Denon AVC-A1H vs Pioneer VSX-523-K

      Denon AVC-A1H

      Pioneer VSX-523-K
      96
      Image cannot be found
      63
      Image cannot be found
      USA
      UK
      USA
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
       
       

      Highlights

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

      Highlights

      • 5.1 Channels
      • 5.1 Channel Processing
      • 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • 4K/30Hz Passthrough

      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 Denon AVC-A1H
      4. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-523-K
      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 Denon AVC-A1H to Pioneer VSX-523-K 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 Denon AVC-A1H has 15 channel and the Pioneer VSX-523-K has 5 channel amplifiers with Denon AVC-A1H's being more powerful.


      Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K

      Denon AVC-A1H was introduced in 2022 and represents a current flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 15 channel amplifier with 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 15.4 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

      Pioneer VSX-523-K was introduced in 2013. It is equipped with 5 channel amplifier with 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz and 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 5.1 maximum channel processing. It , passes 4K/30Hz video signal.

      We evaluated Denon AVC-A1H and Pioneer VSX-523-K and gave them scores of 96 and 63 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.

      Denon AVC-A1H

      Pioneer VSX-523-K

      Amplifier
      96
      Amplifier
      71
      Audio Features
      99
      Audio Features
      62
      Video Features
      100
      Video Features
      59
      Connectivity
      92
      Connectivity
      61
      Zones
      92
      Zones
      55
      Radio
      82
      Radio
      59
      OVERALL
      96
      OVERALL
      63

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

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Denon AVC-A1H and Pioneer VSX-523-K.

      PROS

      Denon AVC-A1H

      Pioneer VSX-523-K

      •   Many Channels - 15.4
      •   High Power Output - 150 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   15.4 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   360 Reality Audio
      •   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
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   8K Upscaling
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   HEOS
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   XLR Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   XLR Pre-outs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Bluetooth 5․0
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   USB Input
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Analog Tuner

      CONS

      Denon AVC-A1H

      Pioneer VSX-523-K

      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   No Analog Tuner
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   Few Channels - 5.1
      •   Low Power Output - 80 W
      •   5.1 Channel Processing
      •   No Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   No Wi-Fi
      •   No Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   4 HDMI Inputs
      •   1 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Ethernet
      •   No Zones
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   No Spotify
      •   No Tidal

      3. Advantage of Denon AVC-A1H

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Denon AVC-A1H over Pioneer VSX-523-K.

      Check the Price

      Denon AVC-A1H
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Denon AVC-A1H vs Pioneer VSX-523-K
      More Channels 15.4 vs 5.1
      Higher Power Output 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Certified 4 Ω Performance vs
      Bi-amp capability 7-ch (assignable) vs
      More Channel Processing 15.4 vs 5.1
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.8 or 9.1.6 vs
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      Dolby Atmos Music vs
      Dolby Surround Upmixer vs
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.8 or 9.1.6 vs
      DTS Neural:X vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio vs
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 vs
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In) vs
      Music Playback via USB MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs MP3, WMA, AAC
      Higher Resolution Music Playback via USB up to 192 kHz vs 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs
      Gapless Playback vs
      DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input vs 2-ch Input
      Jitter Reduction vs
      Dialog Enhancement vs
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      Audyssey LFC vs
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT vs
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs vs
      HDR10 vs
      HDR10+ vs
      Dynamic HDR 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
      QFT vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 vs up to 4K/30p
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 vs
      isf Certified Calibration Control vs
      Wi-Fi vs
      Bluetooth SBC vs
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 vs AirPlay
      Remote Controll App vs
      More HDMI Inputs 7 vs 4
      More HDMI Outputs 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2) vs 1
      More 8K Inputs 7 vs
      USB DC Out Port 5 V, 1.5 A vs
      More Optical Inputs 2 vs 1
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 2 vs 1
      More RCA Line Inputs 6 vs 3
      XLR Line Inputs 1 vs
      Phono Input vs
      More RCA Pre-Outs 17.4 vs 0.1
      XLR Pre-outs 4 subwoofers vs
      Ethernet vs
      Speaker A/B assignable vs
      Detachable Power Cord vs
      More Zones 3 vs 1
      RS-232C Interface vs
      +12V Trigger Output 2 vs
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 1 / 1 vs 0 / 0
      IP Control for CI vs
      PreAmp Mode vs
      Internet Radio TuneIn vs
      Spotify vs
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Napster vs
      More Speaker Terminals 17 vs 5
      More Large Speaker Terminals 17 vs 2
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
      Gold plated RCA terminals vs
      Bigger Power Supply 1100 W vs 415 W
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 150 W (0.05% THD) vs 80 W (0.08% THD)
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 102 dB vs 98 dB
      Longer Warranty 5 Years vs 1 Year
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Denon AVC-A1H.
      Yamaha RX-A8A
      Image cannot be found

