Arcam AVR11 vs Pioneer SC-99

      Arcam AVR11

      Pioneer SC-99
      88
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      90
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      All
      North America
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      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDMI 2.1
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D
      • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
      • 8K Passthrough
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet

      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • USB DAC
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/60Hz Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Disclosure: We earn money from the affiliate links to products associated with content in this article.

      Table of Contents
      1. Overview
      2. Pros and Cons
      3. Advantage of Arcam AVR11
      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-99
      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses
      6. Amplifier
      7. Speaker Configurations
      8. Immersive Audio Formats
      9. HDMI
      10. Inputs and Outputs
      11. Evaluations
      12. Specifications

      1. Overview

      Here we are comparing Arcam AVR11 to Pioneer SC-99 to reveal their common strengths and weaknesses as well as the differences between them which will help you in making a correct decision before the purchase. The Arcam AVR11 has 7 channel and the Pioneer SC-99 has 9 channel amplifiers with Arcam AVR11's being less powerful.


      Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99

      Arcam AVR11 was introduced in 2022. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video signal.

      Pioneer SC-99 was introduced in 2015 and represented a flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) video signal.

      We evaluated Arcam AVR11 and Pioneer SC-99 and gave them scores of 88 and 90 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Arcam AVR11

      Pioneer SC-99

      Amplifier
      83
      Amplifier
      92
      Audio Features
      91
      Audio Features
      90
      Video Features
      99
      Video Features
      83
      Connectivity
      88
      Connectivity
      90
      Zones
      70
      Zones
      97
      Radio
      86
      Radio
      85
      OVERALL
      88
      OVERALL
      90

      For more details about the ranking please go to    Evaluations section.

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Arcam AVR11 and Pioneer SC-99.

      PROS

      Arcam AVR11

      Pioneer SC-99

      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   MQA Decoding
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Digital Radio
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Bluetooth 5․0
      •   High Power Output - 140 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   USB DAC
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   Multi-Channel Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   4 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer

      CONS

      Arcam AVR11

      Pioneer SC-99

      •   Low Power Output - 80 W
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   No Zones
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Tidal
      •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR


      And here are some specifications which fall into average criteria and are neither in PROs nor in CONs category:

      AVERAGE

      Arcam AVR11

      Pioneer SC-99

      •   7.2 Channels
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   9.2 Channels

      3. Advantage of Arcam AVR11

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Arcam AVR11 over Pioneer SC-99.

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      Arcam AVR11
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      Arcam AVR11 vs Pioneer SC-99
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 11.1-ch (Built-In) vs
      HDR10+ vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Newer HDCP Version 2.3 vs 2.2
      Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through vs
      VRR vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 vs up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 vs AirPlay
      More 8K Inputs 7 vs
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 4 vs 2
      More RCA Line Inputs 7 (1 front) vs 3
      PreAmp Mode vs
      Digital Radio DAB/DAB+ vs
      Tidal vs
      Universal Power Supply AC 110-120 V or 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz via switch vs AC 120 V, 60 Hz
      Bigger Power Supply 1500 W vs 370 W
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 93 dB (normal)
      110 dB (stereo direct)      		 vs 103 dB
      Wi-Fi Standard IEEE 802.11 ac vs IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
      Newer Bluetooth Version 5․0 vs 2․1 + EDR
      Longer Warranty 5 Years vs 2 Years Parts & Labor
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Arcam AVR11.
      Anthem MRX 740 8K
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      7.2 channel

      140 W

      Marantz Cinema 40
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      9.4 channel

      125 W

      Arcam AVR21
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      7.2 channel

      110 W

      Marantz Cinema 50
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      9.4 channel

      110 W

      Yamaha RX-A6A
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      9.2 channel

      150 W

      Yamaha RX-A4A
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      7.2 channel

      110 W

      Yamaha RX-A8A
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      11.2 channel

      150 W

      Onkyo TX-RZ50
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      9.2 channel

      120 W

      Yamaha RX-V6A
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      7.2 channel

      100 W

      NAD T 778
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      9.2 channel

      140 W

      Anthem MRX 540 8K
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      5.2 channel

      100 W

      Denon AVR-X4800H
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      9.4 channel

      125 W

      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-99

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-99 over Arcam AVR11.

