Pioneer VSX-LX303 vs Denon AVRS730H review

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What is better - Pioneer VSX-LX303 vs Denon AVRS730H?

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 VSX-LX303 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 200/6, while the AVRS730H has a power of 75/8, 110/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the VSX-LX303 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the AVRS730H is equipped with 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer VSX-LX303. The model VSX-LX303 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer VSX-LX303 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Denon AVRS730H works with Deezer, TIDAL, iHeart Radio, Sirius XM, Sound Cloud, Napster. 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 VSX-LX303 and the AVRS730H. Video scaling is only possible with the VSX-LX303. 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 VSX-LX303 has 7/2, and the AVRS730H has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the VSX-LX303 and the AVRS730H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. VSX-LX303 and AVRS730H support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-LX303.

Additional features

Unlike the VSX-LX303 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the AVRS730H works with 2 Multi zones. For voice control in the VSX-LX303 is used Google Assistant, but in the AVRS730H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in AVRS730H. The Pioneer VSX-LX303 and the Denon AVRS730H 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.