Pioneer SC-79 vs Yamaha RX-A870

      Pioneer SC-79

      Yamaha RX-A870
      84
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      88
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      USA and Canada UK and Europe
      Australia
      China Korea Asia General
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      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 9.1 Channel Processing
      • 150 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • USB DAC
      • THX™Ultra2 Plus Certified
      • 4K/30Hz Passthrough, 4K/30Hz Upscaling
      • Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/60Hz 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 Pioneer SC-79
      4. Advantage of Yamaha RX-A870
      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 Pioneer SC-79 to Yamaha RX-A870 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 Pioneer SC-79 has 9 channel and the Yamaha RX-A870 has 7 channel amplifiers with Pioneer SC-79's being more powerful.


      Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870

      Pioneer SC-79 was introduced in 2013 and represented a flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 150 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz and 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 9.1 maximum channel processing. It , passes 4K/30Hz and upscales up to 4K/30p video signal.

      Yamaha RX-A870 was introduced in 2017. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K 60p 4:4:4 video signal.

      We evaluated Pioneer SC-79 and Yamaha RX-A870 and gave them scores of 84 and 88 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.

      Pioneer SC-79

      Yamaha RX-A870

      Amplifier
      97
      Amplifier
      89
      Audio Features
      78
      Audio Features
      84
      Video Features
      66
      Video Features
      95
      Connectivity
      87
      Connectivity
      87
      Zones
      95
      Zones
      82
      Radio
      85
      Radio
      89
      OVERALL
      84
      OVERALL
      88

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

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Pioneer SC-79 and Yamaha RX-A870.

      PROS

      Pioneer SC-79

      Yamaha RX-A870

      •   High Power Output - 150 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   THX™ Certification
      •   9.1 Channel Processing
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   USB DAC
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Bluetooth
      •   9 HDMI Inputs
      •   5 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   4 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   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
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Digital Radio
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      CONS

      Pioneer SC-79

      Yamaha RX-A870

      •   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
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Tidal
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Pandora
      •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR


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

      AVERAGE

      Pioneer SC-79

      Yamaha RX-A870

      •   9.2 Channels
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   2 Zones

      3. Advantage of Pioneer SC-79

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-79 over Yamaha RX-A870.

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      Pioneer SC-79
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      Pioneer SC-79 vs Yamaha RX-A870
      More Channels 9.2 vs 7.2
      Higher Power Output 150 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      THX™ Certification Ultra2 Plus vs
      Bi-amp capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B vs
      Higher DAC Specs 192 kHz/32 Bit vs 192 kHz/24 Bit
      More Channel Processing 9.1 vs 7.1
      Air Studios Monitor Certification vs
      Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz vs
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS Neo Neo:X vs Neo:6
      DSD to PCM Converter vs
      USB DAC 192kHz/32-bit vs
      High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit32 Audio Processing vs
      HDBaseT Compatible for MAIN/HDZONE (HDMI Extension via CAT5 Cable) vs
      Component Video Maximum Resolution 1080p (1125p) vs 480i/576i
      Video Parameter Adjustments Advanced Video Adjust - HD Sources Progressive Motion - YNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black level vs
      MHL Input Android MHL 3D/Full-HD/Charge vs
      More HDMI Inputs 9 (1 front) vs 8 (1 front)
      More HDMI Outputs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE) vs 2
      USB DC Out Port 1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A) vs
      More Optical Outputs 1 vs
      More RCA Line Inputs 5 vs 4 (1 front)
      More RCA Line Outputs 1 vs
      More RCA Pre-Outs 11.2 vs 7.2
      More Composite Video Inputs 5 (1 front) vs 1
      More Composite Video Outputs 2 vs
      More Component Video Inputs 3 vs 1
      More Component Video Outputs 1 vs
      Speaker A/B vs
      More Zones 4 vs 2
      More Powered Zones 2 and 3 vs Zone 2
      Zone 2 Outs Component Video, Composite Video, RCA Pre/Line Out + Subwoofer vs RCA Preout
      +12V Trigger Output 2 (Main, Zone2, Zone 3, HDZone) vs 1
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 2 / 1 vs 1 / 1
      PreAmp Mode vs
      Analog Tuner FM/AM vs FM
      More Presets 63 vs 40
      Pandora vs
      More Speaker Terminals 11 vs 9
      More Large Speaker Terminals 11 vs 9
      Gold plated RCA terminals vs
      Bigger Power Supply 370 W vs 300 W
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC) 150 W (0.08% THD) vs 110 W (0.9% THD)
      Lower THD 0.04% (1 kHz, 130 W + 130 W, 8 Ω) vs 0.06% (AV 2 etc. to Front, Pure Direct, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 50 W, 8 Ω)

      4. Advantage of Yamaha RX-A870

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Yamaha RX-A870 over Pioneer SC-79.

