Arcam AVR21 vs Pioneer SC-LX904

      Arcam AVR21

      Pioneer SC-LX904
      92
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      92
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      All
      North America
      Europe
      Asia
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      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 15.2 Channel Processing
      • 110 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

      • 11.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/30Hz 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 AVR21
      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-LX904
      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 AVR21 to Pioneer SC-LX904 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 AVR21 has 7 channel and the Pioneer SC-LX904 has 11 channel amplifiers.


      Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904

      Arcam AVR21 was introduced in 2022. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 15.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video signal.

      Pioneer SC-LX904 was introduced in 2019 and represented a flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 11 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 1080p to 4K video signal.

      We evaluated Arcam AVR21 and Pioneer SC-LX904 and gave both of them the score of 92 out of 100. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Arcam AVR21

      Pioneer SC-LX904

      Amplifier
      91
      Amplifier
      92
      Audio Features
      94
      Audio Features
      91
      Video Features
      99
      Video Features
      95
      Connectivity
      90
      Connectivity
      91
      Zones
      85
      Zones
      92
      Radio
      86
      Radio
      90
      OVERALL
      92
      OVERALL
      92

      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 AVR21 and Pioneer SC-LX904.

      PROS

      Arcam AVR21

      Pioneer SC-LX904

      •   High Power Output - 110 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   15.2 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
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Digital Radio
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Toroidal Transformer
      •   Bluetooth 5․0
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   High Power Output - 140 W
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer

      CONS

      Arcam AVR21

      Pioneer SC-LX904

      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora


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

      AVERAGE

      Arcam AVR21

      Pioneer SC-LX904

      •   7.2 Channels
      •   2 Zones
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      3. Advantage of Arcam AVR21

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Arcam AVR21 over Pioneer SC-LX904.

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      Arcam AVR21
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      Arcam AVR21 vs Pioneer SC-LX904
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      More Channel Processing 15.2 vs 11.2
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In) vs
      HDR10+ vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      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 (YCbCr 4:4:4)
      More 8K Inputs 7 vs
      More Optical Outputs 1 vs
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 4 vs 2
      More RCA Line Inputs 7 (1 front) vs 6
      More RCA Line Outputs 1 vs
      More RCA Pre-Outs 15.2 vs 11.2
      More Presets 50 vs 40
      Digital Radio DAB/DAB+ vs
      Pandora vs
      Universal Power Supply AC 110-120 V or 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz via switch vs AC 220-230 V, 50/60 Hz
      Bigger Power Supply 1500 W vs 340 W
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 93 dB (normal)
      110 dB (stereo direct)      		 vs 108 dB
      Wi-Fi Standard IEEE 802.11 ac vs IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
      Newer Bluetooth Version 5․0 vs 4․2
      Longer Warranty 5 Years vs 3 Years
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      7.2 channel

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      Anthem MRX 740 8K
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      Arcam AVR11
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      Marantz Cinema 40
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      Yamaha RX-A6A
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      Marantz Cinema 30
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      11.4 channel

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      Yamaha RX-A8A
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      11.2 channel

      150 W

      Anthem MRX 1140 8K
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      11.2 channel

      140 W

      Yamaha RX-A4A
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      7.2 channel

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      Onkyo TX-RZ70
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      11.2 channel

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      Pioneer VSX-LX805
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      11.4 channel

      150 W

      Denon AVR-X6700H
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      11.2 channel

      140 W

      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-LX904

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-LX904 over Arcam AVR21.

