1-on-1 Comparison

Side-by-Side Comparison

Onkyo TX-NR797

Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305

SCORE:
90
SCORE:
91

Highlights

  • 9.2 channels
  • 9.1 channel processing
  • 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
  • THX Select™ certified
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X capable
  • HDR10, Dolby Vision, 4K Upscaling, 4K Passthrough
  • AirPlay 2, Chromecast
  • Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • USB and Phono inputs

Highlights

  • 9.2 channels
  • 9.1 channel processing
  • 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
  • HDMI 2.1
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X capable
  • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 8K Upscaling, 8K Passthrough
  • AirPlay 2, Chromecast
  • Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • USB and Phono inputs

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

Content

Overview

Here we are comparing Onkyo TX-NR797 to Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 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 and equally powerful amplifiers.


Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305

Onkyo TX-NR797 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.

Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 was introduced in 2021. 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 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K video signal.

We evaluated the a/v receiver and gave 90 overall score out of 100. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

We evaluated the a/v receiver and gave 91 overall score out of 100. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

AMPLIFIER
91
VIDEO FEATURES
95
AUDIO FEATURES
91
CONNECTIVITY
85
MULTIZONE
90
MISCELLANEOUS
65
RADIO
92
OVERALL
90

AMPLIFIER
90
VIDEO FEATURES
100
AUDIO FEATURES
90
CONNECTIVITY
88
MULTIZONE
91
MISCELLANEOUS
64
RADIO
92
OVERALL
91

Advantage of Onkyo TX-NR797

This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Onkyo TX-NR797 over Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305.

Onkyo TX-NR797 has higher DAC specs.

Onkyo TX-NR797 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
THX™ Certification Select™ (previously known as Select2) vs
Higher DAC Specs 384 kHz/32 Bit vs 192 kHz/24 Bit
DTS Virtual:X via future firmware update vs
High Resolution Audio Formats via USB FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD vs Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, DSD
Jitter Reduction PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology for S/PDIF Audio vs
Virtual Speakers T-D (Theater-Dimensional) vs
Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite vs
More RCA Line Inputs 7 (1 Front) vs 4
More Composite Video Inputs 2 vs
More Component Video Inputs 1 vs

Advantage of Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305

This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 over Onkyo TX-NR797.

Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 has higher wi-fi standard. It supports Amazon Alexa.

Onkyo TX-NR797 vs Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Dialog Enhancement vs
Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
HDR10+ vs
QMS vs
Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through vs
VRR vs
QFT vs
Video Signal Passthrough up to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4) vs up to 8K/60p RGB/YCbCr4:2:0/10-bit uncompressed or RGB/YCbCr4:4:4/12-bit compressed (TV needs DSC)
Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K vs 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K
Works with Amazon Alexa vs
More 8K Inputs vs 6
USB Input 1 (Rear) vs 2 (1 Front)
Front A/V Inputs HDMI, Mini-Jack vs HDMI, USB, Mini-Jack
+12V Trigger Output 1 (MAIN, 100 mA) vs 2 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA)
Remote (IR) Input/Output 1 / 0 vs 1 / 1
Longer Warranty 2 Years vs 3 Years
Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 220 W (10% THD) vs 225 W (10% THD)
Wi-Fi Standard IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n vs IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac

Common Strengths and Weaknesses

Here we list common strengths and weaknesses of both receivers.

STRENGTHS
  9.1 Channel Processing
  Dolby Atmos
  Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
  DTS:X
  IMAX Enhanced
  DSD via HDMI
  Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
  New HDCP Version
  HDR10
  Dolby Vision
  4K or 8K Video Passthrough
  4K or 8K Signal Upscaling
  Chromecast Built-In
  Ethernet
  Wi-Fi
  Bluetooth
  Many HDMI Inputs
  USB Input
  Many Optical Inputs
  Zones
  Analog Tuner
  Pandora
  Spotify
  Tidal
  New Bluetooth Version
WEAKNESSES
  No Front Wide Channel Support
  No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
  No RCA Pre-Outs

Audio Section

Amplifier

Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305

9 channel Linear Class A/B Amplifier: Onkyo TX-NR797 features 9 channel power amplifier with Linear Class A/B design. It is rated at 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

9 channel Direct Energy Amplifier: Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 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.

