Product:
Pioneer VSX 1021-K AV Receiver
Reviewed by:
Chris Thompson, .
Summary:
More features and technology than I was expecting, and it works
Details:
Over delivers on features, might be difficult to learn at first
Rating:
4 of 5

The Pioneer VSX 1021K. It’s got a lot of technology built in, and a lot of functionality – but is it worth the $550 price tag? Let’s start peeling back the layers and find out.

First, our original VSX 1201-K was giving us a UE 33 error. We purchased from NewEgg using a coupon code from SlickDeals.net. The final price was good, but this was my first return to NewEgg so I wasn’t sure what to expect. My return was approved immediately and an RMA code was issued online automatically. Shipping to me both times was free, but I had to foot the return bill of roughly $18 to send it back. It was well worth it because the replacement model works fine and doesn’t show the UE33 error. This seems to be the only way to fix the UE33 error, because when I contacted Pioneer support, they indicated it would need professional service. The old receiver was also never keeping updates, whether I updated by USB or network connection. The replacement model already had the newest firmware installed, another good sign we could trust this replacement.


the UE33 error our first VSX 1021-K gave us

We have a small living room with a standard 5.1 speaker setup. My speakers are decent but definitely not what you’d consider premium. The sub-woofer is a plug in Kenwood 10″. One nice feature of the Pioneer is it automatically can calibrate itself with a microphone it comes with. The procedure takes about ten minutes and is satisfying to listen to. I can’t really detect the subtle timing improvements but it seems cool nonetheless.


We also managed to get the iPad working with the Pioneer VSX-1021-K 7.1 easily, both over USB to share music, and over the network to actually control the Pioneer. The apps are pretty cool and there’s way more sound tweaking capability than I’ll ever need. We did notice at least once that the Pioneer wasn’t available over the network (we had it wired in, no Pioneer wireless or Bluetooth setup yet) so if you like using the apps, be prepared that connecting might be flaky. Perhaps it’s better over Bluetooth, but I’m not sure if Bluetooth control is actually supported or if it requires the network connection. I’ll update this review as we continue to learn all the features of the Pioneer 1021-K, and as I buy accessories for it. Next page >>