What is better - Yamaha RX-V485BL vs Pioneer SC-LX701?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V485BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/6, while the SC-LX701 has a power of 135/8, 185/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V485BL it is 0.09%, but for the SC-LX701 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V485BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the SC-LX701 is equipped with ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-V485BL and Pioneer SC-LX701 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. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay, AirPlay 2 versus AirPlay respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. 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 RX-V485BL and the SC-LX701. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-V485BL has 4/1, and the SC-LX701 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-V485BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V485BL 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.
Unlike the RX-V485BL where 2 Multi zones is provided, the SC-LX701 works with 3 Multi zones. There is an ECO mode in RX-V485BL. The Yamaha RX-V485BL 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.