What is better - Onkyo TX-NR555 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?
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-NR555 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 130/6, while the Elite VSX-LX304 has a power of 100/8, 225/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-NR555 received the model Hi-Grade 384 KHz/32-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-NR555 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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. Most popular streaming services are available for our models under consideration - 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 TX-NR555 and the Elite VSX-LX304. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-NR555 has 6/1, and the Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-NR555 and the Elite VSX-LX304. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-NR555 and Elite VSX-LX304 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the TX-NR555 where 2 Multi zones is provided, the Elite VSX-LX304 works with 3 Multi zones. There is an ECO mode in TX-NR555. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 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.