1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Pioneer VSX-S520 Slim Home Audio and Video Receiver. The VSX-S520 is designed to deliver high-quality audio and video performance in a compact form factor, featuring a highly-efficient Class D amplifier. Key functionalities include Dolby Atmos support, Ultra HD (4K/60p/4:4:4) pass-through, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth wireless technology, and Chromecast built-in.
2. Safety Information
Please read all safety instructions carefully before operating the unit. Retain this manual for future reference.
- Electrical Safety: Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. Do not remove the cover. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not block ventilation openings. Maintain a minimum distance of 10 cm (4 inches) from the rear and sides, and 20 cm (8 inches) from the top.
- Placement: Place the unit on a stable, level surface. Avoid placing it near heat sources, direct sunlight, or in areas with excessive dust or vibration.
- Power Cord: Handle the power cord carefully. Do not damage or modify it.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in the package:
- Pioneer VSX-S520 Receiver
- Remote Control
- Setup Microphone (for MCACC calibration)
- FM/AM Antennas
- Power Cord
- Quick Start Guide
4. Setup
4.1 Front Panel Overview
The front panel provides access to essential controls and input ports for convenient operation.
Figure 4.1: Front view of the Pioneer VSX-S520 Slim Home Audio and Video Receiver. This image displays the power button, input selector, master volume knob, headphone jack, setup microphone input, and USB port on the front panel.
- Power/Standby Button: Turns the unit on or off.
- Input Selector: Cycles through available input sources.
- Master Volume: Adjusts the overall sound level.
- PHONES Jack: Connect headphones for private listening.
- SETUP MIC Jack: Connect the supplied setup microphone for MCACC room calibration.
- USB Port: Connect USB storage devices for audio playback.
4.2 Rear Panel Connections
The rear panel houses all necessary ports for connecting your speakers, source devices, and network.
Figure 4.2: Rear view of the Pioneer VSX-S520 Slim Home Audio and Video Receiver. This image shows the HDMI input/output ports, speaker terminals, network port, audio input jacks, optical and coaxial digital inputs, and antenna connections.
4.2.1 Speaker Connections
The VSX-S520 supports a 5.1 channel speaker configuration. Connect your speakers to the corresponding terminals on the rear panel. Ensure correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative) for optimal sound quality.
- FRONT (L/R): Connect your left and right front speakers.
- CENTER: Connect your center channel speaker.
- SURROUND (L/R): Connect your left and right surround speakers.
- SUBWOOFER PRE OUT: Connect an active subwoofer using an RCA cable.
4.2.2 Source Device Connections (HDMI)
Connect your Blu-ray player, game console, cable/satellite box, or other video sources to the HDMI INPUT ports. Connect your TV or projector to the HDMI OUT (ARC) port. Ensure all HDMI cables are rated for 4K/HDCP 2.2 if you plan to use 4K content.
4.2.3 Network Connection
Connect an Ethernet cable to the NETWORK port for a wired internet connection, or use the built-in Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity. Wi-Fi supports both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz frequency channels for stable streaming.
4.3 Initial Power-On and Basic Configuration
After connecting all devices and speakers, plug in the power cord and turn on the receiver. Follow the on-screen setup wizard on your connected display. The system will guide you through initial settings, including speaker configuration and MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System) room calibration. MCACC automatically optimizes sound settings based on your room's acoustics.
Important: It is highly recommended to perform firmware updates immediately after initial setup to ensure optimal performance and access to all features. Connect the receiver to the internet (wired or wireless) and navigate to the firmware update section in the system settings menu. Multiple updates may be required.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Operation
- Power On/Off: Press the Power/Standby button on the front panel or remote control.
- Input Selection: Use the Input Selector knob on the front panel or the dedicated input buttons on the remote control to switch between connected sources (e.g., BD/DVD, GAME, CBL/SAT, STRMBOX).
- Volume Control: Adjust the Master Volume knob on the front panel or the Volume +/- buttons on the remote control.
5.2 Audio Playback
- Streaming Services: Access integrated streaming services like Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, and TIDAL via the receiver's network features. Control these services using the Pioneer mobile app or compatible third-party applications.
- Bluetooth: Pair your mobile device with the receiver via Bluetooth to stream audio wirelessly.
- USB Playback: Connect a USB storage device to the front USB port to play audio files.
- Chromecast built-in: Use Chromecast-enabled apps on your mobile device (iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac, Windows laptop, Chromebook) to stream audio to the receiver. Note that video streaming to the TV via Chromecast is not supported for all apps (e.g., YouTube video streaming is audio-only).
5.3 Video Playback
- Ultra HD (4K/60p/4:4:4) Pass-through: The receiver supports the latest 4K video standards, allowing high-resolution video signals to pass through to your compatible display.
- HDCP 2.2 Support: Ensures compatibility with copy-protected 4K content.
5.4 Sound Modes and Enhancements
- Dolby Atmos: Experience immersive, multi-dimensional sound with Dolby Atmos enabled content.
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer: Creates a virtual surround and height effect without the need for additional physical height or surround speakers.
- Manual EQ Adjustment: Access the MCACC menu, then Manual MCACC, and EQ Adjust to fine-tune audio equalization for each speaker channel individually.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your receiver.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior surfaces. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
- Ventilation: Regularly check that the ventilation openings on the top and sides of the unit are not obstructed by dust or other objects.
- Power Cycle: If the unit becomes unresponsive, disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet, wait for a minute, and then reconnect it. This can resolve temporary system freezes.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your VSX-S520 receiver, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| No sound from speakers | Check speaker connections for correct polarity. Ensure the correct input source is selected. Verify volume level is not muted or too low. Run MCACC calibration again. |
| No video output | Ensure HDMI cables are securely connected and rated for 4K/HDCP 2.2. Select the correct HDMI input. Check TV/projector input settings. |
| Network connectivity issues | Verify Ethernet cable connection or Wi-Fi settings. Restart your router. Perform a firmware update, as this often resolves connectivity problems. |
| System unresponsive / HDMI port not working | Perform a power cycle: unplug the receiver from the power outlet for at least one minute, then plug it back in. Ensure firmware is up to date. |
| Remote control not working | Replace batteries (requires 2 AAA batteries). Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the receiver's IR sensor. |
8. Specifications
Below are the key technical specifications for the Pioneer VSX-S520 receiver:
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 17.1 x 2.8 x 12.8 inches (435 x 70 x 325 mm)
- Weight: 8.8 pounds (4.0 kg)
- Power Output: 80 W/Ch (4 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 1.0 %, 1Ch Driven FTC); 50 W/Ch (4 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 1.0 %, 2Ch Driven FTC)
- Surround Sound Channel Configuration: 5.1 Ch
- HDMI Ports: 5 (Input) / 1 (Output with ARC)
- Connectivity: HDMI, Wi-Fi (Dual-band 5 GHz/2.4 GHz), Bluetooth, Ethernet
- Audio Output Mode: Surround
- Special Features: Chromecast built-in, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer, Ultra HD (4K/60p/4:4:4) Pass-through, HDCP 2.2
- Controller Type: Android (via app)
- Compatible Devices: Television, Smartphone, Laptop, Desktop
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Pioneer website. For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please contact Pioneer customer support.
