What is better - Pioneer VSX-LX303 vs Marantz NR1609?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 9.2 versus 7.2, 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 NR1609 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-LX303 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the NR1609 is equipped with 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer VSX-LX303 and Marantz NR1609 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. 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 Marantz NR1609 works with Deezer, Pandora, TuneIn Radio. 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 NR1609. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the VSX-LX303 has 7/2, and the NR1609 has 8/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the VSX-LX303 and the NR1609. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. VSX-LX303 and NR1609 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the VSX-LX303 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the NR1609 works with 2 Multi zones. For voice control in the VSX-LX303 is used Google Assistant, but in the NR1609 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in NR1609. The Pioneer VSX-LX303 and the Marantz NR1609 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.