to access the Home Menu (pages 40, 43, 64, 77, 90 and 94).
RETURN – Press to confirm and exit the current menu screen (also use to return to the previous menu with DVDs or to select closed captioning with DTV).
6
/// (TUNE/PRESET
Use the arrow buttons when setting up your surround sound system (see page 77) and the Audio or Video options (page 66 or 68). Also used to control DVD menus/ options and for deck 1 of a double cassette deck player. Use TUNE/ to find radio frequencies and use PRESET / to find preset stations (page 51).
7 Component/Receiver control buttons
The main buttons (, , etc.) are used to control a component after you have selected it using the input function buttons.
The controls above these buttons can be accessed after you have selected the corresponding input function button (for example DVD, DVR o r TV). These buttons also function as described below.
Press TUNER first to access:
MPX
– Switches between stereo and mono reception of FM broadcasts. If the signal is weak, then switching to mono will improve the sound quality
Press first to access:
RECEIVER
AUTO/ALC/DIRECT – Surround Stream Direct mode
STEREO – Switches between stereo playback and Front Stage Surround Advance modes (page 58).
STANDARD – Press for Standard decoding and to switch between the various 2 Pro Logic IIx and Neo:6 options (page 56).
ADV SURR – Use to switch between the various surround modes (page 58).
THX – Press to select a Home THX listening mode (page 57).
PHASE CTRL – Press to switch on/off Phase Control (page 61).
STATUS – Press to check selected receiver settings (page 71).
PQLS – Press to select PQLS setting (page 65).
(page 56)
Switches between Auto
, Auto level control mode and
(page 59).
) /
ENTER
HOME MENU
(page 51)
.
8
AUDIO – Changes the audio or channel on DVD or
BD discs.
DISP – Switches between named station presets and radio frequencies.
CH +/– – Use to select channels for DVD/DVR units.
9
REMOTE SETUP
Use to input the preset code when making remote control settings and to set the remote control mode (page 73).
10
TV CTRL
Use this button to set preset code of your TV’s manufacturer when controlling TV (see Selecting preset codes directly on page 73 for more on this).
11
MULTI-ZONE
Switch to perform operations in the main zone, ZONE 2 and ZONE 3 (VSX-23TXH only) (page 70).
12 Remote control LED
Lights when a command is sent from the remote control (page 73).
13
SOURCE
Press to turn on/off other components connected to the receiver (see page 73 for more on this).
14
MASTER VOLUME +/–
Use to set the listening volume.
15
MUTE
Mutes the sound or restores the sound if it has been muted (adjusting the volume also restores the sound).
16
Switches the remote to control the receiver (used to select the white commands above the number buttons (A.ATT, etc.)). Also use this button to set up surround sound.
17
Press to turn on/off the illumination of some of the buttons.
operation selector switch
11
En
02
MASTER VOLUME
INPUT SELECTOR
STANDBY/ON
VSX-23TXH
PHONES
BAND TUNE TUNE
PHASE
CONTROL
AUTO SURR /ALC/ STREAM DIRECT
ADVANCED SURROUND
STANDARD SURROUND
MCACC SETUP MIC
STEREO
SPEAKERSHOME THX
USB
CONTROL
MULTI-ZONE
ON
/
OFF
ADVANCED
MCACC
HDMIPQLS PRESET PRESET TUNER EDIT
ENTER
iPod
iPhone
VIDEO CAMERA
HDMI 4
MCACC
SETUP
MIC
USB VIDEO L RAUDIO
iPod
iPhone
VIDEO 2 INPUT
12 345
910 141211 13
15
786
16 1314
VSX-23TXH
VSX-21TXH
Controls and displays

Front panel

1
INPUT SELECTOR
dial
Use to select an input function.
2
STANDBY/ON
Switches the receiver between on and standby. Power indicator lights when the receiver is on.
When the KURO LINK function is set to ON, the power indicator lights when the power is in standby.
3 Tuner controls
BAND – Switches between AM and FM radio bands
(page 51).
TUNE +/– – Use to find radio frequencies (page 51). PRESET +/– – Use to find preset stations (page 51). TUNER EDIT –
ENTER
to memorize and name stations for recall
(page 51)
4
PHASE CONTROL
Phase Control is selected
ADVANCED MCACC indicator
set to
ON
Use with
.
in the
indicator
AUDIO PARAMETER
TUNE +/–, PRESET +/–
Lights to indicate
(page 61)
.
Lights when EQ is
menu
and
(page 66)
VSX-23TXH only: PQLS indicator – Lights when the PQLS feature is active (page 65).
HDMI
indicator
equipped component; lights when the component is connected
5 Character display
See Display on page 13.
12
En
– Blinks when connecting an HDMI-
(page 24)
.
6
ENTER
7 Remote sensor
Receives the signals from the remote control (see Operating range of remote control unit on page 9).
8
MASTER VOLUME
9
PHONES
jack
dial
Use to connect headphones. When the headphones are connected, there is no sound output from the speakers.
10 Listening mode buttons
AUTO SURR/ALC/STREAM DIRECT –
between Auto Surround mode and Stream Direct mode
(page 56)
Switches
, Auto level control
(page 59)
STEREO – Switches between stereo playback and Front Stage Surround Advance modes (page 58).
.
ADVANCED SURROUND – Use to switch between the various surround modes (page 58).
STANDARD SURROUND – Press for Standard decoding and to switch between the various 2 Pro Logic IIx and Neo:6 options (page 56).
HOME THX – Press to select a Home THX listening mode (page 57).
11
SPEAKERS
Use to change the speaker system (page 69).
.
Controls and displays
PCM
HDMI DIGITAL ANALOG
LCR SL SR XL XR
XC
LFE
AUTO
DIGITAL PLUS
AUTO SURROUND STREAM DIRECT
PROLOGIC x
Neo:6 THX ADV.SURROUND STEREO STANDARD SP AB
SLEEP
DSD PCM
DTS HD ES 96/24
MSTR
S.RTRV SOUND UP MIX
OVER
MONO
dB
2
MULTI-ZONE
STEREO
TrueHD WMA9Pro
TUNED
PQLS
ALC
AT T
2
2
USB XM
VIDEO
TV
DVD
HDMI
DVR
BD
CD
TUNER SIRIUS
CD-R
iPod
[ 2 ]
[ 3 ]
[ 4 ]
21 3 118 9765 1210 13 14 15
21 2217 18 19 20
16
9
4
12
MULTI-ZONE
controls
If you’ve made MULTI-ZONE connections (see MULTI­ZONE setup on page 33) use these controls to control the sub zone from the main zone (see Using the MULTI-ZONE controls on page 69).
13
MCACC SETUP MIC
jack
Use to connect the supplied microphone (page 41).
14
iPod/iPhone/USB
terminals
Use to connect your Apple iPod as an audio and video source, or connect a USB device for audio and photo playback (page 38).

