New Pioneer Two-Channel System is "Music" to Aficionados' Ears with Exceptional Sound Presentation of Digital Audio Collections.

DENVER -- At the CEDIA Expo today, Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. introduces a new two-channel multimedia music system for serious audiophiles. The tabletop Pioneer[R] Elite[R] 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.

"We've found that audio enthusiasts don't want to just listen to music but hear it in stereophonic sound that makes them feel like they are hearing it live. We also know that music collections are getting harder to maintain in a single location and playback with optimum stereo equipment," said David Bales, marketing manager of audio products for the home entertainment division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "Right now is the ideal time to unveil our new Elite X-Z9 two channel system, which excels in digital engineering and design to deliver dynamic audio that entertainment junkies have been seeking."

High Power Performance

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).

Superior Speaker Construction

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 award-winning 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.

Multimedia Music

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[R] 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 (DLNA) compliant as well as Microsoft playsforsure[TM] certified. With IP networking capability, users can access and stream local and new Internet radio stations for a distinctive home entertainment experience.

* SIRIUS[R] and XM[R] Satellite Radio - The new Elite system allows users to enjoy both crystal clear, programming via dedicated connectivity to either a SiriusConnect[TM] SC-H1 tuner or XM Connect & Play[TM] antenna (both sold separately; monthly subscription needed).

* iPod[R] - 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.

Music in Pristine Clarity

For consumers who want to enjoy the compressed audio files in full surround sound, Pioneer employs its proprietary Advanced Sound Retriever digital sound processing (DSP) 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 for a suggested price of $1799.

Pioneer's Home Entertainment and Business Solutions Group develops high definition home theater equipment for sports and entertainment junkies. Its flat panel televisions, Blu-ray Disc[R] players, A/V receivers and speakers heighten the emotions created by great HD content. The company brands include Pioneer[R] and Elite[R]. When purchased from an authorized retailer, consumers receive a limited warranty for one year with Pioneer products and two years with Elite products. More details can be located at www.pioneerelectronics.com.

Pioneer and Elite are registered trademarks of Pioneer Corporation.
BLU-RAY DISC is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Corporation.
Microsoft and Windows Media are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation.