It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Denon AVR-S960H 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 AVR-S960H has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 125/6, 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%. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-S960H 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 AVR-S960H has access to the Spotify service. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the AVR-S960H and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the AVR-S960H. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the AVR-S960H.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the AVR-S960H has 6/2, and the VSX-531 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the AVR-S960H. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The AVR-S960H has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the VSX-531, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Denon AVR-S960H. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Denon AVR-S960H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-S960H. Only in the AVR-S960H realized a DTS:X surround technology.