Congratulations on buying this fine 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.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
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 secure area. This is for your security.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
[For Canadian model]
CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT USE THIS
(POLARIZED) PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE
OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY
INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.
ATTENTION: POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES 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.
THE POWER SWITCH IS SECONDARY CONNECTED AND
THEREFORE DOES NOT SEPARATE THE UNIT FROM MAINS
POWER IN THE STANDBY POSITION.
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of
the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
IMPORTANT
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
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.
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:
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.
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.
– 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.
ATTENTION: AFIN DE PREVENIR TOUS RISQUES DE
CHOC ELECTRIQUE OU DE DEBUT D'ENCENDIE, NE PAS EXPOSER
CET APPAREIL A L'HUMIDITE OU A LA PLUIE.
L’INTERRUPTEUR EST CONNECTÉ AU SECONDAIRE,
ET NE SÉPARE PAS L’APPAREIL DE LA SOURCE DE
COURANT PRINCIPAL EN MODE DE MISE EN
ATTENTE.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes
les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur
du Canada.
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ INSTRUCTIONS — All the safety and operating
instructions should be read before the product is
operated.
RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS — The safety and operating
instructions should be retained for future reference.
HEED WARNINGS — All warnings on the product and
in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS — All operating and use
instructions should be followed.
CLEANING — Unplug this product from the wall outlet
before cleaning. The product should be cleaned only
with a polishing cloth or a soft dry cloth. Never clean
with furniture wax, benzine, insecticides or other
volatile liquids since they may corrode the cabinet.
ATTACHMENTS — Do not use attachments not
recommended by the product manufacturer as they
may cause hazards.
WATER AND MOISTURE — Do not use this product
near water — for example, near a bathtub, wash
bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement;
or near a swimming pool; and the like.
ACCESSORIES — Do not place this product on an
unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The
product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or
adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only
with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table
recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with
the product. Any mounting of the product should
follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and should
use a mounting accessory recommended by the
manufacturer.
CART — A product and cart combination should be
moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and
uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart
combination to overturn.
VENTILATION — Slots and openings in the cabinet are
provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable
operation of the product and to protect it from
overheating, and these openings must not be
blocked or covered. The openings should never be
blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug,
or other similar surface. This product should not be
placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or
rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the
manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.
POWER SOURCES — This product should be operated
only from the type of power source indicated on the
marking label. If you are not sure of the type of
power supply to your home, consult your product
dealer or local power company.
LOCATION – The appliance should be installed in a
stable location.
NONUSE PERIODS – The power cord of the appliance
should be unplugged from the outlet when left
unused for a long period of time.
GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION
¶ If this product is equipped with a polarized alternating
current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than
the other), it will fit into the outlet only one way. This
is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug
fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug
should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the
safety purpose of the polarized plug.
¶ If this product is equipped with a three-wire
grounding type plug, a plug having a third (grounding)
pin, it will only fit into a grounding type power outlet.
This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the
plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the
safety purpose of the grounding type plug.
POWER-CORD PROTECTION — Power-supply cords
should be routed so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to cords at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where
they exit from the product.
OUTDOOR ANTENNA GROUNDING — If an outside
antenna or cable system is connected to the product,
be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so
as to provide some protection against voltage surges
and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National
Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information
with regard 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 for the grounding electrode. See Figure
A.
LIGHTNING — For added protection for this product
during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended
and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from
the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable
system. This will prevent damage to the product
due to lightning and power-line surges.
POWER LINES — An outside antenna system should
not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines
or other electric light or power circuits, or where it
can fall into such power lines or circuits. When
installing an outside antenna system, extreme care
should be taken to keep from touching such power
lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.
OVERLOADING — Do not overload wall outlets,
extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles
as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
GROUND
CLAMP
ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT
Fig. A
OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY — Never push objects of
any kind into this product through openings as they
may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out
parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.
Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
SERVICING — Do not attempt to service this product
yourself as opening or removing covers may expose
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel.
DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE — Unplug this product
from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel under the following conditions:
¶ When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
¶ If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into
the product.
¶ If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
¶ If the product does not operate normally by following
the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls
that are covered by the operating instructions as an
improper adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work by a
qualified technician to restore the product to its
normal operation.
¶ If the product has been dropped or damaged in any
way.
¶ When the product exhibits a distinct change in
performance — this indicates a need for service.
REPLACEMENT PARTS — When replacement parts
are required, be sure the service technician has used
replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or
have the same characteristics as the original part.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric
shock, or other hazards.
SAFETY CHECK — Upon completion of any service or
repairs to this product, ask the service technician to
perform safety checks to determine that the product
is in proper operating condition.
WALL OR CEILING MOUNTING — The product should
not be mounted to a wall or ceiling.
HEAT — The product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other products (including amplifiers) that produce
heat.
ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)
NEC — NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
Information to User
Alteration or modifications carried out without appropriate authorization may invalidate the user's right to operate the equipment.
3
Features
Decoding of Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic and DTS (Digital Theater Systems)
DTS is the latest and most widely used digital theater system for cinemas throughtout the world. The decoder has
been incorporated into this receiver and is able to achieve high sound quality as well as produce dynamic surround sound effects. Also, there's no need to worry about program formats. When playing Dolby Digital, Dolby
Pro Logic or Dolby Surround software in the
switches on automatically according to the input signal, all you have to do is enjoy!
“DTS” and “DTS Digital Surround” are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.
Manufactured under licence from Digital Theater Systems, Inc.
(Dolby) Surround and HOME THX CINEMA modes, decoding
Direct Energy MOS amplifier
The VSX-27TX receiver incorporates 5 independent 120 watt built in power amplifiers, the VSX-26TX 100 watt built
in power amplifiers and the VSX-24TX 90 watt built in power amplifiers, all with high-performance Hex power
MOS FET output transistors. This construction provides improved linearity and accurate reproduction of each
channel for true high fidelity reproduction from even the most demanding Dolby Digital and DTS program
sources.
True Home Cinema with THX® Certification
The HOME THX CINEMA surround mode employs special processing to allow you to enjoy movie soundtracks
with the same level of power and realism you experience in well designed movie theaters. You can enjoy this
effect with both Dolby Digital, Dolby Surround and DTS sources.
R
Manufactured under license from Lucasfilm Ltd. Lucasfilm and THX are trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd.
Advanced Theater Modes
This mode enhances the sound of either film or music so a more dramatic effect can be achieved. The four modes
are each designed to accentuate specific sound qualities, giving the listener a wide range of possibilities.
DSP Surround Modes
DSP (Digital Signal Processing) surround mode gives you the capability of transforming your living room into six
different sonic environments when listening to music.
Midnight Listening Mode
Midnight mode allows you to obtain excellent surround sound effects even when listening at low volumes,
something that was previously impossible.
Digital Noise Reduction
Digital Noise reduction is the latest technology for filtering out unwanted noise. It produces clear, resonant tones.
Illuminated Remote Control of Other Components
The supplied remote control can be used to operate a variety of other components simply by recalling the
appropriate preset codes or by using the learning function to teach the remote control new commands. In
addition, the multi-operation functions allow you to perform a variety of operations automatically.
