Pioneer SC-LX901 vs Denon AVRX4300H review

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Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer SC-LX901 vs Denon AVRX4300H, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 11.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SC-LX901 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 140/8, 200/6, while the AVRX4300H has a power of 125/8, 165/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the SC-LX901 it is 0.08%, but for the AVRX4300H it is 0.05%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SC-LX901 received the model ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit, but the AVRX4300H is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer SC-LX901 and Denon AVRX4300H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer SC-LX901 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Denon AVRX4300H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.

Video features

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 SC-LX901 and the AVRX4300H. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SC-LX901 has 8/2, and the AVRX4300H has 8/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the SC-LX901 and the AVRX4300H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SC-LX901 and AVRX4300H support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Ability to create 3 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in AVRX4300H. The Pioneer SC-LX901 and the Denon AVRX4300H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.