  • Dynamic Audio Amplification: Onkyo TX-NR797 features Dynamic Audio Amplification which is Onkyo’s amplification philosophy that focuses on capturing the energy and dynamism contained in the audio signal and reproducing it without loss. Audio signals are not static like a test tone, but rather a countless collection of constantly moving waves. While static measurements such as S/N ratio and Total Harmonic Distortion are important, Onkyo believes that excellent dynamic and transient response is the key to emotionally involving sound. Dynamism - the “life” in music - is achieved when the amp can respond to changes in the signal instantaneously, so notes start and stop naturally and the nuances in attack, decay, sustain, and release are voiced with conviction. Onkyo home theater receivers represent the culmination of almost 70 years’ experience in amplifier design. The unique elements of their amplification system comprise high-current, low-impedance architecture to accurately control large speaker cones while enabling instantaneous response to dynamic changes, and discrete wide-range amplifier circuit topology to eliminate phase shift for clear and accurate audio imaging.
  • WRAT (Wide Range Amp Technology): Onkyo TX-NR797 features Onkyo’s Wide Range Amp Technology (WRAT) circuit layout that prevents phase shifting by pushing the roll-off point higher than the listening-level frequency. Amplifying sound without phase shift creates an uncommonly well-focused and realistic audio image. If phase shift occurs and signal timing is not accurate, then neither is the resulting audio image.

THX Select™ (previously known as Select2) certification

Onkyo TX-NR797 is THX Select™ (previously known as Select2) certified. This means that it is for medium sized rooms, up to 2,000 cubic feet in size, with a 10-12 foot viewing distance from the screen.

  • THX™ Certification: THX™ Certification offers optimal performance, superior quality and seamless integration. THX works with partners from the ground up, so that certified products deliver professional quality audio-visual experiences right out of the box. They only certify the very best products with uncompromised quality, performance and consistency. They ensure that THX certified devices play well with lower performing devices and components. THX listening modes make the receiver to have one speaker set up for movies, music and games. They are tested for power output, bass management, signal-to-noise ratio and feature THX Loudness Plus, Boundary Gain Compensation, Timbre Matching and RE-EQ.
  • Power Output: Power output is tested to ensure the receiver accurately plays source material at THX Reference Level in every input and mode and at every sampling rate for all possible playback combinations selected by the listener.
  • Frequency Response: THX has strict requirements for frequency response to ensure that you hear all the details in high-resolution tracks, ensures dialog in movies, and vocals in music are clear while maintaining deep, impactful bass output that doesn’t overpower the listening experience.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: THX tests the signal-to-noise ratio to ensure the unit is designed to have low noise performance with very little to no audible hiss from the speakers.
  • Bass Management: THX requires an 80Hz crossover point in the setup menu to ensure proper bass management in every THX Certified AVR. This setting confirms that the subwoofer handles low frequencies, freeing up the loudspeakers to handle mids and highs.
  • THX Loudness Plus™: THX Loudness Plus™ is a volume control technology featured in THX Certified Dominus, THX Certified Ultra and THX Certified Select AV Receivers, and preamplifiers that automatically adjusts the front-to-back speaker level relationship as you turn the volume down. With THX Loudness Plus, home theater audiences can now experience the rich details of surround sound at any volume level.
  • Boundary Gain Compensation: Sitting near a wall may result in increased acoustic levels at the lower frequencies. BGC corrects the way low frequency sound is perceived when seated near a wall. This results in a more accurate bass response.
  • Timbre Matching: Your ears hear different tonal qualities in sounds coming from different directions. Timbre Matching restores the frequency balance between your front and surround speakers ensuring seamless and smooth panning between the front to back of the room.
  • RE-EQ: Many movie soundtracks are mixed in studios for playback in large cinema auditoriums with an array of speakers. When played on home systems, they may appear abrasive and edgy. Re-EQ establishes a more accurate tonal balance when enjoying movies in your home.

