Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 vs Marantz STEREO 70s review
Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 vs Marantz STEREO 70s, 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 - 9.2 versus 2.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the Elite VSX-LX305 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 225/6, while the STEREO 70s has a power of 75/8, 100/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
Audio features
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the Elite VSX-LX305 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the STEREO 70s is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model STEREO 70s 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-LX305 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, but the Marantz STEREO 70s 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-LX305 and the STEREO 70s. 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-LX305 has 7/2, and the STEREO 70s has 6/3.
HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the Elite VSX-LX305. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Marantz STEREO 70s has HDMI CEC. Elite VSX-LX305 and STEREO 70s 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-LX305 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the STEREO 70s works with 1 Multi zones. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in STEREO 70s. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 and the Marantz STEREO 70s can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
Multichannel surround
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the Elite VSX-LX305. Only in the Elite VSX-LX305 realized a DTS:X surround technology.