Pioneer Hi-End Blu-ray Disc Players Reference Guide

Introduction

This guide details the high-fidelity audio and video capabilities of Pioneer's Hi-End Blu-ray Disc Players, models BDP-LX88 and BDP-LX58. These players are engineered for superior performance, offering advanced construction, precise audio and video processing, extensive network features, and user convenience.

Applicable Models

The features described apply to the following models:

• BDP-LX88-K/-S
• BDP-LX58-K/-S

Note: New features are sometimes highlighted in blue text within this guide.

Construction

Pioneer's commitment to audio and video excellence begins with robust construction designed to minimize vibration and interference.

Key Construction Features:

• Three-Chamber Structure: Separates power supply, digital processing, and audio circuit blocks to eliminate electrical and signal interference. The power supply and digital processing blocks are enclosed in separate shield cases.
• Double-Layered Chassis: A 1.6 mm-thick chassis base reinforced with a 3 mm-thick plate provides a low center of gravity and overall rigidity, preventing external vibrations from affecting disc reading. (LX88, LX58)
• Highly Rigid Centre Frames: Two steel center frames inside the chassis provide additional rigidity and optimize component layout to minimize vibration and signal loss. (LX88)
• Steel Plate Top Panel and Aluminium Side Panels: A 1 mm-thick steel plate top panel ensures rigidity, while aluminum side panels, chosen for their high damping effect, minimize internal vibrations. (LX88)
• Steel Plate Bonnet: A 1 mm-thick steel plate bonnet adds extra rigidity to the chassis. (LX58)
• Rigid & Quiet BD Drive: A high-performance drive structure offers strong resistance against vibration.
• Steel Shield Drive Case with Anti-Vibration Paint: The BD drive is housed in a shield case with anti-vibration paint (LX88 only) for reduced vibration.
• Steel Drive Base: The drive is fixed to a steel plate drive base.
• Tray Shaft: Provides steady loading of the tray.
• Tray with Anti-Vibration Paint: A special paint is applied to the disc tray for enhanced anti-vibration and damping.
• Acoustic Damper Tray: Features separate disc tray cover and base connected by springs, enhancing damping by preventing vibration transfer from the drive to the chassis via the tray.

Diagram Description: The "Rigid & Quiet BD Drive" section illustrates how the BD drive is isolated from the chassis using dampers and how the Acoustic Damper Tray uses springs to decouple the tray from the drive mechanism, minimizing vibration transfer.

Video Features

Experience stunning visual fidelity with advanced video processing technologies.

• Precise Pixel Driver: Features HD Detail Enhancer and Triple HD Noise Reduction to extract and reproduce maximum detail from Full HD content.
  • HD Detail Enhancer: Enhances texture and detail.
  • Triple HD Noise Reduction: Effectively reduces random noise, block noise (MPEG compression artifacts), and mosquito noise (hazy edges). Includes Component Frame Noise Reduction (YNR/CNR), Block Noise Reduction, and Mosquito Noise Reduction.
• 4K Reference Converter: Upscales HD video content to full-spec 4K signals (up to 24p YCbCr 4:4:4/36-bit or 60p YCbCr 4:2:2/36-bit). Pioneer's tuning creates high-resolution images for 4K displays, utilizing texture and edge processing for natural detail and depth. The Super Resolution setting on the Video Adjust menu controls these effects.
• Stream Smoother: Reduces block noise and mosquito noise in low bit-rate video content (e.g., from YouTube) for clearer images on home theatre displays.
• 36-bit Deep Colour: Supports 36-bit Deep Colour for smooth gradation and accurate color reproduction, offering significantly more colors than standard 24-bit (16.7 million colors) – up to 68.7 billion colors.
• "x.v.Colour": Supports "x.v.Colour" to expand the color gamut, enabling reproduction of colors closer to natural human vision. Available for discs recorded with AVCHD devices.
• HDMI 1080p/24 Hz & 2160p/24 Hz Output: Supports video output at 24 frames per second (fps), matching the original film's frame rate for natural, smooth images. Requires a compatible TV and HDMI cable.
• Video Adjust: Offers 13 adjustment items, including noise reduction and detail enhancements. Up to three custom settings can be saved.
  • Preset Video Adjust Modes: Optimized modes for different displays and content (PJ mode for projectors, FPD mode for flat panel TVs; Digital Cinema, Film Cinema, Live).
  • Reference Mode: Plays source content with no signal processing.
  • Memory 1-3: Saves user-defined settings.
  • Adjustment Options: Progressive Motion, Pure Cinema, Stream Smoother, YNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma Level, Super Resolution.

