Denon AVC-X8500H vs Pioneer SC-63

      Denon AVC-X8500H

      Pioneer SC-63
      94
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      77
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      UK
      USA
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      Highlights

      • 13.2 Channels
      • 13.2 Channel Processing
      • 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro 3D
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/60Hz Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 125 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Bluetooth, Ethernet

      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-X8500H
      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-63
      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-X8500H to Pioneer SC-63 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-X8500H has 13 channel and the Pioneer SC-63 has 7 channel amplifiers with Denon AVC-X8500H's being more powerful.


      Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63

      Denon AVC-X8500H was introduced in 2018 and represented a flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 13 channel amplifier with 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 13.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro and Auro-3D, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

      Pioneer SC-63 was introduced in 2012. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 125 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz and 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It , passes 1080/60p and upscales up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo) video signal.

      We evaluated Denon AVC-X8500H and Pioneer SC-63 and gave them scores of 94 and 77 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-X8500H

      Pioneer SC-63

      Amplifier
      95
      Amplifier
      90
      Audio Features
      97
      Audio Features
      73
      Video Features
      96
      Video Features
      54
      Connectivity
      92
      Connectivity
      82
      Zones
      93
      Zones
      91
      Radio
      82
      Radio
      85
      OVERALL
      94
      OVERALL
      77

      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-X8500H and Pioneer SC-63.

      PROS

      Denon AVC-X8500H

      Pioneer SC-63

      •   Many Channels - 13.2
      •   High Power Output - 150 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   13.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   HEOS
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   Multi-Channel Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   High Power Output - 125 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Bluetooth
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora

      CONS

      Denon AVC-X8500H

      Pioneer SC-63

      •   No HDR10+
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Analog Tuner
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR
      •   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
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   1 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Spotify
      •   No Tidal


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

      AVERAGE

      Denon AVC-X8500H

      Pioneer SC-63

      •   7.2 Channels
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   RCA Line Inputs

      3. Advantage of Denon AVC-X8500H

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Denon AVC-X8500H over Pioneer SC-63.

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      Denon AVC-X8500H
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      Denon AVC-X8500H vs Pioneer SC-63
      More Channels 13.2 vs 7.2
      Higher Power Output 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 125 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Bi-amp capability 5-ch (assignable) vs Front Channel
      Higher DAC Specs 384 kHz/32 Bit vs 192 kHz/24 Bit
      More Channel Processing 13.2 vs 7.1
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 vs
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      Dolby Surround Upmixer vs
      DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 vs
      DTS Neural:X vs
      DTS Virtual:X via firmware update vs
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In) vs
      Network Audio Formats MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs LPCM, WAV 192kHz, MP3, ACC, WMA, FLAC 192kHz
      Music Playback via USB MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs WAV, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC,
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs WAV/FLAC
      Gapless Playback vs
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      Audyssey LFC vs
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT vs
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs vs
      HDR10 vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 vs up to 1080p
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 vs up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo)
      isf Certified Calibration Control vs
      Wi-Fi vs via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately)
      Bluetooth SBC vs via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 vs AirPlay
      More HDMI Inputs 8 (1 front) vs 7 (1 front)
      More HDMI Outputs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2) vs 1
      More RCA Line Inputs 7 vs 5
      Phono Input vs
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1 vs
      More RCA Pre-Outs 15.2 vs 9.2
      More Component Video Inputs 3 vs 2
      Zone 2 Outs HDMI, Composite, Pre Out vs Composite Video, RCA Pre/Line Out + Sub
      Zone 3 Outs Pre Out, Composite vs RCA Pre/Line Out
      Spotify vs
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Napster vs
      More Speaker Terminals 15 vs 9
      More Large Speaker Terminals 15 vs 9
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
      Gold plated RCA terminals vs
      Bigger Power Supply 900 W vs 290 W
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 190 W (0.7% THD) vs 165 W (1.0% THD)
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 102 dB vs 101 dB
      Longer Warranty 3 Years vs 2 Years

      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-63

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-63 over Denon AVC-X8500H.

