Sony STR-DH590 vs Pioneer VSX-LX102 review

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The present review is aimed to compare two AV receivers - Sony STR-DH590 vs Pioneer VSX-LX102 that are meant to satisfy the needs of cinema and music lovers.

Amplifier

A significant difference between the receivers in the number of channels, Sony STR-DH590 has 5.2 versus 7.2 for Pioneer VSX-LX102. Regarding power, then STR-DH590 has such a W/Ohm ratio - 145/6 when VSX-LX102 has a power of 80/8, 170/6. The THD is 0.09% for the STR-DH590 but 0.08% for the VSX-LX102.

Audio features

Characteristics of digital to analog converter (DAC) are different, 192 KHz/32-bit for STR-DH590 and AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit for the VSX-LX102. Only the VSX-LX102 supports Bi-amping feature. Each of the AV receivers can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. Only the VSX-LX102 supports Spotify.

Video features

Both AV receivers support HDR10 technology (High dynamic range). Compared AV receivers retain the quality of 4K/60Hz signal when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode is implemented in each of the devices. The VSX-LX102 can scale the input HDMI signal, unlike the STR-DH590. The HDR standard - Dolby Vision is supported by these receivers.

Extensive connections

Each receiver has 4/1 HDMI inputs/outputs. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Unfortunately, HDMI eARC is not available on monitored devices. The Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) feature is present in most modern AV receivers and the models in our comparison are no exception. Both models support the standard HDCP 2.2. The VSX-LX102 has a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. A voice control is not available. An ECO mode is only available for the VSX-LX102. The setup assistant will help you configure Pioneer VSX-LX102.

Multichannel surround

Only the VSX-LX102 has a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format support. A surround technology DTS:X is supported only by the VSX-LX102.