Pioneer Elite SC-87 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 review

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What is better - Pioneer Elite SC-87 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the Elite SC-87 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 140/8, 190/6, 240/4, while the Elite VSX-LX304 has a power of 100/8, 225/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the Elite SC-87 received the model ESS SABRE 192 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer Elite SC-87 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with Elite VSX-LX304. 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 Elite SC-87 works with Pandora, but the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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 Elite SC-87 and the Elite VSX-LX304. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the Elite SC-87 has 8/3, and the Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the Elite SC-87 and the Elite VSX-LX304. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 has HDMI CEC. Elite SC-87 and Elite VSX-LX304 support 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 3 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in Elite SC-87. The Pioneer Elite SC-87 and the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. Only in the Elite VSX-LX304 realized a DTS:X surround technology.