I bought the Yamaha RX-V1400 yesterday for $700 and also looked at and listened to the Pioneer 53tx..I don't have enough experience yet with the new system to say I love it, but it sure sounded better that the Pioneers I listened to.. the Pioneers sounded brighter, but then I realize some folks like bright..and yes, it has the equivalent, some say better, of the MAAC feature on the Pioneers...I also bought the system based on Sushi's recommendations..so far I'm glad I listened to him!!!