Display

15
VSX-23TXH only:
HDMI 4 input connector
Use for connection to compatible HDMI device (Video camera, etc.). See Connecting an HDMI-equipped component to the front panel input on page 37.
16
VSX-21TXH only: VIDEO 2 INPUT
terminals
Use to connect your portable equipment such as camcorders, video games and portable audio/video equipment. See Connecting a component to the front panel inputs on page 38.
02
1
Light to indicate the currently selected input signal. AUTO lights when the receiver is set to select the input signal automatically (page 61).
2 Program format indicators
Light to indicate the channels being input when PCM signals are being input. They do not indicate the audio signals being output from the receiver.
3 Digital format indicators
Light when a signal encoded in the corresponding format is detected.
4
Lights when the Sound Retriever function is (page 66)
5
Lights when the MULTI-ZONE feature is active (page 69).
6
SIGNAL
indicators
7
SOUND
Lights when any of the Midnight, Loudness or tone controls feature is selected (page 66).
Lights when Dialog Enhancement is switched on.
8
UP MIX
Lights when the Up Mix is switched on (page 60).
9 Listening mode indicators
L/R – Left front/Right front channel C – Center channel SL/SR – Left surround/Right surround channel LFE – Low frequency effects channel (the (( )) indicators light
when an LFE signal is being input)
XL/XR – Two channels other than the ones above XC – Either one channel other than the ones above, the mono
surround channel or matrix encode flag
AUTO SURROUND – Lights when the Auto Surround feature is switched on (page 56).
ALC – Lights when the ALC (Auto level control) mode is selected (page 59).
STREAM DIRECT – Lights when Direct/Pure Direct is selected (page 59).
ADV.SURROUND – Lights when one of the Advanced Surround modes has been selected (page 58).
S.RTRV
active
.
MULTI-ZONE
DSD PCM –
PCM conversion with SACDs. PCM – Lights during playback of PCM signals.
Light during DSD (Direct Stream Digital) to
STEREO – Lights when stereo listening is switched on (page 58).
STANDARD – Lights when one of the Standard Surround modes is switched on (page 56).
THX – Lights when one of the Home THX modes is selected (page 57).
10 (
Lights when the Phase Control is switched on (page 61).
PHASE CONTROL
)
13
En
02
Controls and displays
11 Analog signal indicators
Light to indicate reducing the level of an analog signal (page 70).
12 Tuner indicators
TUNED – Lights when a broadcast is being received. STEREO –
received in auto stereo mode.
MONO – Lights when the mono mode is set using MPX.
13
Lights when the sound is muted (page 11).
14 Master volume level
Shows the overall volume level. “---” indicates the minimum level, and “+12dB” indicates the maximum level.
15 Input function indicators
Light to indicate the input function you have selected.
16 Scroll indicators
Light when there are more selectable items when making the various settings.
17 Speaker indicators
Lights to indicate the current speaker system, A and/or B (page 69).
18
SLEEP
Lights when the receiver is in sleep mode (page 71).
19 Matrix decoding format indicators
2PRO LOGIC IIx – This lights to indicate 2 Pro Logic II / 2 Pro Logic IIx decoding (page 56).
Neo:6 – is on, this lights to indicate Neo:6 processing
20
MSTR
Lights during playback of DTS-HD Master Audio signal.
21 Character display
Displays various system information.
22 Remote control mode indicator
Lights to indicate the receiver’s remote control mode setting. (Not displayed when set to 1.) (page 73)
Lights when a stereo FM broadcast is being
When one of the Neo:6 modes of the receiver
(page 56)
.
14
En

Connecting your equipment

RS-232C
COMPONENT
VIDEO
HDMI
ZONE2
VIDEO
S-VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGN-
ABLE
MONITOR
OUT
MONITOR
OUT
IN
Y
L
R
P
B
P
R
Y
P
B
P
R
Y
OUT
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
ININOUT
CD-R/TAPE
MULTI CH IN PRE OUT
ANTENNA
SIRIUS
XM
SPEAKERS
OPTICAL
AUDIO
FM UNMAL 75 ޓޓ
AM LOOP
AC IN
COAXIAL
INOUT
ZONE3
OUT
P
B
P
R
1
INBD IN
1
IN2IN OUT 1 OUT 2
(
KURO LINK
)
(
DVD
)(CD)(
TV/SAT)(DVR)(VIDEO
)
(
Single
)
(
Single
)
3
IN
1
IN
1
A
B
IN2IN
OUT
IN
IN
FRONT
R
L RL
CENTER
SURROUND
R
L
SURROUND BACK /
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
L
R
SURROUND SURROUND
BACK
3
IN
2
1 3
(
DVD
)
IN
2
(
DVR
)
CONTROL IR
12 V TRIGGER
IN IN IN
OUT
OUT
12
12
(OUTPUT 12 V TOT AL 50 mA MAX)
SUBWOOFER
SUBWOOFER
RS-232C
COMPONENT
VIDEO
HDMI
ZONE2
VIDEO
S-VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGN-
ABLE
MONITOR
OUT
MONITOR
OUT
IN
Y
L
R
P
B
P
R
Y
P
B
P
R
Y
OUT
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
ININOUT
CD-R/TAPE
MULTI CH IN PRE OUT
ANTENNA
SIRIUS
XM
SPEAKERS
OPTICAL
AUDIO
FM UNMAL 75 ޓޓ
AM LOOP
AC IN
COAXIAL
INOUT
P
B
P
R
1
INBD IN
1
IN2IN OUT
(
DVD
)(CD)(
TV/SAT)(DVR)(VIDEO
)
(
Single
)
(
Single
)
3
IN
1
IN
1
A
B
IN2IN
OUT
IN
IN
FRONT
R
L RL
CENTER
SURROUND
R
L
SURROUND BACK /
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
L
R
SURROUND SURROUND
BACK
3
IN
2
1 3
(
DVD
)
IN
2
(
DVR
)
CONTROL IR
12 V TRIGGER
IN IN
OUT
OUT
12
(OUTPUT 12 V TOT AL 50 mA MAX)
SUBWOOFER
SUBWOOFER
7 9 10 11 12
13
19
2 3
4
5
1
6
8
16 17
18
14
15
7 9 10 11 12
13
19
2 3
4
5
1
6
8
16 17
18
14
15
VSX-23TXH
VSX-21TXH
Chapter 3:
Connecting your equipment
This receiver provides you with many connection possibilities, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. This page explains the kinds of components you can connect to make up your home theater system.
Important
•Illustration shows the VSX-23TXH, however connections for the VSX-21TXH are the same except where noted.