The Energy-saving Design
This unit is designed to use minimal electricity when power is switched OFF (in Standby mode). Regarding the
value of the power consumption in standby mode, refer to “Specifications” on page 78.
4
Table of Contents
Before You Start.......................................................................... 6
Checking the Supplied Accessories.........................................................6
How to Use This Manual...........................................................................6
Preparing the Remote Control ................................................................. 6
Installing the Receiver...............................................................................7
Opening the Front Panel ........................................................................... 7
Connecting Your Equipment...................................................... 8
Please check that you have received all of the following supplied accessories.
FM wire antennaAM loop antennaRemote control unit
“AA” IEC LR6 batteries x 2
How to Use This Manual
This manual is for the VSX-27TX/26TX/24TX Audio/Video
Multi-Channel Receiver.
This manual is divided into three main sections which
will tell you how to setup and use the unit :
PREPARATION
First carry out the tasks below in this “Before You Start“
section to prepare the remote control, then connect the
receiver to your other components as described in
“Connecting Your Equipment“ (p.8). Take special care to
connect your digital equipment like DVDs and LDs
properly to be able to take advantage of the receiver's
surround sound systems (p.10-11). To learn about a
specific button, control, or indicator, see “Displays &
Controls“ starting on p.17.
SET UP
Performing the tasks in "Surround Sound Set Up" (from
p.24) is essential to get proper surround sound.
OPERATION
To play some music or soundtrack refer to “Basic
Playback“ on p.35. “Using the Tuner“ (p.44) explains
how to use the radio of this unit. Doing the operations in
“Remote Control of Other Components“ (p.48) is highly
recommended so you can use this unit's remote control
for all your components. “Using Other Functions“ (p.60)
explain the other possibilities of the receiver.
"Techno Tidbits & Problem-solving“ (p.72) provide
detailed technical information and a troubleshooting
guide.
The following marks and symbols are used throughout
the manual:
memo
Provides additional information, precautions,
and advice.
Indicates a blinking button, indicator, or
display.
Indicates a steadily lit button, indicator, or
display.
Preparing the Remote Control
Loading the batteries
Load the batteries into the remote control as shown below. Please use alkaline batteries.
123
\\
When you notice a decrease in the operating range of the remote control, replace all batteries with new ones.
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.
6
Before You Start
Operating range of remote control unit
The area in which you can use the remote control to operate the VSX-27TX/26TX/24TX is fairly large. To use, point the
remote control toward the remote sensor on the front panel of this unit while within the range shown below.
PREPARATION
memo
30
30
23 feet (7m)
Remote control may not function properly if :
• There are obstacles between the remote
control and the remote sensor.
• Direct sunlight or fluorescent light is shining
onto the remote sensor.
• The receiver located near a device emitting
infrared rays.
• Operated simultaneously with another
remote control which uses infrared rays.
Installing the Receiver
Please note:
• Do not place objects directly on top of this unit. This would prevent proper heat dispersal.
• When installing in a rack, shelf, etc., be sure to leave more than 8 inches of space above the receiver.
8 inches (20 cm.)
Receiver
SET
UP
OPERATION
Opening the Front Panel
To open the front panel push gently on the lower third of the panel with your finger.
7
Connecting Your Equipment
Audio Components
To begin set up connect your audio components to the jacks as shown below. These are all analog connections and
your analog audio components (turntable, cassette deck) use these jacks. Remember that for components you want to
record with you need to hook up four plugs (a set of stereo ins and a set of stereo outs), but for components that only
play (like a turntable) you only need to hook up one set of stereo plugs (two plugs). To use DTS surround sound
features you must hook up your digital components to the digital inputs but it is also a good idea to hook up your
digital components to analog audio jacks. If you want to record to/from digital components (like an MD) to/from analog
components you must hook up your digital equipment with these analog connections. See p.10,11 for more on digital
connections.
When connecting your equipment always make sure the power is turned off and the power cord is disconnected from
the wall outlet.
NOTE :
• Only the VSX-27TX has a
• The arrows indicate the direction of the audio signal.
RF IN jack.
VSX-27TX
ANTENNA
OUTPUT
L
R
DIGITAL
1
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
RF IN
FM UNBAL
75Ω
FM
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTIROOM
&
AM LOOP
SOURCE
ANTENNA
CD player
S
L
F
L
C
RL
RL
DVD
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
C
S
W
/LD
IN
TV/
SAT
IN
IN
VCR1
OUT
IN
VCR2
OUT
P
P
L
L
A
A
MD/
Y
Y
TAPE1
R
E
C
IN
MULTI-ROOM
PHONO
SOURCE
Turntable
If your turntable has a
ground wire, connect
it to the SIGNAL GND
terminal.
VIDEO
VIDEO
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
REMOTE
IN
&
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
OUT
MONITOR
S2
OUT
IN
CONTROL
OUT
FRFLCSRSLRL
TO
TV
AB
FRONT
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SURROUND
SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUALSE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
PLAYREC
L
R
MD recorder
or Cassette deck
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
FRONT
SPEAKERS
PLAYREC
L
R
Cassette deck
(with REC monitor)
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
7 Audio cords
Use audio cords (not supplied) to connect the audio
components.
L
Connect red plugs to R (right)
and white plugs to L (left).
Be sure to insert completely.
R
8
Cassette deck placement
Depending on where the cassette deck is placed, noise
may occur during playback of your cassette deck which
is caused by leakage flux from the transformer in the
receiver. If you experience noise, move the cassette deck
farther away from the receiver.
Connecting Your Equipment
Video Components
Connect your video components to the jacks as shown below. Regarding digital video components (like a DVD), you
must use the analog connections pictured on this page for the video signal but in order to use Dolby Digital you should
hook up their audio to a digital input (see the next page). It is also a good idea to hook up your digital components with
analog audio connections as well (see the previous page). To cover all possible laser discs a DVD/LD player or LD player
requires an analog connection (as shown here) and two digital connections (see the next page).
When connecting your equipment always make sure the power is turned off and the power cord is disconnected from
the wall outlet.
PREPARATIONOPERATION
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
RF IN
FM UNBAL
75Ω
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
PCM/ /DTS IN
TAPE2
MONITOR
MULTI-
SOURCE
DVD player
(or LD player)
OUTPUT
VIDEO
L
R
234
CD
ROOM
&
S
L
F
L
C
RL
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
RL
TAPE1
PHONO
VCR1
VCR2
DVD
/LD
IN
TV/
SAT
IN
IN
OUT
IN
OUT
MD/
IN
VIDEO
VIDEO
VIDEO
REMOTE
MULTI-ROOM
&
SOURCE
Video deck (1)Video deck (2)
OUTPUT
VIDEO
L
R
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
TO
OUT
MONITOR
TV
S2
OUT
OUT
IN
OUT
CONTROL
OUT
IN
INPUT
OUTPUT
VIDEO
L
R
FRFLCSRSLRL
AB
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUALSE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SURROUND
SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
VIDEO
L
R
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
FRONT
SWITCHED
AC OUTLETS
INPUT
VIDEO
L
R
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
120V60Hz
VSX-27TX
AC
OUTPUT
INPUT
VIDEO
L
VIDEO
R
TV tuner
(or Satellite tuner)
TV
(monitor)
7 Audio/Video cords
Use audio/video cords (not supplied) to connect the
video components and a video cord to connect the
monitor TV.