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      Pioneer SC-99
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      Arcam AVR11 vs Pioneer SC-99
      More Channels 7.2 vs 9.2
      Higher Power Output 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      Bi-amp capability vs Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
      Higher DAC Specs 192 kHz/24 Bit vs 192 kHz/32 Bit
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS Neo vs Neo:X (before firmware update)
      Music Playback via USB vs MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      DSD via USB vs 2-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter vs
      USB DAC vs 192kHz/32-bit
      Dialogue Lift vs via Dialog Enhancement
      More HDMI Inputs 7 vs 8 (1 front)
      More HDMI Outputs 2 x 8K (simultaneous) vs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
      Phono Input vs
      Multi-Channel Input vs 7.1
      More RCA Pre-Outs 11.2 vs 13.2
      More Composite Video Inputs vs 2
      More Composite Video Outputs vs 2
      More Component Video Inputs vs 2
      More Component Video Outputs vs 1
      Front A/V Inputs AUX (3.5 mm Audio) vs HDMI, USB
      More Zones 1 vs 4
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 2 / 0 vs 2 / 1
      Analog Tuner FM with RDS vs FM/AM
      More Presets 50 vs 63
      More Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11
      More Large Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC) 85 W (0.2% THD) vs 140 W (0.08% THD)
      Higher Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven) 120 W (0.2% THD) vs 255 W (1.0% THD)

      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses

      We already listed pros and cons of each model. However, you may also find useful to look at their common strengths and weaknesses shown side-by-side.

      STRENGTHS Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Channel Processing11.211.2
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
        DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp up to with firmware update
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Dirac Live™ MCACC Pro
        HDR10
        New HDCP Version2.32.2
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth aptX HD SBC, AAC
        Many HDMI Inputs78 (1 front)
        USB Input for factory service1 Front
        RCA Pre-Outs11.213.2
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM with RDS FM/AM
        Pandora
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Does not Work with Amazon Alexa

      6. Amplifier

      Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99

      7 channel Class A/B Amplifier: Arcam AVR11 features 7 channel power amplifier with Class A/B design. It is rated at 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      9 channel Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-99 features 9 channel power amplifier with Class D3 design. It is rated at 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.


        AMPLIFIER Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Channels7.29.2
        Power Output80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignClass A/BClass D3 (Direct Energy HD)
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B

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        Arcam AVR11
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        7. Speaker Configurations

        Arcam AVR11's and Pioneer SC-99's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Arcam AVR11: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier and 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 4 channel amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-99: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Arcam AVR11: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2 with internal amplifier and 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 4 channel amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-99: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Arcam AVR11: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-99: 5.2, 7.2, 9.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Front Wide Channel support: With the presence of two front wide speakers you can enhance the front surround stage. The following speaker configurations are available for front wide channels:
        • Arcam AVR11: Does not support.
        • Pioneer SC-99: 9.2, 9.2.2.
        • Bi-Amp: Arcam AVR11 is able to bi-amp up to 2 and Pioneer SC-99 is able to bi-amp up to 4 main channels simultaneously. During bi-amplification two amplifiers are used for one speaker. One amplifier powers the midrange and tweeter section of the speaker and another amplifier powers the low frequency woofers. Each amplifier is less loaded and performs better. In order to use this feature speakers must have 2 pairs of connectors.

        8. Immersive Audio Formats

        Dolby Atmos

        Arcam AVR11 and Pioneer SC-99 support Dolby Atmos.

        • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Both models support Dolby Surround Upmixer. If the content is not mixed in Dolby Atmos then the Dolby surround upmixer will expand the audio to all channels including ceiling speakers. The upmixer has replaced the Dolby Pro Logic II family with improved upmixing algorithms.
        • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization: Arcam AVR11 supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization which is a digital signal processing solution that leverages Dolby's deep understanding of human audio perception to create the sensation of overhead sound from the listener-level speakers.

        DTS:X

        Arcam AVR11 and Pioneer SC-99 support DTS:X.

        • DTS Neural:X: Both models feature DTS Neural:X which is an advanced upmixer that can take non DTS:X content and upmix it to the DTS:X speaker layout. It has replaced the DTS Neo family with improved flexibility.
        • DTS Virtual:X: Arcam AVR11 supports DTS Virtual:X which bridges the gap between DTS:X codec and the reality of so many consumers' homes, allowing you to enjoy multi-dimensional sound regardless of room size, layout, or speaker configuration. If you have a limited speaker setup you will miss a full immersive potential of your entertainment system. DTS Virtual:X adds height and surround audio effect to your system without adding height speakers. It works with multiple configurations and delivers immersive sound experience out of 5.1 or even 2.1 speaker layouts.
        • DTS Dialog Control: Arcam AVR11 supports DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.

