It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 vs Pioneer VSX-531.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the Elite VSX-LX304 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 225/6, 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 Elite VSX-LX304 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-531 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304. Both Pioneer Elite VSX-LX304 and Pioneer VSX-531 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
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/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 Elite VSX-LX304 and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the Elite VSX-LX304.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the Elite VSX-LX304 has 7/2, and the VSX-531 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the Elite VSX-LX304 and the VSX-531. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. Elite VSX-LX304 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 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.
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.