Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs Yamaha R-N602BL review

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Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs Yamaha R-N602BL, 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 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the VSX-LX503 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/8, 230/6, while the R-N602BL has a power of 115/8, 105/4. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the VSX-LX503 it is 0.08%, but for the R-N602BL it is 0.01%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the VSX-LX503 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the R-N602BL is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer VSX-LX503. Both Pioneer VSX-LX503 and Yamaha R-N602BL can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer VSX-LX503 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Yamaha R-N602BL works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the VSX-LX503. Video scaling is only possible with the VSX-LX503. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the VSX-LX503. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Pioneer VSX-LX503. HDMI eARC is not supported by the VSX-LX503 and the R-N602BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Pioneer VSX-LX503 has HDMI CEC. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. There is an ECO mode in R-N602BL. The Pioneer VSX-LX503 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the VSX-LX503. Only in the VSX-LX503 realized a DTS:X surround technology.