Pioneer vs Denon AV Receivers Comparison

Deciding on the perfect AV receiver for your home theater? You have two fantastic choices: Pioneer and Denon, both specialized in the audio-visual field. So which one is suitable for you? Let’s investigate further to compare Denon vs Pioneer AV receivers side by side!

Basic information about Denon and Pioneer

Denon is one of the forerunners in the home audio and video industry, having been established in 1910. It is a Japanese company that produces high-end products such as A/V receivers, amplifiers, and CD players. Denon is highly acclaimed for its cutting-edge technology and top-notch sound quality.

Pioneer is another major player in the home AV market, founded in 1938. It is a Japanese electronics manufacturer with an extensive product catalog, including A/V receivers, soundbars, speakers, etc. Pioneer is renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality audio engineering.

Mid-price Denon and Pioneer receivers comparison

Denon AVR-X3700H

In this Denon AVR-X3700H review, we will take a closer look at the key features of the receiver and find out how it can compete with more expensive models.

For instance, this receiver shares the same key features as the more expensive AVR-X4700H, however, there are some differences you will notice in the text below. Overall, Denon AVR-X3700H is a mid-priced option that saves them some money but still has all the features they need.

Build and design

Denon AVR-X3700H measures 17.1 x 14.8 x 6.5 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 31 pounds. It has a black finish with a brushed metal faceplate and an information display in the center that shows all the essential information at a glance. The buttons and knobs are all hidden away neatly.

One of the minor nitpicks about the receiver's design is that the power button is a bit small and difficult to press. The volume knob is also quite sensitive, so it's easy to accidentally turn it up or down too far by accident.

Actually, Denon AVR-X3700H looks similar to its older brother, the AVR-X4700H. The only real difference is that the AVR-X3700H is a little bit smaller and lacks a few of the more advanced ports. However, it does not take up too much space and fits nicely into most AV cabinets.

Features and specs

Denon AVR-X3700H has 9 channels and delivers 125 watts per each one. Compared with other receivers I tested before, it's more than enough even for a spacious house. Multi-room supports audio sources for two zones.

As for the ports, I think that Denon AVR-X3700H has just about everything you could need. On the back of the receiver, you will find eight HDMI ports, though I needed only four of them to plug in the TV, soundbar, Sony Playstation, and laptop without having to worry about running out of ports. It also has built-in HEOS that lets you play music from your own library or streaming apps like Spotify, Pandora, and Amazon Music. As for me, I generally pair the receiver with my phone using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. By the way, it was a pleasant surprise to control the receiver with Siri voice commands.

Denon AVR-X3700H features an advanced video processor that is up to 4K/60Hz. Support for HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, and lossless file formats like FLAC, WAV, and ALAC adds extra quality to everything you watch or play. Plus, you get access to different audio decoding technologies, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS:X.

One of the coolest Denon AVR-X3700H's specifications is its ability to mix two-channel stereo sources to create a virtual surround sound experience. So, you are able to watch TV shows or movies that are not in surround sound. The receiver will automatically create a surround sound experience by using its algorithms.

Sound

Once you have everything connected, you can start listening to music right away. I tested Denon AVR-X3700H with a variety of music genres like jazz, rock, and indie. All of them sounded flawless and music filled my large living room to the fullest. I think that it was Audyssey MultEQ XT32 that did a great job of calibrating the sound of the receiver to my room. In other words, the system compensated for the acoustics of my room and made sound well-balanced, no matter where I was sitting.

Verdict about Denon AVR-X3700H

Pioneer Elite SC-LX704

In this Pioneer's Elite SC-LX704 review we will take a look at one of the company's top-of-the-line AV receivers. It is a full-featured AV receiver with a bevy of advanced audio processing capabilities that should appeal to a wide range of users. While it's not the cheapest receiver on the market, it definitely offers a full performance.

Build and design

The Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 has a sleek and elegant design that will look great in any home theater setup. The front panel is glossy black with a silver Pioneer logo in the center. The rest of the receiver is made of high-quality materials and feels very solid. It's not too big or bulky, and the front panel is relatively uncluttered. The receiver also has a built-in AM/FM tuner and comes with remote control. From my point of view, the buttons on the remote are a bit small and cramped. Even so, they become convenient once you get used to them.

The SC-LX704 is relatively easy to set up. The onscreen display is clear and easy to navigate, and the receiver comes with a well-written manual that will help you get everything up and running in no time. Included setup microphone makes calibrating your speakers a breeze.

Features and specs

Let's see what features Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 hides inside. The receiver has a 9.2-channel amplifier and a power output of 140 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.08% THD). Thanks to the A/B speaker, it's possible to use two different types of speakers. At the same, the Bi-Amp mode allows using the front left and right channels for bi-amp operation with compatible speakers. In addition, Multi-Tone Control adjusts the sound of each individual channel to match your speakers.

