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Pioneer Intros New Two-Channel Multimedia Music System

At the CEDIA Expo, Pioneer Electronics is introducing a new two-channel multimedia music system for serious audiophiles. The tabletop Pioneer Elite X-Z9 features a Super Audio CD (SACD)/CD receiver that incorporates breakthrough digital amplification design with processing technologies to ensure high quality playback of favorite audio files. It comes complete with a pair of high end speakers that take advantage of exclusive EX Series Speaker technology for studio-quality sound performance at home. The end result is critical listening sound reproduction of conventional discs as well as compressed audio formats including, Internet radio and satellite radio for the ultimate in personal music listening.

The X-Z9 music system's engineering is contained in a sleek, glossy black cosmetic finish with a full dot white OEL display to add a touch of elegance when placed in a home office, den or bedroom setting. With touch sensor buttons, the receiver maintains a slim form with quick and easy button control.

Taking advantage of Pioneer's audio engineering expertise, the X-Z9 SACD/CD receiver features a sophisticated all-digital amplifier fabricated with high quality hand selected components including gold plated speaker terminals for stellar sound presentation from connected devices. Engineers utilize an innovative parallel amplification design for high fidelity power output with minimal interference and create an open sound listening field even when pushed to maximum volume. Listeners gain audio performance full of sharpness, clarity and high frequency response that will immerse them in the music like never before. The X-Z9 provides 100 watts total system power (50 x 2 RMS).

The Pioneer Elite X-Z9's captivating sound is a direct result of the system's precision speaker construction, which takes a cue from its EX Series Speakers. A unique three-way subwoofer and coaxial tweeter/midrange driver delivers deep, consistent surround sound throughout the speaker. The tweeter is made of titanium to ensure robust, wide-ranging music reproduction. Subtle nuances come alive when playing back any genre of music on the X-Z9.

Digital music fans will appreciate Pioneer's X-Z9 advanced multi-format compatibility that transcends current music players with additional connectivity options and music streaming capability. For maximum convenience, users can access and control connected devices with the unit's remote and front OEL display. The new system can playback SACD, CD and CD-R/-RW formats as well as linear PCM, MP3 and Windows Media Audio (WMA) digital files. In addition the X-Z9 offers the following features:
- Home Media Gallery – The exclusive home networking function, users can easily select and hear songs stored on a home PC directly on the X-Z9. The new player is Digital Living Network Alliance compliant as well as Microsoft playsforsure certified. With IP networking capability, users can access and stream local and new Internet radio stations for a distinctive home entertainment experience.
- SIRIUS and XM Satellite Radio - The new Elite system allows users to enjoy both crystal clear, programming via dedicated connectivity to either a SiriusConnect SC-H1 tuner or XM Connect & Play antenna (both sold separately; monthly subscription needed).
- iPod - For a truly customized listening experience, the X-Z9 allows users to connect and enjoy playlists from their iPod with the included iPod cable. Additionally, the Elite player has a USB input that allows users to plug in a MP3 portable player or jump drive and access compressed music files.
- USB - The X-Z9 is compatible with WMA, MPEG4-AAC, MP3 and FLAC compressed audio formats from a connected USB flash drive.

For consumers who want to enjoy the compressed audio files in full surround sound, Pioneer employs its proprietary Advanced Sound Retriever digital sound processing technology. Advanced Sound Retriever compensates for audio data often removed from these digital files to compress their size. Audio files are played back with near CD quality giving music fans a dynamic sound they can enjoy.

The Pioneer Elite X-Z9 will begin shipping in October 2007.



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