Speaker Configurations

Onkyo TX-NR797's and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

  • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
  • Onkyo TX-NR797: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier.
  • Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier.
  • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
  • Onkyo TX-NR797: 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.
  • Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305: 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:
  • Onkyo TX-NR797: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
  • Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305: 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.

  • Dolby Atmos

    Onkyo TX-NR797 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 support Dolby Atmos. It is a cinematic audio format in which sounds exist as individual entities, called audio objects. In Dolby Atmos, any sound can exist as an independent audio object, free of channel restrictions. They can be precisely placed and moved anywhere in your room, including overhead, to flow above and around you in three-dimensional space. Through the use of audio objects, overhead sound, and all the richness, clarity, and power of Dolby sound, Dolby Atmos turns your room into an amazing place for entertainment. The format supports up to 128 simultaneous independent audio objects in a mix for rich, realistic, and breathtaking sound. It recreates the director's original concept through descriptive metadata to provide customized playback for home theater and delivers sounds above you through overhead speakers, special upward-firing Dolby Atmos speakers, or a Dolby Atmos enabled sound bar.

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

    DTS:X

    Onkyo TX-NR797 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 support DTS:X. A technique used in DTS:X is similar to the one used in Dolby Atmos. Instead of a fixed number of channels, DTS:X defines object locations from the listener in polar coordinates. An a/v receiver then dynamically renders sound according to the current speaker configuration. The speaker layout employed by DTS:X is the sum of Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D. It has standard 7.1 channel base layer, a 5 channel height layer above the base layer on the front and side walls, and 3 rows of speakers on the ceiling.

    • 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: Onkyo TX-NR797 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.

    Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

    Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 supports Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature 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.



    Sound Processing

    • Compressed Music Enhancer: Onkyo TX-NR797 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 feature Compressed Music Enhancer which enhances the quality of the music files with lossy compression.
    • Advanced Music Optimizer: Compressed music enhancement in Onkyo TX-NR797 is done by Onkyo’s Advanced Music Optimizer. While MP3 or AAC files may sound fine through the headphones of your portable digital player, the limitations of these files can be exposed when played back through a quality home entertainment system. This is because a significant amount of high-frequency bit information is lost during the file-compression process. To counter this, Onkyo has designed the Advanced Music Optimizer to compensate for lost bit information and improve the quality of compressed audio signals. This results in a clearer and more expansive sound. Also included in this technology is a loudness correction feature that further improves the audio character of compressed files.
    • Advanced Sound Retriever: Compressed music enhancement in Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 is done by Pioneer’s Advanced Sound Retriever. Hear the detail, warmth and clarity, the way the artist intended it, from all of your highly compressed MP3 and WMA files stored on USB, Smartphone and portable media players. By restoring data that tend to get lost in the digital compression process, Pioneers Advanced Sound Retriever Technology enhances audio reproduction all the way upto 20 Khz frequencies.

    Room Calibration

    Onkyo TX-NR797 comes with AccuEQ Advance with AccuReflex™ and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 comes with Advanced MCACC and Dirac Live™ Room Correction room correction system.

    • MCACC: Pioneer’s exclusive Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC) delivers an easy-to-use, automatic sound adjustment system to precision-tune your Pioneer and Pioneer Elite receivers with minimal effort. Every MCACC system comes with a microphone to measure and analyze reverb characteristics. The equalizer optimally adjusts sound parameters to fit the size and shape of your home environment while maintaining the integrity of high-resolution playback without any degradation to the quality of your music.
    • AccuEQ: First, AccuEQ detects the presence of speakers and evaluates the impedance of each. Next, it pinpoints their distance relative to the main listening position using the mic and sets suitable sound-pressure levels. Then it selects the optimal crossover frequency so that deeper bass rolls smoothly off to the subwoofer. Finally, AccuEQ performs frequency response equalization based on room-acoustic and speaker data collected via microphone. The sound-field is now tailored around the listening position, resulting in a more immersive and realistic in-film experience.
    • Dirac Live: The interaction between your sound system and the physical layout of your room has a huge impact on sound quality. Dirac Live™ Room Correction applies state-of-the-art, patented algorithms to analyze and digitally reduce room impact and enhance speaker performance. Dirac Live delivers a larger sweet spot, accurate staging, clarity, voice intelligibility, and a deeper, tighter bass not otherwise possible. Fully tunable to your preference.

