Long Beach, Calif.-based Pioneer Electronics USA Inc. on Friday introduced two new A/V receivers for home theater enthusiasts that feature built-in iPod navigation capabilities and other functionality. Part of Pioneer’s “Elite” series, The VSX-74TXVi and VSX-72TXV are described as “the brains” behind the home theater system. The VSX-74TXVi carries a suggested retail price of US$1,700; the VSX-72TXV, $1,400.
Both receivers can connect up to 18 peripherals, including DVD players, video game consoles, satellite and cable boxes, iPods and XM Satellite Radio Connect and Play antennas.
The iPod connectivity enables users to navigate the contents of their iPod using the remote control on the receiver. Users can scan through playlists, songs, artists and genres, viewing the information either through the receiver’s scrolling 14-character display or through a display on the television.
Other features of the receivers include “Auto Room Tuning” — acoustic calibration that customizes sound for each individual room — XM Satellite Radio support, High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connectivity, RS-232C and IO ports, and more.