Rear panel

03
•Before making or changing the connections, switch off the power and disconnect the power cord from the power outlet. Plugging in should be the final step.
CAUTION
• To avoid hum, do not lay connected cables over the top of the receiver.
15
En
03
Connecting your equipment
16
En
1 HDMI connectors (x6 (VSX-23TXH)/x5 (VSX-21TXH))
Multiple inputs and one (VSX-21TXH)/two (VSX-23TXH) output(s) for high-quality audio/video connection to compatible HDMI devices. See Connecting your TV and playback components on page 24.
VSX-23TXH only: See Switching the HDMI output on page 71.
2 Coaxial digital audio inputs (x2)
Use for digital audio sources, including DVD players/ recorders, digital satellite receivers, CD players, etc.
See also The Input Setup menu on page 43 to assign the inputs.
3 Optical digital audio output/input(s) (x4)
Use the OUT jack for recording to a CD or MiniDisc recorder.
See Connecting other audio components on page 29. Use the IN jacks for digital audio sources, including DVD
players/recorders, digital satellite receivers, CD players, etc. See also The Input Setup menu on page 43 to assign the inputs.
4 XM Radio input
See Connecting an XM Radio tuner on page 32.
5 SIRIUS Radio input
See Connecting a SiriusConnect™ tuner on page 32.
6 Component video connectors (x3)
Use the inputs to connect any video source that has component video output, such as a DVD player. See Connecting your DVD player with no HDMI output on page 25.
Use the output to connect monitor or TV.
See
Connecting your TV with no HDMI input on
page 26.
7 ZONE 2 and ZONE 3 (VSX-23TXH only) output(s)
Use to connect a second or third (VSX-23TXH only) amplifier and monitors or TVs in a separate room. See MULTI-ZONE setup on page 33.
8 Composite and S-Video monitor outputs
Use to connect monitors and TVs.
See
Connecting your TV with no HDMI input on
page 26.
9 Audio/video source inputs/(outputs) (x5)
Use for connection to audio/visual sources, such as DVD players/recorders, VCRs, etc. Each set of inputs has jacks
for composite video, S-Video and stereo analog audio. See Connecting an HDD/DVD recorder, VCR and other video sources on page 28.
10 Stereo analog audio source inputs/(outputs) (x3)
Use for connection to audio sources such as CD players, tape decks, turntables, etc. See Connecting other audio components on page 29.
11 Multichannel analog audio inputs
7.1 channel inputs for connection to a DVD player with multichannel analog outputs. See Connecting the multichannel analog inputs on page 29.
12 Multichannel pre-amplifier outputs
Use to connect separate amplifiers for front, center, surround, surround back and subwoofer channels. See Connecting additional amplifiers on page 30 (see also Installing your speaker system on page 20 for powered subwoofer connection).
13 AM and FM antenna terminals
Use to connect indoor or outdoor antennas for radio broadcasts. See Connecting AM/FM antennas on page 31.
14 RS-232C connector
Use for connection to a PC for graphical output when using Advanced MCACC. See Connecting a PC for Advanced MCACC output on page 36.
15 Control input/output
Use to connect other Pioneer components so that you can control all your equipment from a single IR remote sensor. See Operating other Pioneer components with this unit’s sensor on page 35.
16 Remote input(s)/output (x3 (VSX-23TXH)/x2 (VSX­21TXH))
Use for connection to an external remote control sensor for use in a MULTI-ZONE setup, for example. See Connecting an IR receiver on page 35.
17 12 V trigger jacks
Use to switch components in your system on and off according to the input function of the receiver. See Switching components on and off using the 12 volt trigger on page 36.
18 Speaker terminals
Use for connection to the main front, center, surround and surround back speakers. See Connecting the speakers on page 19.
19 AC power inlet
Connect the supplied power cord here. See Plugging in the receiver on page 39.
(total 50 mA max.)
(x2)
Connecting your equipment
L
R
Subwoofer
Center
Front
right
Front
left
Surround
left
Surround
right
Surround
back left
Surround back right
SW
C
LR
SL
SR
Subwoofer
Center
Front right*
Front
left*
Surround
left
Surround
right
SW
C
LR
SL
SR
L
ZONE 2
R
Subwoofer
Center
Front
right
Front
left
Right
Left
Surround
left
Surround
right
SW
C
LR
SL
SR
Subwoofer
Center
Front
right
Front
left
Speaker B
Surround
left
Surround
right