      11.2 channel

      150 W

      Marantz Cinema 30
      Image cannot be found

      11.4 channel

      140 W

      Denon AVR-A110
      Image cannot be found

      13.2 channel

      150 W

      Yamaha RX-A6A
      Image cannot be found

      9.2 channel

      150 W

      Denon AVC-X8500HA
      Image cannot be found

      13.2 channel

      150 W

      Yamaha RX-A2A
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Denon AVC-A110
      Image cannot be found

      13.2 channel

      150 W

      Pioneer VSX-LX805
      Image cannot be found

      11.4 channel

      150 W

      Yamaha RX-V6A
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Yamaha RX-A4A
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      110 W

      Onkyo TX-RZ70
      Image cannot be found

      11.2 channel

      140 W

      Yamaha RX-V4A
      Image cannot be found

      5.2 channel

      80 W

      4. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-523-K

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer VSX-523-K over Denon AVC-A1H.

      Check the Price

      Pioneer VSX-523-K
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Denon AVC-A1H vs Pioneer VSX-523-K
      Dolby Pro Logic vs PLII
      DTS Neo vs Neo:6
      More Composite Video Inputs vs 2
      More Composite Video Outputs vs 1
      Analog Tuner vs FM/AM

      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 Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and Dirac Live (upgrade) MCACC Auto
        New HDCP Version2.32.2
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
      WEAKNESSES Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        No Digital Radio
        No Pandora

      6. Amplifier

      Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K

      15 channel Monolithic Amplifier: Denon AVC-A1H features 15 channel power amplifier with Monolithic design. It is rated at 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      5 channel Discrete Direct Energy Amplifier: Pioneer VSX-523-K features 5 channel power amplifier with Discrete Direct Energy design. It is rated at 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven).


        AMPLIFIER Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Channels15.45.1
        Power Output150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Amplifier DesignMonolithicDiscrete Direct Energy
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability 7-ch (assignable)

        Check the Price

        Denon AVC-A1H
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        7. Speaker Configurations

        Denon AVC-A1H's and Pioneer VSX-523-K's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Denon AVC-A1H: 5.4.2, 5.4.4, 5.4.6, 5.4.8, 7.4.2, 7.4.4, 7.4.6, 7.4.8, 9.4.2, 9.4.4, 9.4.6 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer VSX-523-K: Not supported.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Denon AVC-A1H: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.4.2, 5.4.4, 5.4.6, 5.4.8, 7.4.2, 7.4.4, 7.4.6, 7.4.8, 9.4.2, 9.4.4, 9.4.6 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer VSX-523-K: Not supported.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Denon AVC-A1H: 5.4, 7.4, 9.4 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer VSX-523-K: 5.1 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:
        • Denon AVC-A1H: 9.4, 9.4.2, 9.4.4, 9.4.6.
        • Pioneer VSX-523-K: Does not support.
        • Bi-Amp: Denon AVC-A1H is able to bi-amp up to 7 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

        Denon AVC-A1H supports Dolby Atmos.

        • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Denon AVC-A1H supports 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: Denon AVC-A1H 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

        Denon AVC-A1H supports DTS:X.

        • DTS:X Pro: Denon AVC-A1H supports DTS:X Pro which is an upgraded version of DTS:X and is no longer limited with 11 channel processing.
        • DTS Neural:X: Denon AVC-A1H supports 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: Denon AVC-A1H 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

        Denon AVC-A1H supports Auro-3D.

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

        IMAX Enhanced

        Denon AVC-A1H 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 Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.8 or 9.1.6
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLII
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.8 or 9.1.6
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:6
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In)

        Check the Price

        Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        9. HDMI

        Denon AVC-A1H 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 VSX-523-K comes with 4 HDMI inputs. It has 1 output.