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      Pioneer SC-63
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      Denon AVC-X8500H vs Pioneer SC-63
      Dolby Pro Logic vs PLIIz
      Surround EX vs
      DTS Neo vs Neo:6
      DSD to PCM Converter vs
      Dialogue Lift vs via Dialog Enhancement
      High-resolution Music Enhancer vs Hi-bit24 Audio Processing
      USB DC Out Port vs 1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
      More RCA Line Outputs vs 1
      More Composite Video Inputs 4 vs 5 (1 front)
      More Composite Video Outputs 1 vs 2
      Front A/V Inputs HDMI, USB vs HDMI, USB, Composite Video
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 1 / 1 vs 2 / 1
      Analog Tuner vs FM/AM
      Pandora vs
      SiriusXM vs

      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-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        High Power Output150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)125 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 Advanced MCACC
        New HDCP Version2.22.2
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component, Composite Component****, Composite
        Bluetooth SBC via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
        Many HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)7 (1 front)
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        RCA Pre-Outs15.29.2
        Composite Video Inputs45 (1 front)
        Component Video Inputs32
        Ethernet
        Zones33
      WEAKNESSES Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        No HDR10+
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 1080p
        Few 8K Inputs
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63

      13 channel Amplifier: Denon AVC-X8500H features 13 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      7 channel Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-63 features 7 channel power amplifier with Class D3 design. It is rated at 125 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.


        AMPLIFIER Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Channels13.27.2
        Power Output150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)125 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability 5-ch (assignable)Front Channel

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        Denon AVC-X8500H
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        7. Speaker Configurations

        Denon AVC-X8500H's and Pioneer SC-63's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Denon AVC-X8500H: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 5.2.6, 7.2.2, 7.2.4, 7.2.6, 9.2.2, 9.2.4 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-63: Not supported.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Denon AVC-X8500H: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 5.2.6, 7.2.2, 7.2.4, 7.2.6, 9.2.2, 9.2.4 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-63: Not supported.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Denon AVC-X8500H: 5.2, 7.2, 9.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-63: 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:
        • Denon AVC-X8500H: 9.2, 9.2.2, 9.2.4.
        • Pioneer SC-63: 7.2.
        • Bi-Amp: Denon AVC-X8500H is able to bi-amp up to 5 and Pioneer SC-63 is able to bi-amp up to 2 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-X8500H supports Dolby Atmos.

        • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Denon AVC-X8500H 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-X8500H 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-X8500H supports DTS:X.

        • DTS:X Pro: Denon AVC-X8500H 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-X8500H 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-X8500H 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-X8500H 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-X8500H 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-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X via firmware update
        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 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-63
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        9. HDMI

        Denon AVC-X8500H comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for ZONE2.

        Pioneer SC-63 comes with 7 HDMI inputs. It has 1 output.

        • 4K/60Hz Passthrough on Denon AVC-X8500H: All inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
          1080/60p Passthrough on Pioneer SC-63: All inputs pass up to 1080p video signal.
        • 4K Upscaling on Denon AVC-X8500H: It can upscale up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 from HDMI and analog sources.
          1080p Upscaling on Pioneer SC-63: It can upscale up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo) from HDMI and analog sources.
        • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Both receivers support 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 Denon AVC-X8500H only).
        • HDCP 2.2 Copy Protection: Both receivers are 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-X8500H supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

        Pioneer SC-63 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-X8500H 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-X8500H supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



        VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.22.2
        QMS (Quick Media Switching)
        ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
        VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
        QFT (Quick Frame transport)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 1080p
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo)

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        Denon AVC-X8500H
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        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Denon AVC-X8500H 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 Denon AVC-X8500H and use high quality DACs of the player instead of the ones in the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Denon AVC-X8500H has 15.2 and Pioneer SC-63 has 9.2 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.
        • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 7 pair of line inputs on Denon AVC-X8500H and 5 pair of line inputs on Pioneer SC-63 for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Pioneer SC-63.
        • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available for digital audio connections on both receivers.
        • Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

