Having had an opportunity to test Onkyo TX-RZ3100 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 - 11.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-RZ3100 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 200/6, while the SC-LX501 has a power of 120/8, 180/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the TX-RZ3100 it is 0.04%, but for the SC-LX501 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-RZ3100 received the model AK4490 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 Onkyo TX-RZ3100 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. 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 Onkyo TX-RZ3100 works with Deezer, TIDAL, TuneIn 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 TX-RZ3100 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 TX-RZ3100 has 8/2, and the SC-LX501 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-RZ3100 and the SC-LX501. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-RZ3100 and SC-LX501 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the TX-RZ3100 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the SC-LX501 works with 2 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 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.