R
L
Connect red plugs to R
VIDEO
(right), white plugs to L (left),
and the yellow plugs to
VIDEO.
Be sure to insert completely.
L AUDIO R
VIDEO
EXTERNAL
DECODER IN DIRECT
SPEAKERS
7 Front
5-CHANNEL EQUAL POWER OUTPUT
PHONES
VIDEO INPUT
S-VIDEO
VIDEO
Video camera
(etc.)
VIDEO INPUT
LV
R
Front video connections are accessed via the front panel
input selector as "VIDEO."
memo
If your video components have S-video jacks,
you could use S-video cords (not supplied) to
connect them on the back of the receiver. These
jacks are labeled by the Japanese designation
"S2" on the VSX-27TX/26TX/24TX but they are
simply S-video jacks.
However, if you use S-video cords for your
video hook ups you must also hook up your TV
with S-video connections. Conversely, if you
use regular composite video cords for video
hook ups, you should use them for your TV as
well.
9
Connecting Your Equipment
Digital Connections
In order to use Dolby Digital/DTS soundtracks you need to make digital audio connections. You can do this by either
coaxial or optical connections (you don’t need to do both). The quality of these two types of connections is the same
but since some digital components only have one type of digital terminal, it is a matter of matching like with like (for
example, the coaxial out from the component to coaxial in on the receiver). The VSX-27TX/26TX/24TX has two coaxial
and two optical inputs for a total of four digital inputs. For the VSX-27TX, a DVD/LD player or LD player should be
connected to a digital jack and the special AC-3 RF jack (if the LD has one) as well as a pair of analog jacks (see the
previous page). Connect your digital components as shown below. There is one digital out jack which is marked PCM/
/DTS OUT. If you connect this to the optical input on a digital recorder (currently these include MD, DAT, and CD-R)
you can make direct digital recordings with this unit.
When connecting your equipment always make sure the power is turned off and the power cord is disconnected from
the wall outlet.
NOTE :
• Only the VSX-27TX has a
RF IN jack.
VSX-27TX
DIGITAL
1
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
RF IN
FM UNBAL
75Ω
FM
ANTENNA
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
DIGITAL OUT
OPT.
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTIROOM
&
SOURCE
DVD player
S
L
F
L
C
RL
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
RL
TAPE1
PHONO
VIDEO
DVD
S2
/LD
IN
IN
TV/
S2
SAT
IN
IN
S2
IN
OUT
IN
OUT
MD/
IN
MULTI-ROOM
SOURCE
DIGITAL
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
REMOTE
IN
&
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
OUT
VCR1
VCR2
CD player
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
FRFLCSRSLRL
TO
MONITOR
TV
S2
OUT
IN
CONTROL
OUT
AB
FRONT
CENTER
SPEAKERS
OUT
SURROUND
SPEAKERS
DIGITAL
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUALSE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
DIGITAL
IN
FRONT
SPEAKERS
MD recorder
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
DIGITAL
OUT
TV tuner
(or Satellite tuner)
7 Digital audio cords/Optical cables
Commercially available digital audio coaxial cords
(standard video cords can also be used) or optical
cables (not supplied) are used to connect digital
components to this receiver.
When you use optical digital input or output terminals,
pull off the caps and insert the plugs. Be sure to insert
completely.
Digital audio cord
(or standard video cord)
Optical cable
10
Connecting Your Equipment
Example Connection for a DVD/LD or LD player
VSX-27TX model :
Make sure you connect your DVD/LD or LD players using both the AC-3 RF jack and a coaxial or optical connection. If
your player has an AC-3 RF output this will ensure you can use all LDs. See p. 34.
VSX-27TX
DIGITAL
1
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
S
L
F
RF IN
L
FM UNBAL
75Ω
C
FM
ANTENNA
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTI-
ROOM
&
AM LOOP
SOURCE
ANTENNA
RL
RF OUT
(AC-3)(LD)
DIGITAL OUT
PCM (CPT.)
1
23
DVD/LD player
or LD player
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
RL
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
PHONO
VIDEO
DVD
S2
/LD
IN
IN
TV/
S2
SAT
IN
IN
S2
IN
IN
VCR1
S2
OUT
OUT
S2
IN
IN
VCR2
S2
OUT
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
MD/
TAPE1
VIDEO
OUT
REMOTE
IN
IN
MULTI-ROOM
&
SOURCE
FR FLC SR SLRL
TO
MONITOR
TV
S2
OUT
IN
CONTROL
OUT
AB
FRONT
SPEAKERS
memo
SURROUND
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
Be sure to make either a digital coaxial or
digital optical connection (pictured as DIGITAL
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
jack 1 or DIGITAL jack 3 in this diagram) as
well, but you DON'T need to make both. Also,
be sure to assign the jacks to the proper
component(s) with the "Digital-In Select"
procedure (see p. 34).
PREPARATIONOPERATION
VSX-26TX/24TX models :
When playing LD recorded in Dolby Digital
To connect a DVD/LD player or LD player with it's AC-3 RF output, a commercially available RF demodulator (RFD-1) is
required. The RF demodulator changes the RF signal to a digital signal which is then processed by the VSX-26TX/24TX
models through their digital input jacks. For more details, refer to the instruction manual supplied with the RFD-1.
VSX-26TX
DIGITAL
1
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
S
PREOUT
L
FM
F
ANTENNA
L
FM UNBAL
75Ω
C
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTIROOM
&
AM LOOP
SOURCE
ANTENNA
RL
PCM/
PCM/
PCM/
(OPT.)
(OPT.)
DIGITAL OUT
DIGITAL IN
RF demodulator
RFD-1
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
PCM/
RL
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
RF IN
(AC-3)(LD)
OPTICAL
TAPE1
PHONO
DVD
/LD
IN
TV/
SAT
IN
IN
VCR1
OUT
IN
VCR2
OUT
MD/
IN
DIGITAL IN
REMOTE
MULTI-ROOM
&
SOURCE
COAXIAL
VIDEO
VIDEO
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
OUT
FR FLC SR SLRL
TO
MONITOR
TV
S2
OUT
IN
CONTROL
OUT
AB
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SURROUND
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUAL SE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
RF OUT
(AC-3)(LD)
DIGITAL OUT
PCM (OPT.)
1
23
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
DVD/LD player
or LD player
memoMake sure the RF demodulator digital in
switch is set correctly (optical or coaxial
depending on the connection).
11
Connecting Your Equipment
External Decoder Input
In some cases you may need an external decoder to play special analog or DVD sources. If you find you need an
external decoder hook one up as shown below, but for most people this component is unnecessary. (See p.42)
When connecting your equipment always make sure the power is turned off and the power cord is disconnected from
the wall outlet.
