It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha RX-V385BL vs Pioneer VSX-832.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V385BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/8, 145/6, while the VSX-832 has a power of 80/8, 165/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V385BL it is 0.09%, but for the VSX-832 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V385BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-832 is equipped with AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model VSX-832 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with VSX-832. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The VSX-832 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-V385BL and the VSX-832. 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 is the same - 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-V385BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The RX-V385BL has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the VSX-832, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in RX-V385BL. The Pioneer VSX-832 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the VSX-832. Only in the VSX-832 realized a DTS:X surround technology.