It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Yamaha RX-V385 vs Pioneer VSX-531.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V385 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/6, 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-V385 it is 0.09%, but for the VSX-531 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V385 received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the VSX-531 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-V385 and Pioneer VSX-531 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless connection to the Internet via WIFI can not be performed on these receivers. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Spotify is not available for these receivers. 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-V385 and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-V385. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the RX-V385.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-V385. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V385 and VSX-531 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. None of these units 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.