VSX-27TX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
RF IN
FM UNBAL
75Ω
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
S
L
F
L
C
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTIROOM
&
SOURCE
RL
»
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
IN
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
SURROUND
OUTPUT
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
L
R
RL
TAPE1
PHONO
»
SUB
WOOFER
VCR1
VCR2
DVD
/LD
IN
TV/
SAT
IN
IN
OUT
IN
OUT
MD/
IN
MULTI-ROOM
SOUCE
»
CENTER
VIDEO
VIDEO
OUT
VIDEO
OUT
REMOTE
IN
&
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
OUT
MONITOR
S2
OUT
IN
CONTROL
OUT
FRFLCSRSLRL
TO
TV
AB
FRONT
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SURROUND
SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUALSE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
»
FRONT
OUTPUT
L
R
memo
12
Components equipped
with 5.1 channel analog
output jacks
You can't use the tuner and phono functions with an external decoder input.
Connecting Your Equipment
Antennas
Hook up the supplied radio antennas as shown below. When connecting your equipment always make sure the power
is turned off and the power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet.
FM wire antenna
PREPARATIONOPERATION
AM loop antenna
Connect the FM wire antenna and fully extend to the “T" shape.
(For best reception, attach horizontally analog a window frame, etc.)
(See below)
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
1
RF IN
FM UNBAL
75Ω
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
S
L
F
L
C
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTI-
ROOM
&
SOUCE
RL
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
RL
TAPE1
PHONO
VCR1
VCR2
DVD
SAT
OUT
OUT
/LD
IN
TV/
IN
IN
IN
MD/
IN
VIDEO
VIDEO
VIDEO
REMOTE
MULTI-ROOM
&
SOURCE
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
OUT
MONITOR
S2
OUT
OUT
IN
OUT
CONTROL
OUT
IN
FRFLCSRSLRL
TO
TV
AB
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUALSE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
7 AM loop antenna
1 Assemble the antenna.2 Twist exposed wire strands
together and insert.
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SURROUND
SPEAKERS
VSX-27TX
SWITCHED
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
FRONT
SPEAKERS
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
3 Attach to a wall, etc. (if desired)
and face toward the direction
providing the best reception.
Using external antennas
7 To improve FM reception
Connect an external FM antenna.
FM UNBAL
75Ω
FM
ANTENNA
75 Ω coaxial cable
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
ground
3/8 in. (10 mm)
7 To improve AM reception
Connect a 15 to 18 feet (5~6 meter) length of vinyl-coated wire to the AM
antenna terminal in addition to the supplied AM loop antenna.
For the best possible reception, suspend horizontally outdoors.
Outdoor antenna
FM UNBAL
75Ω
FM
ANTENNA
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
ground
15~18 feet (5~6 m)
Indoor antenna
(Vinyl-coated wire)
13
Connecting Your Equipment
Speakers
A full complement of six speakers is shown here but, naturally, everyone's home set up will vary. Simply connect the
speakers you have in the manner described below. The VSX-27TX/26TX/24TX will work with just two stereo speakers
(called "front" speakers in the diagram) but the receiver is designed to be used with at least three speakers.
Make sure you connect the speaker on the right to the right terminal and the speaker on the left to the left terminal. Also
make sure the positive and negative (+/–) terminals on the receiver match those on the speakers. When connecting your
equipment always make sure the power is turned off and the power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet.
memo
The VSX-27TX/26TX/24TX has two speaker systems, A & B. A is the main system supporting the full
complement of surround sound speakers. If you switch on both A & B speaker systems, only front speakers
and the sub-woofer will be audible. No sound will come from the center or surround speakers but multi
channel sources will be down-mixed to the active speakers so no sound will be lost. Similarly, if you choose
just the B system you‘ll only hear the front speakers connected to the B system and multi channel sources will
be down-mixed to these two speakers.
Front Speakers
L
Center Speaker
R
C
Surround Speakers
SR
SL
VSX-27TX
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
RF IN
FM UNBAL
75Ω
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
1
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
S
L
F
L
C
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTIROOM
&
SOURCE
RL
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
RL
TAPE1
PHONO
VCR1
VCR2
DVD
OUT
OUT
/LD
IN
TV/
SAT
IN
IN
IN
MD/
IN
VIDEO
VIDEO
VIDEO
REMOTE
MULTI-ROOM
&
SOURCE
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
OUT
MONITOR
S2
OUT
OUT
IN
OUT
CONTROL
OUT
IN
FRFLCSRSLRL
TO
TV
AB
FRONT
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SURROUND
SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUALSE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
TV
(To be used as
the center
speaker)
Powered sub woofer
INPUT
When using the speaker on your TV as the center speaker, connect the CENTER
PREOUT jack on this unit to the audio input jack on your TV. In this case, the center
speaker shown is unnecessary.
7 Speaker terminals
1 Twist exposed wire
strands together.
3/8 in. (10 mm)
2 Loosen speaker terminal
and insert exposed wire.
3 Tighten terminal.
14
Be sure to complete all other
connections before connecting
this unit to the AC power source.
The speaker terminals also
accept single banana plugs.
(Refer to speaker manual for
details.)
Connecting Your Equipment
N
+
dB
SIGNAL
SELECT
ANALOG
SP
A
VOLUME
Speaker impedance (26TX and 24TX only)
You can change the speaker impedance to suit the kind of speakers you have in your home system but we recommend
using speakers with an impedance of 8Ω-16Ω (the default setting). If you are using less than 8 Ω impedance speakers,
you need to change the impedance setting.
STANDBY/ON
STANDBY/ON
PHONES
VSX-26TX
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
DSP
STANDBAY
MODE
/DTS
THX CINEMA ADVANCED STANDARD
5-CHANNEL EQUAL POWER OUTPUT
VIDEO INPUT
S-VIDEO
VIDEO
SPEAKERS
L AUDIO R
STEREO
N∫m¿<>ım
VIDEO VCR 1
EXTERNAL
DECODER IN DIRECT LOUD
SPEAKERS-
BASS
while holding down the SPEAKERS button.
Choose the impedance setting by pressing the SPEAKERS button again.
You can choose the 8Ω-16Ω setting or the 6Ω-8Ω setting.
memo
SIGNAL
SELECT
A
ANALOG
SP
To check which impedance the amp is set to hold down the SPEAKERS
button for 2-3 seconds. You'll get a display like the one shown below
right telling you the speaker impedance setting.
SIGNAL
SELECT
A
ANALOG
SP
(This display indicates a 6Ω- less
than 8Ω impedance setting.)
VOLUME
dB
(This display indicates a 6Ω-
less than 8Ω impedance
setting.)
VOLUME
dB
or
(This display indicates an 8Ω-16Ω
impedance setting.)
Speaker placement
If you have a multiple speaker arrangement the placement of the speakers is extremely important. To achieve the best
possible surround sound, install your speakers as shown below. Make sure all speakers are installed securely to
prevent accidents and improve sound quality. Be sure to consult your speaker manuals for the best placement of the
speakers. Some speakers are designed to be floor-standing but others benefit greatly from speakers stands which raise
them off the floor.
First turn the receiver off, then press the power button
Front
Left
Center
Front
Right
PREPARATIONOPERATION
Sub
Woofer
Surround
Left
Listening
Position
Surround
Right
memo
• Install the left and right front speakers at equal distances from the TV.
• When installing speakers near the TV, we recommend using magnetically shielded speakers to prevent possible
interference such as distortion in the color of the TV screen. If you do not have magnetically shielded speakers and
notice discoloration of the TV screen, place the speakers farther away from the TV.