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      Yamaha RX-A870
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      Pioneer SC-79 vs Yamaha RX-A870
      Dolby Atmos vs up to 5.1.2
      Dolby Surround Upmixer vs
      DTS:X vs up to 5.1.2
      DTS Neural:X vs
      HDR10 vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 4K/30p vs up to 4K/60p 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/30p vs up to 4K 60p 4:4:4
      Wi-Fi via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately) vs with Wireless Direct
      Bluetooth via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately) vs SBC, AAC
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs on MusicCast (Voice control using your Alexa device like Echo or Echo Dot)
      Digital Radio vs DAB/DAB+
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Napster vs
      SiriusXM vs
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 103 dB vs 110 dB
      Longer Warranty 2 Years Parts & Labor vs 3 Years

      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 Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Advanced MCACC YPAO sound optimization (R.S.C. with Multipoint measurement)
        New HDCP Version2.22.3
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite Component**, Composite
        Bluetooth via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately) SBC, AAC
        Many HDMI Inputs9 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        USB Input1 FrontUSB memory, portable audio player
        Phono Input
        RCA Pre-Outs11.27.2
        Composite Video Inputs5 (1 front)1
        Component Video Inputs31
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        No IMAX Enhanced
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        No HDR10+
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K/30pup to 4K/60p 4:4:4
        Few 8K Inputs

      6. Amplifier

      Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870

      9 channel Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-79 features 9 channel power amplifier with Class D3 design. It is rated at 150 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      7 channel Amplifier: Yamaha RX-A870 features 7 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

        THX™ Ultra2 Plus certification

        Pioneer SC-79 is THX™ Ultra2 Plus certified. This means that it brings the cinematic experience to large home theaters, 3,000 cubic feet (85 cubic meters) in size, with a viewing distance of 12 feet (4 meters) or greater from the screen.



        AMPLIFIER Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Channels9.27.2
        Power Output150 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        THX™ Certification Ultra2 Plus
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B

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        Pioneer SC-79
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        7. Speaker Configurations

        Pioneer SC-79's and Yamaha RX-A870's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Pioneer SC-79: Not supported.
        • Yamaha RX-A870: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Pioneer SC-79: Not supported.
        • Yamaha RX-A870: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Pioneer SC-79: 5.2, 7.2, 9.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Yamaha RX-A870: 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:
        • Pioneer SC-79: 9.2.
        • Yamaha RX-A870: Does not support.
        • Bi-Amp: Pioneer SC-79 is able to bi-amp up to 4 and Yamaha RX-A870 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

        Yamaha RX-A870 supports Dolby Atmos.

        • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Yamaha RX-A870 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.

        DTS:X

        Yamaha RX-A870 supports DTS:X.

        • DTS Neural:X: Yamaha RX-A870 features 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 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.
        AUDIO DECODING Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
        Dolby Digital EX
        DTS:X up to 5.1.2
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X 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

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        Yamaha RX-A870
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        9. HDMI

        Pioneer SC-79 comes with 9 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for MAIN/HDZONE.

        Yamaha RX-A870 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

        • 4K/30Hz Passthrough on Pioneer SC-79: All inputs pass up to 4K/30p video signal.
          4K/60Hz Passthrough on Yamaha RX-A870: All inputs pass up to 4K/60p 4:4:4 video signal.
        • 4K Upscaling on Pioneer SC-79: It can upscale up to 4K/30p from HDMI and analog sources.
          4K Upscaling on Yamaha RX-A870: It can upscale up to 4K 60p 4:4:4 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 Yamaha RX-A870 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)

        Pioneer SC-79 does not support HDR.

        Yamaha RX-A870 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma. High dynamic range video has greater dynamic range than standard dynamic range (SDR) video with brighter whites and deeper blacks. The result is greater contrast and more details in dark and bright areas, better color and depth.


        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

        Yamaha RX-A870 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 Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible for MAIN/HDZONE (HDMI Extension via CAT5 Cable)
        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/30pup to 4K/60p 4:4:4
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/30p up to 4K 60p 4:4:4

