What is better - Onkyo TX-NR545 vs Pioneer SC-LX701?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-NR545 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/6, while the SC-LX701 has a power of 135/8, 185/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-NR545 received the model Hi-Grade 384 KHz/32-bit, but the SC-LX701 is equipped with ESS SABRE32 Ultra 192 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-NR545 and Pioneer SC-LX701 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. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Onkyo TX-NR545 works with Tunein Radio, but the Pioneer SC-LX701 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio.
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 TX-NR545 and the SC-LX701. Video scaling is only possible with the SC-LX701. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the SC-LX701.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-NR545 has 6/1, and the SC-LX701 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-NR545 and the SC-LX701. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-NR545 and SC-LX701 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer SC-LX701.
Unlike the TX-NR545 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the SC-LX701 works with 3 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 Onkyo TX-NR545 and the Pioneer SC-LX701 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. Only in the SC-LX701 realized a DTS:X surround technology.