Allows media to be played from smartphones and tablets, wirelessly and otherwise

Mar 7, 2013 09:07 GMT  ·  By

Makers of media players have been including more and more features in their creations as of late, so we aren't too shocked by the special ability of the VSX-523, VSX-823, VSX-1023 and VSX-1123 home theater A/V receivers from Pioneer Electronics.

The VSX-523 and VSX-823 have 5.1-channel audio output, the VSX-1023 gets 7.1-channel and the VSX-1123 7.2-channel.

But that is not the special ability we are referring to. What we mean is that all of these products can “integrate” smartphones and tablets into the home theater entertainment options.

Whether it is done through a Lightning cable, USB, or wirelessly (MHL 2.0 / mobile high definition link), it is possible to play music and videos directly off smartphones and tablets. Everything up to 4K Ultra HD resolution is supported.

It is even possible to display album art and other metadata on a connected TV, projector or monitor.

The 823 and 1023 receivers can also be controlled using the smartphone, provided the necessary app is installed.

Sales will start this month (March 2013), for between $279 / €214-279 and $629 / €483-629.