Marantz SR7012 vs Pioneer VSX-LX304

      Marantz SR7012

      Pioneer VSX-LX304
      92
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      90
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      USA
      UK
      North America
      Europe
      Australia and Asia
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      Highlights

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

      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 9.1 Channel Processing
      • 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 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 Marantz SR7012
      4. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-LX304
      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 Marantz SR7012 to Pioneer VSX-LX304 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. Both receivers have 9 channel amplifiers.


      Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304

      Marantz SR7012 was introduced in 2017. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 125 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

      Pioneer VSX-LX304 was introduced in 2019. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 9.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales 1080p to 4K video signal.

      We evaluated Marantz SR7012 and Pioneer VSX-LX304 and gave them scores of 92 and 90 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Marantz SR7012

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      Amplifier
      90
      Amplifier
      89
      Audio Features
      91
      Audio Features
      90
      Video Features
      95
      Video Features
      95
      Connectivity
      92
      Connectivity
      85
      Zones
      93
      Zones
      90
      Radio
      96
      Radio
      90
      OVERALL
      92
      OVERALL
      90

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

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Marantz SR7012 and Pioneer VSX-LX304.

      PROS

      Marantz SR7012

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      •   High Power Output - 125 W
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   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
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   9.1 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
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      CONS

      Marantz SR7012

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   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

      Marantz SR7012

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      •   9.2 Channels
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   3 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      3. Advantage of Marantz SR7012

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Marantz SR7012 over Pioneer VSX-LX304.

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      Marantz SR7012
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      Marantz SR7012 vs Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Higher Power Output 125 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      More Channel Processing 11.2 vs 9.1
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer Built-In vs
      Jitter Reduction vs
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      Audyssey LFC vs
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 vs 1080p to 4K
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite vs
      isf Certified Calibration Control vs
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      DLNA 1.5 vs
      More HDMI Inputs 8 (1 front) vs 7 (1 front)
      More HDMI Outputs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2) vs 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
      More Optical Inputs 2 vs 1
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 2 vs 1
      More RCA Line Inputs 6 (1 front) vs 5 (1 front)
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1 vs
      More RCA Pre-Outs 11.2 vs 0.2
      More Composite Video Inputs 4 (1 front) vs
      More Composite Video Outputs 1 vs
      More Component Video Inputs 3 vs
      More Component Video Outputs 1 vs
      Front A/V Inputs HDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio vs HDMI, USB, Mini-Jack
      Speaker A/B assignable vs
      Zone 2 Outs HDMI, Component, Composite, Pre Out vs HDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B line out)
      Zone 3 Outs Pre Out vs
      Pandora vs
      Napster vs
      SiriusXM vs
      More Speaker Terminals 11 vs 9
      More Large Speaker Terminals 11 vs 9
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
      Gold plated RCA terminals vs
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 235 W (10% THD) vs 185 W (10% THD)
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) 200 W (1% THD) vs 170 W (1% THD)
      Wider AM Frequency Range 520 kHz - 1710 kHz vs 522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz

      4. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-LX304

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer VSX-LX304 over Marantz SR7012.

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      Pioneer VSX-LX304
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      Marantz SR7012 vs Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Higher DAC Specs 768 kHz/32 Bit vs 384 kHz/32 Bit
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      Music Playback via USB MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD vs Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, DSD
      Dialog Enhancement vs
      Newer HDCP Version 2.2 vs 2.3
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      Works with SONOS vs
      DTS Play-Fi vs
      USB Input 1 (Front) for USB memory vs 2 (1 Front)
      More GUI Languages 3 vs 9
      Analog Tuner FM/AM vs FM/AM with RDS
      Bigger Power Supply 710 W vs 760 W
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 100 dB vs 106 dB
      Higher S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) 74 dB vs 80 dB
      Higher DSD Sampling Rate via USB 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz vs 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz
      Newer Bluetooth Version 3․0 + EDR vs 4․2

