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Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K

The Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K (previously known as the VSX-1018TXH-K) is a new 7.1 a/v receiver released in June 2008 with an MSRP of $600. It features 130 Watts / channel of power and 3 x HDMI inputs. It can decode high-definition audio formats including Dolby TrueHD and dts HD-MA. The VSX-1018AH-K features what Pioneer calls an Advanced Direct Energy power amplifier, which they claim high power output, wide frequency response for the new HD audio formats, and superior heat management. It also features Pioneer Hybrid Amplifier Technology (P.H.A.T.) power module found in VSX-518-K, VSX-818V-K, VSX-918V-K receivers, that Pioneer also claims improves audio performance.

Where to Buy

Pioneer VSX-1018TXH
MSRP $599.00
Release date June, 2008
Brand Pioneer
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Pros & Cons18
Reviews18
Details
Buy It
Competitors8
Comments12
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Pros & Cons

ProSCORE
17 reviews
75
negative
mixed
positive
11 positive
3 mixed
2 negative

[i] How is the ProSCORE calculated?

show me!

Pros:
Do you agree?
•
7.1 channel pre-outs
+11agreedisagree

•
Video upconversion to 1080p
+9agreedisagree

•
Front panel USB port for connecting mp3 player
+9agreedisagree

•
110 Watts of continuous power output (NOT 130 W)
+6agreedisagree

•
Energy Star Certified
+5agreedisagree

•
High power output @ 130 Watts / channel
+4agreedisagree

•
3 HDMI inputs
+4agreedisagree

•
Hibit. Upsamples digital audio (mp3, wma) to hi-resolution sound. Sounds more clear. A 128bit sounds like a 160 bit.
+4agreedisagree

•
Auto setup by microphone. Auto set the speaker timings and volumes, that really improves the sound. Better placement, more dept. Deeper basses.
+4agreedisagree

•
Suports HD Audio Formats Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution
+4agreedisagree

•
Supports WMA 9 Pro
+2agreedisagree

•
limited information on the video configuration for upconversion to 1080p
0agreedisagree

Cons:
Do you agree?
•
No switched AC outlet
+6agreedisagree

•
Only 96KHz/24bit audio over HDMI. (see manual, bottom of pg 33)
+2agreedisagree

•
No S-Video inputs
0agreedisagree

•
No Composite to HDMI conversion?
0agreedisagree

•
No switchable impedance for speakers
0agreedisagree

•
No phono input
-5agreedisagree


17 people added to this review by submitting or voting on pros and cons. Add your say!
See individual votes »

Details

Features

  • Direct Energy Amplifier
  • 110 watts x 7 amplification (8 Ohm, 20 Hz - 20 kHz continuous power)
  • Pure Direct mode
  • Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration w/ microphone
  • Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS 96/24, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio
  • Video Conversion to HDMI
  • 1080p HDMI 1.3 inputs - 3 in
  • 1080p Component inputs - 3 in, 1 out
  • Digital inputs/outputs - 6/1
  • iPod Digital, Auto Level Control (ALC), XM Satellite Radio, Sirius Satellite Radio
  • Price: $599 US
  • Release date: June 2008

Submit a link

This report was started May 13, 2008 at 6:05 pm by Erik
with the last edit occurring August 10, 2009 at 6:41 pm by wow
This page has been viewed 37657 times, with 320 edits by 29 contributors.
See the full report history »

Buy It

Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K

Competitors

Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K is ranked 2nd among it's competitors.  See the top picks in A/V Receivers »
Denon AVR-1909

Denon AVR-1909

MSRP  $649.00    Released  July, 2008
Pros
  • Decodes high-definition audio formats
  • Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ
  • You can rename inputs up to 8 characters
Cons
  • No upscaling of HDMI sources
  • Only 2 digital optical and 2 digital coaxial inputs
  • Setting up receiver is very tedious and manual is not user friendly
ProSCORE
8 reviews
79
Vote! (4 votes)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 50% vs. vote Denon AVR-1909 50%
Marantz SR5003

Marantz SR5003

MSRP  $800.00    Released  September, 2008
Pros
  • quality internal components and circuit design
  • decodes high-definition audio formats: Dolby TrueHD, dts HD MA
  • Upscales to 1080p
  • 90W is powerful enough for the majority of speakers and room sizes
Cons
  • With an abundance of customization and tons of feature, it is not be the best receiver for a non technical person
  • Only two coax inputs
ProSCORE
7 reviews
93
Vote! (2 votes)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 50% vs. vote Marantz SR5003 50%
Yamaha RX-V663

Yamaha RX-V663

MSRP  $550.00    Released  February, 2008
Pros
  • Excellent price - look for it for less than $500
  • High-definition audio decoding/processing: TrueHD, HD-MA, raw LPCM
  • Video transcoding/upconversion to HDMI and component
Cons
  • Only 2 HDMI inputs - competition has 4
  • Does not pass BTB or WTW. However this is the case w/ all Yammie receivers currently out & hoped to be fixed w/ a firmware update.
  • no USB input, so NO firmware update.
ProSCORE
17 reviews
77
Vote! (10 votes)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 60% vs. vote Yamaha RX-V663 40%
Onkyo TX-SR606