Determining the speakers’ application

Surround sound with a strong sense of presence can be enjoyed by connecting 7 speakers and 1 subwoofer. It is also possible to achieve high sound quality using bi-amp connections and to enjoy music in other rooms using the MULTI-ZONE feature. High sound quality can be achieved with a minimum of two speakers.
•Be sure to connect speakers to the front left and right channels ( and ).
•The Surr Back System setting must be made if you use any of the connections shown below other than [1] (see Selecting the Surr Back system on page 22).
[1] 7.1ch surround connection (Simple connection & Best surround)
*Default setting
These connections prioritize surround sound with a speaker layout like that in a movie theater.
Surr Back System setting: Normal (default)
• If you have six speakers, either only connect one surround back speaker (6.1 ch surround), or connect for the 7.1-channel setting as shown on the diagram below but without the center speaker.
[3] 5.1ch surround & ZONE 2 connection (Multi Zone)
With these connections you can simultaneously enjoy
5.1-channel surround sound in the main zone with stereo playback on another component in ZONE 2. (The selection of input devices is limited.)
Surr Back System setting: ZONE 2
[4]
5.1ch surround & Speaker B connection
With these connections you can simultaneously enjoy
5.1-channel surround sound in the main zone with stereo playback of the same sound on the B speakers.
Surr Back System setting: Speaker B
03
LR
SW
C
SL
SR
SBL SBR
[2] 5.1ch surround & Front Bi-amping connection (High quality surround)
Bi-amping connection of the front speakers for high sound quality with 5.1-channel surround sound.
Surr Back System setting: Front Bi-Amp
*Bi-amp compatible speaker

Other speaker connection

•Your favorite speaker connections can be selected even if you have fewer than 5.1 speakers.
• When not connecting a subwoofer, connect speakers with low frequency reproduction capabilities to the front channel. (The subwoofer’s low frequency component is played from the front speakers, so the speakers could be damaged.)
After connecting, be sure to conduct the Auto MCACC (speaker environment setting) procedure.
See Automatically setting up for surround sound (Auto MCACC) on page 41.
17
En
03
Center
Front left
Front right
Surround
left
Surround right
Subwoofer
120°
120°
Center
Front left
Front right
Surround
left
Surround right
Subwoofer
120°
120°
Surround Back
Center
Front left
Front right
Surround
left
Surround right
Subwoofer
90°
90°
Surround back
left
Surround back right
60°
Connecting your equipment

Placing the speakers

To achieve the best possible surround sound, install your speakers as shown below.
5.1 channel surround system:
6.1 channel surround system:
7.1 channel surround system:

THX speaker system setup

If you are using a THX certified subwoofer use the THX INPUT jack on the subwoofer (if your subwoofer has one)
or switch the filter position to THX on your subwoofer. See also THX Audio Setting on page 93 to make the
settings that will give you the best sound experience when using the Home THX modes (page 57).

Some tips for improving sound quality

Where you put your speakers in the room has a big effect on the quality of the sound. The following guidelines should help you to get the best sound from your system.
•The subwoofer can be placed on the floor. Ideally, the other speakers should be at about ear-level when you’re listening to them. Putting the speakers on the floor (except the subwoofer), or mounting them very high on a wall is not recommended.
•For the best stereo effect, place the front speakers 2 m to 3 m (6 ft. to 9 ft.) apart, at equal distance from the TV.
•If you’re using a center speaker, place the front speakers at a wider angle. If not, place them at a narrower an
• Place the center speaker above or below the TV so that the sound of the center channel is localized at the TV screen. Also, make sure the center speaker does not cross the line formed by the leading edge of the front left and right speakers.
• It is best to angle the speakers towards the listening position. The angle depends on the size of the room. Use less of an angle for bigger rooms.
•Surround and surround back speakers should be positioned 60 cm to 90 cm (2 ft. to 3 ft.) higher than your ears and tilted slight downward. Make sure the speakers don’t face each other. For DVD-Audio, the speakers should be more directly behind than for home theater playback.
•If the surround speakers cannot be set directly to the side of the listening position with a 7.1-channel system, the surround effect can be enhanced by turning off the Up Mix function (see Setting the Up Mix function on page 60).
•Try not to place the surround speakers farther away from the listening position than the front and center speakers. Doing so can weaken the surround sound effect.
gl
e.
the listen
er
18
En
Connecting your equipment
fig. A fig. B fig. C
10 mm (
3
/8 in.)

Connecting the speakers

Each speaker connection on the receiver comprises a positive (+) and negative (–) terminal. Make sure to
match these up with the terminals on the speakers themselves.
CAUTION
•These speaker terminals carry HAZARDOUS LIVE voltage. To prevent the risk of electric shock when
connecting or disconnecting the speaker cables, disconnect the power cord before touching any uninsulated parts.
•Make sure that all the bare speaker wire is twisted together and inserted fully into the speaker terminal. If any of the bare speaker wire touches the back panel it may cause the power to c
Bare wire connections
1 Twist exposed wire strands together. 2 Loosen terminal and insert exposed wire. 3 Tighten terminal.
(fig. C)
ut off as a safety measure.
(fig. A)
(fig. B)
03
Banana plug connections
If you want to use speaker cables terminated with banana plugs, screw the speaker terminal fully shut, then plug the banana plug into the end of the speaker terminal.
Important
•Please refer to the manual that came with your speakers for details on how to connect the other end of the speaker cables to your speakers.
• Use an RCA cable to connect the subwoofer. It is not possible to connect using speaker cables.
CAUTION
•Make sure that all speakers are securely installed. This not only improves sound quality, but also reduces the risk of damage or injury resulting from speakers being knocked over or falling in the event of extern
al shocks such as earth
quakes.
19
En
03
RS-232C
COMPONENT
VIDEO
HDMI
ZONE2
VIDEO
S-VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGN-
ABLE
MONITOR
OUT
MONITOR
OUT
IN
Y
L
R
P
B
P
R
Y
P
B
P
R
Y
OUT
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
ININOUT
CD-R/TAPE
MULTI CH IN PRE OUT
ANTENNA
SIRIUS
XM
SPEAKERS
OPTICAL
AUDIO
FM UNMAL
75 ޓޓ
AM LOOP
AC IN
COAXIAL
INOUT
ZONE3
OUT
P
B
P
R
1
INBD IN
1IN2
IN OUT 1 OUT 2
(
KURO LINK
)
(
DVD
)(CD)(
TV/SAT)(DVR)(VIDEO
)
(
Single
)
(
Single
)
3
IN
1
IN
1
A
B
IN2IN
OUT
IN
IN
FRONT
R
L RL
CENTER
SURROUND
R
L
SURROUND BACK /
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
L
R
SURROUND SURROUND
BACK
3
IN
2
1 3
(
DVD
)
IN
2
(
DVR
)
CONTROL IR
12 V TRIGGER
IN IN IN
OUT OUT
12
12
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
SUBWOOFER
SUBWOOFER
LINE LEVEL
INPUT
Front left
Subwoofer
Center
Surround right
Surround back right
Surround back left
Front right
Surround left
The surround back terminals can also be used for the Speaker B and ZONE 2.
7.1 ch surround setting
No connectSurround back
Speaker B setting
Speaker B - Left
Speaker B - Right
ZONE 2 setting
ZONE 2 - Left
ZONE 2 - Right
6.1 ch surround setting
VSX-23TXH
Connecting your equipment