        • 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Denon AVC-A1H: All inputs pass up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
          4K/30Hz Passthrough on Pioneer VSX-523-K: All inputs pass up to 4K/30p video signal.
        • 8K Upscaling on Denon AVC-A1H: It can upscale up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 from HDMI sources.
        • 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 Denon AVC-A1H only).
        • HDCP Copy Protection: Denon AVC-A1H is HDCP 2.3 and Pioneer VSX-523-K 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)

        Denon AVC-A1H supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

        Pioneer VSX-523-K does not support HDR. 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)

        Denon AVC-A1H 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

        Denon AVC-A1H supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



        VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        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)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/30p
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4

        Check the Price

        Denon AVC-A1H
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Denon AVC-A1H with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Denon AVC-A1H has 17.4 preamplifier outputs which allows you to connect the receiver to the external power amplifier. 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.
        • XLR Inputs and Outputs: There is one pair of XLR inputs on Denon AVC-A1H. If your CD player, Blu-Ray player or other source have XLR outputs you can connect them to the receiver's XLR Inputs for higher quality balanced connection. Besides unbalanced RCA pre-outs Denon AVC-A1H also has XLR outputs. In case your external power amplifier has XLR inputs you can use the balanced connection for higher audio quality.
        • Analog Line Inputs: There are 6 pair of line inputs on Denon AVC-A1H and 3 pair of line inputs on Pioneer VSX-523-K for connecting sources with analog outputs.
        • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Denon AVC-A1H and 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available on Pioneer VSX-523-K for digital audio connections.
        • Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

        Video

        • HDMI:
        • Denon AVC-A1H
          Inputs:           7   Outputs: 3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)
          8K Inputs: 7.
        • Pioneer VSX-523-K
          Inputs:           4   Outputs: 1
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Denon AVC-A1H
          Inputs:           0   Outputs: 0.
        • Pioneer VSX-523-K
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Denon AVC-A1H: USB
        • Pioneer VSX-523-K: USB

        Denon AVC-A1H

        Image cannot be found Image cannot be found

        Pioneer VSX-523-K

        Image cannot be found Image cannot be found
        TERMINALS Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        HDMI Inputs74
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)1
        8K Inputs7
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port 5 V, 1.5 A
        Optical Inputs21
        Optical Outputs
        Coaxial Inputs21
        RCA Line Inputs63
        RCA Line Outputs
        XLR Line Inputs1
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs17.40.1
        XLR Pre-outs4 subwoofers
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs1
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs
        Component Video Outputs

        Check the Price

        Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Denon AVC-A1H and Pioneer VSX-523-K and gave them scores of 96 and 63 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.


        Denon AVC-A1H

        Pioneer VSX-523-K

        OVERALL
        96
        OVERALL
        63

        Amplifier

        EXCELLENT
        96
        •   Many Channels - 15.4
        •   High Power Output - 150 W
        GOOD
        71
        •   Few Channels - 5.1
        •   Low Power Output - 80 W

        Audio Features

        EXCELLENT
        99
        •   Many Channels - 15.4
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   15.4 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   IMAX Enhanced
        •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   360 Reality Audio
        •   DSD via HDMI
        AVERAGE
        62
        •   Few Channels - 5.1
        •   5.1 Channel Processing
        •   No Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   No DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI

        Video Features

        EXCELLENT
        100
        •   HDR10
        •   HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   HDMI 2.1
        •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        •   VRR
        •   QFT
        •   8K Passthrough
        •   8K Upscaling
        AVERAGE
        59
        •   No HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Works with Amazon Alexa
        •   Google Assistant
        •   HEOS
        •   7 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   7 8K Inputs
        •   USB Input
        •   Many RCA Line Inputs
        •   XLR Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   XLR Pre-outs
        •   No Composite Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 5․0
        AVERAGE
        61
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   No Wi-Fi
        •   No Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   4 HDMI Inputs
        •   1 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   Few RCA Line Inputs
        •   No Phono Input
        •   No RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   No Ethernet

        Zones

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   3 Zones
        AVERAGE
        55
        •   No Zones