Onkyo TX-SR606

MSRP  $500.00    Released  March, 2008
Pros
  • 4 x HDMI 1.3a inputs
  • High definition audio format decoding
  • Video transcoding and upconversion to HDMI
Cons
  • Doesn't upconvert to 1080p, only 1080i
  • Hudson II video processor is a 2D comb filter as compared to 3D comb filter with adaptive motion
  • Does not upscale HDMI inputs, only passes them through.
ProSCORE
23 reviews
68
Vote! (9 votes)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 67% vs. vote Onkyo TX-SR606 33%
Sony STR-DG920

Sony STR-DG920

MSRP  $599.00    Released  June, 2008
Pros
  • 1080p video pass-through support
  • 4 HDMI 1.3a inputs
  • Transcodes analog video sources to HDMI
Cons
  • Any pre amp outputs
  • Manual says you can't use an HDMI-to-DVI cable to your TV.
  • Does not appear to have a switched AC outlet (for active subwoofer)
ProSCORE
12 reviews
85
Vote! (5 votes)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 80% vs. vote Sony STR-DG920 20%
Yamaha RX-V765

Yamaha RX-V765

MSRP  $649.95    Released  February, 2009
Pros
  • attractive aesthetics
  • satellite radio ready
  • iPod compatible
Cons
  • utilizing iPod, Bluetooth, and other functionality requires add-ons sold separately
  • Yamaha sends mixed signals - site reports both 7.2 and 7.1 channel configuration on the same page
  • can't reassign audio inputs
ProSCORE
5 reviews
85
Vote! (0 votes)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K   vs. vote Yamaha RX-V765  
Pioneer VSX-1019AH

Pioneer VSX-1019AH

MSRP  $500.00    Released  April, 2009
Pros
  • Analog video upconversion to 1080p over HDMI
  • Full color graphic user interface
  • Improved price-point over previous generation - now MSRP of $500
Cons
  • No network connectivity - no ethernet, WiFi, Internet radio
  • The Manual is very poor, and to date there is no user group or discussion of all the features. Pioneer should do a webinar and teach us how to fully use the system, Why is there so little info on a great system?
  • Not many significant improvements over previous generation 1018AH
ProSCORE
10 reviews
81
Vote! (1 vote)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 100% vs. vote Pioneer VSX-1019AH 0%
Harman Kardon AVR 355

Harman Kardon AVR 355

MSRP  --    Released  January, 2001
ProSCORE
0 reviews
N/A
Vote! (1 vote)
vote Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 100% vs. vote Harman Kardon AVR 355 0%

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Comments

13 taps
show more
1.  avatar Erik said:

This receiver is highly anticipated, but also somewhat of a mystery. Pioneer used to have a product page and a manual for the 1018, but they removed it. There is also speculation about 1) will there be a 12V trigger, 2) 1080p video upconversiont, 3) S-Video inputs. Maybe they're tweaking the specs at the last minute..
May 13, 2008 6:36pm
2.  avatar mayo2222 said:

I really hope they do ad S-Video inputs. I was going to add this to my list of receivers to get, but decided to remove it after finding out this piece of information.
May 14, 2008 10:23am
3.  avatar Erik said:

I know what you mean. It seems like an odd omission. Personally, I would think this receiver rivals the Onkyo TX-SR606 at this price point, but the lack of S-Video is just plain weird. Seems like an easy/obvious thing to have.

@Pioneer engineers: Are you listening?
May 14, 2008 10:24pm
4.  avatar Erik said:

I'm going to give the Pioneer 1018 a tentative edge over it's competition. One of the main selling points is Pioneer's reputation for build quality and audio components. I've heard enough bad stuff about the previous gen Onkyo 605, to be wary of the 606. I'll adjust my vote later if there are any surprises when the 1018 is actually available for sale.

You may want to consider an upgrade to the Elite series VSX-01TXH for $750 when it comes out. It features a Class D "ICEPower" amplifier. There is even less information about the VSX-01TXH on the web, however.

May 15, 2008 10:30am
5.  avatar EJR said:

If anyone cares to visit Pioneer's site, the receiver released for 599.00 is: VSX-1018AH-K; not the VSX-1018THX-K?

Apparently, there is some confusion? The receiver on the site is minus THX certification?

I sent Pioneer an email asking them about this descripancy.
Jun 11, 2008 1:47pm
6.  avatar Erik said:

Interesting. I think they've rebranded this receiver as the VSX-1018AH-K from 1018TXH-K (the "K" refers to the black color). I don't think it ever was reported to have THX certification. I'm going to rename this product report to reflect the new model # convention.
Jun 11, 2008 2:14pm
7.  avatar Erik said:

People are starting to get their hands on this highly anticipated receiver. See the above owner's thread on AVS Forum. The power rating is 110 Watts (not the 130 Watts that was speculated), and there are in fact 3 HDMI inputs. The owner's seem pretty happy so far.
Jun 24, 2008 4:46pm
8.  avatar jbelum said:

