Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs Marantz SR6012

      Pioneer VSX-LX503

      Marantz SR6012
      91
      Image cannot be found
      90
      Image cannot be found
      North America
      Europe Australia and Asia
      USA
      UK
      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
      • 11.1 Channel Processing
      • 120 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

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 11.2 Channel Processing
      • 110 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 VSX-LX503
      4. Advantage of Marantz SR6012
      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-LX503 to Marantz SR6012 to reveal their common strengths and weaknesses as well as the differences between them which will help you in making a correct decision before the purchase. Both receivers have 9 channel amplifiers with Pioneer VSX-LX503's being more powerful.


      Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012

      Pioneer VSX-LX503 was introduced in 2018. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 11.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales 1080p to 4K video signal.

      Marantz SR6012 was introduced in 2017. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 110 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 and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4 video signal.

      We evaluated Pioneer VSX-LX503 and Marantz SR6012 and gave them scores of 91 and 90 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Pioneer VSX-LX503

      Marantz SR6012

      Amplifier
      91
      Amplifier
      89
      Audio Features
      89
      Audio Features
      89
      Video Features
      95
      Video Features
      95
      Connectivity
      87
      Connectivity
      92
      Zones
      92
      Zones
      84
      Radio
      92
      Radio
      92
      OVERALL
      91
      OVERALL
      90

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

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Pioneer VSX-LX503 and Marantz SR6012.

      PROS

      Pioneer VSX-LX503

      Marantz SR6012

      •   High Power Output - 120 W
      •   11.1 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   High Power Output - 110 W
      •   11.2 Channel Processing
      •   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
      •   HEOS
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   Multi-Channel Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      CONS

      Pioneer VSX-LX503

      Marantz SR6012

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


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

      AVERAGE

      Pioneer VSX-LX503

      Marantz SR6012

      •   9.2 Channels
      •   3 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   Bluetooth 4․1 + LE
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   2 Zones

      3. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-LX503

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer VSX-LX503 over Marantz SR6012.

      Check the Price

      Pioneer VSX-LX503
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs Marantz SR6012
      Higher Power Output 120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Higher DAC Specs 384 kHz/32 Bit vs 768 kHz/32 Bit
      Music Playback via USB MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD, Dolby TrueHD vs MP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, DSD, Dolby TrueHD vs Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      Works with SONOS vs
      DTS Play-Fi vs
      USB Input 2 (1 Front) vs 1 (Front) for USB memory
      More Zones 3 vs 2
      More Powered Zones 2 and 3 vs 2
      +12V Trigger Output 2 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA) vs 1
      Pandora vs
      Bigger Power Supply 850 W vs 680 W
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 120 W (0.08% THD) vs 110 W (0.08% THD)
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 230 W (10% THD) vs 220 W (10% THD)
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 106 dB vs 100 dB
      Higher S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) 80 dB vs 74 dB
      Higher DSD Sampling Rate via HDMI 2.8 MHz (2-ch/multi-ch), 5.6 MHz (2-ch) vs 2.8 MHz
      Higher DSD Sampling Rate via USB 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz vs 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
      Newer Bluetooth Version 4․1 + LE vs 3․0 + EDR
      Wider AM Frequency Range 530 kHz - 1710 kHz vs 522 kHz - 1611 kHz

      4. Advantage of Marantz SR6012

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Marantz SR6012 over Pioneer VSX-LX503.

      Check the Price

      Marantz SR6012
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Pioneer VSX-LX503 vs Marantz SR6012
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      Jitter Reduction vs Hybrid PLL Clock Jitter Reducer
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      Audyssey LFC vs
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT vs
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) vs
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K vs up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4
      isf Certified Calibration Control vs
      Works with Amazon Alexa vs
      DLNA 1.5 vs
      AirPlay AirPlay vs AirPlay 2
      More HDMI Inputs 7 (1 front) vs 8 (1 front)
      More HDMI Outputs 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2) vs 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 1 vs 2
      More RCA Line Inputs 4 vs 6 (1 front)
      Multi-Channel Input vs 7.1
      More Composite Video Inputs 2 vs 4 (1 front)
      More Composite Video Outputs vs 1
      More Component Video Inputs 1 vs 2
      More Component Video Outputs vs 1
      Front A/V Inputs HDMI, USB vs HDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio
      More GUI Languages 7 vs 9
      Analog Tuner FM/AM vs FM/AM with RDS
      Napster vs
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
      Gold plated RCA terminals vs