• Install the center speaker above or below the TV so that the sound of the center channel is localized at the TV screen.
CAUTION:
When installing the center speaker on top of the TV, be sure to secure it with tape or some other suitable means.
Otherwise, the speaker may fall from the TV due to external shocks such as earthquakes, and it may lead to
endangering those nearby or damaging the speaker.
• If possible, install the surround speakers slightly above ear level.
• It may be difficult to obtain a cohesive surround effect if the surround speakers are installed farther away from the
listening position than the front and center speakers.
15
Connecting Your Equipment
Connecting additional amplifiers
Although the VSX-27TX/26TX/24TX has more than sufficient power for any home use, it is possible to add additional
amplifiers to your system. If you want to use separate amplifiers to power your speakers, make the connections shown
below.
When connecting your equipment always make sure the power is turned off and the power cord is disconnected from
the wall outlet for all the equipment.
PIONEER projection TV
(for center channel)
Powered
sub woofer
L-Audio
(MONO)
DIGITAL
FM
ANTENNA
AUDIO
IN
1
RF IN
FM UNBAL
75Ω
AM LOOP
ANTENNA
L
R
234
PCM/ /DTS IN
S
L
F
L
C
TAPE2
MONITOR
CD
MULTIROOM
&
SOURCE
(or)
RL
PCM/ /DTS
OUT
PREOUT
S
EXTERNAL
R
DECODER
R
S
W
P
L
A
Y
R
E
C
I
N
O
U
T
(for center
channels)
RL
IN
FLF
F
R
S
L
S
R
P
P
L
L
C
A
A
Y
Y
R
S
E
W
C
Amplifier
AUDIO
IN
L
R
DVD
/LD
IN
TV/
SAT
IN
IN
VCR1
OUT
IN
VCR2
OUT
MD/
TAPE1
IN
MULTI-ROOM
PHONO
REMOTE
SOURCE
VIDEO
VIDEO
VIDEO
&
Amplifier
(for surround
channels)
AUDIO
IN
L
R
Amplifier
(for front channels)
AUDIO
IN
L
R
INPUT
VSX-27TX
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
IN
S2
OUT
S2
IN
S2
OUT
MONITOR
S2
OUT
OUT
IN
OUT
CONTROL
OUT
IN
FRFLCSRSLRL
TO
TV
AB
FRONT
CENTER
SPEAKERS
SURROUND
SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
SEE INSTRUCTION MANUALSE REPORTER AU MOODE D'EMPLOI
FRONT
SPEAKERS
SWITCHED
TOTAL 100W(0.8A)MAX
AC OUTLETS
UNSWITCHED
100W(0.8A)MAX
AC
120V 60Hz
Be sure to complete all other
connections before connecting
this unit to the AC power source.
Power connections (AC OUTLETS)
[SWITCHED TOTAL 100 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 100 W (0.8 A).
[UNSWITCHED 100 W (0.8 A) 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 (0.8 A).
CAUTION!
• To avoid overheating, fire risk, and possible malfunction do not connect high-wattage appliances such as heaters,
irons, monitors, or TV sets to this unit's AC OUTLETS.
• Remove the power plug from the wall socket to disconnect this unit from the AC power source when not in regular
use, for example, when on vacation.
16
Displays & Controls
Display
All the display information is explained and/or referenced here.
1
2
SELECT
ANALOG
DIGITAL
AC-3RF
AUTO
AC-3DTS
C
L
LS S RS
4
3
OVER
H.P
SP AB
MONO STEREO
TUNED AMFM
LFE
R
678
5
MIDNIGHTLOUDNESSATTSIGNAL
!@#
1 SIGNAL SELECT indicators
Light to indicate the type of input signal assigned for
the current component (see “Front Panel“, %,
SIGNAL SELECT).
ANALOG : Lights when an analog signal is selected.
DIGITAL : Lights when a digital audio signal is
selected (DVD/LD, CD, MD/TAPE1, TV/SAT, VCR 1,
VCR 2).
AC-3 RF : Lights when an AC-3 RF signal is selected
(DVD/LD, TV/SAT, VCR 1,VCR 2), VSX-27TX only.
AUTO : Lights when the receiver is set to select the
input signal automatically. (DVD/LD, CD, MD/TAPE 1,
TV/SAT, VCR 1,VCR 2) VSX-27TX only.
AC-3 : Lights when a source with Dolby Digital signals
is played.
DTS : Lights when a source with DTS audio signals is
played.
2 Speaker indicators
Light to indicate the current speaker system (see
“Front Panel“, £, SPEAKERS (A/B)).
SP # A : Lights when speaker system A is selected.
SP # B : Lights when speaker system B is selected.
SP # AB : Lights when speaker systems A & B are
both selected.
3 Analog level indicators
OVER : If “ANALOG” is selected in SIGNAL SELECT,
this indicator lights to show that an excessively
strong signal is being processed. When this occurs,
press INPUT ATT on the front panel to attenuate
(lower) the signal. Also, when “DIGITAL” is selected
in SIGNAL SELECT, this indicator lights to show that a
source containing an excessive amount of
information is being processed. If this occurs, see p.
38.
ATT : Lights when INPUT ATT is used to reduce the
level of the input signal (available in ANALOG mode
only).
4 LOUDNESS indicator (See p.42)
Lights when the LOUDNESS mode is on.
5 H.P (headphones)
Lights when headphones are connected to the
PHONES jack (speakers systems A and B both turn off
automatically).
6 MIDNIGHT indicator (See p.41)
Lights when the MIDNIGHT LISTENING mode is on.
7 DSP indicator (See p.37-38)
Light when a DSP or Advanced Theater mode is
selected.
DSP
STEREO
9
0
PRO LOGIC
DIGITAL
-
VOLUME
dB
TAPE 2
=
~
8 STEREO indicator
Lights when a STEREO mode is selected.
9 Radio Frequency/Function indicator
Displays the function or the frequency of the current
radio station.
0 Surround/dts mode indicators
DIGITAL : When the Surround/dts mode on the
receiver is on, this indicator lights to indicate
playback of a Dolby Digital signal. However,
LOGIC lights during 2 channel playback of Dolby
Digital.
PRO LOGIC : When the Surround/dts mode on
the receiver is on, this indicator lights during 2
channel playback. (Both B or A+B speaker systems
turn off automatically when headphones are plugged
in.)
DTS : Lights when DTS signals are input.
HOME THX CINEMA : Lights when the HOME THX
CINEMA mode is selected.
- MASTER VOLUME indication
Displays current level of master volume.
= TAPE 2 indicator
Lights when the TAPE 2 monitor is on.
~ Character display
Displays sound modes, general information, etc.
! Tuner indicators
MONO : Lights when the tuner is set to receive FM
broadcasts and when selected MPX mode.
STEREO : Lights when a FM stereo broadcast is
received in the auto stereo mode.
TUNED : Lights when a broadcast is received.
AM/FM : Light to indicate the current band (FM or
AM).
@ LFE indicator
LFE (Low Frequency Effects) indicator lights to
indicate that the program source contains an LFE
channel. The indicator under the LFE lights during
actual playback of the LFE signals (LFE signals are not
present in all parts of the soundtrack).
