Pioneer VSX-LX304 vs Yamaha RX-A8A

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      Yamaha RX-A8A
      90
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      95
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      North America Europe
      Australia and Asia
      USA Canada UK, Europe and Russia Australia Taiwan Brazil and Central and South America
      China
      Korea Asia and General
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      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 9.1 Channel Processing
      • 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/30Hz Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 11.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • HDMI 2.1
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D
      • HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
      • 8K 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 VSX-LX304
      4. Advantage of Yamaha RX-A8A
      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 VSX-LX304 to Yamaha RX-A8A 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 VSX-LX304 has 9 channel and the Yamaha RX-A8A has 11 channel amplifiers.


      Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A

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

      Yamaha RX-A8A was introduced in 2021 and represents a current flagship model of a manufacturer. It is equipped with 11 channel amplifier with 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, passes 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and upscales up to 4K 60p 4:4:4 video signal.

      We evaluated Pioneer VSX-LX304 and Yamaha RX-A8A and gave them scores of 90 and 95 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 VSX-LX304

      Yamaha RX-A8A

      Amplifier
      89
      Amplifier
      96
      Audio Features
      90
      Audio Features
      92
      Video Features
      95
      Video Features
      99
      Connectivity
      85
      Connectivity
      91
      Zones
      90
      Zones
      95
      Radio
      90
      Radio
      90
      OVERALL
      90
      OVERALL
      95

      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 VSX-LX304 and Yamaha RX-A8A.

      PROS

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      Yamaha RX-A8A

      •   9.1 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   IMAX Enhanced
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Google Assistant
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Many Channels - 11.2
      •   High Power Output - 150 W
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   HDMI 2.1
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
      •   VRR
      •   QFT
      •   8K Passthrough
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   Google Assistant
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   7 8K Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   XLR Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   XLR Pre-outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   4 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      CONS

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      Yamaha RX-A8A

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


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

      AVERAGE

      Pioneer VSX-LX304

      Yamaha RX-A8A

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

      3. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-LX304

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer VSX-LX304 over Yamaha RX-A8A.

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      Pioneer VSX-LX304
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      Pioneer VSX-LX304 vs Yamaha RX-A8A
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, DSD vs Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      Works with SONOS vs
      DTS Play-Fi vs
      USB Input 2 (1 Front) vs USB memory, Portable Audio Player
      Front A/V Inputs HDMI, USB, Mini-Jack vs USB
      RS-232C Interface vs
      Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS vs FM/AM
      Bigger Power Supply 760 W vs 600 W
      Wider AM Frequency Range 522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz vs 531 kHz - 1611 kHz

      4. Advantage of Yamaha RX-A8A

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Yamaha RX-A8A over Pioneer VSX-LX304.

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      Yamaha RX-A8A
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      Pioneer VSX-LX304 vs Yamaha RX-A8A
      More Channels 9.2 vs 11.2
      Higher Power Output 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      More Channel Processing 9.1 vs 11.2
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer vs
      Higher Resolution Music Playback via USB 64, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit vs up to 384 kHz/32 Bit
      Jitter Reduction vs Ultra Low Jitter PLL
      Dialogue Lift vs
      High-resolution Music Enhancer vs
      Virtual Speakers vs including surround back
      HDR10+ vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      QMS vs
      Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through vs
      VRR vs
      QFT vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4) vs up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K vs up to 4K 60p 4:4:4
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion vs Component****, Composite
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      More HDMI Outputs 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2) vs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
      More 8K Inputs vs 7
      More Optical Inputs 1 vs 3
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 1 vs 2
      XLR Line Inputs vs 1
      More RCA Pre-Outs 0.2 vs 11.2
      XLR Pre-outs vs Front L/R
      More Composite Video Inputs vs 2
      More Component Video Inputs vs 1
      More Zones 3 vs 4
      Zone 2 Outs HDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B line out) vs HDMI, RCA Preout
      Zone 3 Outs vs RCA Preout
      Napster vs
      More Speaker Terminals 9 vs 13
      More Large Speaker Terminals 9 vs 13
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 185 W (10% THD) vs 250 W (10% THD)
      Lower THD 0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, half power) vs 0.05% (AUDIO 2 etc. to Speaker Out, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 75 W, 8 Ω)
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 106 dB vs 110 dB
      Higher S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) 80 dB vs 95 dB
      Wi-Fi Standard IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n vs IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
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      Yamaha RX-A6A
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      7.2 channel

