Pioneer SC-LX801 vs Onkyo TX-8270 – that is a question.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 2.0, 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 TX-8270 has a power of 160/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SC-LX801 received the model ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-8270 is equipped with AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer SC-LX801. Both Pioneer SC-LX801 and Onkyo TX-8270 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. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer SC-LX801 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Onkyo TX-8270 works with Deezer, TIDAL, 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. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the SC-LX801. Video scaling is only possible with the SC-LX801. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SC-LX801 has 8/2, and the TX-8270 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the SC-LX801 and the TX-8270. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SC-LX801 and TX-8270 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 TX-8270 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-LX801 and the Onkyo TX-8270 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the SC-LX801. Only in the SC-LX801 realized a DTS:X surround technology.