The SC-LX704 has a variety of inputs and outputs, including HDMI, a subwoofer output, an RS-232C port for integration with custom control systems, and a USB port for connecting a storage device. You can wirelessly stream audio from your mobile devices, using built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or connect wirelessly to speakers and favorite services like Spotify, Pandora, and Tidal. There's also support for AirPlay, Chromecast, and DNLA. If you're into vinyl, the SC-LX704 has a phono input for connecting to a turntable.

The Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 also supports 4K Ultra HD pass-through with HDR support. This means that you'll be able to enjoy the latest and greatest in video quality, without having to worry about compatibility issues. The receiver comes with a variety of pre-set sound modes, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Surround, and DTS Neural:X. There's also a Cinema EQ mode that automatically adjusts the sound quality for movies and a Music EQ mode that does the same for music.

Sound quality

I've tested a lot of receivers before, and the Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 is definitely one of the finest. The calibration process, from my point of view, is better than many others. Besides, I tried to play the soundtrack of "Mad Max: Fury Road" with the Dolby Atmos enabled, and it sounded fantastic, with plenty of depth and detail. The explosions and gunfire were incredibly loud and realistically portrayed, and the sound stage was huge. The SC-LX704 handled music well, delivering a smooth and natural sound with good bass response. Even at higher volumes, the Pioneer is rich and full.

Verdict about Pioneer Elite SC-LX704

Overall, both receivers offer excellent sound quality and plenty of features to make your home theater experience better. The Denon AVR-X3700H is a great option if you’re looking for an easy-to-use setup and advanced audio tuning, while the Pioneer Elite SC-LX704 offers more connection options and ports. Denon and its competitor offer almost the same features; however, Denon offers them at a more affordable price. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, which one is better.

Pioneer VSX-935

Take your home audio experience to the next level with the Pioneer VSX-935 AVR. This powerful receiver combines incredible sound quality and immersive surround capabilities for a truly stunning home theater system that you won't soon forget! The AVR is a great choice for those looking to amplify their home entertainment experience. Featuring advanced audio processing and surround sound capabilities, this receiver delivers an immersive theater-like atmosphere right in your living room! Find out what makes the Pioneer VSX-935 AVR a top choice for every user!

Build and design

The Pioneer VSX-935 is an impressive piece of equipment designed with the most advanced technology and a sleek, modern design. Its front terminals offer a great range of connections and ports, including USB 1 In for connecting external USB devices, MCACC Setup MIC In for setting up and ensuring accurate sound performance, Audio 1 In, which allows for connecting a stereo mini jack, and Phones 1 Out for connecting headphones.

HDMI connections are plentiful, with 6 HDMI inputs at the rear of the receiver and 2 HDMI outputs to maximize the number of devices connected. Digital audio input is further enabled by two optical one and coaxial connectors, while two analog audio inputs provide a great range of options for connecting other audio devices.

The receiver also has a USB port and 3.5mm stereo mini jack at the front, allowing quick and easy hooking up of other portable media, while its dimensions measure 17-1/8 x 6-13/16 x 14-9/16 inches, and it weighs 20.7 lbs. Combining all these features with a stylish, modern design and intuitive control layout, the Pioneer VSX-935 is an ideal choice for those seeking premium sound reproduction capabilities in their home audio setup.

The Pioneer VSX-935 is the perfect combination of performance and style, allowing you to create an immersive and powerful audio experience in your home.

Features and specs

The Pioneer VSX-935 is a 7.2-channel AV receiver designed to provide cinematic audio and video quality to your home cinema setup. It features Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies, allowing you to experience immersive surround sound with up to 7.1.2 channels of object-based audio and Dolby Surround upmixer and DTS Neural:X Upmixer options. The receiver also supports 8K video, with Ultra HD Upscaling that allows you to upscale 4K content up to 8K resolution. Additionally, it features Bluetooth®, Apple Music AirPlay 2, SONOS compatibility, and Chromecast built-in for streaming audio, as well as Alexa and Hey Google for voice control.

The Pioneer VSX-935 is powered by 80 watts per channel (8 ohms) and 170 watts per channel (6 ohms). It supports HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG video technologies and HDMI 2.1 specifications. With its multiple connectivity options and support for the latest audio and video technologies, the Pioneer VSX-935 is an excellent choice for a high-quality home cinema receiver.

Whether watching movies, listening to music, or playing your favorite games, this receiver offers the performance and flexibility needed to get the most out of your AV setup.

Sound quality

The Pioneer VSX-935 delivers incredible sound quality with its advanced audio processing and surround sound capabilities. Its Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies offer a truly immersive theater-like atmosphere.

