Marantz AV8805 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 review

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It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Marantz AV8805 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 13.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AV8805 received the model AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX305 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model AV8805 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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 Marantz AV8805 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, but the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the AV8805 and the Elite VSX-LX305. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AV8805 has 8/3, and the Elite VSX-LX305 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the AV8805 and the Elite VSX-LX305. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Marantz AV8805 has HDMI CEC. The AV8805 has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the Elite VSX-LX305, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Unlike the AV8805 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the Elite VSX-LX305 works with 2 Multi zones. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in AV8805. The Marantz AV8805 and the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.