        Video

        • HDMI:
        • Denon AVC-X8500H
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Pioneer SC-63
          Inputs:           7 (1 front)   Outputs: 1
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Denon AVC-X8500H
          Inputs:           4   Outputs: 1.
        • Pioneer SC-63
          Inputs:           5   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. Both receivers support up to 1080p resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Denon AVC-X8500H
          Inputs:           3   Outputs: 1.
        • Pioneer SC-63
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Denon AVC-X8500H: HDMI, USB
        • Pioneer SC-63: HDMI, USB, Composite Video

        Denon AVC-X8500H

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        Pioneer SC-63

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        TERMINALS Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)7 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)1
        8K Inputs
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs
        Coaxial Inputs22
        RCA Line Inputs75
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input 7.1
        RCA Pre-Outs15.29.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs45 (1 front)
        Composite Video Outputs12
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs32
        Component Video Outputs11

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        Pioneer SC-63
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        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Denon AVC-X8500H and Pioneer SC-63 and gave them scores of 94 and 77 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-X8500H

        Pioneer SC-63

        OVERALL
        94
        OVERALL
        77

        Amplifier

        EXCELLENT
        95
        •   Many Channels - 13.2
        •   High Power Output - 150 W
        EXCELLENT
        90
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 125 W

        Audio Features

        EXCELLENT
        97
        •   Many Channels - 13.2
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   13.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   IMAX Enhanced
        •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI
        GOOD
        73
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   7.1 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
        96
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
        POOR
        54
        •   No HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Works with Amazon Alexa
        •   HEOS
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   Many RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   Multi-Channel Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR
        GOOD
        82
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   7 HDMI Inputs
        •   1 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   No Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet

        Zones

        EXCELLENT
        93
        •   3 Zones
        EXCELLENT
        91
        •   3 Zones

