168 replies to this topic

[Garincha]

Hi rjv, I have had my LX60 up and running for a couple of weeks now and after some initial hiccups am happy with the overall result. I got the amp switching a variety of inputs and running one cable to from the amp to the TV.  The switching particularly with digital sources can be a little slow, and I've discovered I need to go from a source such as the stb before I go to the Mac mini or the HDMI handshake thing has trouble finding the right resolution.

At present I am only running a 2 channel setup, and music sounds great, I really notice a difference with CDs and FLAC particularly when it is a quality recording. Although the pioneer sells it self as a musical amplifier with air studios tuning, it's still nowhere near as accomplished as a dedicated 2-channel amp. I will try biamping my speakers soon and I'm keen to see how much difference that makes, but the main thing for me is the convenience of not having to change TV inputs and doing everything through the amp.

This is my first serious Hifi investment so I'm not that astute at reviewing things as I have limited experiences to compare with however I am happy to answer any questions you may have.

[rjv]

Garincha, on Jul 20 2008, 06:15 PM, said:

Hi rjv, I have had my LX60 up and running for a couple of weeks now and after some initial hiccups am happy with the overall result. I got the amp switching a variety of inputs and running one cable to from the amp to the TV.  The switching particularly with digital sources can be a little slow, and I've discovered I need to go from a source such as the stb before I go to the Mac mini or the HDMI handshake thing has trouble finding the right resolution.

At present I am only running a 2 channel setup, and music sounds great, I really notice a difference with CDs and FLAC particularly when it is a quality recording. Although the pioneer sells it self as a musical amplifier with air studios tuning, it's still nowhere near as accomplished as a dedicated 2-channel amp. I will try biamping my speakers soon and I'm keen to see how much difference that makes, but the main thing for me is the convenience of not having to change TV inputs and doing everything through the amp.

This is my first serious Hifi investment so I'm not that astute at reviewing things as I have limited experiences to compare with however I am happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thx mate appreciate your comments, what about the other owners out there, keen to share your thoughts?

[heyskip]

rjv, on Jul 21 2008, 09:42 PM, said:

Thx mate appreciate your comments, what about the other owners out there, keen to share your thoughts?

I've been using my LX-60 for 2 weeks now. It's set up with XBOX 360 and PS3 input to the receiver via HDMI and Foxtel HD (HDMI), DVD player (HDMI) and XBOX (Component) connected directly to my LX-508A. With all components having digital audio connections to the receiver. I used this method to allow for more individual picture settings.

The setup was hassle free and the end result is quite impressive. The receiver looks great, sounds great and has a heap of settings/features to play with. I must say that this is only my second receiver with the first being another Pioneer so I can't comment on how it compares to other brands.

After calibrating the system using the supplied microphone and Auto MCACC feature including 'full band phase control' and 'standing wave', the sound is more clear, crisp and focused compared to my old system. Auto MCACC seems to emphasise the surround speakers more than my original manual setup which makes for a more impressive movie viewing experience.

I believe that this purchase is going to quickly lead to a speaker upgrade. I'm currently using a Kenwood 5.1 setup with floorstanding fronts, bookshelf rears, small centre and active 8' sub. The full potential of this receiver won't be realised until I complement it with some decent speakers, thinking of Paradigm Monitor 11's, Krix Seismix 5, maybe using current fronts as rears and a better centre.

I can confidently say that both the PS3 and XBOX 360 work fine using HDMI even though some people are noting a yellow flyer in their packaging warning otherwise (couldn't find such a flyer with mine).

All in all a great purchase. Will report back on any further findings.

Edited by heyskip, 22 July 2008 - 07:34 PM.

[rjv]

heyskip, on Jul 22 2008, 10:41 AM, said:

I've been using my LX-60 for 2 weeks now. It's set up with XBOX 360 and PS3 input to the receiver via HDMI and Foxtel HD (HDMI), DVD player (HDMI) and XBOX (Component) connected directly to my LX-508A. With all components having digital audio connections to the receiver. I used this method to allow for more individual picture settings.

The setup was hassle free and the end result is quite impressive. The receiver looks great, sounds great and has a heap of settings/features to play with. I must say that this is only my second receiver with the first being another Pioneer so I can't comment on how it compares to other brands.

After calibrating the system using the supplied microphone and Auto MCACC feature including 'full band phase control' and 'standing wave', the sound is more clear, crisp and focused compared to my old system. Auto MCACC seems to emphasise the surround speakers more than my original manual setup which makes for a more impressive movie viewing experience.

