It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Pioneer VSX-LX102 vs Marantz NR1606.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the VSX-LX102 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/8, 170/6, while the NR1606 has a power of 50/8, 70/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the VSX-LX102 received the model AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1606 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer VSX-LX102 and Marantz NR1606 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer VSX-LX102 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Marantz NR1606 works with Pandora, SiriusXM. 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 VSX-LX102 and the NR1606. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the VSX-LX102.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the VSX-LX102 has 4/1, and the NR1606 has 8/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the VSX-LX102 and the NR1606. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. VSX-LX102 and NR1606 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-LX102. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Pioneer VSX-LX102 and the Marantz NR1606 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.