Pioneer Elite VSX-LX105 vs Denon AVR-A1H review

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Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer Elite VSX-LX105 vs Denon AVR-A1H, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 15.4, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the Elite VSX-LX105 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 210/6, while the AVR-A1H has a power of 150/8, 190/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the Elite VSX-LX105 it is 0.08%, but for the AVR-A1H it is 0,05%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the Elite VSX-LX105 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the AVR-A1H is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model AVR-A1H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

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 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX105 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, but the Denon AVR-A1H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Amazon Music HD, MOOD:Mix.

Video features

The HDR10+ function is present in each of the rivals. 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 Elite VSX-LX105 and the AVR-A1H. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. 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 Elite VSX-LX105 has 6/2, and the AVR-A1H has 7/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the Elite VSX-LX105 and the AVR-A1H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Denon AVR-A1H has HDMI CEC. Elite VSX-LX105 and AVR-A1H support the standard HDCP 2.3. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Unlike the Elite VSX-LX105 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the AVR-A1H works with 3 Multi zones. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in AVR-A1H. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX105 and the Denon AVR-A1H 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.