What is better - Pioneer VSX-LX303 vs Denon HEOS AVR?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 5.1, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the VSX-LX303 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 200/6, while the HEOS AVR has a power of 50/8, 65/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the VSX-LX303 it is 0.08%, but for the HEOS AVR it is 0.05%. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Pioneer VSX-LX303. Both Pioneer VSX-LX303 and Denon HEOS AVR can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer VSX-LX303 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Denon HEOS AVR works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud. 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-LX303 and the HEOS AVR. Video scaling is only possible with the VSX-LX303. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the VSX-LX303.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the VSX-LX303 has 7/2, and the HEOS AVR has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the VSX-LX303 and the HEOS AVR. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. VSX-LX303 and HEOS AVR support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-LX303. For voice control in the VSX-LX303 is used Google Assistant, but in the HEOS AVR is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Pioneer VSX-LX303 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the VSX-LX303. Only in the VSX-LX303 realized a DTS:X surround technology.