Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505 vs Onkyo TX-RZ70 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505 vs Onkyo TX-RZ70, 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 11.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the Elite VSX-LX505 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/8, 230/6, while the TX-RZ70 has a power of 140/8. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the Elite VSX-LX505 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-RZ70 is equipped with 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model TX-RZ70 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-LX505 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, but the Onkyo TX-RZ70 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-LX505 and the TX-RZ70. 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-LX505 has 7/2, and the TX-RZ70 has 7/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the Elite VSX-LX505 and the TX-RZ70. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Onkyo TX-RZ70 has HDMI CEC. Elite VSX-LX505 and TX-RZ70 support the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505.

Additional features

Unlike the Elite VSX-LX505 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the TX-RZ70 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 TX-RZ70. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505 and the Onkyo TX-RZ70 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.