      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 Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
        Channel Processing11.29.1
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
        DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 Advanced MCACC
        HDR10
        Dolby Vision
        New HDCP Version2.22.3
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC SBC, AAC
        Many HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)7 (1 front)
        USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory2 (1 Front)
        Phono Input
        Ethernet
        Zones33
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM with RDS
        Spotify
        Tidal
      WEAKNESSES Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
        No Front Wide Channel Support
        No HDR10+
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)
        Few 8K Inputs
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304

      9 channel Amplifier: Marantz SR7012 features 9 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 125 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      9 channel Direct Energy Amplifier: Pioneer VSX-LX304 features 9 channel power amplifier with Direct Energy design. It is rated at 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.
      • Current Feedback Topology: Marantz SR7012 features Current Feedback Topology which is a well known, Marantz’ original circuit technology. The Current Feedback amplifier technology fits perfectly with the high requirements set for Super Audio software providing wide-bandwidth, high-speed reproduction. The impedance at the Current Feedback point is limited resulting in a very low phase shift. Marantz receivers and amplifiers equipped with Current Feedback can keep the phase compensation via Negative FeedBack (NFB) to a minimum, resulting in high through-rate, excellent transient response and superb sonic transparency for the full bandwidth. Unlike conventional Voltage Feedback amplification, the Current Feedback amplification makes the power amplifier in-sensitive to difficult loudspeaker loads.
      • HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module): Marantz SR7012 features exclusive Marantz HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) technology found on their Reference Series components. Marantz developed its own discrete circuit boards to replace standard IC's. These HDAM's consist of discrete surface mount components with short mirror image L/R signal paths. Those devices are doing exactly the same thing as the Op-Amps, but outperform the regular IC Op-amps dramatically in terms of the Slew Rate and reduced noise level, resulting in a much more dynamic, accurate and detailed sound. Over the years Marantz developed different types of the HDAM to improve quality and to fit to the special requirements of a product category like CD or amplifier.


      AMPLIFIER Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Channels9.29.2
      Power Output125 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability assignable

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      Marantz SR7012
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      7. Speaker Configurations

      Marantz SR7012's and Pioneer VSX-LX304's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

      • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
      • Marantz SR7012: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX304: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
      • Marantz SR7012: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX304: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
      • Marantz SR7012: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX304: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
      • 2-ch Bi-Amp: Both models are 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

      Marantz SR7012 and Pioneer VSX-LX304 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: Pioneer VSX-LX304 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

      Marantz SR7012 and Pioneer VSX-LX304 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: Marantz SR7012 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

      Marantz SR7012 supports Auro-3D.

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

      IMAX Enhanced

      Pioneer VSX-LX304 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 Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      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 Built-In

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      Pioneer VSX-LX304
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      9. HDMI

      Marantz SR7012 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for ZONE2.

      Pioneer VSX-LX304 comes with 7 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs - 1 MAIN and 1 SUB/ZONE 2.

      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough: On both receivers all inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
      • 4K Upscaling on Marantz SR7012: It can upscale up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 from HDMI and analog sources.
        4K Upscaling on Pioneer VSX-LX304: It can upscale 1080p to 4K from HDMI sources.
      • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Marantz SR7012 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 Copy Protection: Marantz SR7012 is HDCP 2.2 and Pioneer VSX-LX304 is 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)

      Both receivers support 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)

      Marantz SR7012 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.



      VIDEO FEATURES Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.3
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 1080p to 4K

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      Marantz SR7012
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      10. Inputs and Outputs

      Audio

      • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Marantz SR7012 and Pioneer VSX-LX304 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 Marantz SR7012 and use high quality DACs of the player instead of the ones in the receiver.
      • Analog Pre-Outs: Marantz SR7012 has 11.2 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. Also, Marantz SR7012 has 11 channel processing but has only 9 channel amplifier, so it needs external amplifier connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach its maximum speaker configuration.
      • Analog Line Inputs: There are 6 pair of line inputs on Marantz SR7012 and 5 pair of line inputs on Pioneer VSX-LX304 for connecting sources with analog outputs.
      • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Marantz SR7012 and 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available on Pioneer VSX-LX304 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:
      • Marantz SR7012
        Inputs:         8 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX304
        Inputs:         7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
      • Marantz SR7012
        Inputs:         4   Outputs: 1.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX304
        Inputs:         0   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. resolution on Component video connectors.
      • Marantz SR7012
        Inputs:         3   Outputs: 1.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX304
        Inputs:         0   Outputs: 0.

