It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Pioneer SC-LX501 vs Onkyo TX-NR828.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the SC-LX501 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/8, 180/6, while the TX-NR828 has a power of 180/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SC-LX501 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-NR828 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer SC-LX501 and Onkyo TX-NR828 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 Onkyo TX-NR828 works with Last.fm, AUPEO, Simfy.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the SC-LX501. 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 SC-LX501 and the TX-NR828. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the SC-LX501.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SC-LX501 has 7/2, and the TX-NR828 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the SC-LX501 and the TX-NR828. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SC-LX501 and TX-NR828 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the SC-LX501 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the TX-NR828 works with 3 Multi zones. 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 Pioneer SC-LX501 and the Onkyo TX-NR828 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.