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      Pioneer SC-LX904
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      Arcam AVR21 vs Pioneer SC-LX904
      More Channels 7.2 vs 11.2
      Higher Power Output 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Bi-amp capability vs
      Higher DAC Specs 192 kHz/24 Bit vs 384 kHz/32 Bit
      Music Playback via USB vs MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      DSD via USB vs 2-ch Input
      Dialogue Lift vs
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      Works with SONOS vs
      DTS Play-Fi vs
      USB Input for factory service vs 2 (1 Front)
      More Optical Inputs 2 vs 3
      Phono Input vs
      More Composite Video Inputs vs 2
      More Component Video Inputs vs 2
      Front A/V Inputs AUX (3.5 mm Audio) vs HDMI, USB
      More Zones 2 vs 3
      More Powered Zones 2 vs 2 and 3
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 2 / 0 vs 2 / 1
      Analog Tuner FM with RDS vs FM/AM with RDS
      Deezer vs
      More Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11
      More Large Speaker Terminals 7 vs 11

      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 AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
        High Power Output110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Channel Processing15.211.2
        Dolby Atmos up to 9.1.6 with external amp
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        DTS:X Pro up to 9.1.6 with external amp
        IMAX Enhanced
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Dirac Live™ MCACC Pro
        HDR10
        Dolby Vision
        New HDCP Version2.32.3
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth aptX HD SBC, AAC
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Many HDMI Inputs77 (1 front)
        Many HDMI Outputs3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)3 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB, 1 ZONE 2)
        USB Input for factory service2 (1 Front)
        Many RCA Line Inputs7 (1 front)6
        RCA Pre-Outs15.211.2
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM with RDS FM/AM with RDS
        Spotify
        Tidal

      6. Amplifier

      Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904

      7 channel Class A/B Amplifier: Arcam AVR21 features 7 channel power amplifier with Class A/B design. It is rated at 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      11 channel Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-LX904 features 11 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.
      • Toroidal Transformer: Arcam AVR21 has a toroidal transformer which in general costs several times more than a regular C-core transformer and radiates less electromagnetic noise outside its donut shaped core.


      AMPLIFIER Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Channels7.211.2
      Power Output110 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

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      Arcam AVR21
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      7. Speaker Configurations

      Arcam AVR21's and Pioneer SC-LX904's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

      • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
      • Arcam AVR21: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier and 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier and 5.2.6, 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 4 channel amplifier and 7.2.6, 9.2.4 with addition of external 6 channel amplifier and 9.2.6 with addition of external 8 channel amplifier.
      • Pioneer SC-LX904: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2, 7.2.4 with internal amplifier.
      • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
      • Arcam AVR21: This model supports DTS:X but not DTS:X Pro. Since DTS:X is limited with 11 channel processing some of the speaker configurations for Dolby Atmos are not supported here. The supported configurations are 5.2.2 with internal amplifier and 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier and 5.2.6, 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 4 channel amplifier.
      • Pioneer SC-LX904: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2, 7.2.4 with internal amplifier.
      • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
      • Arcam AVR21: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier and 9.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Pioneer SC-LX904: 5.2, 7.2 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 AVR21: 9.2, 9.2.2, 9.2.4, 9.2.6.
      • Pioneer SC-LX904: Does not support.
      • Bi-Amp: Arcam AVR21 is able to bi-amp up to 2 and Pioneer SC-LX904 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 AVR21 and Pioneer SC-LX904 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: Both models support 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 AVR21 and Pioneer SC-LX904 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 AVR21 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: Both models have 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 AVR21 supports Auro-3D.

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

      IMAX Enhanced

      Arcam AVR21 and Pioneer SC-LX904 are 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 AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Dolby Atmos up to 9.1.6 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 Pro up to 9.1.6 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo
      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 13.1-ch (Built-In)

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      Pioneer SC-LX904
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      9. HDMI

      Arcam AVR21 comes with 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 3 outputs - 2 x 8K for MAIN and 1 x 4K for ZONE2.

      Pioneer SC-LX904 comes with 7 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 1 MAIN and 1 SUB and 1 ZONE 2.