      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-LX503 Marantz SR6012
        High Power Output120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Channel Processing11.111.2
        Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
        DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. MCACC Audyssey MultEQ XT32
        HDR10
        Dolby Vision
        New HDCP Version2.22.2
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component**, Composite
        Wi-Fi
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC
        Many HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        USB Input2 (1 Front)1 (Front) for USB memory
        Phono Input
        RCA Pre-Outs11.211.2
        Composite Video Inputs24 (1 front)
        Component Video Inputs12
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM with RDS
        Spotify
        Tidal
      WEAKNESSES Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
        No Front Wide Channel Support
        No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        No IMAX Enhanced
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        No HDR10+
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4
        Few 8K Inputs
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012

      9 channel Direct Energy Amplifier: Pioneer VSX-LX503 features 9 channel power amplifier with Direct Energy design. It is rated at 120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      9 channel Amplifier: Marantz SR6012 features 9 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.
      • Current Feedback Topology: Marantz SR6012 features Current Feedback Topology which is a well known, Marantz’ original circuit technology. The Current Feedback amplifier technology fits perfectly with the high requirements set for Super Audio software providing wide-bandwidth, high-speed reproduction. The impedance at the Current Feedback point is limited resulting in a very low phase shift. Marantz receivers and amplifiers equipped with Current Feedback can keep the phase compensation via Negative FeedBack (NFB) to a minimum, resulting in high through-rate, excellent transient response and superb sonic transparency for the full bandwidth. Unlike conventional Voltage Feedback amplification, the Current Feedback amplification makes the power amplifier in-sensitive to difficult loudspeaker loads.
      • HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module): Marantz SR6012 features exclusive Marantz HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) technology found on their Reference Series components. Marantz developed its own discrete circuit boards to replace standard IC's. These HDAM's consist of discrete surface mount components with short mirror image L/R signal paths. Those devices are doing exactly the same thing as the Op-Amps, but outperform the regular IC Op-amps dramatically in terms of the Slew Rate and reduced noise level, resulting in a much more dynamic, accurate and detailed sound. Over the years Marantz developed different types of the HDAM to improve quality and to fit to the special requirements of a product category like CD or amplifier.


      AMPLIFIER Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Channels9.29.2
      Power Output120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability assignable

      Check the Price

      Pioneer VSX-LX503
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found

      7. Speaker Configurations

      Pioneer VSX-LX503's and Marantz SR6012's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

      • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
      • Pioneer VSX-LX503: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Marantz SR6012: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
      • Pioneer VSX-LX503: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Marantz SR6012: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
      • Pioneer VSX-LX503: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Marantz SR6012: 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-LX503 and Marantz SR6012 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.

      DTS:X

      Pioneer VSX-LX503 and Marantz SR6012 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 VSX-LX503 supports DTS Virtual:X which bridges the gap between DTS:X codec and the reality of so many consumers' homes, allowing you to enjoy multi-dimensional sound regardless of room size, layout, or speaker configuration. If you have a limited speaker setup you will miss a full immersive potential of your entertainment system. DTS Virtual:X adds height and surround audio effect to your system without adding height speakers. It works with multiple configurations and delivers immersive sound experience out of 5.1 or even 2.1 speaker layouts.
      • DTS Dialog Control: Both models have DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.
      AUDIO DECODING Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer

      Check the Price

      Marantz SR6012
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found

      9. HDMI

      Pioneer VSX-LX503 comes with 7 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs - 1 MAIN and 1 SUB/ZONE 2.

      Marantz SR6012 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for ZONE2.

      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough: On both receivers all inputs pass up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4) video signal.
      • 4K Upscaling on Pioneer VSX-LX503: It can upscale 1080p to 4K from HDMI and analog sources.
        4K Upscaling on Marantz SR6012: It can upscale up to 4K 50/60Hz 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 both models).
      • 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)

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


      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)

      Marantz SR6012 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 VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.2
      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 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4

      Check the Price

      Pioneer VSX-LX503
      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 VSX-LX503 and Marantz SR6012 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
      • 7.1 Multichannel Input: In case you have a high quality Blu-Ray or a DVD player with multichannel analog outputs you may connect it to a 7.1 multichannel analog inputs of Marantz SR6012 and use high quality DACs of the player instead of the ones in the receiver.
      • Analog Pre-Outs: Pioneer VSX-LX503 and Marantz SR6012 have 11.2 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. Also, both receivers have 11 channel processing but have only 9 channel amplifiers, so they need external amplifiers connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach their maximum speaker configurations.
      • Analog Line Inputs: There are 4 pair of line inputs on Pioneer VSX-LX503 and 6 pair of line inputs on Marantz SR6012 for connecting sources with analog outputs.
      • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs and 1 coaxial input are available on Pioneer VSX-LX503 and 2 optical inputs and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Marantz SR6012 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-LX503
        Inputs:         7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Marantz SR6012
        Inputs:         8 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX503
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 0.
      • Marantz SR6012
        Inputs:         4   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 VSX-LX503 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors. resolution on Component video connectors.
      • Pioneer VSX-LX503
        Inputs:         1   Outputs: 0.
      • Marantz SR6012
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 1.

