Pioneer VSX-LX303 vs Onkyo TX-NR555 review

vs

An affordable AV receiver is always a good option to consider, so Pioneer VSX-LX303 vs Onkyo TX-NR555 comparison definitely makes sense.

Amplifier

A significant difference between the receivers in the number of channels, Pioneer VSX-LX303 has 9.2 versus 7.2 for Onkyo TX-NR555. Regarding power, then VSX-LX303 has such a W/Ohm ratio - 100/8, 200/6 when TX-NR555 has a power of 130/6. The THD is the same and is 0.08%.

Audio features

Characteristics of digital to analog converter (DAC) are different, AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit for VSX-LX303 and Hi-Grade 384 KHz/32-bit for the TX-NR555. Both the VSX-LX303 and the TX-NR555 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. The VSX-LX303 can work with the audio stream from Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, and the TX-NR555 can receive a content from Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora. 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. The VSX-LX303 can scale the input HDMI signal, unlike the TX-NR555. Dolby Vision technology found support only on the VSX-LX303.

Extensive connections

The Pioneer VSX-LX303 has 7/2 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 6/1 HDMI connectors of the Onkyo TX-NR555. 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 VSX-LX303 supports 3 Multi-room zones, versus 2 for the TX-NR555. An ECO mode is only available for the TX-NR555. The setup assistant will help you configure Pioneer VSX-LX303.

Multichannel surround

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