Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A2080 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 review

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What is better - Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A2080 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVENTAGE RX-A2080 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 140/8, 220/4, while the Elite VSX-LX304 has a power of 100/8, 225/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVENTAGE RX-A2080 it is 0.06%, but for the Elite VSX-LX304 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVENTAGE RX-A2080 received the model ESS SABRE ( ES9007S) 384 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A2080 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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 Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A2080 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Sirius XM, Napster, Qobuz, but the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora.

Video features

The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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 AVENTAGE RX-A2080 and the Elite VSX-LX304. 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 AVENTAGE RX-A2080 has 7/3, and the Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVENTAGE RX-A2080. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVENTAGE RX-A2080 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the Elite VSX-LX304, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Ability to create 3 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the AVENTAGE RX-A2080 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, but in the Elite VSX-LX304 is used Amazon Alexa. There is an ECO mode in AVENTAGE RX-A2080. The Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A2080 and the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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.