Having had an opportunity to test Sony STR-DH790 vs Pioneer SC-LX501, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-DH790 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/6, while the SC-LX501 has a power of 120/8, 180/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-DH790 it is 0.09%, but for the SC-LX501 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR-DH790 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the SC-LX501 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Sony STR-DH790 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. The SC-LX501 has access to the Spotify service. 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 STR-DH790 and the SC-LX501. Video scaling is only possible with the SC-LX501. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the STR-DH790 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 STR-DH790. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. STR-DH790 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. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Sony STR-DH790 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.