Video Section

HDMI

Onkyo TX-NR797 comes with 7 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs - 1 Main and 1 Sub/Zone2.

Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 comes with 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support and 1 inputs with 4K support. It has 2 outputs - 1 MAIN and 1 SUB/ZONE 2.

  • 4K/60Hz Passthrough on Onkyo TX-NR797: All inputs pass up to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4) video signal.
    8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305: 6 out of 7 inputs pass up to 8K/60p RGB/YCbCr4:2:0/10-bit uncompressed or RGB/YCbCr4:4:4/12-bit compressed (TV needs DSC) and the rest of the inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
  • 4K Upscaling on Onkyo TX-NR797: It can upscale 1080p to 4K from HDMI and analog sources.
    8K Upscaling on Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305: It can upscale 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K from HDMI sources.
  • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Onkyo TX-NR797 supports analog to HDMI Upconversion, so you can input your analog video sources and output them digitally via HDMI. This means that you will need only one HDMI cable to connect to your TV.
  • BT.2020 Color Space: BT.2020 or Rec. 2020 is a color standard which delivers a wider color gamut compared to Rec. 709. It covers approximately 75% of the total visual spectrum while the Rec. 709 covers only 35% (available on both models).
  • HDCP 2.3 Copy Protection: Both receivers are HDCP 2.3 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
  • Quick Media Switching (QMS): With HDMI 2.1a, Quick Media Switching for movies and video uses the HDMI VRR mechanism to eliminate the blackout period when an HDMI Source device switches its video mode. As long as the resolution remains the same and only the frame rate changes, QMS will instantly switch between frame rates. QMS eliminates A/V blackouts by using VRR technology to change frame rates, allowing instant changes from 24Hz to 60Hz frame rate, and anywhere in-between. The viewer never sees blank screens and gets a seamless experience (available on Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 only).
  • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

HDR (High Dynamic Range)

Onkyo TX-NR797 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 supports HDR10, 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.

  • HDR10: HDR10 uses the wide-gamut Rec. 2020 color space. It sends static metadata via video stream to the TV which calibrates its screen brightness and color according to that. HDR10 supports 10-bit color which corresponds to 1024 shades of the primary RGB colors. It is technically limited to a maximum of 10,000 nits peak brightness, however common HDR10 contents are mastered with peak brightness from 1,000 to 4,000 nits.
  • HDR10+: HDR10+ is an HDR video technology that adds dynamic metadata to HDR10 source files. The dynamic metadata are used to adjust brightness levels on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis. HDR10+ supports maximum of 10,000 nits peak brightness and 10-bit or more (up to 16-bit) color bit depth. It uses Samsung's dynamic metadata defined in SMPTE ST 2094-40.
  • Dolby Vision: Dolby Vision is a set of technologies developed by Dolby Laboratories for high dynamic range (HDR) video. It covers content creation, distribution, and playback. Like HDR10+, it includes dynamic metadata that are used to adjust and optimize each frame of the HDR video to the consumer display's capabilities in a way specified by the content creator. Dolby Vision allows for a maximum resolution of 8K up to 12-bit color depth, maximum peak brightness of 10,000 nits and a color gamut up to Rec. 2020. It uses Dolby's proprietary dynamic metadata defined in SMPTE ST 2094-10.
  • Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG): The Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) is a transfer function developed mainly for HDR live video feed and over-the-air broadcasts. It is an HDR format that uses BT.2020 color primaries and a bitdepth of 10-bit. It is backward compatible with the transfer function of SDR and is designed to be better-suited for television broadcasting, where the metadata required for other HDR formats is not backward compatible with non-HDR displays. HLG defines a non-linear optical-electro transfer function, in which the lower half of the signal values use a gamma curve and the upper half of the signal values use a logarithmic curve.

