Pioneer SC-97 vs Sony STR-AN1000

      Pioneer SC-97

      Sony STR-AN1000
      89
      Image cannot be found
      85
      Image cannot be found
      North America
      USA
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
       

      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/60Hz Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 + Phantom 2ch Channel Processing
      • 100 W (6 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDMI 2.1
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 8K Passthrough, 8K Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet

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

      Table of Contents
      1. Overview
      2. Pros and Cons
      3. Advantage of Pioneer SC-97
      4. Advantage of Sony STR-AN1000
      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-97 to Sony STR-AN1000 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-97 has 9 channel and the Sony STR-AN1000 has 7 channel amplifiers with Pioneer SC-97's being more powerful.


      Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000

      Pioneer SC-97 was introduced in 2015. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) video signal.

      Sony STR-AN1000 was introduced in 2023. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 100 W (6 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 + Phantom 2ch maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

      We evaluated Pioneer SC-97 and Sony STR-AN1000 and gave them scores of 89 and 85 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-97

      Sony STR-AN1000

      Amplifier
      92
      Amplifier
      71
      Audio Features
      90
      Audio Features
      89
      Video Features
      83
      Video Features
      99
      Connectivity
      89
      Connectivity
      83
      Zones
      97
      Zones
      85
      Radio
      85
      Radio
      86
      OVERALL
      89
      OVERALL
      85

      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-97 and Sony STR-AN1000.

      PROS

      Pioneer SC-97

      Sony STR-AN1000

      •   High Power Output - 140 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   4 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   360 Reality Audio
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   8K Upscaling
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   USB Input
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Bluetooth 5․0

      CONS

      Pioneer SC-97

      Sony STR-AN1000

      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Tidal
      •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Digital Radio


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

      AVERAGE

      Pioneer SC-97

      Sony STR-AN1000

      •   9.2 Channels
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   7.1 + Phantom 2ch Channel Processing
      •   6 HDMI Inputs
      •   3 HDMI Outputs
      •   2 8K Inputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs

      3. Advantage of Pioneer SC-97

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-97 over Sony STR-AN1000.

      Check the Price

      Pioneer SC-97
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Pioneer SC-97 vs Sony STR-AN1000
      More Channels 9.2 vs 7.2
      Higher Power Output 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 100 W (6 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      Certified 4 Ω Performance vs
      Bi-amp capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B vs
      More Channel Processing 11.2 vs 7.1 + Phantom 2ch
      Air Studios Monitor Certification vs
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS Neo Neo:X (before firmware update) vs
      DTS Express vs
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite vs
      MHL Input 1 Rear (Version 2.0) vs
      More HDMI Inputs 8 (1 front) vs 6
      More HDMI Outputs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE) vs 2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
      More Optical Inputs 2 vs 1
      More Optical Outputs 1 vs
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 2 vs 1
      More RCA Line Outputs 1 vs
      Phono Input vs
      More RCA Pre-Outs 13.2 vs 0.2
      More Composite Video Outputs 2 vs 1
      More Component Video Inputs 2 vs
      Front A/V Inputs HDMI, USB vs USB
      Detachable Power Cord vs
      More Zones 4 vs 3
      More Powered Zones 2, 3 and HDZone vs 3
      RS-232C Interface vs
      +12V Trigger Output 2 (assignable) vs
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 2 / 1 vs 1 / 1
      Analog Tuner FM/AM vs FM
      More Presets 63 vs 30
      More Speaker Terminals 11 vs 7
      More Large Speaker Terminals 11 vs 7
      Bigger Power Supply 370 W vs 240 W
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 190 W (1.0% THD) vs 120 W (0.9% THD)
      Lower THD 0.04% (1 kHz, 130 W + 130 W, 8 Ω) vs 0.09%

      4. Advantage of Sony STR-AN1000

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Sony STR-AN1000 over Pioneer SC-97.

