It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Denon AVR-X540BT vs Pioneer Elite SC-LX704.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X540BT has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/8, 90/6, while the Elite SC-LX704 has a power of 135/8. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X540BT received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the Elite SC-LX704 is equipped with ES9026PRO 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer Elite SC-LX704. Both Denon AVR-X540BT and Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with Elite SC-LX704. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-X540BT works with TIDAL, Pandora, but the Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 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-X540BT and the Elite SC-LX704. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite SC-LX704. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X540BT has 5/1, and the Elite SC-LX704 has 7/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-X540BT and the Elite SC-LX704. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-X540BT has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the Elite SC-LX704, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer Elite SC-LX704. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X540BT. The Denon AVR-X540BT and the Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the Elite SC-LX704. Only in the Elite SC-LX704 realized a DTS:X surround technology.