        Radio

        GOOD
        82
        •   No Analog Tuner
        •   No Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal
        AVERAGE
        59
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   No Pandora
        •   No Spotify
        •   No Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        BrandDenonPioneer
        ModelAVC-A1HVSX-523-K
        TypeA/V AmplifierA/V Receiver
        CountryUKUSA
        Release Year20222013
        PredecessorDenon AVC-X8500HA Pioneer VSX-522-K
        SuccessorPioneer VSX-524-K
        AMPLIFIER Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Channels15.45.1
        Power Output150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignMonolithicDiscrete Direct Energy
        Discrete Amplification
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Mono Block Power Amplifier Construction L/R separated
        Bi-amp Capability 7-ch (assignable)
        AUDIO FEATURES Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineDual-core 1GHz DSPTexas Instruments Aureus
        DAC Specs192 kHz/24 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing15.45.1
        D.D.S.C. HD Digital 32 bit
        Alpha Processing AL32 Processing Multichannel
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.8 or 9.1.6
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLII
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.8 or 9.1.6
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:6
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In)
        360 Reality Audio
        PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
        Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDMP3, WMA, AAC
        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, DSD
        Gapless Playback
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch Input
        DSD via USB 2-ch Input
        DSD to PCM Converter
        USB DAC
        Jitter Reduction
        Auto Level Control2 Channel
        DTS Dialogue Control
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialog Level Adjustment
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift
        Sound Retriever Advanced (2-Channel)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control Front L/R 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
        Pure Direct Mode
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround9+1 Mode DSP
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual Speakers
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and Dirac Live (upgrade) MCACC Auto
        Audyssey App Support
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory1
        Phase Control
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control
        EQ Bands5-Band
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment0.1 Feet
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        PC Display
        Optimized Bass Redirection
        Bass Sync
        VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        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)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/30p
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter Adjustments
        Triple HD noise Reduction
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC
        Bluetooth Headphone Transmission
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Apple Siri
        Works with SonoS
        HEOS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input
        DLNA 1.5
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay
        Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod and iPhone via front USB
        Remote App
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        HDMI Inputs74
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 x 8K for MAIN, 1 x 4K for ZONE2)1
        8K Inputs7
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port 5 V, 1.5 A
        Optical Inputs21
        Optical Outputs
        Coaxial Inputs21
        RCA Line Inputs63
        RCA Line Outputs
        XLR Line Inputs1
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs17.40.1
        XLR Pre-outs4 subwoofers
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs1
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs
        Component Video Outputs
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsUSBUSB
        Speaker A/B assignable
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        adapterport
        ZONES Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Number of Zones31
        Powered Zones 2 and 3
        Zone 2 OutsHDMI, Pre Out
        Zone 3 OutsPre Out
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output2
        Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 10 / 0
        MISCELLANEOUS Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User InterfaceComposite Video Only
        GUI Languages9
        Web Control
        Multi-Zone On-Screen Display
        AV Navigator
        IP Control
        Control4 SDDP
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker Configuration
        Display 2 lines FLD
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerRC-1250System Remote Control
        Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / /
        Denon Link HD
        Setup Assistant
        Quick Select plus / Quick Select /
        RADIO Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Analog Tuner FM/AM
        Presets30
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio TuneIn
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Front PanelMetalBrushed
        Solid Aluminum Front
        Speaker Terminals175
        Large Speaker Terminals172
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        High Grade Audio Components
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Power SupplyAC 230 V, 50/60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption1100 W415 W
        No Sound PowerECO On/Off: 80 W/160 W
        Standby Power0.1 W0.1 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power Standby
        Auto Power off
        PHYSICAL Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Dimensions (W x H x D)434 mm x 195 mm x 493 mm (with antenna: 434 mm x 259 mm x 498 mm)
        17.1" x 7.7" x 19.4" (with antenna up: 17.1" x 10.2" x 19.6")        		435 mm x 168 mm x 331.5 mm
        17-1/8" x 6-5/8" x 13-1/16"
        Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)
        Weight32.0 kg (70.5 lbs)8.3 kg (18 lb 5 oz)
        Weight of Package38.0 kg (80 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Denon AVC-A1H Pioneer VSX-523-K
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)150 W (0.05% THD)80 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)190 W (0.7% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, FTC)140 W (1% 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)210 W (1% THD)
        Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)280 W x 2-channel
        Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)170 W x 2-channel
        THD (Digital)0.002% (1 kHz, at 0 dB)
        Analog Distortion0.005% (20 Hz-20 kHz, Direct mode)
        Phono Distortion0.03% (1 kHz, 3 V)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)RCA: 200 mV
        XLR: 400 mV        		200 mV/47 kΩ (Line)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)2.5 mV
        Rated Lineout Level and ImpedanceRCA: 1.2 V
        XLR: 2.4 V
        Rated Output digital2 V (at 0 dB playback)
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)102 dB98 dB
        S/N Ratio (Line, EIA, at 1 W (1 kHz))79 dB
        S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)74 dB
        S/N Ratio (digital)110 dB
        Dynamic Range (digital)110 dB
        Phono RIAA Deviation±1 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
        Frequency Response (Analog In)+1/-3 dB (10 Hz to 100 kHz, Direct mode)
        DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
        DSD Sampling Rates via USB5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
        Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
        Ethernet Standard100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
        Bluetooth Version5․0
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
        HDMI TerminalType A (19-pin)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 100 mA
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 5V, 1 AUSB2.0 (Type A) 5 V, 1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108 MHz
        AM Frequency530 kHz - 1700 kHz
        Warranty5 Years1 Year

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

        Amazon Affiliate Disclosure
        ZKelectronics is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon (.com, .co.uk, .ca, etc) and any other websites that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program.