Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 vs Denon HEOS AVR review

vs

What is better - Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 vs Denon HEOS AVR?

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the Elite VSX-LX304 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 225/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the Elite VSX-LX304 it is 0.08%, but for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304. Both Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 and Denon HEOS AVR can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

Wireless Internet access via WIFI is possible on both units. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Denon HEOS AVR works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud. 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 VSX-LX304 and the HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304. 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 VSX-LX304 has 7/2, and the HEOS AVR has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the Elite VSX-LX304 and the HEOS AVR. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. Elite VSX-LX304 and HEOS AVR support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304. For voice control in the Elite VSX-LX304 is used Amazon Alexa, but in the HEOS AVR is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

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