It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha RX-S602 vs Pioneer VSX-531.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-S602 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/8, 125/6, 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 RX-S602 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-S602. Both Yamaha RX-S602 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-S602 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-S602 and the VSX-531. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the RX-S602 and the VSX-531. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The RX-S602 has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the VSX-531, which supports the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-S602 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
Generally no support for a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.