The Pioneer VSX-817K/S provides a great blend of power, high quality surround sound processing, ample video and audio connectivity options, all at a price that makes it a great value. Occasionally we find an A/V receiver that just makes good sense. It offers a set of features that give the user access to everything a home theater system should.

The Pioneer VSX-817K/S provides 110 watts of power into each of its seven channels via its Pioneer Hybrid Amplifier Design. Along with its above-average power supply, it has a very long and impressive list of features: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS, DTS DTS-ES, 96/24 and DTS Neo:6 processors give you access to the most popular surround modes for movies and music. For satellite radio fans, it is both Sirious and XM-ready (requires purchasing necessary accessories and a monthly subscription).

If you have the Pioneer iPod dock (sold separately), you have access to all your audio and video files as well. The receiver also offers a processing mode designed to make compressed music files sound as good as all your other sources--at least that's what they claim: it does improve dynamic range, at least. The Stream Direct setting allows for pure unprocessed digital sound.

The receiver offers plenty of audio and video connections to provide flexibility when hooking up your source components. The unit offers three component inputs and one component output for your high definition signals, three S-video inputs and one output, and three composite inputs and one output. We found the four assignable digital audio inputs (two coaxial and two optical) offered a level of flexibility many other A/V receivers at this price do not offer. It should be noted that there is no HDMI connectivity, but for the price, this really cannot be considered a deficiency.

We were surprised to find several great ease-of-use features including on-screen display (OSD) and Pioneer's MCACC Room Calibration to help dial in this great receiver once you get it home. Another nice feature is its 5-way binding post speaker terminals on the rear panel. Anyone who has spent much time hooking up speakers to an A/V receiver will appreciate this time saver.

We found the Pioneer VSX-817K/S to offer a great balance of quality, power, features and connectivity at an entry-level price.

Pros: OSD, auto room calibration, plenty of power
Cons: No HDMI connection

Warranty
1 year