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      5.2 channel

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      11.4 channel

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      11.4 channel

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      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 VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Channel Processing9.111.2
        Dolby Atmos
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        DTS:X
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Advanced MCACC YPAO sound optimization with R.S.C., Multipoint, 3D, 64-Bit High Precision EQ Calculation, Low Frequency mode and Angle measurement
        HDR10
        Dolby Vision
        New HDCP Version2.32.3
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC, AAC
        Google Assistant
        Many HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)7
        USB Input2 (1 Front)USB memory, Portable Audio Player
        Phono Input
        Ethernet
        Zones34
        Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM
        Spotify
        Tidal
      WEAKNESSES Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        No Front Wide Channel Support
        No Digital Radio
        No Pandora

      6. Amplifier

      Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A

      9 channel Direct Energy Amplifier: Pioneer VSX-LX304 features 9 channel power amplifier with Direct Energy design. It is rated at 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      11 channel Amplifier: Yamaha RX-A8A features 11 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.


        AMPLIFIER Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Channels9.211.2
        Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability

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        Pioneer VSX-LX304
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        7. Speaker Configurations

        Pioneer VSX-LX304's and Yamaha RX-A8A's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Pioneer VSX-LX304: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2, 7.2.4 with internal amplifier.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Pioneer VSX-LX304: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2, 7.2.4 with internal amplifier.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Pioneer VSX-LX304: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
        • 2-ch Bi-Amp: Both models are able to bi-amp up to 2 main channels simultaneously. During bi-amplification two amplifiers are used for one speaker. One amplifier powers the midrange and tweeter section of the speaker and another amplifier powers the low frequency woofers. Each amplifier is less loaded and performs better. In order to use this feature speakers must have 2 pairs of connectors.

        8. Immersive Audio Formats

        Dolby Atmos

        Pioneer VSX-LX304 and Yamaha RX-A8A 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: 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

        Pioneer VSX-LX304 and Yamaha RX-A8A 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 Dialog Control: Both models have DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.

        Auro-3D

        Yamaha RX-A8A supports Auro-3D.

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

        IMAX Enhanced

        Pioneer VSX-LX304 is IMAX Enhanced certified. To qualify for IMAX Enhanced certification, 4K HDR televisions, projectors, sound bars, a/v receivers, loudspeakers, powered subwoofers and other premium home entertainment devices must meet carefully prescribed performance requirements established by IMAX, DTS and Hollywood's leading experts.

        • What makes an IMAX Enhanced A/V receiver different from an A/V receiver with DTS:X technology? DTS:X technology is commonly found in most multi-channel A/V receivers on the market today. All IMAX Enhanced A/V receivers include DTS:X technology and deliver additional features, such as auto-sensing of IMAX Enhanced content, via IMAX Mode. IMAX Mode indicates that your A/V receiver supports fully immersive IMAX signature sound.
        AUDIO DECODING Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Dolby Atmos
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic
        Dolby Digital EX
        DTS:X
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer

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        Yamaha RX-A8A
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        9. HDMI

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

        Yamaha RX-A8A comes with 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for ZONE2/4.