IMAX Enhanced

Onkyo TX-NR797 and Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 are IMAX Enhanced certified. To qualify for IMAX Enhanced certification, 4K HDR televisions, projectors, sound bars, a/v receivers, loudspeakers, powered subwoofers and other premium home entertainment devices must meet carefully prescribed performance requirements established by IMAX, DTS and Hollywood's leading experts.

  • What makes an IMAX Enhanced A/V receiver different from an A/V receiver with DTS:X technology? DTS:X technology is commonly found in most multi-channel A/V receivers on the market today. All IMAX Enhanced A/V receivers include DTS:X technology and deliver additional features, such as auto-sensing of IMAX Enhanced content, via IMAX Mode. IMAX Mode indicates that your A/V receiver supports fully immersive IMAX signature sound.
  • IMAX Enhanced Content: IMAX Enhanced studio partners have announced IMAX Enhanced versions of movies that exclusively feature IMAX's signature picture, sound and scale.
  • Picture: Stunning, ultra-vivid 4K HDR picture that utilizes the newest, proprietary Digital Media Remastering technology (DMR) developed by IMAX. DMR accurately reduces noise and grain under the filmmaker’s guidance to best optimize the content for a much higher-quality, higher-brightness display. Without this technology, high-dynamic range content can actually look worse than what was originally seen and intended by the filmmaker.
  • Sound: IMAX and DTS have partnered with award-winning Hollywood sound mixers leveraging DTS:X codec technology integrated in home audio equipment and select televisions to deliver an IMAX signature sound experience with deeper bass and more dynamic range.
  • Scale: Select IMAX Enhanced titles that were shot with IMAX-certified cameras or specially formatted for IMAX theatres feature its exclusive expanded aspect ratio, enabling viewers to see the full scale and scope of the picture on 4K HDR TVs.
  • Streaming Services: IMAX Enhanced is now available on the world’s biggest streaming services, including Disney+, BRAVIA CORE, Tencent, iQiyi and more.

Gaming Features

Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for lag-free and smooth gaming.

  • Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Auto Low Latency Mode enables the ideal latency setting to automatically be set allowing for smooth, lag-free and uninterrupted viewing and interactivity. When the receiver detects a gaming signal it will enter ALLM. The signal will also be sent to the TV causing it to automatically switch to a low-latency, low-lag mode for gaming. Some functions will not be available on the receiver and TV during ALLM.
  • Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): VRR enables a gaming source such as a console or computer to deliver video frames as fast as it can, which in many cases is slower than the normal static refresh rate. It allows the TV to adapt to certain frame rate which reduces or eliminates lag, judder and frame tearing for more fluid and better detailed gameplay.
  • Quick Frame Transport (QFT): QFT reduces latency for smoother no-lag gaming, and real-time interactive virtual reality. It transports each frame at a higher rate to decrease display latency, which is the amount of time between a frame being ready for transport in the GPU and that frame being completely displayed.

Inputs and Outputs

Audio

  • Analog Line Inputs: There are 7 pair of line inputs on Onkyo TX-NR797 and 4 pair of line inputs on Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 for connecting sources with analog outputs.
  • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 1 optical input, 1 optical output and 1 coaxial input 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:
  • Onkyo TX-NR797
    Inputs:
    7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
    8K Inputs: 0.
  • Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
    Inputs:
    7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
    8K Inputs: 6.
  • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
  • Onkyo TX-NR797
    Inputs:
    2   Outputs: 0.
  • Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
    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.
  • Onkyo TX-NR797 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors. resolution on Component video connectors.
  • Onkyo TX-NR797
    Inputs:
    1   Outputs: 0.
  • Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
    Inputs:
    0   Outputs: 0.

