What is better - Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 vs Marantz AV8805?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 13.2, respectively, for devices. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the Elite SC-LX704 received the model ES9026PRO 384 KHz/32-bit, but the AV8805 is equipped with AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 and Marantz AV8805 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet access via WIFI is possible on both units. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay, AirPlay 2. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Marantz AV8805 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio. The quality of 4K/60Hz signal remains unchanged when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector via HDMI for both receivers. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the Elite SC-LX704 and the AV8805. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the Elite SC-LX704 has 7/3, and the AV8805 has 8/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AV8805. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The Elite SC-LX704 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the AV8805, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Ability to create 3 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the Elite SC-LX704 is used Amazon Alexa, but in the AV8805 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in AV8805. The Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 and the Marantz AV8805 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.