Check the user manual for the power rating. pg 93

Continuous Power Output (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 8 ?, 0.09 %)
Front. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 W + 110 W
Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 W
Surround . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 W + 110 W
Surround back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 W + 110 W
Jul 02, 2008 3:44pm
9.  avatar exanim8r said:

Watch out for the audio limitations over HDMI. Page 33 in the manual (fine print) states that only up to 96KHz/24bit are supported. While this is enough for most users, there are 192KHz/24bit DVD/BD-audio discs and Super Audio CD's commercially available.
Aug 28, 2008 11:56pm
10.  avatar Falcon01 said:

exanim8r, I just checked the manual and it indeed does have 192Khz/24bit audio DACs.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=109812&d=1210272967
Dec 03, 2008 11:54am
11.  avatar robohood326 said:

I think it's hilarious that the elite VSX-01 get a 90 score when these are the same unit internally... This receiver is plenty for the audio enthusiast. Great audio quality and plenty of tweaks for those who like to "play".
Jun 02, 2009 1:02am
12.  avatar GR92-FR said:

This is a good A/V receiver, I've been using it for two months now combined with a polk VM 7.1 set of bookshelf speakers. Incredible sound, and the improvement of MP3's to "almost" CD quality is marvelous. Some reviews claim its design to be a bit old'ish, but I personally like it and it fits perfect on my living... If a firmware update would ever bring an improvement of the ODS ergonomics, that would always be a plus!

The only thing I have a doubt is in it's video performance, I've seen a lot on the reviews that it can perform Video upconversion to 1080p from analog to digital through the HDMI interface, nevertheless I have not been able to set it to do so. I'm connecting my set-top box via it's analog S-Video + digital optical audio, and my 1080p flat tv tells me it is getting a 540p input signal, does anybody knows how to set the output to 1080p? ... that piece of information is missing in all the reviews and even in the user's manual ...
Jun 25, 2009 11:37am
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Reviews

Sort by: Most helpful  •  Newest  •  Most positive

mayo2222

avatar
May 16, 2008
approved
reviewer
ProSCORE
60
negative
mixed
positive
3 pros
2 cons

Pros

  • 7.1 channel pre-outs
  • Video upconversion to 1080p
  • High power output @ 130 Watts / channel

Cons

  • No switched AC outlet
  • No S-Video inputs

Comments

"I really hope they do ad S-Video inputs. I was going to add this to my list of receivers to get, but decided to remove it after finding out this piece of information."

Competitors

mayo2222 prefers Onkyo TX-SR606 over Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No

ckazacos

avatar
January 12, 2009
approved
reviewer
ProSCORE
100
negative
mixed
positive
2 pros
0 cons
want itwant it

Pros

  • 7.1 channel pre-outs
  • 3 HDMI inputs

Cons

Did not agree with any cons

Competitors

ckazacos prefers Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K over Onkyo TX-SR606, Yamaha RX-V663
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No

mrdat

avatar
January 10, 2009
approved
reviewer
ProSCORE
0
negative
mixed
positive
0 pros
2 cons
0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Pros

Did not agree with any pros

Cons

  • No S-Video inputs
  • No Composite to HDMI conversion?

Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No

exanim8r

avatar
August 28, 2008
approved
reviewer
ProSCORE
50
negative
mixed
positive
1 pro
1 con
want itwant it

Pros

  • 110 Watts of continuous power output (NOT 130 W)

Cons

  • Only 96KHz/24bit audio over HDMI. (see manual, bottom of pg 33)

Comments

"Watch out for the audio limitations over HDMI. Page 33 in the manual (fine print) states that only up to 96KHz/24bit are supported. While this is enough for most users, there are 192KHz/24bit DVD/BD-audio discs and Super Audio CD's commercially available."
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No

edk509

avatar
March 3, 2009
approved
reviewer
ProSCORE
0
negative
mixed
positive
0 pros
1 con
0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Pros

Did not agree with any pros

Cons

  • No switchable impedance for speakers

Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No

GodsMadClown

avatar
July 28, 2008
approved
reviewer
ProSCORE
100
negative
mixed
positive
1 pro
0 cons
want itwant it

Pros

  • Energy Star Certified

Cons

Did not agree with any cons

Competitors

GodsMadClown prefers Denon AVR-1909 over Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K
GodsMadClown prefers Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K over Sony STR-DG920, Yamaha RX-V663, Onkyo TX-SR606
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No

Sirnice

avatar
June 1, 2009
approved
reviewer
ProSCORE
0
negative
mixed
positive
0 pros
1 con
have ithave it
love itlove it
0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No

Sina172

avatar
July 25, 2008
ProSCORE
71
negative
mixed
positive
5 pros
2 cons

Pros

  • 7.1 channel pre-outs
  • Video upconversion to 1080p
  • Front panel USB port for connecting mp3 player
  • 110 Watts of continuous power output (NOT 130 W)
  • High power output @ 130 Watts / channel

Cons

  • No switched AC outlet
  • No S-Video inputs

Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
 / 
No
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This product is also known as:

VSX, 1018, AH, K, VSX1018, 1018AH, AHK, VSX1018AH, 1018AHK, VSX1018AHK