It’s strongly recommended to compare different receivers if you want to choose the best one: Pioneer VSX-S520 vs Pioneer VSX-832.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the VSX-S520 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 50/4, while the VSX-832 has a power of 80/8, 165/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the VSX-S520 it is 0.09%, but for the VSX-832 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the VSX-S520 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the VSX-832 is equipped with AK4438 384 KHz/32-bit. None of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Pioneer VSX-S520 and Pioneer VSX-832 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Pioneer VSX-S520 works with Deezer, TIDAL, TuneIn Radio, but the Pioneer VSX-832 works with Deezer, TIDAL, 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-S520 and the VSX-832. 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 is the same - 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the VSX-S520 and the VSX-832. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. VSX-S520 and VSX-832 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Pioneer VSX-S520. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Pioneer VSX-S520 and the Pioneer VSX-832 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.