Pioneer SC-LX501 vs Yamaha R-N602BL review

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Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer SC-LX501 vs Yamaha R-N602BL, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SC-LX501 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/8, 180/6, while the R-N602BL has a power of 115/8, 105/4. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the SC-LX501 it is 0.08%, but for the R-N602BL it is 0.01%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SC-LX501 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the R-N602BL is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer SC-LX501. Both Pioneer SC-LX501 and Yamaha R-N602BL 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 Pioneer SC-LX501 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Yamaha R-N602BL works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz.

Video features

Support for the HDR function can only boast of the SC-LX501. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the SC-LX501. Video scaling is only possible with the SC-LX501. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the SC-LX501. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Pioneer SC-LX501. HDMI eARC is not supported by the SC-LX501 and the R-N602BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Pioneer SC-LX501 has HDMI CEC. Like most receivers, our models 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 R-N602BL. The Pioneer SC-LX501 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the SC-LX501. Only in the SC-LX501 realized a DTS:X surround technology.