Pioneer VSX-531 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 review

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What is better - Pioneer VSX-531 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304?

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 9.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the VSX-531 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/8 20Hz-20KHz, 140/6 1KHz, while the Elite VSX-LX304 has a power of 100/8 20Hz-20KHz, 225/6 1KHz. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the VSX-531 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the Elite VSX-LX304 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304. Both Pioneer VSX-531 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with Elite VSX-LX304. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The Elite VSX-LX304 has access to the Spotify service. The quality of 4K 60p 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 VSX-531 and the Elite VSX-LX304. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the VSX-531 has 4/1, and the Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the VSX-531 and the Elite VSX-LX304. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. VSX-531 and Elite VSX-LX304 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304. There is an ECO mode in VSX-531. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the Elite VSX-LX304. Only in the Elite VSX-LX304 realized a DTS:X surround technology.