It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Marantz SR5014 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 SR5014 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 180/6, 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 SR5014 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 Marantz SR5014. Both Marantz SR5014 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 SR5014 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 SR5014 and the VSX-531. Video scaling is only possible with the SR5014. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the SR5014.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the SR5014 has 8/2, and the VSX-531 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the SR5014. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The SR5014 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 Marantz SR5014. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Marantz SR5014 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the SR5014. Only in the SR5014 realized a DTS:X surround technology.