Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha CX-A5100 vs Pioneer SC-LX501, 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 - 11.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the CX-A5100 it is 0.06%, but for the SC-LX501 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the CX-A5100 received the model ESS 9016 192 KHz/32-bit, but the SC-LX501 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer SC-LX501. Both Yamaha CX-A5100 and Pioneer SC-LX501 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 Yamaha CX-A5100 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, JUKE, but the Pioneer SC-LX501 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. 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 CX-A5100 and the SC-LX501. 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 CX-A5100 has 8/2, and the SC-LX501 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the CX-A5100 and the SC-LX501. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. CX-A5100 and SC-LX501 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the CX-A5100 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the SC-LX501 works with 2 Multi zones. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in CX-A5100. The Yamaha CX-A5100 and the Pioneer SC-LX501 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.