Diagram Description: The "Triple HD Video Noise Reductions" diagram shows how various types of noise (Gaussian, Block, Mosquito) are transformed into a clear image. The "4K Reference Converter" diagram illustrates the process of HD picture enhancement and upscaling to 4K. The "36-bit Deep Colour Image" diagram contrasts the limited color steps of 24-bit with the vastly smoother gradation of 36-bit. The "HDMI 1080p/24 Hz & 2160p/24 Hz Output" diagram explains how direct 24p output avoids the conversion artifacts of 3-2 pull-down or normal interlaced-to-progressive conversion.

Audio Features

Audiophile-grade components and processing deliver exceptional sound reproduction.

• ESS SABRE32 Reference DAC (ES9018): The BDP-LX88 features a 4-channel parallel drive of the ESS SABRE32 Reference DAC (ES9018) for each channel, ensuring highly precise D/A conversion and clear, high-quality audio playback.
• ESS SABRE32 Ultra DAC (ES9011): The BDP-LX58 utilizes the highly acclaimed 192 kHz/32-bit ESS SABRE32 Ultra DAC (ES9011) for exceptional sound with ultra-low distortion and a high signal-to-noise ratio.
• Large-Capacity Power Supply Transformer: A dedicated, high-response transformer for audio, with separate analogue and digital power supply pathways to prevent digital noise interference. It's housed in a shield case with copper plate and anti-vibration paint to cut out electromagnetic waves and suppress standing waves.
• Acoustic Custom Capacitors and Other High-Grade Parts: High-grade components, including exclusive capacitors co-developed with a parts manufacturer and gold-plated terminals, are used for superior audio performance.
• Zero Signal Terminal: A Pioneer-original feature for audio and video quality tuning. Connecting this terminal to an unused input on an AV receiver or other device matches the reference (GND) level between devices, enabling precise, high-quality signal transmission by compensating for standard level gaps and noise.
• Precision Audio: Drastically eliminates jitter in the analogue audio output. At the DAC's input stage, a dedicated clock IC ensures phase matching between L/R channels, generating ultra-low jitter signals before D/A conversion.
• PQLS Bit-stream: Pioneer's Precision Quartz Lock System (PQLS) eliminates distortion caused by timing errors when used with a compatible AV receiver. It controls audio signal amounts to ensure optimal digital-to-analogue conversion. Requires "Control with HDMI" to be enabled.
• Dual HDMI Output: Separate HDMI terminals for audio and video allow for pure sound free of interference. Output signals differ by connection mode (Dual, Separate, Pure Audio, Single).
• Audio Scaler: Pioneer's technology comprising Hi-bit32, Up-Sampling, and Digital Filter for enhanced audio.
  • Hi-bit32: Requantizes digital audio (16, 20, 24-bit) to 32 bits, interpolating high-frequency components for smoother, more subtle musical expression.
  • Up Sampling (2ch): Reduces noise in the audible range and enhances delicate sound details. Selectable rates: Off/x2/x4.
  • Digital Filter: Improves response characteristics by removing pre-echo, defining sound outlines for transient feel. Options: "Sharp" (solid, tight sound) and "Slow" (soft, warm sound).
• Balanced Analogue Audio Output: Equipped with balanced analogue audio output terminals for quality sound playback. (LX88)
• Direct Function: Blocks digital audio/video signal processing to allow pure, high-quality sound from Hi-Res 2ch audio files or CDs. Can be activated via remote or front panel.
• SACD Compatible: Plays SACD (2ch/Multi-ch) and can output DSD signals.
• Sound Retriever Link: Advanced Sound Retriever on Pioneer AV receivers restores lost audio cadence from compressed audio. Sound Retriever Link automatically switches to the optimal Sound Retriever mode based on information from the Blu-ray player via HDMI.

Diagram Description: The "Power Supply Block" diagram shows the separation of analogue and digital power supplies and shielding. The "Zero Signal Terminal" diagram illustrates how it matches GND levels between devices. The "Jitter Reduction by High-Precision Master Clock" diagram explains the process of minimizing jitter. The "PQLS Bit-stream" diagram shows how PQLS achieves jitterless transmission. The "Dual HDMI Output" diagram details signal routing for different modes. The "Audio Scaler" diagrams illustrate the effects of bit expansion and digital filter choices. The "Sound Retriever" diagrams show the restoration of lost music cadence and frequency response.

Network Features

Connect to your home network and enjoy a world of content.

• DLNA Certified™ (1.5): Functions as both a DMP (Digital Media Player) and DMR (Digital Media Renderer). Allows searching for and playing content from a DMS (Digital Media Server), or streaming content from devices like smartphones (acting as M-DMS) to the player. Wi-Fi Direct support enables streaming without a router.
• iControlAV5 Remote App Ready: Control basic player functions using a free app on iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, or Android devices. The app supports 8 languages, matching the device's system language.
  • iPhone/iPod touch/iPad App
  • Android App
• YouTube/Picasa Viewing: View YouTube videos and Picasa photos on your TV by connecting the player to the internet.
• Various Playable Formats: Supports a wide range of audio, video, and image files, including Hi-Res Audio formats like WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, and DSD, via USB, network, or discs.