      Front A/V Inputs

      • Marantz SR7012: HDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio
      • Pioneer VSX-LX304: HDMI, USB, Mini-Jack

      Marantz SR7012

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      Pioneer VSX-LX304

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      TERMINALS Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)7 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
      8K Inputs
      USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory2 (1 Front)
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs21
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs21
      RCA Line Inputs6 (1 front)5 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1
      RCA Pre-Outs11.20.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs4 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs1
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs3
      Component Video Outputs1

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      Pioneer VSX-LX304
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      11. Evaluations

      We evaluated Marantz SR7012 and Pioneer VSX-LX304 and gave them scores of 92 and 90 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


      Marantz SR7012

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      OVERALL
      92
      OVERALL
      90

      Amplifier

      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   High Power Output - 125 W
      EXCELLENT
      89
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W

      Audio Features

      EXCELLENT
      91
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   9.1 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
      95
      •   HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      EXCELLENT
      95
      •   HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough

      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
      EXCELLENT
      85
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   3 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      Zones

      EXCELLENT
      93
      •   3 Zones
      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   3 Zones

      Radio

      EXCELLENT
      96
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   No Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      12. Specifications

      GENERAL Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      BrandMarantzPioneer
      SeriesElite
      ModelSR7012VSX-LX304
      TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
      CountryUSAEurope
      Release Year20172019
      PredecessorMarantz SR7011 Pioneer VSX-LX303
      SuccessorMarantz SR7013 Pioneer VSX-LX305
      AMPLIFIER Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Channels9.29.2
      Power Output125 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      Amplifier DesignDirect Energy
      Current Feedback Topology
      Discrete Amplification
      HDAM
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability assignable
      AUDIO FEATURES Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineDigital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic) + Aureus™ Floating-Point DSP (TI)
      DACAKM AK4458AKM AK4458 & TI PCM5101
      DAC Specs768 kHz/32 Bit384 kHz/32 Bit
      Maximum Channel Processing11.29.1
      Air Studios Monitor Certification
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      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 Built-In
      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, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSDMP3, 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, DSDApple 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 2-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter
      USB DAC
      Jitter Reduction
      DTS Dialogue Control
      Dialog Enhancement
      Dialog Level Adjustment
      Dialog normalization
      Dialogue Lift
      Sound Retriever Advanced
      Sound Retriever AIR
      Digital noise Reduction
      Tone Control All Channels
      Compressed Music Enhancer MDAX2 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 Surround10 + 1
      Wide Surround
      Front Stage Surround Advance
      Headphone Surround
      Virtual Speakers
      Virtual Depth
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs
      CALIBRATION Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 Advanced MCACC
      Audyssey App Support
      Manual MCACC
      MCACC Memory1
      Reflex Optimizer
      Phase Control
      Auto Phase Control Plus
      Full Band Phase Control
      Standing Wave Control Multi-Point
      EQ Bands9-Band
      Symmetric EQ
      Distance Adjustment0.1 feet
      Precision Distance
      Polarity Check
      Auto Subwoofer Crossover
      Optimized Bass Redirection
      Bass Sync
      VIDEO FEATURES Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.3
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 1080p to 4K
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite
      Component Video Upscaling
      Analog to Analog Video conversion
      Stream Smoother
      Pure Cinema
      Video Parameter Adjustments
      Super Resolution
      isf Certified Calibration Control
      CONNECTIVITY Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Wi-Fi
      Bluetooth SBC SBC, AAC
      Works with Amazon Alexa
      Google Assistant
      Chromecast Built-In
      Apple Siri
      Works with SonoS
      HEOS
      DTS Play-Fi
      MHL Input
      DLNA 1.5
      Domotz Pro Compatible
      Remote Monitoring with ihiji
      OvrC Compatible
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay 2
      Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad Made for iPhone, iPod and iPad (Airplay only)
      Remote App Marantz 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices
      InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
