Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 vs Denon AVR-X2500H review

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Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 vs Denon AVR-X2500H, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the Elite VSX-LX305 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 225/6, while the AVR-X2500H has a power of 95/8, 125/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the Elite VSX-LX305 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the AVR-X2500H is equipped with AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model AVR-X2500H 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 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, but the Denon AVR-X2500H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.

Video features

Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the Elite VSX-LX305 and the AVR-X2500H. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX305. 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 Elite VSX-LX305 has 7/2, and the AVR-X2500H has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the Elite VSX-LX305. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Denon AVR-X2500H has HDMI CEC. The Elite VSX-LX305 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the AVR-X2500H, 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 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X2500H. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 and the Denon AVR-X2500H 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.