        Radio

        GOOD
        82
        •   No Analog Tuner
        •   No Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   No Spotify
        •   No Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        BrandDenonPioneer
        SeriesElite
        ModelAVC-X8500HSC-63
        TypeA/V AmplifierA/V Receiver
        CountryUKUSA
        Release Year20182012
        PredecessorDenon AVR-X7200WA
        SuccessorDenon AVC-X8500HA Pioneer SC-72
        AMPLIFIER Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Channels13.27.2
        Power Output150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)125 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignClass D3
        Discrete Amplification
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Mono Block Power Amplifier Construction L/R separated
        Bi-amp Capability 5-ch (assignable)Front Channel
        AUDIO FEATURES Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineFour powerful high speed 4th generation SHARC DSP processors with 32-bit floating pointTI Aureus
        DACAKM AK4490EQ
        DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/24 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing13.27.1
        D.D.S.C. HD Digital 32 bit
        Alpha Processing AL32 Processing Multichannel
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X Pro up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X via firmware update
        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 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer 13.1-ch (Built-In)
        PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDLPCM, WAV 192kHz, MP3, ACC, WMA, FLAC 192kHz
        Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDWAV, MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC,
        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, DSDWAV/FLAC
        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 plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
        Auto Level ControlMulti-Channel
        DTS Dialogue Control
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialog Level Adjustment
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift via Dialog Enhancement
        Sound Retriever Advanced (Multi-Channel / Auto with ARC)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control Front L/R Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever
        High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit24 Audio Processing
        Digital Filter Slow Mode 96 kHz
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Direct Mode
        Pure Direct Mode
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround15 + Headphone Surround
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance (Focus/Wide)
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual SpeakersSurround Back / Height / Depth / Wide
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 Advanced MCACC
        Audyssey App Support
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory6
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control
        EQ Bands9
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment1/2 Inch
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        Optimized Bass Redirection
        Bass Sync
        VIDEO FEATURES Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.22.2
        QMS (Quick Media Switching)
        ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
        VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
        QFT (Quick Frame transport)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 1080p
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 up to 1080/24p (Marvell Qdeo)
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component, Composite Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080p1080p (1125p)
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter AdjustmentsAdvanced Video Adjust - HD Sources Progressive Motion - YNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black level
        Triple HD noise Reduction
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Wi-Fi via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately)
        Bluetooth SBC via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
        Bluetooth Headphone Transmission
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Chromecast Built-In
        Works with SonoS
        HEOS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input
        DLNA 1.5
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay
        Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPadiPod/iPhone/iPad
        Remote App Denon 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices and Kindle FireiControlAV2012(iPad, iPhone, Android)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)7 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)1
        8K Inputs
        USB Input1 Front for USB memory1 Front
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs
        Coaxial Inputs22
        RCA Line Inputs75
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input 7.1
        RCA Pre-Outs15.29.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs45 (1 front)
        Composite Video Outputs12
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs32
        Component Video Outputs11
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsHDMI, USBHDMI, USB, Composite Video
        Speaker A/B assignable
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        adapterport
        ZONES Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Number of Zones33
        Powered Zones 2 and 3 2 and 3
        Zone 2 OutsHDMI, Composite, Pre OutComposite Video, RCA Pre/Line Out + Sub
        Zone 3 OutsPre Out, CompositeRCA Pre/Line Out
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output22 (Main, Zone2, Zone 3)
        Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 12 / 1
        MISCELLANEOUS Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User InterfaceGUI with Album Art
        GUI Languages9
        Web Control
        Multi-Zone On-Screen Display (Zone 2)
        HDMI Speaker B Link
        AV Navigator
        PC Set-UpWith Remote Maintenance
        IP Control
        Control4 SDDP
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker ConfigurationBi-Amp / Zone 2 / B-Speaker / Surround Back / Front Height / Front Width
        Display 2 lines
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerRC-1221Learning
        Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / /
        Denon Link HD
        Setup Assistant
        Quick Select plus / Quick Select /
        RADIO Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Analog Tuner FM/AM
        Presets63
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio TuneIn vTuner
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        ChassisInsulated Dual Chassis
        Front PanelMetalAluminum (Hairline)
        Solid Aluminum Front
        ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
        Speaker Terminals159
        Large Speaker Terminals159
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        High Grade Audio Components
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Power SupplyAC 230 V, 50/60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption900 W290 W
        No Sound PowerECO On/Off: 70 W/125 W
        Standby Power0.1 W0.1 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power Standby
        Auto Power off
        PHYSICAL Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Dimensions (W x H x D)434 mm x 195 mm x 482 mm (with antenna: 434 mm x 259 mm x 482 mm)
        17-1/8" x 7-3/4" x 18-3/4" (with antenna up: 17-1/8" x 10-1/4" x 18-3/4")        		435 mm x 185 mm x 441 mm
        17-1/8" x 7-1/4" x 17-3/8"
        Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)569 mm x 328 mm x 539 mm
        Weight23.3 kg (51 lbs 6 oz)14.6 kg (32.2 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Denon AVC-X8500H Pioneer SC-63
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)150 W (0.05% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)125 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)190 W (0.7% THD)165 W (1.0% 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)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)200 W (1.0% THD)
        Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive630 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
        Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)280 W x 2-channel
        Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)170 W x 2-channel
        THD0.04% (1 kHz, 110 W + 110 W, 8 Ω)
        THD (Digital)0.008% (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)200 mV/47 kΩ375 mV/47 kΩ (Line)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)2.5 mV
        Rated Lineout Level and Impedance1.2 V375 mV/2.2 kΩ (REC OUT)
        Rated Output digital2 V (at 0 dB playback)
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)102 dB101 dB
        S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)74 dB
        S/N Ratio (digital)102 dB
        Dynamic Range (digital)100 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 (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)        		1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
        Video Frequency Response5 Hz to 60 MHz, 0 dB/-3 dB (Component)
        5 Hz to 10 MHz, 0 dB/-3 dB (Composite)
        Ethernet Standard100BASE-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
        Bluetooth Version3․0 + EDR
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
        HDMI Terminal19-pin (not DVI)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 55 mA
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 5V, 1 AUSB2.0 (Type A) 5 V, 2.1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108 MHz
        AM Frequency530 kHz - 1700 kHz
        Warranty3 Years2 Years

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

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