      TERMINALS Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)7 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
      8K Inputs
      USB Input1 (Front) for USB memory2 (1 Front)
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs21
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs21
      RCA Line Inputs6 (1 front)5 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1
      RCA Pre-Outs11.20.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs4 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs1
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs3
      Component Video Outputs1
      Ethernet
      Ethernet Switch
      PC In
      Front A/V InputsHDMI, USB, Composite, L/R AudioHDMI, USB, Mini-Jack
      Speaker A/B assignable
      Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
      Detachable Power Cord
      Flasher In
      Remote Control In/Out1 / 1
      adapterport
      ZONES Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Number of Zones33
      Powered Zones 2 and 32 and 3
      Zone 2 OutsHDMI, Component, Composite, Pre OutHDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B line out)
      Zone 3 OutsPre Out
      RS-232C Interface
      +12V Trigger Output22 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA)
      Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 1
      MISCELLANEOUS Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User Interface
      GUI Languages39
      Web Control
      AV Navigator
      IP Control
      PreAmp Mode
      Versatile Speaker ConfigurationSpeaker 9ch Out (FRONT, CENTER,SURROUND, SURROUND BACK/HEIGHT/Bi-AMP, ZONE 2)
      Display 2 lines + port hole
      FL Dimmer
      Remote ControllerRC035SR
      Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / /
      Setup Assistant
      RADIO Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM with RDS
      Presets40
      Digital Radio
      Internet Radio TuneIn TuneIn
      Pandora
      Spotify
      Tidal
      Deezer
      Napster
      SiriusXM
      CONSTRUCTION Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Front PanelMetalBrushed
      Solid Aluminum Front
      Speaker Terminals119
      Large Speaker Terminals119
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
      Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
      3D Space Frame Construction
      High Grade Audio Components
      Gold plated RCA terminals
      POWER Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz
      Toroidal Transformer (EI)
      Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
      Transformer Stabilizer
      Power Consumption710 W760 W
      No Sound PowerECO On/Off: 65 W/110 W75 W
      Standby Power0.2 W0.15 W
      ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
      Auto Power off
      PHYSICAL Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Dimensions (W x H x D)440 mm x 185 mm x 411 mm (with antenna: 440 mm x 247 mm x 411 mm)
      17-3/8" x 7-3/8" x 16-1/4" (with antenna: 17-3/8" x 9-3/4" x 16-1/4"      		435 mm x 173 mm x 370.5 mm
      17-1/8" x 6-13/16" x 14-9/16"
      Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)544 mm x 287 mm x 443 mm
      21-7/16" x 11-5/16" x 17-7/16"
      Weight14.2 kg (31 lbs 5 oz)10.8 kg (23.8 lbs)
      Weight of Package13.5 kg (29.8 lbs)
      SPECIFICATIONS Marantz SR7012 Pioneer VSX-LX304
      Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)125 W (0.05% THD)
      Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)165 W (0.7% THD)
      Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)235 W (10% THD)185 W (10% THD)
      Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)200 W (1% THD)170 W (1% THD)
      Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)250 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)220 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)130 W
      THD0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, half power)
      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 kΩ200 mV/47 kΩ
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)2.5 mV3.5 mV/47 kΩ
      Rated Output digital2 V (at 0 dB playback)
      Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance8 Ω - 600 Ω
      Rated Headphone Power Output85 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
      Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)
      S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)100 dB106 dB
      S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)74 dB80 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)5 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio)
      DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
      DSD Sampling Rates via USB5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 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)
      Video Frequency Response5 Hz - 60 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Component)
      5 Hz - 10 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Composite)
      Ethernet Standard100BASE-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
      Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/nIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
      Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
      Bluetooth Version3․0 + EDR4․2
      Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
      USB TerminalUSB2.0 5V, 1 AVer. 2.0, 5 V, 500 mA
      FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz
      FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)Mono: 1.0 µV (11.2 dBf)
      FM Effective Sensitivity1.2 µV (12.8 dBf)
      FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 70 dB/67 dB
      FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.7%/1.0%
      AM Frequency520 kHz - 1710 kHz522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz
      AM Effective Sensitivity18 µV
      Warranty3 Years3 Years

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

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