Denon AVR-S740H vs Pioneer VSX-LX504 review

vs

Denon AVR-S740H vs Pioneer VSX-LX504 – that is a question.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-S740H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 75/8, 110/6, while the VSX-LX504 has a power of 120/8, 230/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-S740H received the model 192 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-LX504 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer VSX-LX504. Both Denon AVR-S740H and Pioneer VSX-LX504 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 Denon AVR-S740H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, but the Pioneer VSX-LX504 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora. 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 AVR-S740H and the VSX-LX504. Video scaling is only possible with the VSX-LX504. 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 AVR-S740H has 6/1, and the VSX-LX504 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-S740H and the VSX-LX504. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-S740H and VSX-LX504 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Unlike the AVR-S740H where 2 Multi zones is provided, the VSX-LX504 works with 3 Multi zones. For voice control in the AVR-S740H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the VSX-LX504 is used Amazon Alexa. There is an ECO mode in AVR-S740H. The Denon AVR-S740H and the Pioneer VSX-LX504 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.