It makes sense comparing Pioneer VSX-531 vs Denon AVR-X2300W because they both are able to give some premium features.
A significant difference between the receivers in the number of channels, Pioneer VSX-531 has 5.1 versus 7.2 for Denon AVR-X2300W. Regarding power, then VSX-531 has such a W/Ohm ratio - 80/8, 140/6 when AVR-X2300W has a power of 95/8, 125/6. The THD is the same and is 0.08%.
Characteristics of digital to analog converter (DAC) are different, 192 KHz/24-bit for VSX-531 and Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit for the AVR-X2300W. Only the AVR-X2300W supports Bi-amping feature. Each of the AV receivers can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Only the Denon AVR-X2300W can connect to the Internet via WI-FI. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. Only the AVR-X2300W supports Spotify.
These units support HDR technology. 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 AVR-X2300W can scale the input HDMI signal, unlike the VSX-531. The HDR standard - Dolby Vision is not supported by these receivers.
The Pioneer VSX-531 has 4/1 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 8/2 HDMI connectors of the Denon AVR-X2300W. 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. Receivers do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. A voice control is not available. It is also worth noting that the ECO mode is presented in each of the receivers. The setup assistant will help you configure Denon AVR-X2300W.
Only the AVR-X2300W has a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format support. A surround technology DTS:X is supported only by the AVR-X2300W.