Front A/V Inputs

  • Onkyo TX-NR797: HDMI, Mini-Jack
  • Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305: HDMI, USB, Mini-Jack

Onkyo TX-NR797

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Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305

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Specifications

And in the end let us list all the available specifications of the receivers side-by-side.

BASICS Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
BrandOnkyoPioneer
SeriesElite
ModelTX-NR797VSX-LX305
TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
CountryNorth AmericaNorth America
Release Year20192021
AMPLIFIER Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Channels9.29.2
Front Wide Channel Support
AmplifierLinear Class A/BDirect Energy
Dynamic Audio Amplification
Non-Phase Shift Amplifier
VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) Front L/R channels
Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry
THX™ Certification Select™ (previously known as Select2)
Continuous 6 Ω Rated
Certified 4 Ω Performance
Discrete Output Stage Circuitry
Independent Block Construction (Amp/Preprocessor)
Bi-amp Capability
BTL (Bridged Transless or Bridging)
AUDIO Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Engine32-bit Digital Signal Processing EnginesDigital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic) + Aureus™ Floating-Point DSP (TI)
DACAKM AK4458
DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/24 Bit
Maximum Channel Processing9.19.1
Air Studios Monitor Certification
Dolby Atmos
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
Dolby Atmos Music
Dolby TrueHD
Dolby Digital Plus
Dolby Surround Upmixer
Dolby Pro Logic
Dolby Digital EX
THX Listening Modes
Surround EX
DTS:X
DTS Neural:X
DTS Virtual:X via future firmware update
DTS Neo
DTS-HD Master Audio
DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
DTS 96/24
DTS Express
DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
IMAX Enhanced via future firmware update
Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
Music Playback via USBFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHDMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, LPCM, AIFF, DSD
High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz up to 192 kHz/24 bit
High Resolution Audio Formats via USBFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHDApple 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 PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology for S/PDIF Audio
DTS Dialog Control
Dialog Enhancement
Dialog Normalization
Dialogue Lift
Sound Retriever Advanced (2ch)
Sound Retriever AIR
Digital Noise Reduction
Tone Control All Channels All Channels
Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Music Optimizer (bluetooth included) Advanced Sound Retriever
High-resolution Music Enhancer
THX Processing Mode
Audyssey Dynamic EQ
Audyssey Dynamic Volume
Audyssey LFC
Audyssey Sub EQ HT
Audyssey DSX
Phase-Matching Bass Boost
Direct Mode
Pure Audio Mode
Pure Direct Analog Path Mode
Pure Direct Mode
Advanced Surround
Front Stage Surround Advance
Virtual Speakers T-D (Theater-Dimensional)
Virtual Depth
CALIBRATION Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. AccuEQ Advance with AccuReflex™ Advanced MCACC and Dirac Live™ Room Correction
Calibration MicrophoneMCACC/Dirac Live Setup MIC
Manual MCACC
MCACC Memory1
Reflex Optimizer
Phase Control
Full Band Phase Control
Standing Wave Control Multi-Point
VIDEO Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
HDMI Version2.1
Enhanced ARC
HDCP Version2.32.3
HDR10
HDR10+
Dynamic HDR
Dolby Vision
HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
BT.2020 color space
QMS (Quick Media Switching)
ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
QFT (Quick Frame transport)
DSC (Display Stream Compression)
3-D Ready
Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)up to 8K/60p RGB/YCbCr4:2:0/10-bit uncompressed or RGB/YCbCr4:4:4/12-bit compressed (TV needs DSC)
Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K
Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite
Component Video Upscaling
Analog to Analog Video conversion
Component Video Maximum Resolution480i/576i
isf Certified Calibration Control
CONNECTIVITY Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
MHL Input
FireConnect
FlareConnect
Chromecast Built-In
DTS Play-Fi via Onkyo Music Control app via Pioneer Music Control App
Works with Amazon Alexa
Google assistant
Apple Siri
Works with SONOS
AirPlay AirPlay 2 after firmware update AirPlay 2
Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod, iPhone and iPad