# Program Format indicator
When a Dolby Digital or DTS signal is input, he
following indicators light to show the channels being
played back.
L : Left front*
LS : Left surround*1,S : Surround (mono)*2,
RS : Right surround*
*1: Indicates 5.1ch Dolby Digital or DTS playback.
*2: Indicates Dolby Pro Logic playback.
1*2
, C : Center*1, R : Right front*1*2,
1
SET UPPREPARATION
PRO
17
Displays & Controls
Front Panel (VSX-27TX/26TX)
All the controls on the front panel are explained and/or referenced here. To open the front panel push gently on the
lower third of the panel.
1
234 5678 90-=
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
STANDBY/ON
DSP
STANDBY
MODE
/DTS
THX CINEMA ADVANCED STANDARDCONTROL
N∫m¿<≥ım
STEREO
VIDEO VCR 1 VCR 2 DVD/LD TV/SAT CD MD/TAPE1 TUNER PHONO
REFERENCE AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI–CHANNEL RECEIVER
1 STANDBY/ON button
Press to switch the receiver ON or into STANDBY
mode.
2 STANDBY indicator
Lights when the receiver is in STANDBY mode.
(Please note that this receiver consumes a small
amount of power (1.0 W) during the standby mode.)
3 DSP MODE button (See p.37-38)
Press repeatedly to select a DSP sound mode. (HALL
1, HALL 2, JAZZ, DANCE, THEATER 1, or THEATER 2).
Use these modes to produce surround sound from
standard (two channel) stereo sources and create
different listening environments.
4 STEREO button (See p.37-38)
Press to select the STEREO sound mode. In this
mode, sound comes from the front (left and right)
speakers only.
5 /DTS buttons (See p. 36,38 & 72-74)
THX CINEMA : Press to select the HOME THX
CINEMA sound mode when listening to Dolby Digital,
Dolby Pro Logic or DTS a variety of other sources.
ADVANCED THEATER : Press to select one of the four
Advanced Theater modes.
STANDARD : Press for pure decoding of multi
channel sources.
6 Display (See page 17)
7 Remote sensor
Point the remote control toward the remote sensor to
operate the receiver.
8 Source indicators (VSX-27TX only)
Shows the source currently selected.
VSX-27TX
MULTI-ROOM
& SOURCE
MINMAX
INPUT
SELECTOR
MASTER
VOLUME
9 MUL TI-ROOM & SOURCE button (See p.67-71)
Press to enable multi room operation (requires an
optional PIONEER Multi-Room Remote Sensor Unit
MR-100 or other IR receiver).
0 CONTROL button (See p.67-71)
Use to select the function or volume of the MULTI
ROOM system.
- INPUT SELECTOR dial
Turn to select a source component. The source
indicators show the current component:
DVD/LD : DVD player or Laser Disc player.
TV/SAT : TV tuner or satellite tuner.
CD : Compact Disc player.
MD/TAPE 1 : Tape deck or Mini Disc recorder
connected to MD/TAPE 1 inputs/outputs.
TUNER : The built-in tuner.
PHONO : Turntable.
VIDEO : Video camera (etc.) connected to the VIDEO
INPUT on the front panel.
VCR 1 : Video cassette recorder connected to VCR 1
inputs.
VCR 2 : Video cassette recorder or other component
connected to VCR 2 inputs.
= MASTER VOLUME
Adjusts the overall receiver volume.
~ EXTERNAL DECODER IN (See p.42)
Use to hook up an external component that can
decode other types of signals and input them into the
VSX-27TX/26TX.
! DIRECT button
Switches DIRECT playback on or off. Use to bypass
the tone controls and channel level for the most
accurate reproduction of a program source. It will
automatically put the receiver in STEREO mode for
the function being used for DIRECT playback.
18
~!@#$%^&
Displays & Controls
VSX-27TX
STANDBY/ON
5-CHANNEL EQUAL POWER OUTPUT
PHONES
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
DSP
STANDBAY
MODE
/DTS
THX CINEMA ADVANCED STANDARD
VIDEO INPUT
VIDEO
L AUDIO R
S-VIDEO
STEREO
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VIDEO VCR 1 VCR 2 DVD/LD TV/SAT CD MD/TAPE1 TUNER PHONO
EXTERNAL
DIRECT LOUDNESS MIDNIGHT
DECODER IN
- BASS +
@ LOUDNESS button (See p.42)
Switches the LOUDNESS mode on or off.
# MIDNIGHT button (See p.41)
Switches the MIDNIGHT LISTENING mode on or off.
$ DIGITAL NR button (See p.41)
Switches the DIGITAL NR on or off (STEREO mode
only).
% SIGNAL SELECT button (See p.40)
Use to select the type of signal being input into the
receiver.
SIGNAL SELECT repeatedly to select one of the
following:
ANALOG : To select an analog signal.
DIGITAL : To select a optical or coaxial digital signal.
AC-3 RF : To select an AC-3 RF signal (VSX-27TX
only).
AUTO : This is the default. If there are both analog
and digital input signals, the receiver automatically
selects the digital signal (VSX-27TX only).
^ FL DIMMER button (See p.43)
Use to adjust the brightness of the main display.
& TUNER CONTROL button (See p.44-47)
CLASS : Press repeatedly to switch the preset station
classes.
FM/AM : Press to select the AM or FM band.
TUNING –/+ : Use to manually tune to radio stations.
* STATION –/+ buttons (See p.46-47)
Use to choose programmed radio stations.
( MEMORY button (See p.46)
Press to start the memorization of a preset station.
) MPX button (See p.44)
Press to switch between auto stereo and MONO
reception of FM broadcasts. When the broadcast
signal is weak, selecting MONO will improve the
sound quality.
- TREBLE +
MULTI-ROOM
&SOURCE
CONTROL
DIGITAL
NR
SIGNAL
SELECTFLDIMMER
TAPE 2
MONITOR
TUNER CONTROL
CLASS FM/AM
MEMORYMPXINPUT ATTSPEAKERS
- TUNING +
- STATION +
MINMAX
*()_+¡™£¢∞
_ TAPE 2 MONITOR button (See p.60)
Selects the tape deck (MD recorder, etc.) connected to
the TAPE 2 MONITOR inputs/outputs. Allows
monitoring of a recording as it's being made.
+ INPUT ATT button
Use to lower the input level of an analog signal that is
too powerful, thus causing the receiver to distort (the
overload indicator will light furiously).
¡ TREBLE (–/+) button (See p.43)
Use to adjust the high frequencies.
™ BASS (–/+) button (See p.43)
Use to adjust low frequencies.
£ SPEAKERS (A/B) buttons
A is the primary setting. It plays all speakers hooked
up to the A system. A & B setting only plays the front
speakers of both the A & B systems and the subwoofer. Multi channel sources will be down-mixed to
these speakers so no sound will be lost. B setting
only plays the front speakers connected to the B
system and multi channel sources will be downmixed to these two speakers.
333
3
AA+B
B
¢ VIDEO INPUT jacks (See p.9)
S-VIDEO : Video input for connecting a video camera
(etc.), that has an S-Video out.