        • 4K/60Hz Passthrough on Pioneer VSX-LX304: All inputs pass up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4) video signal.
          8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Passthrough on Yamaha RX-A8A: All inputs pass up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4 video signal.
        • 4K Upscaling on Pioneer VSX-LX304: It can upscale 1080p to 4K from HDMI sources.
          4K Upscaling on Yamaha RX-A8A: It can upscale up to 4K 60p 4:4:4 from HDMI and analog sources.
        • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Yamaha RX-A8A 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 Yamaha RX-A8A only).
        • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

        HDR (High Dynamic Range)

        Pioneer VSX-LX304 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

        Yamaha RX-A8A 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.


        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

        Yamaha RX-A8A 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

        Yamaha RX-A8A supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for lag-free and smooth gaming.



        VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.32.3
        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 (YCbCr 4:4:4)up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
        Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K up to 4K 60p 4:4:4

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        Pioneer VSX-LX304
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        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Pioneer VSX-LX304 and Yamaha RX-A8A with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Yamaha RX-A8A has 11.2 preamplifier outputs which allows you to connect the receiver to the external power amplifier. You may want to use a high quality external amplifier for certain channels, usually for front L/R and center, and use the receiver to power the rest.
        • XLR Inputs and Outputs: There is one pair of XLR inputs on Yamaha RX-A8A. If your CD player, Blu-Ray player or other source have XLR outputs you can connect them to the receiver's XLR Inputs for higher quality balanced connection. Besides unbalanced RCA pre-outs Yamaha RX-A8A also has XLR outputs. In case your external power amplifier has XLR inputs you can use the balanced connection for higher audio quality.
        • Analog Line Inputs: There are 5 pair of line inputs on both receivers for connecting sources with analog outputs.
        • Digital Inputs: 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available on Pioneer VSX-LX304 and 3 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Yamaha RX-A8A 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 VSX-LX304
          Inputs:           7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A
          Inputs:           7   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
          8K Inputs: 7.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Pioneer VSX-LX304
          Inputs:           0   Outputs: 0.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 0.
        • Component Video: Component video connection gives you the higher quality video compared to the composite video connection. So in case your old DVD player and other equipment do not have an HDMI output but have Component video output use this connection over the composite one. resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A supports up to 1080i resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Pioneer VSX-LX304
          Inputs:           0   Outputs: 0.
        • Yamaha RX-A8A
          Inputs:           1   Outputs: 0.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Pioneer VSX-LX304: HDMI, USB, Mini-Jack
        • Yamaha RX-A8A: USB

        Pioneer VSX-LX304

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        Yamaha RX-A8A

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        TERMINALS Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)7
        HDMI Outputs2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
        8K Inputs7
        USB Input2 (1 Front)USB memory, Portable Audio Player
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs13
        Optical Outputs
        Coaxial Inputs12
        RCA Line Inputs5 (1 front)5
        RCA Line Outputs
        XLR Line Inputs1
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs0.211.2
        XLR Pre-outsFront L/R
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs1
        Component Video Outputs

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        Yamaha RX-A8A
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        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Pioneer VSX-LX304 and Yamaha RX-A8A and gave them scores of 90 and 95 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 VSX-LX304

        Yamaha RX-A8A

        OVERALL
        90
        OVERALL
        95

        Amplifier

        EXCELLENT
        89
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   Power Output - 100 W
        EXCELLENT
        96
        •   Many Channels - 11.2
        •   High Power Output - 150 W

        Audio Features

        EXCELLENT
        90
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   9.1 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI
        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   Many Channels - 11.2
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   11.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   No IMAX Enhanced
        •   Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI

        Video Features

        EXCELLENT
        95
        •   HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        EXCELLENT
        99
        •   HDR10
        •   HDR10+
        •   Dolby Vision
        •   HDMI 2.1
        •   Auto Low Latency Mode Pass-through
        •   VRR
        •   QFT
        •   8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   No eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   Google Assistant
        •   Chromecast Built-In
        •   7 HDMI Inputs
        •   3 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   No RCA Pre-Outs
        •   No Composite Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 4․2
        EXCELLENT
        91
        •   eARC
        •   New HDCP Version
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Works with Amazon Alexa
        •   Google Assistant
        •   7 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   7 8K Inputs
        •   USB Input
        •   RCA Line Inputs
        •   XLR Line Inputs
        •   Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   XLR Pre-outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 4․2

