Pioneer has announced that a number of its 2016/2017 AV receivers, HT systems, and network speakers now support Chromecast audio streaming and voice control via Google Home. Specific model numbers are listed in the press release below, and the functionality can be added via a free firmware update. Also available is the new MRX-3 multi-room wireless speaker shown here ($349).
From Pioneer
Pioneer Home Entertainment has released a firmware update enabling Chromecast built-in audio streaming on select home hi-fi components, AV receivers, home theater systems and network speaker systems manufactured in 2016 or later, together with voice control support for Google Home speaker or Google Assistant Audio devices to be released in the future.
As part of the announcement, Pioneer also revealed that the MRX-3 Multi-Room Wireless Speaker is now shipping for an MSRP of $349 (USD) and $449 (CAD) and also features Chromecast-built-in among its expansive Wi-Fi capabilities.
For decades, Pioneer has served customers with the latest technology to deliver music and home entertainment in high fidelity as the artist intended. The addition of Chromecast built-in and voice control enriches a wealth of wireless audio streaming technologies already integrated within Pioneer components and speakers. The firmware update is available for the following Pioneer products:
• Elite: SC-LX901, SC-LX801, SC-LX701, SC-LX501, VSX-LX301, VSX-LX101, SX-S30, and FS-EB70
• Pioneer: VSX-1131, VSX-832, VSX-831, VSX-S520, XC-HM86, X-HM76 and MRX-3.
The Chromecast built-in connects compatible apps on iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Android phones and tablets, Chromebook, and Chrome browser on Mac, Windows, and Linux PCs to Pioneer components over 5-GHz/2.4-GHz Wi-Fi. Users can stream music, Internet radio, and podcasts from the most popular online services for a smooth and convenient wireless playback experience.
Furthermore, the update will allow owners to request music and audio content by voice for streaming playback on their supported Pioneer components when used in conjunction with Google Home or other to-be-released devices featuring Google Assistant. Listeners can select a streaming service, specific song or album, adjust volume, and perform other playback operations using voice commands.
A wide variety of Chromecast-enabled apps are ready to queue and stream content from sports broadcasts, comedy and educational podcasts to millions of songs from all over the world. All content is easily accessible via smart devices.
Sampling transmission rates of up to 48 kHz maintain the original fidelity of the source without compression for lossless CD-quality music.
No initial setup or passwords are required to connect and stream, making it easy for users to instantly hear their favorite content from their preferred apps on their own personal devices. Furthermore, users are free to make and receive calls and run other applications without interrupting playback.
To enjoy the Chromecast built-in experience, devices must be connected to the same wireless network and apps must be Chromecast-enabled. Discover Chromecast-enabled apps at g.co/cast/audioapps. For more information on Chromecast built-in, please visit https://www.google.com/chromecast/built-in/.
Additional Resources
• Visit the Pioneer website for more product information.
• Pioneer Introduces the VSX-832 AV Receiver at HomeTheaterReview.com.