I believe that this purchase is going to quickly lead to a speaker upgrade. I'm currently using a Kenwood 5.1 setup with floorstanding fronts, bookshelf rears, small centre and active 8' sub. The full potential of this receiver won't be realised until I complement it with some decent speakers, thinking of Paradigm Monitor 11's, Krix Seismix 5, maybe using current fronts as rears and a better centre.

I can confidently say that both the PS3 and XBOX 360 work fine using HDMI even though some people are noting a yellow flyer in their packaging warning otherwise (couldn't find such a flyer with mine).

All in all a great purchase. Will report back on any further findings.

Thx, all in all a happy purchase, & now for those speakers.....

[mansai]

Hi,

Bought a LX-60 2 weeks ago now and thought I would share my newbie experience so far.
Showed the receipt from ezzy at CP and the reaction from the sales guy was a sight to see, his jaw almost cracked the concrete floor   (Thanks ezzy)
In the end bought it from eBay for a similar price.

This is my first HT amp so it has been a big learning experience with connecting it all together.

My system consists of Pioneer LX508 plasma, Pioneer DV400 DVD, Foxtel IQ2, PS2 and Karaoke player and of course the LX60. Speakers are 2 front floorstanding Jamo Concert 5 only atm, but I do intend to upgrade to surround sound setup later.

My first attempt at setup was nothing short of shocking, however I then set it up so all inputs went  to the TV with optical audio from the TV to the amp, however I discovered that for the HDMI inputs the TV does not output audio via the optical connector only via RCA outputs.
So at the weekend I had another re-think after reading the manuals multiple times.
Now I have all inputs to the LX60 as follows, DVD via component with optical audio, IQ2 via component with optical audio as I believe IQ2 only outputs stereo via HDMI atm, PS2 and Karaoke via composite and iPod via iPod connector. I have connected to the TV from the HDMI output.
Now sounding much better, as in more defined and packs more punch.
I did setup the Auto MCACC (not sure if I should as I only have stereo speakers) and it sounded a bit weak at the bass end compared with MCACC off, will have to try it again.

I have a couple of issues though. I would like to use the remote for the LX60 for all devices as it is a learning remote, however it does not seem to work with IQ2, I can get the learning process to work ok but it does not work when I point it at the IQ2. Anyone come across this as an issue? I have succeeded with the Karaoke remote ok.
Also all inputs are output to the TV's HDMI input 3, I have to switch to DTV/TV to get the DTV picture (audio is ok as I have it set for the TV button) but then when I want to go back to say Foxtel, I have  to scroll through the inputs to get back to input 3. I am after a one touch fix to select input 3. I have tried to program the remote to learn the 'input3' button on the TV remote but it just locks up the LX60 remote when I try to use it, and I have to remove the batteries to get the remote working again.
Has anyone used the SR+ cable and would this provide anymore functionality from the remote.

Whilst I am still learning, I am very happy with it sound wise over my previous amp (a NAD 7400 stereo receiver) and connectivity wise and can't wait to upgrade the speakers for full surround.

[heyskip]

mansai, on Jul 28 2008, 08:43 PM, said:

I have a couple of issues though. I would like to use the remote for the LX60 for all devices as it is a learning remote, however it does not seem to work with IQ2, I can get the learning process to work ok but it does not work when I point it at the IQ2. Anyone come across this as an issue?

Same problem here. LX60 remote learns IQ2 remote fine (ie. says OK on LCD panel) but doesn't operate IQ2. From memory I had the LX508 remote operating some of the IQ2 functions so its strange that the LX60 remote can't learn them. I also had a problem learning the XBOX remote, most of the time one button press would equal 2 or holding a button down wouldn't scroll when it usually does. Tried quite a few times and finally got it working properly.

mansai, on Jul 28 2008, 08:43 PM, said:

Also all inputs are output to the TV's HDMI input 3, I have to switch to DTV/TV to get the DTV picture (audio is ok as I have it set for the TV button) but then when I want to go back to say Foxtel, I have  to scroll through the inputs to get back to input 3. I am after a one touch fix to select input 3. I have tried to program the remote to learn the 'input3' button on the TV remote but it just locks up the LX60 remote when I try to use it, and I have to remove the batteries to get the remote working again.