        Auro-3D

        Arcam AVR11 supports Auro-3D.

        • Auro-Matic upmixer: Auro-Matic upmixer takes non Auro-3D sound and upmixes to the current speaker configuration.

        IMAX Enhanced

        Arcam AVR11 is IMAX Enhanced certified. To qualify for IMAX Enhanced certification, 4K HDR televisions, projectors, sound bars, a/v receivers, loudspeakers, powered subwoofers and other premium home entertainment devices must meet carefully prescribed performance requirements established by IMAX, DTS and Hollywood's leading experts.

        • What makes an IMAX Enhanced A/V receiver different from an A/V receiver with DTS:X technology? DTS:X technology is commonly found in most multi-channel A/V receivers on the market today. All IMAX Enhanced A/V receivers include DTS:X technology and deliver additional features, such as auto-sensing of IMAX Enhanced content, via IMAX Mode. IMAX Mode indicates that your A/V receiver supports fully immersive IMAX signature sound.
        AUDIO DECODING Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic
        Dolby Digital EX
        DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp up to with firmware update
        DTS Neural:X with firmware update
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X (before firmware update)
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 11.1-ch (Built-In)

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        Pioneer SC-99
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        9. HDMI

        Arcam AVR11 comes with 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

        Pioneer SC-99 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for MAIN/HDZONE.

        • 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Arcam AVR11: All inputs pass up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
          4K/60Hz Passthrough on Pioneer SC-99: All inputs pass up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) video signal.
        • 4K Upscaling on Pioneer SC-99: It can upscale up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) from HDMI and analog sources.
        • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Pioneer SC-99 supports analog to HDMI Upconversion, so you can input your analog video sources and output them digitally via HDMI. This means that you will need only one HDMI cable to connect to your TV.
        • BT.2020 Color Space: BT.2020 or Rec. 2020 is a color standard which delivers a wider color gamut compared to Rec. 709. It covers approximately 75% of the total visual spectrum while the Rec. 709 covers only 35% (available on Arcam AVR11 only).
        • HDCP Copy Protection: Arcam AVR11 is HDCP 2.3 and Pioneer SC-99 is HDCP 2.2 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
        • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

        HDR (High Dynamic Range)

        Arcam AVR11 supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

        Pioneer SC-99 supports HDR10 High dynamic range video has greater dynamic range than standard dynamic range (SDR) video with brighter whites and deeper blacks. The result is greater contrast and more details in dark and bright areas, better color and depth.


        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

        Arcam AVR11 supports Audio Return Channel (ARC) which allows the compatible TV to send audio signal to the a/v receiver through the same HDMI cable which is used to send audio and video signals to the TV. So one HDMI cable is used to transfer audio signal in both directions. New Enhanced ARC will support uncompressed audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio whereas the previous ARC could support only Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS HD, and PCM.


        Gaming Features

        Arcam AVR11 supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



        VIDEO FEATURES Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.32.2
        QMS (Quick Media Switching)
        ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
        VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
        QFT (Quick Frame transport)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)

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        Arcam AVR11
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        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Pioneer SC-99 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • 7.1 Multichannel Input: In case you have a high quality Blu-Ray or a DVD player with multichannel analog outputs you may connect it to a 7.1 multichannel analog inputs of Pioneer SC-99 and use high quality DACs of the player instead of the ones in the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Arcam AVR11 has 11.2 and Pioneer SC-99 has 13.2 preamplifier outputs which allow you to connect the receivers to the external power amplifiers. You may want to use a high quality external amplifier for certain channels, usually for front L/R and center, and use the receiver to power the rest. Also, Arcam AVR11 has 11 channel processing but has only 7 channel amplifier and Pioneer SC-99 has 11 channel processing but has only 7 channel amplifier, so they need external amplifiers connected to their analog pre-outs in order to reach their maximum speaker configurations.
        • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 7 pair of line inputs on Arcam AVR11 and 3 pair of line inputs on Pioneer SC-99 for connecting sources with analog outputs. There are also 1 pair of line outputs on the receivers.
        • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 4 coaxial inputs are available on Arcam AVR11 and 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Pioneer SC-99 for digital audio connections.
        • Headphone Output: There is a 3.5 mm (1/8") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

