Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-V385BL vs Pioneer VSX-933, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V385BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/8, 145/6, while the VSX-933 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-933 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V385BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-933 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer VSX-933. The model VSX-933 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The VSX-933 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-933. 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-V385BL has 4/1, and the VSX-933 has 6/1. 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-933, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-933. There is an ECO mode in RX-V385BL. The Pioneer VSX-933 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the VSX-933. Only in the VSX-933 realized a DTS:X surround technology.