Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-V485BL 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 - 5.1 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V485BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/6, while the SC-LX501 has a power of 120/8, 180/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V485BL it is 0.09%, but for the SC-LX501 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V485BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the SC-LX501 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-V485BL 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 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-V485BL 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 RX-V485BL has 4/1, and the SC-LX501 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-V485BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V485BL and SC-LX501 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer SC-LX501.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in RX-V485BL. The Yamaha RX-V485BL and the Pioneer SC-LX501 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the SC-LX501. Only in the SC-LX501 realized a DTS:X surround technology.