US
PIONEER

Pioneer VSX-821 Surround Receiver

  • 5.1 channel surround receiver
  • 4 HDMI inputs, 6 HD inputs total
  • 130 watts listed output
  • iPod/iPhone/iPad digital connection, cable included
  • USB plays MP3, WMA, AAC
  • AM tuner, HDMI 3D

Updated 22 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A surround HDMI receiver with digital iPod and iPhone playback and automatic speaker setup. The listing comes from a Dutch page, so voltage, plug type and warranty need confirming before buying.

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ASIN: B004TRY402Model: VSX-821Category: Stereo & AV Receivers

Overview

Pioneer built this receiver as a surround model with HDMI inputs that pass stereoscopic video, automatic speaker tuning and a digital connection for iPod, iPhone and iPad. A USB port plays compressed music files.

Home theater beginners get surround sound for a TV setup with Apple device playback built in. The description is in Dutch, so the power figure, plug and warranty for a US home are not confirmed.

Who it's for

Households setting up a first surround system with a Blu-ray player and console will find enough inputs. Buyers needing confirmed US power specs or newer video formats should look elsewhere.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Four HDMI inputs
  • Apple device digital playback
  • USB music playback
  • Automatic speaker tuning
Cons
  • Voltage, plug and warranty not listed
  • Description only in Dutch
  • Older HDMI generation

Performance notes

Surround output comes from the amplified channels plus a subwoofer output. Automatic speaker tuning sets levels and distances for the room. HDMI switching passes video from sources to the TV, including stereoscopic video.

Specifications

BrandPIONEER
ModelVSX-821
Capacity & performance
Output Wattage130 watts
Construction & materials
ColorBlack
Compatibility & installation
Connectivity TechnologyHDMI, USB
Compatible DevicesiPod, iPhone, iPad (digital cable included), speakers
Warranty & support
Supported audio formatMP3, WMA, AAC (USB)
Other details
Surround Sound Channel Configuration5.1
Number of Channels5
Total Number of HDMI Ports4 (6 HD inputs total)
Control TypeRemote
Other Special Features of the ProductAM tuner, HDMI 3D, speaker calibration

Frequently asked questions

How do I set up speakers on the Pioneer VSX-821?

The receiver offers intelligent speaker tuning. The listing does not describe the steps, so follow the Pioneer manual.

Can I play music from my iPhone on the VSX-821?

Yes. A digital connection, with cable included, plays audio and video from iPod, iPhone and iPad.

How many HDMI inputs does the Pioneer VSX-821 have?

Four HDMI inputs among six HD inputs.