Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer SC-LX801 vs Onkyo TX-NR616, 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 TX-NR616 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-NR616 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer SC-LX801 and Onkyo TX-NR616 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 Pioneer SC-LX801 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, but the Onkyo TX-NR616 works with Last.fm, AUPEO, Simfy, vTuner. 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 TX-NR616. 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 TX-NR616. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SC-LX801 and TX-NR616 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer SC-LX801.
Unlike the SC-LX801 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the TX-NR616 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 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.