It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha CX-A5200 vs Pioneer VSX-531.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 11.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the CX-A5200 it is 0.06%, but for the VSX-531 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the CX-A5200 received the model ESS SABRE PRO (ES9026) 384 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-531 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha CX-A5200 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 CX-A5200 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 CX-A5200 and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the CX-A5200. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the CX-A5200.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the CX-A5200 has 7/3, and the VSX-531 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the CX-A5200 and the VSX-531. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. CX-A5200 and VSX-531 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha CX-A5200. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha CX-A5200 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the CX-A5200. Only in the CX-A5200 realized a DTS:X surround technology.