Sony STRZA5000ES vs Pioneer VSX-LX102 review

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The present review is aimed to compare two AV receivers - Sony STRZA5000ES 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 STRZA5000ES has 9.2 versus 7.2 for Pioneer VSX-LX102. Regarding power, then STRZA5000ES has such a W/Ohm ratio - 130/8 when VSX-LX102 has a power of 80/8, 170/6. The THD is 0.09% for the STRZA5000ES but 0.08% for the VSX-LX102. Both the STRZA5000ES and the VSX-LX102 support Bi-amping. Each of the AV receivers can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Only the VSX-LX102 has 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. Both rivals can scale the resolution of the incoming HDMI signal. The HDR standard - Dolby Vision is supported by these receivers.

Extensive connections

The Sony STRZA5000ES has 6/2 HDMI inputs/outputs versus 4/1 HDMI connectors of the Pioneer VSX-LX102. 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. Both STRZA5000ES and VSX-LX102 can be configured using the Setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

Both devices have support for Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. The surround sound technology DTS:X is supported by devices under review.