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        Pioneer SC-79
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        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Pioneer SC-79 and Yamaha RX-A870 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Pioneer SC-79 has 11.2 and Yamaha RX-A870 has 7.2 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 5 pair of line inputs on Pioneer SC-79 and 4 pair of line inputs on Yamaha RX-A870 for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Pioneer SC-79.
        • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Pioneer SC-79 and 2 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Yamaha RX-A870 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:
        • Pioneer SC-79
          Inputs:           9 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Yamaha RX-A870
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 2
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Pioneer SC-79
          Inputs:           5   Outputs: 2.
        • Yamaha RX-A870
          Inputs:           1   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.
        • Pioneer SC-79 supports up to 1080p (1125p) resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Yamaha RX-A870 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Pioneer SC-79
          Inputs:           3   Outputs: 1.
        • Yamaha RX-A870
          Inputs:           1   Outputs: 0.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Pioneer SC-79: HDMI, USB, Composite Video
        • Yamaha RX-A870: HDMI, USB, mini-jack Audio

        Pioneer SC-79

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        Yamaha RX-A870

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        TERMINALS Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        HDMI Inputs9 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)2
        8K Inputs
        USB Input1 FrontUSB memory, portable audio player
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs22
        RCA Line Inputs54 (1 front)
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs11.27.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs5 (1 front)1
        Composite Video Outputs2
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs31
        Component Video Outputs1

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        Yamaha RX-A870
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        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Pioneer SC-79 and Yamaha RX-A870 and gave them scores of 84 and 88 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.


        Pioneer SC-79

        Yamaha RX-A870

        OVERALL
        84
        OVERALL
        88

        Amplifier

        EXCELLENT
        97
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 150 W
        •   THX™ Certification
        EXCELLENT
        89
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   Power Output - 100 W

        Audio Features

        GOOD
        78
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   9.1 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
        •   USB DAC
        GOOD
        84
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   7.1 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI

        Video Features

        AVERAGE
        66
        •   No HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
        EXCELLENT
        95
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        87
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   9 HDMI Inputs
        •   5 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        EXCELLENT
        87
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Works with Amazon Alexa
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   2 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR

        Zones

        EXCELLENT
        95
        •   4 Zones
        GOOD
        82
        •   2 Zones

