What is better - Denon AVR-X540BT vs Pioneer VSX-935?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.2 versus 7.2, 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 VSX-935 has a power of 80/8, 170/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
Competitive models use the same DAC. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer VSX-935. The model AVR-X540BT can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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 VSX-935 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the AVR-X540BT and the VSX-935. Video scaling is only possible with the VSX-935. 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 VSX-935 has 6/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the VSX-935. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Denon AVR-X540BT has HDMI CEC. The AVR-X540BT has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the VSX-935, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-935. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X540BT. The Denon AVR-X540BT and the Pioneer VSX-935 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the VSX-935. Only in the VSX-935 realized a DTS:X surround technology.