Installing your speaker system

At the very least, front left and right speakers only are necessary. Note that your main surround speakers should always be connected as a pair, but you can connect just one surround back speaker if you like (it must be connected to the left surround back terminal).

Standard 5.1/6.1/7.1-channel surround connections

20
En
Connecting your equipment
RS-232C
COMPONENT
VIDEO
HDMI
ZONE2
VIDEO
S-VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGN-
ABLE
MONITOR
OUT
MONITOR
OUT
IN
Y
L
R
P
B
P
R
Y
P
B
P
R
Y
OUT
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
ININOUT
CD-R/TAPE
MULTI CH IN
T
PRE OUT
ANTENNA
SIRIUS
XM
SPEAKERS
OPTICAL
AUDIO
FM UNMAL
75 ޓޓ
AM LOOP
AC IN
COAXIAL
INOUT
ZONE3
OUT
P
B
P
R
1
INBD IN
1IN2
IN OUT 1 OUT 2
(
KURO LINK
)
(
DVD
)(CD)(
TV/SAT)(DVR)(VIDEO
)
(
Single
)
(
Single
)
3
IN
1
IN
1
A
B
IN2IN
OUT
IN
IN
FRONT
R
L RL
CENTER
SURROUND
R
L
SURROUND BACK /
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
L
R
SURROUND SURROUND
BACK
3
IN
2
1 3
(
DVD
)
IN
2
(
DVR
)
CONTROL IR
12 V TRIGGER
IN IN IN
OUT OUT
12
12
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
SUBWOOFER
SUBWOOFER
High
Low
High
Low
Front left
Subwoofer
Center
Surround right
Front right
Surround left
Bi-amp compatible
speaker
Bi-amp compatible
speaker
VSX-23TXH

Bi-amping your speakers

03
PRE OU
Bi-amping is when you connect the high frequency driver and low frequency driver of your speakers to different amplifiers for better crossover performance. Your speakers must be bi-ampable to do this (having separate terminals for high and low) and the sound improvement will depend on the kind of speakers you’re using.
CAUTION
•Most speakers with both High and Low terminals have two metal plates that connect the High to the Low terminals. These must be removed when you are bi-amping the speakers or yo damage the amplifier. See your speaker manual for
ould severely
u c
more information.
•If your speakers have a removable crossover network, make sure you do not remove it for bi-amping. Doing so may damage your speakers.

Bi-wiring your speakers

Your speakers can also be bi-wired if they support bi­amping.
• With these connections, the Surr Back System setting makes no difference.
To bi-wire a speaker, connect two speaker cords to the speaker terminal on the receiver.
Using a banana plug for the second connection is recommended.
• Don’t connect different speakers from the same terminal in this way.
•When bi-wiring as well, heed the cautions for bi- amping shown at the left.
CAUTION
21
En
03
Connecting your equipment

Selecting the Surr Back system

The surround back terminals can be used for bi-amping, Speaker B a nd ZONE 2 conne ctions, in a ddition to for the surround back speakers. Make this setting according to the application.

ZONE 2 setup

With these connections you can simultaneously enjoy
5.1-channel surround sound in the main zone with stereo playback on another component in ZONE 2.
1 Connect a pair of speakers to the surround back speaker terminals.
See Standard 5.1/6.1/7.1-channel surround connections on page 20.
2 Select ‘
See Surround back speaker setting on page 91 to do this.

Speaker B setup

You can listen to stereo playback in another room.
1 Connect a pair of speakers to the surround back speaker terminals.
See Standard 5.1/6.1/7.1-channel surround connections on page 20.
2 Select ‘ menu.
See Surround back speaker setting on page 91 to do this.

Bi-Amping setup

Bi-amping connection of the front speakers for high sound quality with 5.1-channel surround sound.
1 Connect Bi-amp compatible speakers to the front and surround back speaker terminals.
See Bi-amping your speakers on page 21.
2 Select ‘ menu.
See Surround back speaker setting on page 91 to do this.
ZONE 2
’ from the
Speaker B
Front Bi-Amp
’ from the
Surr Back System
Surr Back System
’ from the
Surr Back System
menu.
About the
There are several types of audio input and output terminals on this receiver. The receiver selects the first available signal in the following order when you choose AUTO as the input signal:
Sound signal priority
• With an HDMI cable, video and audio signals can be transferred in high quality over a single cable.
• When connecting optical cables, be careful when inserting the plug not to damage the shutter protecting the optical socket.
• When storing optical cable, coil loosely. The cable may be damaged if bent around sharp corners.
audio connection
Types of cables and
terminals
HDMI HD audio
Digital (Coaxial) Conventional digital audio
Digital (Optical)
RCA (Analog)
(White/Red)
CAUTION
Transferable audio
signals
Conventional analog audio
22
En
Connecting your equipment
Note
HDMI IN
VIDEO IN
VIDEO
MONITOR OUT
COMPONENT
VIDEO IN
S-VIDEO IN S-VIDEO
MONITOR OUT
HDMI OUT
Y
P
B
P
R
Y
P
B
P
R
COMPONENT VIDEO
MONITOR OUT
High picture quality
Terminal for
connection with
source device
Terminal for
connection with TV
monitor
Video signals can be output
This receiver
Source device
TV monitor
Types of cables
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

