How to Troubleshoot a Pioneer VSX-908RDS

Wired for picture and sound with a Pioneer VSX-908RDS receiver.

A Pioneer VSX-908RDS is an audio/video receiver. The receiver amplifies sound from audio components in a home theater unit and routes video signals to your TV. Many of the glitches that sometimes occur are relatively easy to remedy, whether it be a setting that needs to be corrected or static electricity causing your unit to malfunction. You can run through a number of basic troubleshooting steps before taking your receiver in for service.

Instructions

1. Disconnect the power plug from the wall outlet and then plug it in again if the power is not turning on, or if the unit has been affected by external elements such as static electricity or lightning.

2. Press the "TAPE 2 MONITOR" button if there is no sound output when a function is selected. Press "MUTE" on the remote control to deactivate the mute function.

3. Check that the audio/video cables are connected correctly if there is no image when a function is selected. Connect the red cord to the "R" input, the white cord to the "L" input, and the yellow cord to the "VIDEO" input on the TV monitor. Check that the cords are inserted securely.

4. Fully extend the wire antenna and secure it to a wall if there is excessive noise in the radio broadcasts.

5. Set the sub woofer to PLUS if the output is very low. Choose SMALL for the FRONT speakers. This should get more signals to the sub woofers.

6. Check that the speakers are securely connected if there is no sound from surround or center speakers.

7. Remove any obstacles between the remote and the receiver if the unit cannot be remote controlled. Avoid exposing the remote sensor to direct light, such as a fluorescent light shining into the unit's sensor window.

8. Repeatedly press the "FL DIMMER" on the front panel to return to the default setting if the display is dark. There are four levels of brightness, ranging from very bright to very dim. Each press changes the brightness of the display.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a cloth that has been dipped in a neutral cleanser and diluted five or six times by water. Wring the cloth out until there is almost no liquid in it, then wipe the unit clean.

• To open the front panel, gently push the lower third of the panel with your finger.

• Do not use thinners or benzene to clean the receiver.

• Do not place the receiver on a carpet or cover it with fabric or other coverings.

• Leave sufficient room around the unit when installing to allow for ventilation.

References

• Pioneer VSX 908 RDS Audio/Video Receiver: Operating Instructions