      Check the Price

      Sony STR-AN1000
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Pioneer SC-97 vs Sony STR-AN1000
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Newer HDCP Version 2.2 vs 2.3
      Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through vs
      VRR vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) vs up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) vs up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      Works with SONOS vs
      More 8K Inputs vs 2
      More RCA Line Inputs 3 vs 4
      Zone 2 Outs RCA Pre/Line Out vs HDMI
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 103 dB vs 105 dB (500 mV)
      Wi-Fi Standard IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n vs IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
      Newer Bluetooth Version 2․1 + EDR vs 5․0
      Check out other receivers which are frequently compared to Sony STR-AN1000.
      Denon AVR-X2800H
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      95 W

      Yamaha RX-V6A
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Onkyo TX-NR6100
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Sony STR-AZ1000ES
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      70 W

      Denon AVR-X1800H
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      95 W

      Pioneer VSX-935
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      80 W

      Yamaha RX-A4A
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      110 W

      Yamaha RX-A2A
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      100 W

      Onkyo TX-NR7100
      Image cannot be found

      9.2 channel

      100 W

      Denon AVR-S970H
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      90 W

      Denon AVR-X1700H
      Image cannot be found

      7.2 channel

      80 W

      Denon AVC-X3800H
      Image cannot be found

      9.4 channel

      105 W

      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-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels
        DTS:X up to with firmware update up to 5.1.2 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. MCACC Pro D.C.A.C. IX
        HDR10
        New HDCP Version2.22.3
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC, AAC, LDAC
        USB Input1 Front1 Front for USB memory
        Composite Video Inputs22
        Ethernet
        Zones43
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM
        Pandora
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        No HDR10+
        Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000

      9 channel Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-97 features 9 channel power amplifier with Class D3 design. It is rated at 140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      7 channel Amplifier: Sony STR-AN1000 features 7 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 100 W (6 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven).


        AMPLIFIER Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Channels9.27.2
        Power Output140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)100 W (6 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 Front, Center, Surround, SP-B

        Check the Price

        Pioneer SC-97
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        7. Speaker Configurations

        Pioneer SC-97's and Sony STR-AN1000's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Pioneer SC-97: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4, 9.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
        • Sony STR-AN1000: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Pioneer SC-97: 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, 9.2.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
        • Sony STR-AN1000: 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-97: 5.2, 7.2, 9.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Sony STR-AN1000: 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-97: 9.2, 9.2.2.
        • Sony STR-AN1000: Does not support.
        • Bi-Amp: Pioneer SC-97 is able to bi-amp up to 4 and Sony STR-AN1000 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

        Pioneer SC-97 and Sony STR-AN1000 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: Sony STR-AN1000 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

        Pioneer SC-97 and Sony STR-AN1000 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: Pioneer SC-97 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.

        IMAX Enhanced

        Sony STR-AN1000 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 Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic
        Dolby Digital EX
        DTS:X up to with firmware update up to 5.1.2 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels
        DTS Neural:X with firmware update
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X (before firmware update)
        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

        Check the Price

        Sony STR-AN1000
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        9. HDMI

        Pioneer SC-97 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for MAIN/HDZONE.

        Sony STR-AN1000 comes with 2 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support and 4 inputs with 4K support. It has 2 outputs - 1 Main and 1 Sub/Zone2.

        • 4K/60Hz Passthrough on Pioneer SC-97: All inputs pass up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) video signal.
          8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Sony STR-AN1000: 2 out of 6 inputs pass up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 and the rest of the inputs pass up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
        • 4K Upscaling on Pioneer SC-97: It can upscale up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) from HDMI and analog sources.
          8K Upscaling on Sony STR-AN1000: It can upscale up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 from HDMI sources.
        • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Pioneer SC-97 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 Sony STR-AN1000 only).
        • HDCP Copy Protection: Pioneer SC-97 is HDCP 2.2 and Sony STR-AN1000 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)

        Pioneer SC-97 supports HDR10

        Sony STR-AN1000 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)

        Sony STR-AN1000 supports Audio Return Channel (ARC) which allows the compatible TV to send audio signal to the a/v receiver through the same HDMI cable which is used to send audio and video signals to the TV. So one HDMI cable is used to transfer audio signal in both directions. New Enhanced ARC will support uncompressed audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio whereas the previous ARC could support only Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS HD, and PCM.


