Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer SC-LX801 vs Yamaha RX-A850, 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 - 9.2 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SC-LX801 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 140/8, 200/6, 255/4, while the RX-A850 has a power of 110/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the SC-LX801 it is 0.08%, but for the RX-A850 it is 0.06%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SC-LX801 received the model ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit, but the RX-A850 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer SC-LX801 and Yamaha RX-A850 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-LX801 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Yamaha RX-A850 works with Pandora, Sirius XM, Napster, JUKE, Rhapsody. 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-LX801 and the RX-A850. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the SC-LX801.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the SC-LX801 and the RX-A850. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SC-LX801 and RX-A850 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-LX801 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the RX-A850 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 RX-A850. The Pioneer SC-LX801 and the Yamaha RX-A850 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. Only in the SC-LX801 realized a DTS:X surround technology.