It features an incredible frequency response of 10 Hz to 100 kHz, allowing you to experience every sound in great detail. Additionally, it comes equipped with MCACC Pro Auto Room Tuning, which calibrates your audio setup and ensures optimal sound performance. With its 80 watts per channel (8 ohms) and 170 watts per channel (6 ohms) power output, you can enjoy a powerful and dynamic sound that brings your favorite movies and music to life. It has an impressive signal-to-noise ratio of 105 dB, ensuring you hear the highest quality music and dialogue. The Pioneer VSX-935 is sure to improve your home entertainment experience dramatically. Its advanced audio technologies make it ideal for creating a top-of-the-line sound system. With its powerful output, dynamic sound quality, and wide range of features, this receiver is an excellent choice for any home theater enthusiast.

The strong bass and clear high-frequency sound of the Pioneer VSX-935 will ensure that you get the best sound for your music, movies, and gaming. Its advanced audio processing capabilities make it easy to customize your listening environment to match your tastes. Whether you're looking for theater-quality surround sound or a more personalized experience, this receiver has something for everyone.

Verdict about Pioneer VSX-935

Denon AVR-X1700H

Looking for a great home theater receiver on a budget? The Denon AVR-X1700H is a fine option. It supports the latest audio and video technologies you would expect in $1000's units.

Check out our full Denon AVR-X1700H review, we'll take a closer look at its features and performance to see if it's the right model for you.

Build and design

Denon AVR-X1700H is a mid-sized receiver, measuring 17 inches wide, 13.5 inches deep, and 6 inches tall. It weighs about 19 pounds. An uncluttered appearance that will go well with any home theater setup is the trademark of the Denon AVR-X1700H.

The front panel has a clean, minimalist design with a large volume knob, power button, along with a row of buttons for basic control and navigating the menu. The display is small but clear, and it's easy to read from a distance and very intuitive. The rear of the receiver is more complex and contains a good range of connectivity options.

As for me, it would be better to have different colors and symbols representing different menu items, but it seems to be a personal taste judgment. There have, however, been no issues I noticed other than the screen remaining on after adjusting the volume, requiring a second press.

Features and specs

Denon AVR-X1700H's specifications say that it is a 7.2 channel receiver that has 95 watts per channel of power into 8 ohms. It is enough for a medium to large-sized room. I'm typically running 55% volume level for normal TV/voice and up to 75% for loud movies/entertainment. In addition, the Denon AVR-X1700H features built-in HEOS wireless multi-room audio technology, which lets you play music from the receiver in any room of your house. For example, I connected my speakers in the kitchen and could watch a movie in the living room and have the soundtrack playing in the kitchen simultaneously.

Six back HDMI inputs and one main output are on offer, with 8k/60 - 4k/120 max Resolution. Phono input for vinyl enthusiasts is also a nice touch. There are also 2 subwoofer outs for those that like to have beefier bass. The pass-through functionality works great as you can still use the tv without the stereo when you don't need it. I configured Zone 2 for my speakers outside, so AirPlay, HEOS functionality, and streaming integration are super handy to control from a phone without needing remotes. I can control the unit from my phone which is great when we're outside.

Denon AVR-X1700H supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, both of which create an immersive 3-dimensional soundscape. Dialog Enhancer is a Denon exclusive feature that helps make speech more intelligible, even in difficult listening environments. The receiver also supports HDR (high dynamic range) video passthrough, which means you can watch HDR content from your Ultra HD Blu-ray player or streaming service and get the full benefit of HDR's enhanced picture quality, with brighter highlights, deeper shadows, and more natural colors. I've watched a few 4k HDR videos and the results were really great.

Sound

The Denon AVR-X1700H adds great natural tones and excellent clarity. The receiver's ability to create an immersive soundscape is especially impressive, and it makes movies and TV shows feel more cinematic. The bass response is good, although it could be a bit deeper. The receiver's sound quality is sure to please audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Especially I liked the moments in film trailers where the full surround sound, such as wind or a helicopter, kicked in. I could feel like I was in the room with the action happening. But keep in mind that you have to set up a few speakers in front of you and a few behind it. Otherwise, the sound will be flat.

Verdict about Denon AVR-X1700H

The Pioneer VSX-935 and Denon AVR-X1700H are the premier audio/video receivers (AVR) available today. Both devices have features and specifications that make them ideal for home cinema enthusiasts, music lovers, and gamers. After Pioneer vs Denon comparison, in my opinion, the Pioneer VSX-935 is a clear winner AVR. This remarkable device has all the features one could want: breathtaking visuals, superb sound quality, and unrivaled convenience. It’s definitely worth every penny!

Budget Denon and Pioneer receivers comparison

Denon AVR-X6700H

If you can't decide if this receiver model is worth buying and there are some problems in making a choice, look through our Denon AVR-X6700H review. This model is really powerful and advanced. People choose it, because it includes many features that they cannot notice on other such devices.

