What is better - Denon AVR-X540BT vs Pioneer SC-LX701?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X540BT has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/8, 90/6, while the SC-LX701 has a power of 135/8, 185/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X540BT received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the SC-LX701 is equipped with ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer SC-LX701. Both Denon AVR-X540BT and Pioneer SC-LX701 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Denon AVR-X540BT works with TIDAL, Pandora, but the Pioneer SC-LX701 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. 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 AVR-X540BT and the SC-LX701. Video scaling is only possible with the SC-LX701. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-X540BT has 5/1, and the SC-LX701 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-X540BT and the SC-LX701. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-X540BT and SC-LX701 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer SC-LX701. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in AVR-X540BT. The Denon AVR-X540BT and the Pioneer SC-LX701 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the SC-LX701. Only in the SC-LX701 realized a DTS:X surround technology.