        Radio

        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   No Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        89
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   No Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        BrandPioneerYamaha
        SeriesEliteAventage
        ModelSC-79RX-A870
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryUSAAustralia
        Release Year20132017
        PredecessorPioneer SC-68 Yamaha RX-A860
        SuccessorPioneer SC-89 Yamaha RX-A880
        AMPLIFIER Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Channels9.27.2
        Power Output150 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignClass D3 (Direct Energy HD)
        THX™ Certification Ultra2 Plus
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
        AUDIO FEATURES Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineTexas Instruments Aureus
        Surround:AI™
        DACESS SABRE32 UltraBurr-Brown
        DAC Specs192 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/24 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing9.17.1
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        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 up to 5.1.2
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X 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
        PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        Music Playback via USBAIFF/WAV/Apple Lossless/FLAC/MP3/WMA/AAC/DSD 5.6MhzMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit up to 192 kHz
        High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSDApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, 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 192kHz/32-bit
        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 no presence speakers required
        Sound Retriever Advanced (Multi-Channel / Auto with ARC)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control All Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever including enhancer for Bluetooth®
        High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
        Adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control)
        Initial Volume & Maximum Volume Setting
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Direct Mode
        Straight Decoding Mode
        Pure Direct Mode with Video On mode
        CINEMA DSP 3D
        DSP Programs17
        SILENT CINEMA / Virtual CINEMA DSP Virtual CINEMA FRONT
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround15 + Headphone Surround
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance (Focus/Wide)
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual Speakers including surround back
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Advanced MCACC YPAO sound optimization (R.S.C. with Multipoint measurement)
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory6
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control
        EQ Bands9 (Advanced)
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment1/2 Inch
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        YPAO Volume
        PEQ for SUBDown to 15.6 Hz
        VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible for MAIN/HDZONE (HDMI Extension via CAT5 Cable)
        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/30pup to 4K/60p 4:4:4
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/30p up to 4K 60p 4:4:4
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite Component**, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080p (1125p)480i/576i
        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 Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Wi-Fi via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately) with Wireless Direct
        Bluetooth via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately) SBC, AAC
        Works with Amazon Alexa on MusicCast (Voice control using your Alexa device like Echo or Echo Dot)
        Chromecast Built-In
        Works with SonoS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL InputAndroid MHL 3D/Full-HD/Charge
        DLNA 1.5
        MusicCast
        AirPlay AirPlay AirPlay
        Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad via front USB iPod, iPhone and iPad
        Remote App iControlAV2013 (for iOS and Android) (iPhone® / iPad® / Android™ phone / tablet)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        HDMI Inputs9 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)2
        8K Inputs
        USB Input1 FrontUSB memory, portable audio player
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs22
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs22
        RCA Line Inputs54 (1 front)
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs11.27.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs5 (1 front)1
        Composite Video Outputs2
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs31
        Component Video Outputs1
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsHDMI, USB, Composite VideoHDMI, USB, mini-jack Audio
        Speaker A/B
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        dockport
        adapterport
        ZONES Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Number of Zones42
        Powered Zones 2 and 3Zone 2
        Zone 2 OutsComponent Video, Composite Video, RCA Pre/Line Out + SubwooferRCA Preout
        Zone 3 OutsComposite Video, RCA Pre/Line Out + Subwoofer
        Zone 4 OutsHDMI
        Zone B Video Output HDMI
        Zone GUI
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output2 (Main, Zone2, Zone 3, HDZone)1
        Remote (IR) Input/Output2 / 11 / 1
        Party Mode
        MISCELLANEOUS Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        On-Screen DisplayGraphical User Interface (GUI) with Album Artwork (HDMI only)Graphical User Interface
        SCENESCENE (4 sets)
        Web Control
        Multi-Zone On-Screen Display
        HDMI Speaker B Link
        AV Navigator Built-in
        PC Set-UpWith Remote Maintenance
        IP Control
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker Configuration
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerLearning Remote Control (Lumius)
        RADIO Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM
        Presets6340
        Digital Radio DAB/DAB+
        Internet Radio vTuner
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        ChassisInsulated Dual Chassis
        Front PanelAluminum (Hairline)
        Solid Aluminum Front
        ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
        A.R.T. Wedge
        Speaker Terminals119
        Large Speaker Terminals119
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 240 V, 50 Hz
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption370 W300 W
        Standby Power0.1 W0.1 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power Standby
        PHYSICAL Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Dimensions (W x H x D)435 mm x 185 mm x 441 mm
        17-1/8" x 7-5/16" x 17-3/8"        		435 mm x 171 mm x 380 mm (with antenna: 435 mm x 234 mm x 380 mm)
        Weight17.6 kg (38.8 lbs)10.5 kg (23.1 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Pioneer SC-79 Yamaha RX-A870
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)100 W (0.06% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)150 W (0.08% THD)110 W (0.9% THD)
        Rated Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven)130 W (0.9% THD)
        Maximum Effective Output Power (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven, JEITA)160 W (10% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)200 W (1.0% THD)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)255 W (1.0% THD)
        Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive850 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
        Dynamic Power per Channel (2 Ω, Front)240 W
        Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)195 W
        Dynamic Power per Channel (6 Ω, Front)170 W
        Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)130 W
        THD0.04% (1 kHz, 130 W + 130 W, 8 Ω)0.06% (AV 2 etc. to Front, Pure Direct, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 50 W, 8 Ω)
        THD (Phono)0.02% (Phono to SPEAKER OUT (Front), 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 1 V)
        Damping Factor100 (Front, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 8 Ω)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)400 mV/47 kΩ (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)5 mV/47 kΩ3.5 mV/47 kΩ
        Maximum Input Sensitivity (Line)2.3 V (1 kHz, 0.5% THD)
        Maximum Input Sensitivity (Phono)60 mV (1 kHz, 0.1% THD)
        Rated Preout Level and Impedance1.0 V/2.7 kΩ (Front)
        Rated Lineout Level and Impedance400 mV/2.2 kΩ (REC OUT)
        Maximum Preout Level and Impedance1.6 V
        Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance100 mV/560 Ω (1 kHz, 50 mV, 8 Ω)
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)103 dB110 dB
        S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)95 dB
        Phono RIAA Deviation±0.5 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
        Frequency Response (Analog In)+0/-3 dB (AV 2 etc. to Front, 10 Hz to 100 kHz)
        Residual noise (IHF-A Network)150 µV (Speaker Out)
        Channel Separation at 1 kHz/10 kHz (LINE)75 dB/50 dB
        Channel Separation at 1 kHz/10 kHz (Phono)60 dB/55 dB
        DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
        DSD Sampling Rates via USB2.8 MHz5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
        USB DAC TerminalUSB2.0 (Type B)
        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 Maximum Input1.5 Vp-p
        Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 b/g/n
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency2.4 GHz
        Bluetooth Version2․1 + EDR
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
        HDMI Terminal19-pin (not DVI)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 55 mA
        HDMI Input/MHL Terminal5 V, 900 mA
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 (Type A) 5 V, 2.1 AUSB2.0 5 V, 1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108 MHz87.50 MHz - 108.00 MHz
        FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 3 µV (20.8 dBf)
        FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 69 dB/67 dB
        FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.5%/0.6%
        AM Frequency530 kHz - 1700 kHz
        DAB Freq174 MHz - 240 MHz (Band III)
        DAB audio formatsMPEG 1 Layer II/MPEG-4 HE-AAC v2
        Warranty2 Years Parts & Labor3 Years

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

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