Marantz SR5012 vs Pioneer VSX-LX504 – that is a question.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the SR5012 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, while the VSX-LX504 has a power of 120/8, 230/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the SR5012 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the VSX-LX504 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Marantz SR5012 and Pioneer VSX-LX504 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, AirPlay 2. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Marantz SR5012 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud, but the Pioneer VSX-LX504 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora. 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 SR5012 and the VSX-LX504. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SR5012 has 8/2, and the VSX-LX504 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the SR5012 and the VSX-LX504. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. SR5012 and VSX-LX504 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-LX504.
Unlike the SR5012 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the VSX-LX504 works with 3 Multi zones. For voice control in the SR5012 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI, but in the VSX-LX504 is used Amazon Alexa. There is an ECO mode in SR5012. The Marantz SR5012 and the Pioneer VSX-LX504 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.