        Gaming Features

        Sony STR-AN1000 supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



        VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        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
        ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
        VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
        3-D Ready
        Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K/60p (4:4:4)up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4

        Check the Price

        Pioneer SC-97
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Pioneer SC-97 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Pioneer SC-97 has 13.2 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, Pioneer SC-97 has 11 channel processing but has only 9 channel amplifier and Sony STR-AN1000 has 8 channel processing but has only 9 channel amplifier, so they need external amplifiers connected to their analog pre-outs in order to reach their maximum speaker configurations.
        • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 3 pair of line inputs on Pioneer SC-97 and 4 pair of line inputs on Sony STR-AN1000 for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Pioneer SC-97.
        • Digital Inputs and Outputs: 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Pioneer SC-97 and 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available on Sony STR-AN1000 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-97
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Sony STR-AN1000
          Inputs:           6   Outputs: 2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
          8K Inputs: 2.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Pioneer SC-97
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 2.
        • Sony STR-AN1000
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.
        • 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-97 supports up to 1080i (1125i) resolution on Component video connectors. resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Pioneer SC-97
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 0.
        • Sony STR-AN1000
          Inputs:           0   Outputs: 0.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Pioneer SC-97: HDMI, USB
        • Sony STR-AN1000: USB

        Pioneer SC-97

        Image cannot be found Image cannot be found

        Sony STR-AN1000

        Image cannot be found Image cannot be found
        TERMINALS Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)6
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
        8K Inputs2
        USB Input1 Front1 Front for USB memory
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs21
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs21
        RCA Line Inputs34
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs13.20.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs22
        Composite Video Outputs21
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs2
        Component Video Outputs

        Check the Price

        Sony STR-AN1000
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found
        Image cannot be found

        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Pioneer SC-97 and Sony STR-AN1000 and gave them scores of 89 and 85 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-97

        Sony STR-AN1000

        OVERALL
        89
        OVERALL
        85

        Amplifier

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 140 W
        GOOD
        71
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   Power Output - 100 W

        Audio Features

        EXCELLENT
        90
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   11.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI
        EXCELLENT
        89
        •   7.2 Channels
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   7.1 + Phantom 2ch Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   360 Reality Audio
        •   DSD via HDMI

        Video Features

        GOOD
        83
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
        EXCELLENT
        99
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   HDMI 2.1
        •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        •   VRR
        •   8K Passthrough
        •   8K Upscaling

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        89
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   Few RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 2․1 + EDR
        GOOD
        83
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   Google Assistant
        •   Chromecast Built-In
        •   6 HDMI Inputs
        •   3 HDMI Outputs
        •   2 8K Inputs
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   No Phono Input
        •   No RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 5․0

        Zones

        EXCELLENT
        97
        •   4 Zones
        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   3 Zones

