Marantz NR1504 vs Pioneer VSX-LX504 – that is a question.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the NR1504 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/8, 60/6, while the VSX-LX504 has a power of 120/8, 230/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the NR1504 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the VSX-LX504 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer VSX-LX504. Both Marantz NR1504 and Pioneer VSX-LX504 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. 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 Marantz NR1504 works with Pandora, SiriusXM, but the Pioneer VSX-LX504 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the NR1504 and the VSX-LX504. Video scaling is only possible with the VSX-LX504. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the VSX-LX504.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the NR1504 has 6/1, and the VSX-LX504 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the NR1504 and the VSX-LX504. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. NR1504 and VSX-LX504 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-LX504. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Marantz NR1504 and the Pioneer VSX-LX504 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the VSX-LX504. Only in the VSX-LX504 realized a DTS:X surround technology.