The Pioneer VSX-S520 receiver builds upon the earlier VSX-510 model, incorporating wireless Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. However, it does have some notable drawbacks compared to its predecessor, such as the lack of a Pre Out, the replacement of speaker terminals with standard clips instead of screw terminals, a reduction to a single subwoofer output, and the removal of the USB port from the rear panel.
In today’s market, the trend leans towards more compact AV receivers, as many consumers prefer not to have bulky equipment occupying their space. To cater to those who appreciate sleek and stylish devices, Pioneer has introduced the VSX-S520 model. This receiver is impressively compact, measuring just 70 mm in height and weighing only 4 kg. This compactness suggests the presence of a class D digital amplifier. It’s important to note that Pioneer’s high-end AV receivers are equipped with their proprietary D3 digital amplifiers, showcasing the extensive expertise of their engineers in amplification technology.
The Pioneer VSX-S520 features five amplification channels, each capable of delivering 80 watts per channel at a 4 ohm load (or 55 watts per channel at 8 ohms). Additionally, the sixth channel can be configured to power a passive subwoofer. A quick look at the rear panel showcases the expertise of Pioneer engineers, who have kept pace with modern technology. It includes four HDMI inputs, along with an MHL-supported connector on the front panel for connecting Android smartphones, while omitting analog video inputs due to space constraints. Although there is only one HDMI output, this is reasonable for its price range. Notably, the HDMI interface is the latest version, capable of transmitting a 4K signal, supporting the audio return channel (ARC) from the TV, and featuring a unique Pioneer function that allows signal passthrough when powered off. This is particularly useful for situations where a multi-channel system is unnecessary, as the TV can handle all audio playback.
The device features two analog inputs and a dedicated Phono input for vinyl players. Among its digital inputs, it includes one optical and one coaxial connector. Overall, this modern configuration is sufficient for 99% of audio systems. The VSX-S520 can connect to external devices through either a wired connection or Wi-Fi. It allows access to Internet radio stations via the TuneIn service and can connect to DLNA servers for audio playback. Music files can be played through the USB interface or wirelessly, thanks to built-in AirPlay and Bluetooth capabilities. Additionally, an iPod, iPhone, or iPad can be directly connected to the USB port, enabling both music playback and device charging. The Pioneer VSX-S520 also supports MHL (Mobile High Definition Link), which allows for video playback with multi-channel sound from compatible modern smartphones, along with HTC Connect certification, similar to AirPlay for HTC devices. Furthermore, while the classic radio tuner remains available, complete with RDS functionality, it may eventually be phased out due to the increasing popularity of Internet radio stations.
The receiver is equipped with an efficient and user-friendly remote control that includes all necessary features and is straightforward to operate. Additionally, Pioneer offers smartphone control through the ControlApp application available for iOS and Android. While this feature is quite practical, it appears to serve as a complement to the traditional remote control, even though utilizing network functions via the app is more enjoyable. Furthermore, the Pioneer VSX-S520 includes automatic room calibration using a microphone. In line with contemporary trends, the receiver also features an ECO mode designed for energy conservation, with settings that can be adjusted automatically by the receiver or manually by the user.
Pioneer VSX-S520 Specifications
- Power: 80W/h (4 ohms, 1 kHz, 1.0% THD, 1ch Driven)
- Decoders: Dolby® TrueHD / Dolby Digital Plus / Dolby Pro Logic II / DTS-HD Master Audio / DTS-HD High Resolution Audio / DTS 96/24 / DTS-HD Express / DTS Neo:6 5.1
- DSD Playback via Network / USB (5.6 MHz / 2.8 MHz 2ch / 2ch)
- DSD Disc (SACD) Playback via HDMI (2.8 MHz / 5.1ch, 2ch)
- Digital Core Engine with Cirrus Logic (Quad Core) x1
- HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC)
- Ultra HD Upscaling (1080p 4K)
- 3D Ready (Blu-ray Disc™, Broadcast and Games)
- Deep Colour (36-bit), “xvColour”
- Network Services: Google Cast, Apple, AirPlay, Spotify, Internet Radio (TuneIn)
- USB / Network Playback: ALAC, AIFF, FLAC, WAV Up to 192 kHz / 24-bit, DSD 5.6 / 2.8 MHz Playback
- Built-in Wi-Fi (Dual Band 5 GHz / 2.4 GHz)
- Built-in Bluetooth® wireless technology (Version: 4.1, Profile: A2DP / AVRCP, Codec: SBC / AAC)
- Works with Pioneer Remote App (IOS / Android)
- Automatic power off in HDMI Standby mode Through
- FM (RDS) tuner 40 presets
- Sleep timer
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 435 x 70 x 325 mm
- Weight: 4.0 kg