VIDEO / AUDIO (L/R) : Video input for connecting a
video camera, etc. that has standard video/audio
outputs.
∞ PHONES jack
Connect headphones for private listening (no sound
will be heard through the speakers)
OFF
INPUT
SELECTOR
MASTER
VOLUME
SET UPPREPARATION
19
Displays & Controls
Front Panel (VSX-24TX)
1
1
STANDBY/ON button
234 567890-
STANDBY/ON
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
DSP
STANDBY
MODE
/DTS
THX CINEMA ADVANCED STANDARD
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STEREO
REFERENCE AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI–CHANNEL RECEIVER
Press to switch the receiver ON or into STANDBY
mode.
2 STANDBY indicator
Lights when the receiver is in STANDBY mode.
(Please note that this receiver consumes a small
amount of power (1.0 W) during the standby mode.)
3 DSP MODE button (See p.37-38)
Press repeatedly to select a DSP sound mode. (HALL
1, HALL 2, JAZZ, DANCE, THEATER 1, or THEATER 2).
Use these modes to produce surround sound from
standard (two channel) stereo sources and create
different listening environments.
4 STEREO button (See p.37-38)
Press to select the STEREO sound mode. In this
mode, sound comes from the front (left and right)
speakers only.
5 /DTS buttons (See p. 36,38 & 72-74)
THX CINEMA : Press to select the HOME THX
CINEMA sound mode when listening to Dolby Digital,
Dolby Pro Logic or DTS a variety of other sources.
ADVANCED THEATER : Press to select one of the four
Advanced Theater modes.
STANDARD : Press for pure decoding of multi
channel sources.
6 Display (See page 17)
7 Remote sensor
Point the remote control toward the remote sensor to
operate the receiver.
8 TAPE 2 MONITOR button (See p.60)
Selects the tape deck (MD recorder, etc.) connected to
the TAPE 2 MOINTOR inputs/outputs. Allows
monitoring of a recording as it's being made.
VSX-24TX
TAPE 2
MONITOR
DIMMER
FL
MINMAX
INPUT
SELECTOR
MASTER
VOLUME
9 FL DIMMER button (See p.43)
Use to adjust the brightness of the main display.
0 INPUT SELECTOR dial
Turn to select a source component. The source
indicators show the current component:
DVD/LD : DVD player or Laser Disc player.
TV/SAT : TV tuner or satellite tuner.
CD : Compact Disc player.
MD/TAPE 1 : Tape deck or Mini Disc recorder
connected to MD/TAPE 1 inputs/outputs.
TUNER : The built-in tuner.
PHONO : Turntable.
VIDEO : Video camera (etc.) connected to the VIDEO
INPUT on the front panel.
VCR 1 : Video cassette recorder connected to VCR 1
inputs.
VCR 2 : Video cassette recorder or other component
connected to VCR 2 inputs.
- MASTER VOLUME
Adjusts the overall receiver volume.
= EXTERNAL DECODER IN (See p.42)
Use to hook up an external component that can
decode other types of signals and input them into the
VSX-24TX.
~ DIRECT button
witches DIRECT playback on or off. Use to bypass the
tone controls and channel level for the most accurate
reproduction of a program source. It will
automatically put the receiver in STEREO mode for
the function being used for DIRECT playback.
! LOUDNESS button (See p.42)
Switches the LOUDNESS mode on or off.
@ MIDNIGHT button (See p.41)
Switches the MIDNIGHT LISTENING mode on or off.
20
=~!@#$%
Displays & Controls
VSX-24TX
AUDIO/VIDEO MULTI-CHANNEL RECEIVER
STANDBY/ON
STANDBAY
THX CINEMA ADVANCED STANDARD
5-CHANNEL EQUAL POWER OUTPUT
S-VIDEO
PHONES
# DIGITAL NR button
DSP
MODE
/DTS
VIDEO INPUT
L AUDIO R
VIDEO
(See p.41)
STEREO
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EXTERNAL
DECODER IN
- BASS +
Switches the DIGITAL NR on or off (STEREO mode
only).
$ SIGNAL SELECT button (See p.40)
Use to select the type of signal being input into the
receiver.
SIGNAL SELECT repeatedly to select one of the
following:
ANALOG : To select an analog signal.
DIGITAL : To select a optical or coaxial digital signal.
- TREBLE +
DIGITAL
SIGNAL
SELECTDIRECT LOUDNESS MIDNIGHT
NR
TUNER CONTROL
CLASS FM/AM
MEMORYMPXINPUT ATTSPEAKERS
- TUNING +
- STATION +
^&*()_+¡™
+ SPEAKERS (A/B) buttons
A is the primary setting. It plays all speakers hooked
up to the A system. A & B setting only plays the front
speakers of both the A & B systems and the subwoofer. Multi channel sources will be down-mixed to
these speakers so no sound will be lost. B setting
only plays the front speakers connected to the B
system and multi channel sources will be downmixed to these two speakers.
3
AA+B
TAPE 2
MONITOR
FL
DIMMER
MINMAX
333
B
OFF
INPUT
SELECTOR
MASTER
VOLUME
SET UPPREPARATION
% TUNER CONTROL button (See p.44-47)
CLASS : Press repeatedly to switch the preset station
classes.
FM/AM : Press to select the AM or FM band.
TUNING –/+ : Use to manually tune to radio stations.
^ STATION –/+ buttons (See p.46-47)
Use to choose programmed radio stations.
& MEMORY button (See p.46)
Press to start the memorization of a preset station.
* MPX button (See p.44)
Press to switch between auto stereo and MONO
reception of FM broadcasts. When the broadcast
signal is weak, selecting MONO will improve the
sound quality.
( INPUT ATT button
Use to lower the input level of an analog signal that is
too powerful, thus causing the receiver to distort (the
overload indicator will light furiously).
) TREBLE (–/+) button (See p.43)
Use to adjust the high frequencies.
_ BASS (–/+) button (See p.43)
Use to adjust low frequencies.
¡ VIDEO INPUT jacks (See p.9)
S-VIDEO : Video input for connecting a video camera
(etc.), that has an S-Video out.
VIDEO / AUDIO (L/R) : Video input for connecting a
video camera, etc. that has standard video/audio
outputs.
™ PHONES jack
Connect headphones for private listening (no sound
will be heard through the speakers)
21
Displays & Controls
Remote Control
These pages describe the buttons on the remote control used to operate the receiver.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
S0URCE
MULTI
OPERATION
DVD/LD TV/SAT
MULTI CONTROL
MD/
CD
TAPE1
CLASS MPXDIRECT ACCESS
¶
TUNING
-
1¡4¢
DTV ON/OFF DTV MENU
1
4
7
GUIDE
+10
TV CONTROL
TV VOL
EFFECT
/CH SEL
SYSTEM
THX
SETUP
REMOTE
MIDNIGHT
SETUP
DIGITAL MULTI PROCESSING AMPLIFIER
REMOTE CONTROL UNIT
SYSTEM
OFF
VCR1 VCR2
TUNER
BAND
STATION
-
+
CHANNEL
-
23
56
89
0
TV
VOLUME
TV FUNC
MENU
ENTER
/dts
ADVANCED
DSP
RECEIVER
TVCONT
ENTER
FUNCTION
STANDARD
DIGITAL NR
873
+
+
MUTE
SIGNAL
SELECT
STEREO
-
Î
=
~
1
SOURCE button (See p.52-59)
Use to turn on the power of your other components
after you have recalled or taught the signals to this
remote control.
