Having had an opportunity to test Sony STR-DH790 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505, 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 - 7.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-DH790 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/6, while the Elite VSX-LX505 has a power of 120/8, 230/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-DH790 it is 0.09%, but for the Elite VSX-LX505 it is 0.08%.
Competitive models use the same DAC. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. The model STR-DH790 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The Elite VSX-LX505 has access to the Spotify service.
Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the STR-DH790 and the Elite VSX-LX505. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX505. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the STR-DH790 has 4/1, and the Elite VSX-LX505 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the STR-DH790 and the Elite VSX-LX505. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Sony STR-DH790 has HDMI CEC. The STR-DH790 has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the Elite VSX-LX505, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Sony STR-DH790 and the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX505 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.