It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha RX-A880 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-A880 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 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-A880 it is 0.06%, but for the VSX-531 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-A880 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-A880. Both Yamaha RX-A880 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-A880 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-A880 and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-A880. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the RX-A880.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-A880 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-A880. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-A880 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 RX-A880. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-A880 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-A880. Only in the RX-A880 realized a DTS:X surround technology.