Again same problem. I was (like yourself) trying to learn all my remotes (except PS3 which is Bluetooth) to the LX60 but ended up still using the LX508, LX60 and IQ2 remotes.

mansai, on Jul 28 2008, 08:43 PM, said:

Has anyone used the SR+ cable and would this provide anymore functionality from the remote.

I wanted to try one of these but found them hard to come by so didn't bother. I thought HDMI control would provide similar funtionality but was wrong again. I was unable to get the plasma working with the receiver correctly. The plasma is supposed to show receiver source and volume on screen but no go. Let me know if you try this and get it to work.

[Garincha]

Seriously guys just get a harmony remote and put the lx60 remote in a box. One advantage to using an external stb is that all my sources go to the same in put on the tv so no more scrolling and switching for me.

Also I mentioned earlier that the lx60 would only pass a standard resolution ie 720p or 1080i but I have managed to get it to pass the TVs native 1366x768. The problem is I don't know how I did it and it stopped doing it the next time I restarted my mac mini. The nature picture was much clearer although the icons were a bit bigger compared to 1080i. AFAIK all I was doing was switching the mini off and on a few times due to a pesky file error.

[Stone]

I have the LX70 and use the SR+ cable as the HDMI control didn't allow me to control things properly. When I press TV on the remote I get the TV stations on the PDP-LX508, when I press DVR or BD, the panel automatically choose the input that the receiver's HDMI output is plugged into. This needed to be set up in the receiver's menus but it works fine.

[mansai]

heyskip, on Jul 29 2008, 07:35 AM, said:

Same problem here. LX60 remote learns IQ2 remote fine (ie. says OK on LCD panel) but doesn't operate IQ2. From memory I had the LX508 remote operating some of the IQ2 functions so its strange that the LX60 remote can't learn them.

Thanks for the confirmation 'heyskip'. I have a Pioneer tech turning up on Thursday to do a firmware update so I will ask him if can possibly be fixed.

heyskip, on Jul 29 2008, 07:35 AM, said:

I wanted to try one of these but found them hard to come by so didn't bother. I thought HDMI control would provide similar funtionality but was wrong again. I was unable to get the plasma working with the receiver correctly. The plasma is supposed to show receiver source and volume on screen but no go. Let me know if you try this and get it to work.

From the Pioneer europe site:

"What are the specifications of the SR+ cable?

The SR+ cable is used for the connection from plasma to receiver, while the SR cable is used from the receiver to the DVD recorder.
The 3-ringed SR+ cable from Pioneer is commercially available under the part number ADE7095 (3m).
You can also use a commercially available 3-ringed mini phone plug for the connection.
There is no official limitation of the cable length, in most cases a longer cable won't cause any problems, but correct functioning can not be guaranteed."

I might just make one up and let you know how it goes

Garincha, on Jul 29 2008, 08:40 AM, said:

Seriously guys just get a harmony remote and put the lx60 remote in a box.

Seriously 'Garincha' just get yourself a Windows Media centre and put the mac mini in a box   I have investigated getting a universal remote but would like to make sure I have investigated all options with the LX60 remote first before splashing out on one

Stone, on Jul 29 2008, 12:43 PM, said:

I have the LX70 and use the SR+ cable as the HDMI control didn't allow me to control things properly. When I press TV on the remote I get the TV stations on the PDP-LX508, when I press DVR or BD, the panel automatically choose the input that the receiver's HDMI output is plugged into. This needed to be set up in the receiver's menus but it works fine.

Thanks 'Stone' for the confirmation, will definitely try it.

[Marty77]

Just wondering what you guys have been paying? and where?

thanks

[mansai]

Well I splashed out on a SR+ cable and it does what I require and a bit more.
Bought it direct from Pioneer for $25. I did see one cable on ebay for about $15 from Hong Kong

Had to reconfigure the video inputs back to the TV although audio is direct to the amp.
I much prefer this as I can now configure the picture settings individually for each source.  

I also mentioned the issue with the IQ2 remote to the Pioneer TV tech who came to update the firmware on my TV
He said he had not heard of the issue but would ask about it in the office.

[heyskip]

Marty77, on Jul 31 2008, 10:57 PM, said:

Just wondering what you guys have been paying? and where?

thanks

I bought my LX60 from a fellow DTV member for $1350 new.

mansai, on Aug 1 2008, 05:47 AM, said:

Well I splashed out on a SR+ cable and it does what I require and a bit more.
Bought it direct from Pioneer for $25. I did see one cable on ebay for about $15 from Hong Kong

Had to reconfigure the video inputs back to the TV although audio is direct to the amp.
I much prefer this as I can now configure the picture settings individually for each source.  