      Front A/V Inputs

      • Pioneer VSX-LX503: HDMI, USB
      • Marantz SR6012: HDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio

      Pioneer VSX-LX503

      Image cannot be found Image cannot be found

      Marantz SR6012

      Image cannot be found Image cannot be found
      TERMINALS Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)
      8K Inputs
      USB Input2 (1 Front)1 (Front) for USB memory
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs22
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs12
      RCA Line Inputs46 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1
      RCA Pre-Outs11.211.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs24 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs1
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs12
      Component Video Outputs1

      Check the Price

      Marantz SR6012
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found
      Image cannot be found

      11. Evaluations

      We evaluated Pioneer VSX-LX503 and Marantz SR6012 and gave them scores of 91 and 90 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


      Pioneer VSX-LX503

      Marantz SR6012

      OVERALL
      91
      OVERALL
      90

      Amplifier

      EXCELLENT
      91
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   High Power Output - 120 W
      EXCELLENT
      89
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   High Power Output - 110 W

      Audio Features

      EXCELLENT
      89
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   11.1 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      EXCELLENT
      89
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   No 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

      Video Features

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

      Connectivity

      EXCELLENT
      87
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   3 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 4․1 + LE
      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Works with Amazon Alexa
      •   HEOS
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   Multi-Channel Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 3․0 + EDR

      Zones

      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   3 Zones
      GOOD
      84
      •   2 Zones

      Radio

      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   No Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal

