Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs Yamaha RX-A880 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs Yamaha RX-A880, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

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-LX503 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 120/8, 230/6, while the RX-A880 has a power of 100/8, 160/4. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the VSX-LX503 it is 0.08%, but for the RX-A880 it is 0.06%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the VSX-LX503 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the RX-A880 is equipped with Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer VSX-LX503 and Yamaha RX-A880 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

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-LX503 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, but the Yamaha RX-A880 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz.

Video features

The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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-LX503 and the RX-A880. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-A880. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. VSX-LX503 and RX-A880 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Unlike the VSX-LX503 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the RX-A880 works with 2 Multi zones. For voice control in the VSX-LX503 is used Google Assistant, but in the RX-A880 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant. There is an ECO mode in RX-A880. The Pioneer VSX-LX503 and the Yamaha RX-A880 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.