It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A680 vs Pioneer VSX-531.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVENTAGE RX-A680 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 115/8, 145/6, while the VSX-531 has a power of 80/8, 140/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVENTAGE RX-A680 received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-531 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A680. Both Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A680 and Pioneer VSX-531 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The AVENTAGE RX-A680 has access to the Spotify service. 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 AVENTAGE RX-A680 and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the AVENTAGE RX-A680. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVENTAGE RX-A680.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVENTAGE RX-A680. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVENTAGE RX-A680 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the VSX-531, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A680 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVENTAGE RX-A680. Only in the AVENTAGE RX-A680 realized a DTS:X surround technology.