What is better - Yamaha RX-V385 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V385 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/6, while the Elite VSX-LX304 has a power of 100/8, 225/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V385 it is 0.09%, but for the Elite VSX-LX304 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V385 received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304. Both Yamaha RX-V385 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with Elite VSX-LX304. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. The Elite VSX-LX304 has access to the Spotify service.
The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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 RX-V385 and the Elite VSX-LX304. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-V385 has 4/1, and the Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-V385. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V385 and Elite VSX-LX304 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. There is an ECO mode in RX-V385. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
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.