About the video converter

The video converter ensures that all video sources are output through all of the MONITOR OUT jacks. The only exception is HDMI: since this resolution cannot be downsampled, you must connect your monitor/TV to the receiver’s HDMI video outputs when connecting this video source.
If several video components are assigned to the same input function (see The Input Setup menu on page 43), the converter gives priority to HDMI, component, S-Video, then composite (in that order).
1
03
•For optimal video performance, THX recommends switching Digital Video Conversion (in Setting the Video options on page 68) OFF.
1 • If the video signal does not appear on your TV or flat panel TV, try adjusting the resolution settings on your component or display. Note that
some components (such as video game units) have resolutions that may not be converted. In this case, try switching Digital Video Conversion (in Setting the Video options on page 68) OFF.
• The signal input resolutions that can be converted from the component video input for the HDMI output are 480i/576i, 480p/576p, 720p and
1080i. 1080p signal cannot be converted.
• Only signals with an input resolution of 480i/576i can be converted from the component video input for the composite and S-Video MONITOR
OUT.
23
En
03
S
DIGITAL OUT
COAXIAL OPTICAL
ANALOG
RL
AUDIO OUT
HDMI INHDMI OUTHDMI OUT
Other HDMI/DVI­equipped component
HDMI/DVI-compatible Blu-ray disc player
HDMI/DVI-compatible monitor or flat panel TV
Select one
This connection is required in order to listen to the sound of the TV over the receiver.
VSX-23TXH
Connecting your equipment

Connecting your TV and playback components

Connecting using HDMI

If you have an HDMI or DVI (with HDCP) equipped component (Blu-ray disc player, etc.), you can connect it to this receiver using a commercially available HDMI cable.
If the TV and playback components support the Pioneer KURO LINK feature, the convenient KURO LINK functions can be used (see KURO LINK on page 63).
• When connecting a Blu-ray disc player, connect the player to the receiver’s BD IN terminal.
VSX-23TXH only: When connecting to an HDMI/DVI­compatible monitor o r a flat panel TV using the HDMI
OUT 2 terminal, switch the HDMI output setting to HDMI OUT 2 or HDMI OUT ALL. See Switching the
HDMI output on page 71.
•The HDMI indicator lights on the front panel when an HDMI-equipped component is connected.
•For input co connections are also possible (see Connecting your DVD player with no HDMI output on page 25).
1IN2
MONITOR
RS-232C
IN (
DVR
OUT
INBD IN
L
2
)
Y
R
P
B
ZONE2
ZONE3
OUT
OUT
P
R
MONITOR
OUT
VIDEO
S-VIDEO
CONTROL IR
IN IN IN
OUT OUT
HDMI
ASSIGNABLE
1 3
COMPONENT
VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
1
IN
(
)
DVD
Y
mpon
P
B
P
R
Y
B
P
P
R
ents, connections other than HDMI
(
3
IN OUT 1 OUT 2
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
KURO LINK
12
12 V TRIGGER
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
12
COAXIAL
)
1
2
IN
IN
1
IN
(
) (CD) (
DVD
CD-R/TAPE
ININOUT
SPEAKERS
R
A
) (
TV/SAT
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
INOUT
MULTI CH IN PRE
CENTER
FRONT
L RL
ABLE
IN2IN
DVR)(VIDEO
SUBWOOFER
OPTICAL
OUT
3
XM
IN
)
SUBWOOFER
SURROUND
ASSIGN-
ASSIGNABLE
•If your Blu-ray disc player offers multi-channel analog audio outputs, see Connecting the multichannel analog inputs on page 29.
• The sound of the TV cannot be heard over the receiver if the TV is connected using an HDMI cable. If you want to listen to the sound of the TV over the receiver, connect the receiver and TV with audio cables. When making digital connections with a coaxial cable at this time, the digital input setting must be made (see The Input Setup menu on page 43).
24
En
Connecting your equipment
RS-232C
COMPONENT
VIDEO
HDMI
ZONE2
VIDEO
S-VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGN-
ABLE
MONITOR
OUT
MONITOR
OUT
IN
Y
L
R
P
B
P
R
Y
P
B
P
R
Y
OUT
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
ININOUT
CD-R/TAPE
MULTI CH IN PRE
XM
SPEAKERS
OPTICAL
COAXIAL
INOUT
ZONE3
OUT
P
B
P
R
1
INBD IN
1IN2
IN OUT 1 OUT 2
(
KURO LINK
)
(
DVD
) (CD)(
TV/SAT
) (
DVR
) (
VIDEO
)
3
IN
1
IN
1
A
IN2IN
OUT
IN
FRONT
R
L RL
CENTER
SURROUND
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
S
3
IN
2
1 3
(
DVD
)
IN
2
(
DVR
)
CONTROL IR
12 V TRIGGER
IN IN IN
OUT OUT
12
12
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
SUBWOOFER
SUBWOOFER
HDMI IN
ANALOG
R
AUDIO OUT
VIDEO OUT
VIDEO S-VIDEO
Y
P
B
PR
COMPONENT VIDEO OUT
DIGITAL OUT
COAXIAL OPTICAL
L
DVD player, etc.
HDMI/DVI-compatible monitor or flat panel TV
Select one
Select one
VSX-23TXH

Connecting your DVD player with no HDMI output

This diagram shows connections of a TV (with HDMI input) and DVD player (or other playback component with no HDMI output) to the receiver.
03
• If you want to listen to the sound of the TV over the receiver, connect the receiver and TV with audio
cables.
•Component video should give superior picture quality when compared to composite
or S-Video. You can also
take advantage of progressive scan video (if your source and TV are both compatible), which delivers a very stable, flicker-free picture. See the manuals that came with your TV and source component to check whether they are compatible with progressive-scan video.
•If your DVD player offers multi-channel analog audio
outputs, see Connecting the multichannel analog inputs
on page 29
.
25
En
03
S
ANALOG
R
AUDIO OUT
VIDEO IN
VIDEOS-VIDEO
Y
P
B
PR
COMPONENT VIDEO IN
VIDEO OUT
VIDEO S-VIDEO
Y
P
B
PR
COMPONENT VIDEO OUT
DIGITAL OUT
COAXIAL OPTICAL
HDMI OUT
L
DVD player, etc.
TV
Select one
Select one
Select one
VSX-23TXH
Connecting your equipment

