It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha RX-A780 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 RX-A780 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 95/8, 160/4, while the VSX-531 has a power of 80/8, 140/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-A780 it is 0.06%, but for the VSX-531 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-A780 received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-531 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-A780. Both Yamaha RX-A780 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 RX-A780 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 RX-A780 and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-A780. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the RX-A780.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-A780 has 7/2, and the VSX-531 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-A780. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The RX-A780 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 Yamaha RX-A780. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-A780 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-A780. Only in the RX-A780 realized a DTS:X surround technology.