What is better - Yamaha RX-V685BL vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V685BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 150/4, 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-V685BL it is 0.06%, but for the Elite VSX-LX304 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V685BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-V685BL and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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. 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-V685BL 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-V685BL has 5/2, 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-V685BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V685BL and Elite VSX-LX304 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the RX-V685BL where 2 Multi zones is provided, the Elite VSX-LX304 works with 3 Multi zones. There is an ECO mode in RX-V685BL. The Yamaha RX-V685BL and the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.