        Zones

        EXCELLENT
        90
        •   3 Zones
        EXCELLENT
        95
        •   4 Zones

        Radio

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

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        BrandPioneerYamaha
        SeriesEliteAventage
        ModelVSX-LX304RX-A8A
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryAustralia and AsiaChina
        Release Year20192021
        PredecessorPioneer VSX-LX303 Yamaha RX-A3080
        SuccessorPioneer VSX-LX305
        AMPLIFIER Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Channels9.211.2
        Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)150 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignDirect Energy
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability
        AUDIO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineDigital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic) + Aureus™ Floating-Point DSP (TI)
        Surround:AI™
        DACAKM AK4458 & TI PCM5101ESS Hyperstream DAC ES9026PRO x2
        DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit384 kHz/32 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing9.111.2
        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
        Surround EX
        DTS:X
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo
        DTS-HD Master Audio
        DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
        DTS 96/24
        DTS Express
        DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
        IMAX Enhanced
        Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        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 USBMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSDMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
        High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network 64, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit up to 384 kHz/32 Bit
        High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, 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
        Jitter ReductionUltra Low Jitter PLL
        DTS Dialogue Control
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialog Level Adjustment
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift
        Sound Retriever Advanced
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control All Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever
        High-resolution Music Enhancer
        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
        CINEMA DSP HD3
        DSP Programs24
        SILENT CINEMA / Virtual CINEMA DSP
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround10 + 1
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual Speakers including surround back
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Advanced MCACC YPAO sound optimization with R.S.C., Multipoint, 3D, 64-Bit High Precision EQ Calculation, Low Frequency mode and Angle measurement
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory1
        Reflex Optimizer
        Phase Control
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control Multi-Point
        EQ Bands9-Band
        Symmetric EQ
        Distance Adjustment0.1 feet
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        YPAO Volume
        PEQ for SUBDown to 15.6 Hz
        VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        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 Version2.32.3
        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 (YCbCr 4:4:4)up to 8K 50/60Hz and 4K 100/120Hz 4:4:4
        Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K up to 4K 60p 4:4:4
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution1080i
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter Adjustments
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC, AAC
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Apple Siri
        Works with SonoS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input
        DLNA 1.5
        MusicCast
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay 2
        Apple Product Connection Made for iPhone, iPod and iPad (Airplay only) iPod, iPhone and iPad
        Remote App (iPhone® / iPad® / Android™ phone / tablet)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)7
        HDMI Outputs2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2/4)
        8K Inputs7
        USB Input2 (1 Front)USB memory, Portable Audio Player
        USB DC Out Port
        Optical Inputs13
        Optical Outputs
        Coaxial Inputs12
        RCA Line Inputs5 (1 front)5
        RCA Line Outputs
        XLR Line Inputs1
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs0.211.2
        XLR Pre-outsFront L/R
        Composite Video Inputs2
        Composite Video Outputs
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs1
        Component Video Outputs
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsHDMI, USB, Mini-JackUSB
        Speaker A/B
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        dockport
        adapterport
        ZONES Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Number of Zones34
        Powered Zones2 and 3Zone 2 / 3
        Zone 2 OutsHDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B line out)HDMI, RCA Preout
        Zone 3 OutsRCA Preout
        Zone 4 OutsHDMI
        Zone B Video OutputHDMI
        Zone GUI
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output2 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA)2
        Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 11 / 1
        Party Mode
        MISCELLANEOUS Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        On-Screen DisplayGraphical User Interface
        GUI Languages9
        SCENESCENE (8 sets)
        Web Control
        AV Navigator
        IP Control
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker ConfigurationSpeaker 9ch Out (FRONT, CENTER,SURROUND, SURROUND BACK/HEIGHT/Bi-AMP, ZONE 2)
        DisplayHigh-resolution LCD display
        FL Dimmer
        RADIO Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM
        Presets4040
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio TuneIn
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Front PanelBrushed
        Solid Aluminum Front
        A.R.T. Wedge
        Speaker Terminals913
        Large Speaker Terminals913
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Power SupplyAC 220-240 V, 50/60 HzAC 220 V, 50 Hz
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption760 W600 W
        No Sound Power75 W
        Standby Power0.15 W0.4 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power Standby
        PHYSICAL Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Dimensions (W x H x D)435 mm x 173 mm x 370.5 mm
        17-1/8" x 6-13/16" x 14-9/16"        		435 mm x 192 mm x 477 mm (with antenna: 435 mm x 271 mm x 477 mm)
        17-1/8" x 7-1/2" x 18-3/4" (with antenna up: 17-1/8" x 10-5/8" x 18-3/4")
        Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)544 mm x 287 mm x 443 mm
        21-7/16" x 11-5/16" x 17-7/16"
        Weight10.8 kg (23.8 lbs)21.4 kg (47.2 lbs)
        Weight of Package13.5 kg (29.8 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Pioneer VSX-LX304 Yamaha RX-A8A
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)150 W (0.06% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)165 W (0.9% THD)
        Rated Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven)185 W (0.9% THD)
        Maximum Effective Output Power (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven, JEITA)220 W (10% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, FTC)200 W (0.9% THD)
        Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)185 W (10% THD)250 W (10% THD)
        Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)170 W (1% THD)
        Rated Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel Driven)230 W (0.9% THD, Front)
        Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)250 W
        Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)220 W
        Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)130 W
        THD0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, half power)0.05% (AUDIO 2 etc. to Speaker Out, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 75 W, 8 Ω)
        THD (Phono)0.04% (Phono to PRE OUT, 1 kHz, 1 V)
        Damping Factor140 (Front, 1 kHz, 8 Ω)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ250 mV/47 kΩ unbalanced
        260 mV/200 kΩ balanced (attenuator off)
        520 mV/200 kΩ balanced (attenuator on)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ4.5 mV/47 kΩ
        Maximum Input Sensitivity (Line)2.4 V (1 kHz, 0.5% THD) unbalanced
        2.4 V (1 kHz, 0.5% THD) balanced (attenuator off)
        4.8 V balanced (attenuator on)
        Maximum Input Sensitivity (Phono)45 mV (1 kHz, 0.5% THD)
        Rated Preout Level and Impedance1.0 V/470 Ω unbalanced
        2.0 V/470 Ω balanced
        Maximum Preout Level and Impedance2.0 V unbalanced
        4.0 V balanced
        Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance8 Ω - 600 Ω
        Rated Headphone Power Output85 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
        Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)
        S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)106 dB110 dB
        S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)80 dB95 dB
        Phono RIAA Deviation0±0.5 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
        Frequency Response (Analog In)5 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio)+0/-3 dB (AUDIO 2 etc. to Front, Pure Direct, 10 Hz to 100 kHz)
        Residual noise (IHF-A Network)150 µV (Speaker Out)
        Channel Separation at 1 kHz/10 kHz (LINE)75 dB/61 dB
        Channel Separation at 1 kHz/10 kHz (Phono)75 dB/60 dB
        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 Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
        0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
        1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
        Video Maximum Input1.5 Vp-p
        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 GHz2.4 GHz, 5 GHz
        Bluetooth Version4․24․2
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
        USB TerminalVer. 2.0, 5 V, 500 mAUSB2.0 5 V, 1 A
        FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz87.50 MHz - 108.00 MHz
        FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 1.0 µV (11.2 dBf)Mono: 3 µV (20.8 dBf)
        FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 69 dB/68 dB
        FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.5%/0.6%
        AM Frequency522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz531 kHz - 1611 kHz
        Warranty3 Years3 Years

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

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