Denon AVR-S940H vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 review

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What is better - Denon AVR-S940H vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?

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-S940H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 125/6, while the Elite VSX-LX304 has a power of 100/8, 225/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-S940H received the model 192 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304. Both Denon AVR-S940H and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

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 Denon AVR-S940H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, 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 AVR-S940H 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 AVR-S940H has 8/2, and the Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-S940H and the Elite VSX-LX304. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-S940H and Elite VSX-LX304 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-S940H where 2 Multi zones is provided, the Elite VSX-LX304 works with 3 Multi zones. For voice control in the AVR-S940H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the Elite VSX-LX304 is used Amazon Alexa. There is an ECO mode in AVR-S940H. The Denon AVR-S940H 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.