Having had an opportunity to test Marantz SR6014 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 - 9.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SR6014 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 110/8, 185/6, while the SC-LX501 has a power of 120/8, 180/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
Competitive models use the same DAC. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz SR6014 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 Marantz SR6014 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, 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 SR6014 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 SR6014 has 8/3, and the SC-LX501 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the SR6014. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The SR6014 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the SC-LX501, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in SR6014. The Marantz SR6014 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.