Dec 07, 2018
This Pioneer VSX-LX503 review is about a mid-range 9-channel device that is very close to premium models due to the plenty of options and smart features. The AV is powerful enough (can be strengthene...
Read MoreThe combination of performance and quality - Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs SC-LX701
I have tested two amazing solutions from Pioneer – Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs SC-LX701. This review should help people who look for a great receiver.
Features & Performance
Both models support the 9.2 channel setup. VSX-LX503 wins when we compare Pioneer SC-LX701 vs VSX-LX503 in terms of the total output power – 1090 W versus 760 W that SC-LX701 outputs. Both models work with Sonos and they are compatible with Dolby Atmos. These two receivers support the DTS:X technology. However, SC-LX701 features the Advanced Sound Retriever technology, while VSX-LX503 uses the phase control and the reflex optimizer technologies. Both models support the modern 4K video standard with HDR and other features.
Connections & Setup
These solutions have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules, so you can stream content from your devices or from online services. These receivers support the Chromecast technology, while VSX-LX503 supports the Google Assistant. Both models support the Zone 2/3 feature.
These receivers are built well and customers do not experience any issues with the ports. SC-LX701 has 8 in and 2 out HDMI ports, while VSX-LX503 has 7 in and 2 out HDMI ports.
Pioneer uses the MCACC technology to control the output sound. It is precise in terms of the speaker's calibration, but you can adjust the settings via a special menu (it is not very difficult). The manufacturer provides you with the microphone required. Overall, the calibration process is fast.
Design
These two receivers look almost the same – there is a simple LCD display that shows some basic information, two large knobs, a power on/off button and a front cover that hides some small round-shaped buttons with additional ports.
These receivers come with a remote controller. It is well-designed and all buttons are labeled properly. Overall, it is easy to control these receivers using the remote controller.
The dimensions are 15.2x17.2x7.3 in for VSX-LX503 versus 7.4x17.1x7.3 in for SC-LX701.
Pioneer VSX-LX503 pros & cons
Pros:
- The menu is user-friendly and it is more intuitive than the menus which previous models have. You can easily find various adjustments.
- The output sound is deep and clear – no lags or noise.
- It assures a stable wireless connection.
Cons:
- Some customers find the setup process quite complex (due to the poor documentation).
Pioneer SC-LX701 pros & cons
Pros:
- Great flexibility – it has many options and features. You can easily adjust various parameters.
- It does not become too hot.
- The output sound quality is stunning, plus it has the 7.2.4 effect.
Cons:
- The ARC technology may not work sometimes (you need to disconnect and connect again an HDMI cable).
Pioneer VSX-LX503 review
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Common
Product
Pioneer SC-LX701
Pioneer VSX-LX503
Model
SC-LX701
VSX-LX503
Brand
Pioneer
Pioneer
Rating
4.1 of 5
3.8 of 5
Reviews
93
15
Functions
Digital player
Internet radio
Network audio player
Amplifier class
D
Audio formats
AAC
AIFF
Apple lossless
DSD
FLAC
MP3
WAV
WMA
Built-in decoders
DTS neural:X
DTS-HD master audio
DTS:X
Dolby atmos
Dolby digital plus
Dolby surround
Dolby true HD
Power device
Operational power consumption
310 W
Standby power consumption
0.15 W
Built-in display
Type
fluorescent
fluorescent
Colour
black
black
Amplifier
Total output power
760 W
1090 W
Output power per channel
135 W, 185 W, 220 W
120 W
Output impedance per channel
4 Ohm, 6 Ohm, 8 Ohm
8 Ohm
Frequency response
20 Hz-20 kHz
20 Hz-20 kHz
Total harmonic distortion
0.08 %
0.08 %
Number of channels
9
9
Signal-to-noise ratio
107 dB
109 dB
Connectivity interfaces
Bluetooth
Wi-Fi
IEEE 802.3
IEEE 802.3u
Signal processing
HDMI pass-through
up to 4K
up to 4K
Video conversion/scaling
HDMI to HDMI scaling, analog to HDMI up conversion
HDMI to HDMI scaling, analog to HDMI up conversion
3D pass-through
Upscaling via HDMI
up to 4K
up to 4K
Connector type
AV inputs
4
7
Optical digital inputs
3
2
Coaxial digital inputs
2
2
HDMI inputs
8
7
HDMI outputs
2
2
Optical digital outputs
has not
has not
Coaxial digital outputs
has not
has not
Subwoofer outputs
2
2
USB
1
1
Phones
1
1
Media content source
Bluetooth
Network
USB-host
Radio
Tuner type
digital
digital
Tuner bands
AM/FM
AM/FM
Preset station qty
40
40
Additional features
A-B speaker switch
AIR Studios monitor certification
Three-zone capability
X.v.Color
Advanced sound retriever (ASR) technology
Apple air-play support
Audio return channel (ARC)
Bi-amplifying
Deep color
MCACC Pro
Auto power off
Pure direct mode
Dual-zone capability
Smartphone remote control
Sound features
Sound output mode
Surround Sound
Surround Sound
Audio D/A converter
32bit / 192kHz
32bit / 384kHz
Surround sound effects
Front Stage Surround Advance
Theater-Dimensional Virtual Surround
Surround system class
9.2 channel
9.2 channel
Digital sound processor (DSP)
DSP preset qty
12
Digital content protection
HDCP 2.2
HDCP 2.2
Clock
Built-in clock
Sleep timer
Dimensions
Shipping size
7.4 x 17.1 x 7.3 inches
15.2 x 17.2 x 7.3 inches
Product weight
33.2 pounds
29 pounds
AV receivers HelpToChoose comparison rating
- 30.6Pioneer SC-LX701
- 25.6Pioneer VSX-LX503
The Pioneer SC-LX701 is better receiver in this comparison. Check Pioneer SC-LX701 price
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