Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-X4700H vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X4700H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the Elite VSX-LX505 has a power of 120/8, 230/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X4700H it is 0.05%, but for the Elite VSX-LX505 it is 0.08%. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model AVR-X4700H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. 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-X4700H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Qobuz, TuneIn Radio, but the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud.
The quality of 4K/120Hz 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-X4700H and the Elite VSX-LX505. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X4700H has 8/3, and the Elite VSX-LX505 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the AVR-X4700H and the Elite VSX-LX505. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Denon AVR-X4700H has HDMI CEC. AVR-X4700H and Elite VSX-LX505 support the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the AVR-X4700H where 3 Multi zones is provided, the Elite VSX-LX505 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 AVR-X4700H. The Denon AVR-X4700H and the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.