        Video

        • HDMI:
        • Arcam AVR11
          Inputs:           7   Outputs: 2 x 8K (simultaneous)
          8K Inputs: 7.
        • Pioneer SC-99
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Arcam AVR11
          Inputs:           0   Outputs: 0.
        • Pioneer SC-99
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 2.
        • Component Video: Component video connection gives you the higher quality video compared to the composite video connection. So in case your old DVD player and other equipment do not have an HDMI output but have Component video output use this connection over the composite one. resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Pioneer SC-99 supports up to 1080i (1125i) resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Arcam AVR11
          Inputs:           0   Outputs: 0.
        • Pioneer SC-99
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Arcam AVR11: AUX (3.5 mm Audio)
        • Pioneer SC-99: HDMI, USB

        Arcam AVR11

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        Pioneer SC-99

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        TERMINALS Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        HDMI Inputs78 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs2 x 8K (simultaneous)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
        8K Inputs7
        USB Input for factory service1 Front
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs11
        Coaxial Inputs42
        RCA Line Inputs7 (1 front)3
        RCA Line Outputs11
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input 7.1
        RCA Pre-Outs11.213.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs2
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs2
        Component Video Outputs1

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        Pioneer SC-99
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        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Arcam AVR11 and Pioneer SC-99 and gave them scores of 88 and 90 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


        Arcam AVR11

        Pioneer SC-99

        OVERALL
        88
        OVERALL
        90

        Amplifier

        GOOD
        83
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   Low Power Output - 80 W
        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 140 W

        Audio Features

        EXCELLENT
        91
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   11.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   IMAX Enhanced
        •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   MQA Decoding
        •   DSD via HDMI
        EXCELLENT
        90
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   11.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI
        •   USB DAC

        Video Features

        EXCELLENT
        99
        •   HDR10
        •   HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   HDMI 2.1
        •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        •   VRR
        •   8K Passthrough
        GOOD
        83
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        88
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   Google Assistant
        •   Chromecast Built-In
        •   7 HDMI Inputs
        •   2 HDMI Outputs
        •   7 8K Inputs
        •   USB Input
        •   Many RCA Line Inputs
        •   No Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   No Composite Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 5․0
        EXCELLENT
        90
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   Few RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   Multi-Channel Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR

        Zones

        GOOD
        70
        •   No Zones
        EXCELLENT
        97
        •   4 Zones