      • 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Arcam AVR21: All inputs pass up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
        4K/60Hz Passthrough on Pioneer SC-LX904: All inputs pass up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4) video signal.
      • 4K Upscaling on Pioneer SC-LX904: It can upscale 1080p to 4K from HDMI and analog sources.
      • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Pioneer SC-LX904 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 both models).
      • HDCP 2.3 Copy Protection: Both receivers are HDCP 2.3 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 AVR21 supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

      Pioneer SC-LX904 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma. 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 AVR21 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 AVR21 supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



      VIDEO FEATURES Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.32.3
      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 (YCbCr 4:4:4)

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      Arcam AVR21
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      10. Inputs and Outputs

      Audio

      • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Pioneer SC-LX904 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
      • Analog Pre-Outs: Arcam AVR21 has 15.2 and Pioneer SC-LX904 has 11.2 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 AVR21 has 15 channel processing but has only 7 channel amplifier, so it needs external amplifier connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach its maximum speaker configuration.
      • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 7 pair of line inputs on Arcam AVR21 and 6 pair of line inputs on Pioneer SC-LX904 for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Arcam AVR21.
      • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 4 coaxial inputs are available on Arcam AVR21 and 3 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Pioneer SC-LX904 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 AVR21
        Inputs:         7   Outputs: 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
        8K Inputs: 7.
      • Pioneer SC-LX904
        Inputs:         7 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB, 1 ZONE 2)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
      • Arcam AVR21
        Inputs:         0   Outputs: 0.
      • Pioneer SC-LX904
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 0.
      • 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-LX904 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors.
      • Arcam AVR21
        Inputs:         0   Outputs: 0.
      • Pioneer SC-LX904
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 0.

      Front A/V Inputs

      • Arcam AVR21: AUX (3.5 mm Audio)
      • Pioneer SC-LX904: HDMI, USB

      Arcam AVR21

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      Pioneer SC-LX904

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      TERMINALS Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      HDMI Inputs77 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)3 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB, 1 ZONE 2)
      8K Inputs7
      USB Input for factory service2 (1 Front)
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs23
      Optical Outputs1
      Coaxial Inputs42
      RCA Line Inputs7 (1 front)6
      RCA Line Outputs1
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs15.211.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs2
      Composite Video Outputs
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs2
      Component Video Outputs

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      Pioneer SC-LX904
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      11. Evaluations

      We evaluated Arcam AVR21 and Pioneer SC-LX904 and gave both of them the score of 92 out of 100. 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 AVR21

      Pioneer SC-LX904

      OVERALL
      92
      OVERALL
      92

      Amplifier

      EXCELLENT
      91
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   High Power Output - 110 W
      •   Toroidal Transformer
      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   High Power Output - 140 W

      Audio Features

      EXCELLENT
      94
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   15.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   MQA Decoding
      •   DSD via HDMI
      EXCELLENT
      91
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI

      Video Features

      EXCELLENT
      99
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   8K Passthrough
      EXCELLENT
      95
      •   HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

      Connectivity

      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 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
      91
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      Zones

      EXCELLENT
      85
      •   2 Zones
      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   3 Zones

      Radio

      EXCELLENT
      86
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   No Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      12. Specifications