Remote AppOnkyo Controller and Music Control appsPioneer Remote App
InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
Ethernet
Ethernet Switch
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD
HDBaseT Compatible
HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)7 (1 front)
HDMI Outputs2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
8K Inputs6
USB Input1 (Rear)2 (1 Front)
USB DC Out Port
RCA Line Input7 (1 Front)4
RCA Line Output
XLR Line Inputs
Phono Input
Optical Inputs11
Optical Outputs
Coaxial Inputs11
Composite Video Input2
Composite Video Output
S-Video Input
S-Video Output
Component Video Input1
Component Video Output
PC In
Multi-Channel Input
RCA Pre-Outs0.20.2
XLR Pre-outs
Front A/V InputsHDMI, Mini-JackHDMI, USB, Mini-Jack
Speaker A/B
Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
ZONES Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Zones33
Powered Zones 2 and 32 and 3
Zone 2 OutsHDMI, RCA Line Out (shared with Zone B)HDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B line out)
Zone 3 Outs
Whole House Mode
RS-232C Interface
+12V Trigger Output1 (MAIN, 100 mA)2 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA)
Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 01 / 1
MISC Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
On-Screen Display Graphical User Interface with Overlaid On-Screen Display (OSD) via HDMI
GUI Languages77
AVNavigator
IP Control for CI
PreAmp Mode
FL Dimmer
Detachable Power Cord
uport
ONKYO-RI System Control
RIHD (Remote Interactive Over HDMI)
Smart Grid-Ready
RADIO Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
Presets4040
Digital Radio
Internet Radio TuneIn TuneIn
Pandora
Spotify
Tidal
Deezer
Napster
SiriusXM Internet Radio
CONSTRUCTION Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Front PanelBrushed
Solid Aluminum Front
Speaker Terminals99
Large Speaker Terminals99
Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
Ceramic Speaker Terminals
3D Space Frame Construction
18mm Pitch High Grade Pre-outs
19mm-Pitch Audio Inputs
Gold plated RCA terminals
POWER Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
H.C.P.S. (High Current Power Supply) Customized Transformer
Toroidal Transformer
Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
Transformer Stabilizer
Power Consumption750 W750 W
No Sound Power75 W
Standby Power0.15 W0.1 W
GENERAL Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
Dimensions (W x H x D)435 mm x 173.5 mm x 379.5 mm
17-1/8" x 6-13/16" x 14-15/16"
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)534 mm x 265 mm x 468 mm
21" x 10-7/16" x 18-7/16"
536 mm x 265 mm x 458 mm
21-1/8" x 10-7/16" x 18-1/16"
Weight10.8 kg (23.8 lbs)10.4 kg (22.9 lbs)
Weight of Package13.5 kg (29.8 lbs)13.5 kg (29.8 lbs)
Warranty2 Years3 Years
SPECS Onkyo TX-NR797 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305
Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2100 W (0.08% THD)100 W (0.08% THD)
Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA)220 W (10% THD)225 W (10% THD)
Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)250 W250 W
Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)220 W220 W
Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)130 W130 W
THD0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, Half power)0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, half power)
Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ (1 kHz, 100 W/8 Ω)200 mV/47 kΩ
Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ3.5 mV/47 kΩ
Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance8 Ω - 600 Ω
Rated Headphone Power Output85 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)85 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)
S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)106 dB106 dB
S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)80 dB80 dB
Frequency Response (Analog In)10 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct)10 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio)
DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
DSD Sampling Rates via USB2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz11.2 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/nIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
Bluetooth Version4․24․2
Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
USB TerminalVer. 2.0, 5 V, 1 AFront : Ver.2.0, 5 V/0.5 A
Rear : Ver.2.0, 5V/1 A
FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 1.0 µV (11.2 dBf)Mono: 1.0 µV (11.2 dBf)
AM Frequency530 kHz - 1710 kHz530 kHz - 1710 kHz

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

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