Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha CX-A5200 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-A5200 it is 0.06%, but for the SC-LX501 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the CX-A5200 received the model ESS SABRE PRO (ES9026) 384 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-A5200 and Pioneer SC-LX501 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay, AirPlay 2 versus AirPlay respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Yamaha CX-A5200 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz, but the Pioneer SC-LX501 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio. 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-A5200 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-A5200 has 7/3, and the SC-LX501 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the CX-A5200 and the SC-LX501. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. CX-A5200 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-A5200 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the SC-LX501 works with 2 Multi zones. There is an ECO mode in CX-A5200. The Yamaha CX-A5200 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.