Connecting your TV with no HDMI input

This diagram shows connections of a TV (with no HDMI input) and DVD player (or other playback component) to the receiver.
• With these connections, the picture is not output to the TV even if the DVD player i s co nne cte d with an HDMI cab le. Connect the DVD player’s video signals using a composite,
S-Video or component cord.
1IN2
MONITOR
OUT
RS-232C
INBD IN
L
2
IN (
)
DVR
Y
R
P
B
ZONE2
OUT
P
R
VIDEO
CONTROL IR
IN IN IN
HDMI
ASSIGNABLE
1 3
COMPONENT
VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
1
IN (
)
DVD
Y
P
B
P
R
Y
B
P
P
R
• Connect using an HDMI cable to listen to HD audio on the receiver. Do not use an HDMI cable to input video signals. Depending on the video component, it may not be possible to output signals connected by HDMI and other methods simultaneously, and it may be necessary to make output settings.
operating instructions
supplied with your component
Please refer to the
for more information.
3
IN OUT 1 OUT 2
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
ZONE3
OUT
MONITOR
OUT
S-VIDEO
12
OUT OUT
COAXIAL
1
IN
(
) (CD)(
DVD
CD-R/TAPE
ININOUT
SPEAKERS
R
A
ASSIGNABLE
ABLE
2
IN
1
IN
IN2IN
) (
TV/SAT
DVR
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
SUBWOOFER
INOUT
MULTI CH IN PRE
CENTER
FRONT
L RL
) (
3
VIDEO
OUT
)
SURROUND
OPTICAL
SUBWOOFER
XM
IN
(
KURO
)
LINK
12 V TRIGGER
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
12
ASSIGN-
•Component video should give superior picture quality when compared to composite
or S-Video. You can also
take advantage of progressive scan video (if your source and TV are both compatible), which delivers a very stable, flicker-free picture. See the manuals that came with your TV and source component to check whether they are compatible with progressive-scan video.
•If your DVD player has multichannel analog outputs, you can connect these instead. See also Connecting the multichannel analog inputs on page 29.
26
En
Connecting your equipment
Note
03
•The input functions below are assigned by default to the receiver’s different input terminals. Refer to The Input Setup menu on page 43 to change the assignments if other connections are used. For example, the BD terminal is fixed to BD input; no other audio and video signals can be input to this terminal.
Input function
DVD COAX-1 IN 1 BD (BD)
TV/SAT OPT-1
DVR OPT-2 IN 2
VIDEOa/VIDEO 1
HDMI 1 HDMI 2 (HDMI-2)
HDMI 3
a
HDMI 4
Digital HDMI
b
OPT-3
Input Terminals
(HDMI-1)
(HDMI-3) (
HDMI-4)
Component
(front panel)
CD COAX-2
a. VSX-23TXH only b. VSX-21TXH only
About HDMI
1
The HDMI connection transfers uncompressed digital vid eo, a s w ell a s a lmos t e very kind of digital audio that the connected component is compatible with, including DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, SACD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio (see below for limitations), Video CD/Super VCD and CD. See About the video converter on page 23 for more on HDMI compatibility.
This receiver incorporates High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI™) technology.
This receiver supports the functions described below through HDMI connections.
•Digital transfer of uncompressed video (contents protected by HDCP (1080p/24, 1080p/60, etc.))
•Deep Color signal transfer
• x.v.Color signal transfer
2
2
•Input of multi-channel linear PCM digital audio signals (192 kHz or less) for up to 8 channels
•Input of the following digital audio formats: – Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, High bitrate audio (Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio), DVD­Audio, CD, SACD (DSD signal), Video CD, Super VCD
•Synchronized operation with components using the KURO LINK function (see KURO LINK on page 63)
HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing, LLC.
“x.v.Color” and x.v.Color logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
1 • An HDMI connection can only be made with DVI-equipped components compatible with both DVI and High Bandwidth Digital Content
Protection (HDCP). If you choose to connect to a DVI connector, you will need a separate adaptor (DVIHDMI) to do so. A DVI connection, however, does not support audio signals. Consult your local audio dealer for more information.
• If you connect a component that is not compatible with HDCP, an HDCP ERROR message is displayed on the front panel display. Some components that are compatible with HDCP still cause this message to be displayed, but so long as there is no problem with displaying video this is not a malfunction.
• Depending on the component you have connected, using a DVI connection may result in unreliable signal transfers. This receiver supports SACD,
sure that the component connected to this receiver also supports the corresponding format.
2 Signal transfer is only possible when connected to a compatible component.
Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD
and
DTS-HD Master Audio
. To take advantage of these formats, however, make
27
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03
S
DIGITAL OUT
COAXIAL OPTICAL
ANALOG
RL
ANALOG
RL
AUDIO OUTAUDIO IN
VIDEO OUT
VIDEO S-VIDEO
VIDEO IN
VIDEOS-VIDEO
HDD/DVD recorder, VCR, etc.
Select one
Select one Select one
VSX-23TXH
Connecting your equipment