        Radio

        EXCELLENT
        86
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   No Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        BrandArcamPioneer
        SeriesHDAElite
        ModelAVR11SC-99
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryAllNorth America
        Release Year20222015
        PredecessorArcam AVR10 Pioneer SC-89
        SuccessorPioneer SC-LX901
        AMPLIFIER Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Channels7.29.2
        Power Output80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignClass A/BClass D3 (Direct Energy HD)
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
        AUDIO FEATURES Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineTexas Instruments Aureus
        DACDual ESS 9026PROESS SABRE32 Ultra (ES9016S)
        DAC Specs192 kHz/24 Bit192 kHz/32 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing11.211.2
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp up to with firmware update
        DTS Neural:X with firmware update
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X (before firmware update)
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 11.1-ch (Built-In)
        MQA Decoding
        PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, MQA
        Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit
        High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        Gapless Playback
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        DSD via USB 2-ch Input
        DSD to PCM Converter
        USB DAC 192kHz/32-bit
        Jitter Reduction plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
        Auto Level ControlMulti-Channel
        DTS Dialogue Control
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift via Dialog Enhancement
        Sound Retriever Advanced (Multi-Channel / Auto with ARC)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control All Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever
        High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Direct Mode Stereo Direct, CD Direct
        Pure Direct Mode
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround11 + 1
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance (Focus/Wide)
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual Speakers (Surround Back/Height/Wide)
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Dirac Live™ MCACC Pro
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory6
        Reflex Optimizer
        Phase Control
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control
        EQ Bands9-Band (Advanced)
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment1/2 Inch
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        VIDEO FEATURES Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDMI Version2.1
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.32.2
        QMS (Quick Media Switching)
        ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
        VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
        QFT (Quick Frame transport)
        DSC (Display Stream Compression)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/60p (4:4:4)
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080i (1125i)
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter AdjustmentsYNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black Level
        Triple HD noise Reduction
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth aptX HD SBC, AAC
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Apple Siri
        Works with SonoS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input 1 Rear (Version 2.0)
        DLNA 1.5
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay
        Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod and iPhone via front USB
        Remote App Arcam control app iControlAV5 (for iOS and Android)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        HDMI Inputs78 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs2 x 8K (simultaneous)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
        8K Inputs7
        USB Input for factory service1 Front
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs11
        Coaxial Inputs42
        RCA Line Inputs7 (1 front)3
        RCA Line Outputs11
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input 7.1
        RCA Pre-Outs11.213.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs2
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs2
        Component Video Outputs1
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsAUX (3.5 mm Audio)HDMI, USB
        Speaker A/B
        Headphone Out3.5 mm (1/8")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        adapterport
        ZONES Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Number of Zones14
        Powered Zones2, 3 and HDZone
        Zone 2 OutsRCA Pre/Line Out
        Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line Out
        Zone 4 OutsHDMI
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output22 (assignable)
        Remote (IR) Input/Output2 / 02 / 1
        MISCELLANEOUS Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        On-Screen DisplayGraphical User Interface (GUI) with Album Artwork (HDMI only)
        HDMI Speaker B Link
        AV Navigator Built-in
        IP Control
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker ConfigurationSurround Back/Front Height/Front Wide/Front Bi-Amp/Zone 2/B-Speaker/Powered HD Zone
        DisplayLarge front-panel LCD display
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerLearning Remote Control (Lumius)
        RADIO Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Analog Tuner FM with RDS FM/AM
        Presets5063
        Digital Radio DAB/DAB+
        Internet Radio TuneIn vTuner
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Front PanelBrushed
        Solid Aluminum Front
        ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
        Speaker Terminals711
        Large Speaker Terminals711
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Power SupplyAC 110-120 V or 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz via switchAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Toroidal Transformer
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption1500 W370 W
        Standby Power0.5 W0.1 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        PHYSICAL Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Dimensions (W x H x D)433 mm x 171 mm x 425 mm
        17.06" x 6.69" x 18.56"        		435 mm x 185 mm x 441 mm
        17-1/8" x 7-5/16" x 17-3/8"
        Weight16.5 kg (36.4 lbs)17.6 kg (38.8 lbs)
        Weight of Package19.8 kg
        SPECIFICATIONS Arcam AVR11 Pioneer SC-99
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)80 W (0.02% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)85 W (0.2% THD)140 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)200 W (1.0% THD)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel Driven)100 W (0.2% THD)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)120 W (0.2% THD)255 W (1.0% THD)
        Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive60 W (7 channels driven, 1kHz, 8 Ω, 0.2% THD)
        85 W (7 channels driven, 1kHz, 4 Ω, 0.2% THD)        		850 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
        THD0.04% (1 kHz, 130 W + 130 W, 8 Ω)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)1V, 2V, 4V (user adjustable)/47 kΩ400 mV/47 kΩ (Line)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)5 mV/47 kΩ
        Maximum Input Sensitivity (Line)4.5 Vrms
        Rated Preout Level and Impedance0.8 Vrms/560 Ω
        Rated Lineout Level and Impedance400 mV/2.2 kΩ (REC OUT)
        Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance5 Vrms/100 Ω
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)93 dB (normal)
        110 dB (stereo direct)        		103 dB
        Frequency Response (Analog In)±0.2 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
        Residual noise (IHF-A Network)0.15 mV
        DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
        DSD Sampling Rates via USB5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
        USB DAC TerminalUSB2.0 (Type B)
        Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/PR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
        Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 acIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
        Bluetooth Version5․02․1 + EDR
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
        HDMI Terminal19-pin (not DVI)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 55 mA
        HDMI Input/MHL Terminal5 V, 900 mA
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 High Speed (Type A) 5 V, 1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz
        AM Frequency530 kHz - 1710 kHz
        Warranty5 Years2 Years Parts & Labor

        * - 480i/576i and 480p/576p only
        ** - 480i/576i only
        *** - no 1080p/24 upconversion
        **** - 1080p signal is not converted

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