      12. Specifications

      GENERAL Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      BrandPioneerMarantz
      SeriesElite
      ModelVSX-LX503SR6012
      TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
      CountryNorth AmericaUK
      Release Year20182017
      PredecessorPioneer SC-LX502 Marantz SR6011
      SuccessorPioneer VSX-LX504 Marantz SR6013
      AMPLIFIER Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Channels9.29.2
      Power Output120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)110 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      Amplifier DesignDirect Energy
      Current Feedback Topology
      Discrete Amplification
      HDAM
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability assignable
      AUDIO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineDigital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic) + Aureus™ Floating-Point DSP (TI)
      DACAKM AK4458 & TI PCM5101AKM AK4458
      DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit768 kHz/32 Bit
      Maximum Channel Processing11.111.2
      Air Studios Monitor Certification
      Dolby Atmos up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X up to 7.1.4 with external amp
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      Network Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD, Dolby TrueHDMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network 64, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 bit up to 192 kHz
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USBApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, DSD, Dolby TrueHDApple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, DSD
      Gapless Playback
      DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD via USB 2-ch Input 2-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter
      USB DAC
      Jitter Reduction Hybrid PLL Clock Jitter Reducer
      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 MDAX2
      High-resolution Music Enhancer
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume
      Audyssey LFC
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT
      Audyssey DSX
      Direct Mode
      Pure Direct Mode
      Auto Surround
      Optimum Surround
      Advanced SurroundMultiple
      Wide Surround
      Front Stage Surround Advance
      Headphone Surround
      Virtual Speakers
      Virtual Depth
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs
      CALIBRATION Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. MCACC Audyssey MultEQ XT32
      Audyssey App Support
      Manual MCACC
      MCACC Memory1
      Reflex Optimizer
      Phase Control
      Auto Phase Control Plus
      Full Band Phase Control
      Standing Wave Control
      Symmetric EQ
      Precision Distance
      Polarity Check
      Auto Subwoofer Crossover
      Optimized Bass Redirection
      Bass Sync
      VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.2
      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 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component**, Composite
      Component Video Upscaling
      Analog to Analog Video conversion
      Component Video Maximum Resolution480i/576i
      Stream Smoother
      Pure Cinema
      Video Parameter Adjustments
      Super Resolution
      isf Certified Calibration Control
      CONNECTIVITY Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Wi-Fi
      Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC
      Works with Amazon Alexa
      Chromecast Built-In
      Works with SonoS
      HEOS
      DTS Play-Fi
      MHL Input
      DLNA 1.5
      Domotz Pro Compatible
      Remote Monitoring with ihiji
      OvrC Compatible
      AirPlay AirPlay AirPlay 2
      Apple Product Connection Made for iPhone, iPod and iPad (Airplay only) iPod, iPhone and iPad
      Remote App Pioneer Remote App Marantz 2016 AVR Remote App for iOS and Android devices
      InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
      TERMINALS Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for ZONE2)
      8K Inputs
      USB Input2 (1 Front)1 (Front) for USB memory
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs22
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs12
      RCA Line Inputs46 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input 7.1
      RCA Pre-Outs11.211.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs24 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs1
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs12
      Component Video Outputs1
      Ethernet
      Ethernet Switch
      PC In
      Front A/V InputsHDMI, USBHDMI, USB, Composite, L/R Audio
      Speaker A/B assignable
      Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
      Detachable Power Cord
      Flasher In
      Remote Control In/Out1 / 1
      adapterport
      ZONES Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Number of Zones32
      Powered Zones2 and 3 2
      Zone 2 OutsHDMI, RCA Pre/Line OutHDMI, Pre Out
      Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line Out
      RS-232C Interface
      +12V Trigger Output2 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA)1
      Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 1
      MISCELLANEOUS Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      On-Screen Display Advanced Graphic User Interface
      GUI Languages79
      Web Control
      AV Navigator
      IP Control
      PreAmp Mode
      Versatile Speaker ConfigurationFRONT, CENTER, SURROUND, HEIGHT 1/Bi-AMP/ZONE 2, SURROUND BACK/HEIGHT 2/ZONE 3
      Display port hole
      FL Dimmer
      Function Rename
      Remote Controller User-Friendly Simple Remote ControlRC035SR
      Pre-programmed / Learnable / LCD Display / /
      Setup Assistant
      RADIO Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM with RDS
      Presets40
      Digital Radio
      Internet Radio TuneIn TuneIn
      Pandora
      Spotify
      Tidal
      Deezer
      Napster
      SiriusXM
      CONSTRUCTION Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Front PanelBrushedMetal
      Solid Aluminum Front
      Speaker Terminals1111
      Large Speaker Terminals1111
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
      Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
      3D Space Frame Construction
      High Grade Audio Components
      Gold plated RCA terminals
      POWER Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 230 V, 50/60 Hz
      Toroidal Transformer (EI)
      Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
      Transformer Stabilizer
      Power Consumption850 W680 W
      No Sound Power70 WECO On/Off: 60 W/100 W
      Standby Power0.15 W0.2 W
      ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
      Auto Power off
      PHYSICAL Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Dimensions (W x H x D)435 mm x 185 mm x 386 mm
      17-1/8" x 7-5/16" x 15-3/16"      		440 mm x 161 mm x 398 mm (with antenna: 440 mm x 229 mm x 398 mm)
      17-3/8" x 6-3/8" x 15-3/4" (with antenna: 17-3/8" x 9-1/8" x 15-3/4")
      Weight13.0 kg (28.7 lbs)12.8 kg (28 lbs 4 oz)
      SPECIFICATIONS Pioneer VSX-LX503 Marantz SR6012
      Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)120 W (0.08% THD)110 W (0.08% THD)
      Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)150 W (0.7% THD)
      Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)230 W (10% THD)220 W (10% THD)
      Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)185 W (1% THD)
      Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)250 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)220 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)130 W
      THD0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, half power)
      THD (Digital)0.008% (1 kHz, at 0 dB)
      Analog Distortion0.005% (20 Hz-20 kHz, Direct mode)
      Phono Distortion0.03% (1 kHz, 3 V)
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ200 mV/47 kΩ
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ2.5 mV
      Rated Preout Level and Impedance1 V/470 Ω
      Rated Output digital2 V (at 0 dB playback)
      Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance8 Ω - 600 Ω
      Rated Headphone Power Output85 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
      Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)
      S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)106 dB100 dB
      S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)80 dB74 dB
      S/N Ratio (digital)102 dB
      Dynamic Range (digital)100 dB
      Phono RIAA Deviation±1 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
      Frequency Response (Analog In)5 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio)+1/-3 dB (10 Hz to 100 kHz, Direct mode)
      DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz (2-ch/multi-ch), 5.6 MHz (2-ch)2.8 MHz
      DSD Sampling Rates via USB2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz5.6 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)      		1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
      0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
      1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
      Video Frequency Response5 Hz - 60 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Component)
      5 Hz - 10 MHz, 0, -3 dB (Composite)
      Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX100BASE-TX
      Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/nIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
      Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
      Bluetooth Version4․1 + LE3․0 + EDR
      Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
      USB TerminalVer. 2.0, 5 V, 500 mAUSB2.0 5V, 1 A
      FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz
      FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 1.56 µV (15.0 dBf)Mono: 2.8 µV (20.2 dBf)
      FM Effective Sensitivity1.2 µV (12.8 dBf)
      FM S/N RatioMono/Stereo: 70 dB/67 dB
      FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz)Mono/Stereo: 0.7%/1.0%
      AM Frequency530 kHz - 1710 kHz522 kHz - 1611 kHz
      AM Effective Sensitivity18 µV
      Warranty3 Years3 Years

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

      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.