      GENERAL Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      BrandArcamPioneer
      SeriesHDAElite
      ModelAVR21SC-LX904
      TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
      CountryAllEurope
      Release Year20222019
      PredecessorArcam AVR20 Pioneer SC-LX901
      SuccessorPioneer VSX-LX805
      AMPLIFIER Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Channels7.211.2
      Power Output110 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
      AUDIO FEATURES Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineDigital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic) + Aureus™ Floating-Point DSP (TI)
      DACDual ESS 9026PROESS ES9026PRO x 2
      DAC Specs192 kHz/24 Bit384 kHz/32 Bit
      Maximum Channel Processing15.211.2
      Air Studios Monitor Certification
      Dolby Atmos up to 9.1.6 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 Pro up to 9.1.6 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo
      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 13.1-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, MQAMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      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 64, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, 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
      Jitter Reduction PQLS & PQFA
      DTS Dialogue Control
      Dialog Enhancement
      Dialog normalization
      Dialogue Lift
      Sound Retriever Advanced
      Sound Retriever AIR
      Digital noise Reduction
      Tone Control All Channels
      Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever
      High-resolution Music Enhancer
      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 Surround10 + 1
      Wide Surround
      Front Stage Surround Advance
      Headphone Surround
      Virtual Speakers
      Virtual Depth
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs
      CALIBRATION Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Dirac Live™ MCACC Pro
      Manual MCACC
      MCACC Memory3
      Reflex Optimizer
      Phase Control
      Auto Phase Control Plus
      Full Band Phase Control
      Standing Wave Control Multi-Point (9 points)
      EQ Bands9-Band
      Symmetric EQ
      Distance Adjustment0.05 feet
      Precision Distance
      Polarity Check
      Auto Subwoofer Crossover
      VIDEO FEATURES Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      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 Version2.32.3
      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 (YCbCr 4:4:4)
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite
      Component Video Upscaling
      Analog to Analog Video conversion
      Component Video Maximum Resolution480i/576i
      Stream Smoother
      Pure Cinema
      Video Parameter Adjustments
      Super Resolution
      isf Certified Calibration Control
      CONNECTIVITY Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      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
      DLNA 1.5
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay 2
      Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad Made for iPhone, iPod and iPad (Airplay only)
      Remote App Arcam control app
      InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
      TERMINALS Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      HDMI Inputs77 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)3 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB, 1 ZONE 2)
      8K Inputs7
      USB Input for factory service2 (1 Front)
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs23
      Optical Outputs1
      Coaxial Inputs42
      RCA Line Inputs7 (1 front)6
      RCA Line Outputs1
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs15.211.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs2
      Composite Video Outputs
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs2
      Component Video Outputs
      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 AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Number of Zones23
      Powered Zones 22 and 3
      Zone 2 OutsHDMI, Pre OutHDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out
      Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line Out
      RS-232C Interface
      +12V Trigger Output22 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA)
      Remote (IR) Input/Output2 / 02 / 1
      MISCELLANEOUS Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      GUI Languages9
      AV Navigator
      IP Control
      PreAmp Mode
      DisplayLarge front-panel LCD display
      FL Dimmer
      Function Rename
      RADIO Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Analog Tuner FM with RDS FM/AM with RDS
      Presets5040
      Digital Radio DAB/DAB+
      Internet Radio TuneIn TuneIn
      Pandora
      Spotify
      Tidal
      Deezer
      Napster
      SiriusXM
      CONSTRUCTION Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Solid Aluminum Front
      ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
      Speaker Terminals711
      Large Speaker Terminals711
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
      Gold plated RCA terminals
      POWER Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Power SupplyAC 110-120 V or 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz via switchAC 220-230 V, 50/60 Hz
      Toroidal Transformer
      Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
      Transformer Stabilizer
      Power Consumption1500 W340 W
      Standby Power0.5 W0.2 W
      PHYSICAL Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      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 440 mm
      17-1/8" x 7-5/16" x 17-5/16"
      Weight16.6 kg (36.4 lbs)18.5 kg (40.8 lbs)
      Weight of Package19.9 kg
      SPECIFICATIONS Arcam AVR21 Pioneer SC-LX904
      Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)110 W (0.02% THD)
      Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)125 W (0.2% THD)
      Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)260 W (10% THD)
      Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)215 W (1% THD)
      Power Output (4 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel Driven)175 W (0.2% THD)
      Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)190 W (0.2% THD)
      Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive90 W (7 channels driven, 1kHz, 8 Ω, 0.2% THD)
      110 W (7 channels driven, 1kHz, 4 Ω, 0.2% THD)      		880 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
      THD0.04% (1 kHz, 100 W)
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)1V, 2V, 4V (user adjustable)/47 kΩ200 mV/82 kΩ
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ
      Maximum Input Sensitivity (Line)4.5 Vrms
      Rated Preout Level and Impedance1 Vrms/560 Ω1 V/470 kΩ
      Maximum Preout Level and Impedance5 Vrms/560 Ω
      Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance5 Vrms/100 Ω
      Rated Headphone Power Output57 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
      Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz, 0.5%)
      S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)93 dB (normal)
      110 dB (stereo direct)      		108 dB
      S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)90 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 USB11.2 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
      Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
      0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
      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 Version5․04․2
      Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
      USB TerminalVer. 2.0, 5 V, 500 mA
      FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz
      FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 1.0 µV (11.2 dBf)
      AM Frequency522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz
      Warranty5 Years3 Years

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

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