        Radio

        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   No Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        86
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        BrandPioneerSony
        SeriesElite
        ModelSC-97STR-AN1000
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryNorth AmericaUSA
        Release Year20152023
        PredecessorPioneer SC-87 Sony STR-DN1080
        SuccessorPioneer SC-LX801
        AMPLIFIER Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Channels9.27.2
        Power Output140 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)100 W (6 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignClass D3 (Direct Energy HD)
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
        AUDIO FEATURES Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineTexas Instruments Aureus
        DACESS SABRE32 Ultra (ES9016S)
        DAC Specs192 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/32 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing11.27.1 + Phantom 2ch
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels
        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 with firmware update up to 5.1.2 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels
        DTS Neural:X with firmware update
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X (before firmware update)
        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
        360 Reality Audio
        PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Network Audio FormatsFLAC, AIFF, WAV, DSD, ALAC, MP3, WMA, AAC
        Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSDFLAC, AIFF, WAV, DSD, ALAC, MP3, WMA, AAC
        High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit 192 kHz/24 bit
        High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSDFLAC, AIFF, WAV, DSD, ALAC
        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 plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
        Auto Level ControlMulti-Channel
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialogue Lift via Dialog Enhancement Center Speaker Lift Up
        In-Ceiling Speaker Mode
        Sound Retriever Advanced (Multi-Channel / Auto with ARC)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control All Channels All Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever
        High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit32 Audio Processing DSEE Ultimate
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Direct Mode
        Pure Direct Mode
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround11 + 1
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance (Focus/Wide)
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual Speakers (Surround Back/Height/Wide)
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. MCACC Pro D.C.A.C. IX
        Calibration MicrophoneStereo
        Speaker Relocation
        Automatic Phase Matching
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory6
        Reflex Optimizer
        Phase Control
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control
        EQ Bands9-Band (Advanced)
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment1/2 Inch
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDMI Version2.1
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.22.3
        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/60p (4:4:4)up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
        Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080i (1125i)
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter AdjustmentsYNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black Level
        Triple HD noise Reduction
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC, AAC, LDAC
        Bluetooth Headphone Transmission
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Works with SonoS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input 1 Rear (Version 2.0)
        DLNA 1.5
        Music Connect
        Remote Monitoring with ihiji
        AirPlay AirPlay AirPlay 2
        Apple Product Connection iPod and iPhone via front USB
        Remote App iControlAV5 (for iOS and Android)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)6
        HDMI Outputs3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)2 (1 Main, 1 Sub/Zone2)
        8K Inputs2
        USB Input1 Front1 Front for USB memory
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs21
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs21
        RCA Line Inputs34
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs13.20.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs22
        Composite Video Outputs21
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs2
        Component Video Outputs
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsHDMI, USBUSB
        Speaker A/B
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        adapterport
        ZONES Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Number of Zones43
        Powered Zones2, 3 and HDZone 3
        Zone 2 OutsRCA Pre/Line OutHDMI
        Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line OutPre/Line Out
        Zone 4 OutsHDMI
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output2 (assignable)
        Remote (IR) Input/Output2 / 11 / 1
        MISCELLANEOUS Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        On-Screen DisplayGraphical User Interface (GUI) with Album Artwork (HDMI only) Graphical User Interface
        GUI Languages3
        HDMI Speaker B Link
        AV Navigator Built-in
        IP Control
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker ConfigurationSurround Back/Front Height/Front Wide/Front Bi-Amp/Zone 2/B-Speaker/Powered HD Zone
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerLearning Remote Control (Lumius)RMT-AA511U
        RADIO Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM
        Presets6330
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio vTuner TuneIn & iHeart Radio
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Front PanelBrushed
        Solid Aluminum Front
        ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
        Speaker Terminals117
        Large Speaker Terminals117
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption370 W240 W
        Standby Power0.1 W0.5 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        PHYSICAL Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        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"        		430 mm x 156 mm x 331 mm
        17" x 6-1/4" x 13-1/8"
        Weight17.5 kg (38.6 lbs)9.4 kg (20 lb 12 oz)
        SPECIFICATIONS Pioneer SC-97 Sony STR-AN1000
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)140 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)100 W (0.09% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)190 W (1.0% THD)120 W (0.9% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, FTC)165 W (0.9% THD)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)240 W (1.0% THD)
        Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive810 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
        THD0.04% (1 kHz, 130 W + 130 W, 8 Ω)0.09%
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)400 mV/47 kΩ (Line)500 mV/50 kΩ
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)5 mV/47 kΩ
        Rated Preout Level and Impedance2 V/1 kΩ (Zone2 and Subwoofer)
        Rated Lineout Level and Impedance400 mV/2.2 kΩ (REC OUT)
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)103 dB105 dB (500 mV)
        S/N Ratio (digital)100 dB (20 kHz LPF)
        Frequency Response (Analog In)10 Hz - 100 kHz/+0.5 dB, -2 dB
        DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
        DSD Sampling Rates via USB5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz
        Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/PR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)        		1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
        Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX1000BASE-T
        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 Version2․1 + EDR5․0
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
        HDMI Terminal19-pin (not DVI)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 55 mA
        HDMI Input/MHL Terminal5 V, 900 mA
        USB TerminalUSB2.0 High Speed (Type A) 5 V, 1 AType A, Ver. 2.0, 5 V, 1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz
        AM Frequency530 kHz - 1700 kHz
        Warranty2 Years Parts & Labor2 Years

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

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