Pioneer SC-LX901 vs Pioneer VSX-LX302 review

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The Pioneer SC-LX901 vs Pioneer VSX-LX302 comparison proves that these receivers have many common features.

Amplifier

A significant difference between the receivers in the number of channels, Pioneer SC-LX901 has 11.2 versus 7.2 for Pioneer VSX-LX302. Regarding power, then SC-LX901 has such a W/Ohm ratio - 140/8, 200/6 when VSX-LX302 has a power of 100/8, 200/6. The THD is the same and is 0.08%.

Audio features

Characteristics of digital to analog converter (DAC) are different, ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit for SC-LX901 and AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit for the VSX-LX302. Both the SC-LX901 and the VSX-LX302 support Bi-amping. Each of the AV receivers can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

WI-FI modules have the same characteristics: 2.4/5GHz. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. The Apple Music service is implemented on considered devices: AirPlay. Spotify can be used on each receiver. Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio - all of these streaming services have found application in each of the models. Compared AV receivers retain the quality of 4K/60Hz signal when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode is implemented in each of the devices. Both rivals can scale the resolution of the incoming HDMI signal. The HDR standard - Dolby Vision is supported by these receivers.

Extensive connections

The Pioneer SC-LX901 has 8/2 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 7/2 HDMI connectors of the Pioneer VSX-LX302. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Unfortunately, HDMI eARC is not available on monitored devices. The Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) feature is present in most modern AV receivers and the models in our comparison are no exception. Both models support the standard HDCP 2.2. These compared receivers have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

The SC-LX901 supports 3 Multi-room zones, versus 2 for the VSX-LX302. A voice control is not available. An ECO mode is not present in each of the AV receivers. Both SC-LX901 and VSX-LX302 can be configured using the Setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

Both devices have support for Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. The surround sound technology DTS:X is supported by devices under review.