Diagram Description: The "DLNA" diagram shows how a smartphone (DMS) can stream content to the Blu-ray player (DMR) via a network. The "iControlAV5" diagram illustrates control of the Blu-ray player (BDP) from an iPhone/iPad/Android device via a wireless LAN access point.

Playable Formats

The players support a comprehensive list of media and file formats.

Notes:

• * Supports FAT16, FAT32 and NTFS file systems.
• ** WMA Pro, Lossless and Voice are not supported.
• Playback may not be possible for certain files depending on file structure, server capacity, and network environment.
• Files protected by DRM (Digital Rights Management) cannot be played (except DivX VOD files).
• AVCHD contents cannot be played via LAN.

Convenience Features

Designed for ease of use and enhanced viewing experience.

• Continue Mode: Allows resuming playback from the last stopped point on Blu-ray Discs. Press the "CONTINUED" key during playback, then turn off the power. To re-start, turn power on, select "Yes" on the pop-up message, and playback resumes from the memorized point. Effective as long as the disc remains in the player.
• 30 sec Skip Forward/10 sec Skip Back: Easily skip forward 30 seconds or back 10 seconds with a button press on the remote control.
• Quick View (x1.5) with Audio: Play back content at 1.5x speed, allowing a one-hour video to be viewed in 40 minutes while retaining audio.
• Auto Power Off: The player automatically turns off after a user-defined period of inactivity.
• Firmware Update (USB/Network): Firmware updates can be performed via LAN connection or using a USB memory device.
• User-Friendly Remote Control: Features a self-illuminating design for easy operation in dark environments, with clearly laid out keys grouped by function for intuitive control.

Diagram Description: The "Continue Mode" diagram illustrates the four steps: pressing "CONTINUED", powering off, powering on and selecting "Yes" on the prompt, and resuming playback.

Feature Comparison & Specifications

A detailed comparison of the BDP-LX88 and BDP-LX58 models, along with their technical specifications.

Specifications

Connections

Rear panel terminal layout.

BDP-LX88-K/-S Rear Panel Terminals:

• HDMI 2 Out (1 Main, 1 Sub)
• Digital Coaxial Out
• Digital Optical Out
• USB 2 In (1 Front, 1 Rear)
• Ethernet
• RS-232C
• Analogue Audio 2 Out (1 Balance, 1 Unbalance)
• Zero Signal Terminal (for Audio/Video Quality Tuning)

BDP-LX58-K/-S Rear Panel Terminals:

• HDMI 2 Out (1 Main, 1 Sub)
• Digital Coaxial Out
• USB 2 In (1 Front, 1 Rear)
• Ethernet
• RS-232C
• Analogue Audio Out (Unbalance)
• Zero Signal Terminal (for Audio/Video Quality Tuning)

Trademarks and Legal Information

PIONEER and the Pioneer logo are registered trademarks of Pioneer Corporation.

"Blu-ray Disc", "Blu-ray", "Blu-ray 3D", "BD-Live", "BONUSVIEW", "Blu-ray Disc" logo and "Blu-ray 3D" logo are trademarks of Blu-ray Disc Association.

The DVD logo is a trademark of DVD Format/Logo Licensing Corporation.

The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries.

"x.v.Colour" and the "x.v.Colour" logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. x.v.Colour only available for playback of discs recorded with AVCHD devices.

"AVCHD" and the "AVCHD" logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.

Oracle and Java are registered trademarks of Oracle and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Dolby and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

For DTS patents, see http://patents.dts.com. Manufactured under license from DTS Licensing Limited. DTS, DTS-HD, the Symbol, & DTS and the Symbol together are registered trademarks, and DTS-HD Master Audio | Essential is a trademark of DTS, Inc. ©DTS, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

DLNATM, the DLNA Logo and DLNA CertifiedTM are trademarks, service marks, or certification marks of the Digital Living Network Alliance.

"SACD" and "Super Audio CD" are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

DivX®, DivX Certified®, DivX Plus® HD and associated logos are trademarks of Rovi Corporation or its subsidiaries and are used under license.

iPad, iPhone, iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

Android, Google Play, YouTube, the YouTube logo, Picasa™ Web Album, and the Picasa Web Album logo are trademarks of Google Inc.

SABRE™ is a trademark of ESS Technology, Inc.

The Hi-Res Audio logo is for the product designed by Pioneer to derive the maximum sound performance of Hi-Resolution Audio, to handle WAV and FLAC files of more than 96kHz/24bit and/or amplifiers, speakers and headphones that reproduce wide range of more than 40 kHz. The Hi-Res Audio logo is a trademark of Japan Audio Society.

© 2014 Pioneer Home Electronics Corporation. All rights reserved. Note: Specifications and design subject to change without notice.