2 MULTI CONTROL buttons
Use these to select a source and the corresponding
remote operation mode.
For example, pressing TUNER selects the built in
tuner and sets the remote operation to the tuner
functions.
!
3 Component Control buttons
Use to control specific components, like a CD player
EXIT
DISC
@
#
or DVD player, after you have programmed the
remote control to do these operations (see p.52-59)
and the remote is put in that operation mode.
4 TV CONTROL buttons
The following buttons are used to control the TV only
and can be used no matter what function the remote
$
%
^
control is set to.
: Press to turn the power of the TV on/off.
TV
TV FUNC : Press TV FUNC to select the TV for remote
control operation.
TV VOL +/- : Press to control the volume of the TV.
&
*
(
5 MENU button
Use to get the various menus for your TV or DTV.
6 EFFECT/CH SEL +/– buttons (See p.38)
EFFECT : Use these buttons to increase or decrease
the amount of effect applied in a DSP or Advanced
Theater mode. When the amount of effect is
increased in a DSP/Advanced Theater mode the
characteristics of that mode become stronger and
more noticeable. The scale ranges from 10-90 with 70
as the default setting. First turn on the DSP/
Advanced Theater you want (by pressing the DSP/
Advanced Theater button until you get the mode) and
then increase or decrease the amount of effect.
CH SEL : You may want to adjust the channels when
listening to some sound sources. Use this button to
select the channel you want to adjust.
+/– : Use these buttons to select the amount of effect
in a sound mode and to adjust the channel level
when making sound settings.
7 5/∞/2/3/ENTER buttons
Use to operate the on-screen menu on your TV
screen and enter commands when setting up
surround sound, speakers levels & settings, and other
set up features see p.24-34). Specific use of these
buttons is described in conjunction with the
operations they perform. For more information see
each individual section.
22
Displays & Controls
8 SYSTEM SET UP button
Use to set up the speaker and sound systems. For
more information see “Surround Sound Setup“
starting on p. 24.
9 REMOTE SETUP button.
Use to customize the remote control functions and
the remote control itself. (See “Setting Up the
Remote Control to Control Other Components“
starting on p.48, “Multi Operation“ starting on p. 63.)
To access the EXTERNAL DECODER option, press the
REMOTE SETUP button and the SIGNAL SELECT
button simultaneously.
0 MIDNIGHT button (See p. 41)
Switches the MIDNIGHT mode on or off.
- MULTI OPERATION button
Use this button to start the MULTI OPERATION mode.
See p. 63 for how to program and use the MULTI
OPERATION mode.
= SYSTEM OFF button
This button turns off components in two ways. First,
when pressed it will turn off all PIONEER
components. Secondly, any component that has
programmed into the MULTI OPERATIONS settings
will also be turned off (see p.63).
For example : If you programmed power on for your
TV and VCR, pressing the SYSTEM OFF button will
turn off these components even if they are not
PIONEER products.
~ RECEIVER button
Press to turn power of the receiver on or to STANDBY
(off).
! Number buttons
These buttons can perform a variety of different
functions depending on the remote operation mode.
They are most useful for CD and tuner operations.
@ ENTER/EXIT/DISC button
These buttons can perform a variety of different
functions depending on the remote operation mode.
% FUNCTION button
Press to select a source. The button will cycle
through all the possible sources.
^ SIGNAL SELECT button
Press SIGNAL SELECT repeatedly to select one of the
following:
ANALOG : To select an analog signal.
DIGITAL : To select a digital signal (DVD/LD, TV/SAT,
CD, MD/TAPE 1, VCR 1, VCR 2).
AC-3 RF : To select an AC-3 RF signal (DVD/LD, TV/
SAT, VCR 1, VCR 2), VSX-27TX only.
AUTO : This is the default. If there are both analog
and digital input signal, the receiver automatically
selects the best possible signal (VSX-27TX only).
Press the SIGNAL SELECT and REMOTE SETUP
buttons simultaneously to switch from the SIGNAL
SELECT operation to EXTERNAL DECODER operation.
Then press the button to get the EXTERNAL
DECODER function. To get back to the SIGNAL
SELECT control, press the REMOTE SETUP button
and the SIGNAL SELECT button simultaneously once
again.
& /dts buttons (See p.38)
Press these buttons to put the receiver in the selected
sound mode. For more information on the modes .
* STEREO/DIGITAL NR button
STEREO : Press this button to put the receiver into
stereo mode when it's in a different sound mode. For
more information on the sound modes see p.38.
DIGITAL NR
p.41).
: Switches the DIGITAL NR on or off (see
( DSP button (See p.38)
Press repeatedly to select a DSP sound mode.
SET UPPREPARATION
# MASTER VOLUME button
Use to raise or lower the volume of the receiver.
$ MUTE button
Press to mute or restore the volume.
23
Surround Sound Set Up
On Screen Display
There are a number of possible ways to hook up the receiver to your video components, like a DVD player, and hook up
to your receiver to your TV, but some of them won't allow you to use the on-screen display of this unit. To avoid this
one simply needs to follow two rules.
1 Always use the same type of video cords to hook up your video components to the receiver as you use to hook up
the receiver and your TV. For example, if you use composite video cords to hook up your DVD and the receiver, use
composite video cords to hook up the receiver to your TV. If you use S video cords to hook up your DVD and the
receiver, use S video cords to hook up the receiver to your TV.
2 Always make sure your TV is set to the appropriate input channel (for example, video 1). Your TV may have a
number of input channels and if you don't select the proper one you won't be able to use this receiver's on-screen
display, or, in fact, see any picture from this receiver at all. If you are unsure how to choose an input channel for your
TV, refer to the manual which came with your TV.
You might, for example, use both composite and S video cords to hook up your video components with this receiver
and then use composite video cords to hook up this receiver to your TV. This arrangement would still NOT let you see
the on screen displays from this receiver on your TV. The best idea is just to use one type of video cord for all your
video component and TV hook ups.
Setting Up for Surround Sound
To ensure the best possible surround sound, be sure to complete the following set up operations. This is particularly
important when using the HOME THX CINEMA , DTS,
(Dolby) Surround sound modes. You only need to make these
settings once (unless you change the placement of your current speaker system or add new speakers, etc.). These set
up operations use your TV to display the settings and choices so be sure your TV and receiver are properly hooked up.
RECEIVER
SYSTEM
OFF
VCR1 VCR2
TUNER
BAND
STATION
-
CHANNEL
-
ENTER
VOLUME
/dts
ADVANCED
DSP
DIGITAL NR
TVCONT
873
+
+
MUTE
FUNCTION
SIGNAL
SELECT
STANDARD
STEREO
Î
1Turn on the receiver and your TV.
1
Make sure your TV is set to the receiver.
2Press SYSTEM SETUP button.
The SYSTEM SETUP MENU appears on your TV screen.
System Setup
[Speaker Setting]
[Channel Delay]
EXIT
DISC
* You can escape from this screen at any time by pressing the