There are reports that the Pioneer VSX-919AH Receiver has problem with Infrared reception under some circumstances.
We tested the unit and reproduced the issue. The problem occurs when Kuro Link feature is turned off. In some configuration, it is required to turn off Kuro Link in order to modify audio and video input assignment. When Kuro Link feature is off and the unit is turned off using the remote, after a random amount of time ranging between a couple of hours to a couple of days, it will be impossible to turn on the receiver using the remote. It seems like the unit ignores the signals from the remote. The only way to turn it on when the receiver is in that state is to press the power button on the front panel.
Apparently, this is a known issue and there is a firmware update available to fix the problem, but when we contacted technical support, they were not able to track this problem and tell what firmware version is required. Having this information would allow customer to arrange a repair with their service center and have the receiver out of service only for a couple of hours.
Unfortunately, not knowing the issue reference number or which firmware version is required means that customers will have to go through the lengthy process of having their receiver tested and investigated by repair center. Since the issue happens randomly, the repair center will likely come back and say that the receiver is working properly.
Since we did not what to go through this long process, we have not sent the unit yet.
UPDATE: The problem with Remote Control stopping working can be fixed by the end user. There is a firmware upgrade that can be made using the USB plug on the front panel. The process is fairly simple. You have to put the firmware on a USB key, then enter into a special maintenance menu on the Pioneer unit by pressing a special key sequence, and then initiate the firmware upgrade from there. This fixed the problem for us. It took about 10 minutes for the entire process. Search "PioneerFaq" on google and you will find more information about this procedure. Use this at your own risk because doing this yourself will likely void your warranty.