Connecting an HDD/DVD recorder, VCR and other video sources

This receiver has two sets of audio/video inputs and outputs suitable for connecting analog or digital video devices, including HDD/DVD recorders and VCRs.
When you set up the receiver you’ll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the recorder to (see also The Input Setup menu on page 43).
ASSIGNABLE
1IN2
MONITOR
RS-232C
IN (
DVR
OUT
INBD IN
L
2
)
Y
R
P
B
ZONE2
ZONE3
OUT
OUT
P
R
MONITOR
OUT
VIDEO
S-VIDEO
CONTROL IR
IN IN IN
OUT OUT
HDMI
ASSIGNABLE
1 3
COMPONENT
VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
1
IN
(
)
DVD
Y
B
P
P
R
Y
P
B
P
R
3
IN OUT 1 OUT 2(KURO
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
12 V TRIGGER
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
12
12
COAXIAL
)
LINK
1
IN
(
) (CD)(
DVD
CD-R/TAPE
ININOUT
SPEAKERS
R
A
IN
INOUT
FRONT
ASSIGN-
ABLE
2
1
IN
IN2IN
) (
TV/SAT
DVR
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
SUBWOOFER
MULTI CH IN PRE
CENTER
LR L
) (
3
VIDEO
OUT
)
SURROUND
OPTICAL
XM
SUBWOOFER
IN
28
En
Connecting your equipment
2
S-VIDEO
ASSIGNABLE
ASSIGN-
ABLE
MONITOR
OUT
DVDINTV/SATINVIDEO DVRINCD
ININOUT
CD-R/TAPE
MULTI CH IN PRE
XM
SPEAKERS
OPTICAL
COAXIAL
INOUT
ZONE3
OUT
N1IN2IN OUT 1 OUT 2(KURO
LINK
)
(
DVD
) (CD) (
TV/SAT
) (
DVR)(VIDEO
)
3
IN
1
IN
1
A
IN2IN
OUT
IN
FRONT
R
L RL
CENTER
SURROUND
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
3
IN
2
12 V TRIGGER
N IN IN
OUT OUT
12
12
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
SUBWOOFER
SUBWOOFER
VIDEO OUT
VIDEOS-VIDEO
ANALOG
R
AUDIO OUT
DIGITAL OUT
COAXIAL OPTICAL
L
STB
Select one
Select one
VSX-23TXH
E
DVD player, etc.
VSX-23TXH
03

Connecting a satellite/cable receiver or other set-top box

Satellite and cable receivers, and terrestrial digital TV tuners are all examples of so-called ‘set-top boxes’.
When you set up the receiver you’ll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the set-top box to (see The Input Setup menu on page 43).

Connecting the multichannel analog inputs

For DVD Audio and SACD playback, your DVD player may have 5.1 channel analog outputs. Make sure that the player is set to output multichannel analog audio.
OUT 1 OUT 2(KURO
LINK
DVR CD
12 V TRIGGER
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
12
)
COAXIAL
IN
(
DVD)(CD
ININOUT
SPEAKERS
R
A
FRONT
OUTPUT
RL
1
CD-R/TAPE
FRONT
CENTER OUTPUT
ASSIGN-
ASSIGNABLE
ABLE
2
IN
)(
INOUT
3
1
IN
IN2IN
TV/SAT)(DVR)(VIDEO
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
SUBWOOFER
MULTI CH IN PR
CENTER
L RL
OUT
)
SURROUND
SURROUND
OUTPUT
RL
OPTICAL
XM
IN
SUBWOOFER
SUBWOOFER
OUTPUT
•If your player has 7.1-channel analog outputs, the player’s surround back output terminals are not
used. Please refer to the operating instructions supplied with your component for more information.

Connecting other audio components

This receiver has both digital and analog inputs, allowing you to connect audio components for playback.
This receiver features five stereo audio-only inputs. One of these inputs have corresponding outputs for use with audio recorders.
Most digital components also have analog connections.
29
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03
Note
S
DIGITAL OUT
COAXIAL OPTICAL
ANALOG
RL
AUDIO OUT
ANALOG
RL
AUDIO IN
DIGITAL IN
OPTICAL
CD-R, MD, DAT, etc.
Select oneSelect one
VSX-23TXH
B
Powered subwoofer
Front channel amplifier
Center channel amplifier (mono)
Surround channel amplifier
Surround back channel amplifier
Connecting your equipment
When you set up the receiver you’ll need to tell the receiver which input you connected the component to (see also The Input Setup menu on page 43).
ASSIGN-
ASSIGNABLE
)
LINK
DVR C D
COAXIAL
IN
(
ININOUT
SPEAKERS
R
A
1
) (CD) (
DVD
CD-R/TAPE
ABLE
2
IN
INOUT
FRONT
3
1
IN
IN2IN
) (
TV/SAT)(DVR
FRONT CENTER SURROUND FRONT CENTER
L RL
)
VIDEO
SUBWOOFER
MULTI CH IN PRE
CENTER
OUT
SURROUND
OPTICAL
XM
SUBWOOFER
IN
OUT 1 OUT 2(KURO
12 V TRIGGER
(OUTPUT 12 V TOTAL 50 mA MAX)
12

Connecting additional amplifiers

This receiver has more than enough power for any home use, but it’s possible to add additional amplifiers to every channel of your system using the pre-outs. Make the connections shown below to add amplifiers to power your speakers.
ANALOG
INPUT
L
R
ANALOG
INPUT
ANALOG
INPUT
L
R
OPTICAL
OUT
)
O
ND FRONT CENTER
SURROUNDRSURROUND BACK /
XM
SUBWOOFER
IN
SURROUND SURROUND
PRE OUT
L
SIRIUS
BACK
IN
AUDIO
L
(
)
Single
R
ANALOG
INPUT
ANALOG
INPUT
L
R
30
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•If your turntable has line-level outputs (i.e., it has a built-in phono pre-amp), connect it to the CD inputs instead.
•If you’re connecting a recorder, connect the analog audio outputs to the analog audio inputs on the recorder.

About the WMA9 Pro decoder

This unit has an on-board Windows Media™ Audio 9 Professional playback WMA9 Pro-encoded audio using HDMI, coaxial or optical digital connection when connected to a WMA9
1
(WMA9 Pro) decoder, so it is possible to
• You can use the additional amplifier on the surround back channel pre-outs for a single speaker as well. In this case plug the amplifier into the left (L (Single)) terminal only.
• The sound from the surround back terminals will depend on how you have configured the Surround back speaker setting on page 91.
•To hear sound only from the pre-outs, switch the speaker system to OFF, or simply disco
nnec
speakers that are connected directly to the receiver.
If you’re not using a subwoofer, change the front speaker setting (see Speaker Setting on page 91) to LARGE.
Pro-compatible player. However, the connected DVD player, set-top b ox, etc. must be abl e t o ou tput WMA9 Pro format audio signals through a coaxial or optical digital output.
1• Windows Media and the Windows logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.
• With WMA9 Pro, sound problems may occur depending on your computer system. Note that WMA9 Pro 96 kHz sources will be downsampled to 48 kHz.
t any
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