I also mentioned the issue with the IQ2 remote to the Pioneer TV tech who came to update the firmware on my TV
He said he had not heard of the issue but would ask about it in the office.

Ordered mine yesterday for $25, arriving monday. I'm looking forward to the increased functionality and with the automatic input switching the other half might have a fighting chance of being able to use it.

[Stone]

Yeah, my other half finds it simple to use now. TV button shows TV, BD button shows blu ray, DVR button shows DVR... Can't get any more simple than that

[mansai]

Sounds like we are on the same road trip.
Minister for War and Finance is so much happier now  

[cm_ls1]

i got quoted $1500 inc gst for a brand new vsx-lx60 from a major retailer .... i asked "are you sure?" he said yes so i put a $200 deposit on the spot ...

after i pick it up on monday i will tell you who it was ... i think they made a mistake though cost is 1749

anyway its a win situation !

lx60 here i come !

i also stipulated this was from pioneer aust and he said yes, guaranteed with 3yr manufacturers waranty.

Edited by cm_ls1, 02 August 2008 - 10:27 AM.

[heyskip]

mansai, on Aug 1 2008, 07:34 PM, said:

Sounds like we are on the same road trip.
Minister for War and Finance is so much happier now  

Yeah seems like it. Now to get my new speakers through the long approval process  

[rjv]

cm_ls1, on Aug 2 2008, 08:22 AM, said:

i got quoted $1500 inc gst for a brand new vsx-lx60 from a major retailer .... i asked "are you sure?" he said yes so i put a $200 deposit on the spot ...

after i pick it up on monday i will tell you who it was ... i think they made a mistake though cost is 1749

anyway its a win situation !

lx60 here i come !

i also stipulated this was from pioneer aust and he said yes, guaranteed with 3yr manufacturers waranty.

well done an excellent price, a copy of the receipt once you are all sorted would be great, cheers

[Marty77]

cm_ls1, on Aug 2 2008, 08:22 AM, said:

i got quoted $1500 inc gst for a brand new vsx-lx60 from a major retailer .... i asked "are you sure?" he said yes so i put a $200 deposit on the spot ...

after i pick it up on monday i will tell you who it was ... i think they made a mistake though cost is 1749

anyway its a win situation !

lx60 here i come !

i also stipulated this was from pioneer aust and he said yes, guaranteed with 3yr manufacturers waranty.

How did you go with the $1500 price? if so which store?

thanks

[nang3]

I had a look at this amp last night at my mates shop and was quite impressed, might be able to organise a pretty good group buy as well for around or just under the $1300 mark if people are interested??

anyone had any probs with this AVR?

[heyskip]

Does anyone know what the display "DIAL NORM +4" or "DIAL NORM -4" or similar is. I only see it when changing sources on the receiver. Have read through the manual a few times but haven't seen any reference to it.

[Stone]

nang3, on Aug 14 2008, 12:11 PM, said:

I had a look at this amp last night at my mates shop and was quite impressed, might be able to organise a pretty good group buy as well for around or just under the $1300 mark if people are interested??

anyone had any probs with this AVR?

That's cheaper than wholesale price... Is the store doing a deal direct with Pioneer?

[nang3]

^^ I think he was saying they have some kinda rebate deal with Pio at the moment, he's off today but im gonna ask him about it tomorrow cause i think im pretty keen for the LX60..

[nang3]

well i got impatient and gave him a call haha, looks like $1290-1300 should be do-able if theres a few buyers as they are definitely getting a rebate from Pioneer at the moment..
I asked him to check out the price on the LX70 as well to see what he could do so will find out tomorrow

its a retravision BTW so not an import or refurbished or anything like that

[Stone]

That's a great price... If anyone is considering a receiver, that's a great deal

Northam Retravision?  

Edited by Stone, 14 August 2008 - 03:05 PM.

[Garincha]

My only gripes so far with this AVR are the HDMI switching, it seems quite slow and sometimes doesn't get the right resolution. I have also had issues selecting my xbox360 by component, half the display is pink and I have to switch to tv and back to fix it. I'm wondering if there is a possible firmware upgrade that might smooth out component & HDMI switching.

Sound is brilliant.