Having had an opportunity to test Onkyo TX-RZ620 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 TX-RZ620 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 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%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-RZ620 received the model 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-RZ620 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. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - 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-RZ620 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 is the same - 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-RZ620 and the SC-LX501. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-RZ620 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.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. 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 Onkyo TX-RZ620 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.