You obviously should pay a lot of attention to its potent amplifier section. With its comprehensive range of connectors and ports, the model can accommodate virtually any type of both video and audio equipment. Moreover, the device is provided with different variants of connectivity. These features make it easier for connecting to a wide variety of the most popular streaming services. If you really want to buy a good Denon AV receiver, which is practical and powerful, the AVR-X6700H model is an ideal option to consider.

Design and built

I think most users will like this sleek and at the same time practical design. Its weight is 32 lbs. and its measures are 17.1 x 15.3 x 6.6 inches. First of all, let’s look at the front panel. It has a clean, minimalist interface that contains only a few regulation buttons and indicator lights. It includes the volume control, power and input selection buttons, etc. Besides, there you will find the display screen. It gives users a possibility to control the receiver's settings. As for other controls, they are located on remote control. You will find it also very sleek and straightforward. It’s easy to use because all buttons and controls are clearly labeled. Different color-coded connections make the rear side well-organized.

The Denon receiver isn’t difficult to set up. This model comes with a detailed instruction manual. It describes how to set up step-by-step. So even if you've never set up any devices for a home theater system, you will be able to do it with AVR-X6700H without any obstacles.

Features

Considering Denon AVR-X6700H specifications, let’s begin with the information that it is a popular 11.2 channel AV Receiver. People like its power output140 W(8 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.05% 2ch Drive). The model supports bi-amping. Here we speak about one of the needed features, especially if you are looking for high and better sound quality. When using a bi-amping, you are able to send different frequencies to each of your home speakers. It results in a more accurate and well balanced sound. In any case you should keep in mind that it requires access not only to one, but two speakers.

This device model supports even multi-room features. It means, you have a chance to enjoy listening to different sources in every, including the farthest room in your house. While someone is watching a movie in, for example, the living room, you will be able to listen to music in the bedroom or kitchen. The AVR-X6700H model can provide you with such a possibility because, as we have mentioned, it features enough for powering several rooms, 11 channels.

Looking at AVR-X6700H you can notice a lot of important ports, such as eight HDMI inputs and three outputs. Users will find three digital audio and component ports, composite one, and many other ports. All of them can be used for connecting your devices to a particular receiver. Besides, this receiver model has access to various popular streaming services, such as Pandora, Spotify, Tidal, and some others. Moreover, if you are a radio fan, it’s also for you.

There is a possibility to listen to any internet radio stations directly through your chosen receiver. In the case, if you are subscribed to some streaming services, you have a chance to use this model for listening to your favorite songs. Additionally, this device supports wide-spread AirPlay and, of course, Bluetooth. It’s not needed to explain that it’s a way how you can stream all music from a smartphone or other devices. Besides, it includes Wi-Fi. Here we speak about a popular and useful way that people use for streaming music, partfrom online music services just connecting to your home network.

The Denon AVR-X6700H includes a wide range of video features, including 4K Ultra HD60 Hz Pass-Through and 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling. Besides, the model supports High Dynamic Range, known as HDR and BT.2020 pass-through, providing stunning video quality that provides enhanced details and all colors. Furthermore, the AVR-X6700H model has a 12V trigger output. It is useful for powering a motorized projector screen.

Sound

The AVR-X6700H model of Denon is a pacesetting model for most home theaters that provides high and clear sound quality. It supports wide-spread Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based and other popular audio formats. It also offers high-resolution audio support for lossless audio files, like FLAC. Additionally, it has modern HEOS wireless technology, which allows users to stream music from your favorite streaming services directly.

The Denon AVR-X6700H is a beautiful choice for anyone who wants to be the owner of a really powerful receiver for home theater. Whether you are watching your favorite films or listening to any kinds of music, the Denon model will deliver a top-notch audio experience.

There cannot be any doubt that the Denon AVR-X6700H will provide you with clear sound, whether it's during a favorite movie or music listening experience. This Denon model packs a lot of power and also built-in features which is evident in its ability to deliver crisp and distortion-free audio.

Verdict about Denon AVR-X6700H

Pioneer Elite SC-LX904

I've seen a lot of impressive AV receivers in recent years, and Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 might just be one of the best. It's packed with features, delivers excellent performance, and has one of the most user-friendly interfaces.

In this Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 review I will go over in detail the capabilities of this receiver and tell my honest opinion about them.

Build and design

The first thing that caught my eye about Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 is its elegant design. The entire receiver has a black finish with a hint of silver around the edges. It's a sleek look that will match any modern home theater setup. The receiver is solid and feels heavy, which gives me confidence that it will last for years. Overall, Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 is surely among the best-looking and best-built receivers I've ever used.

The front panel of the receiver is very user-friendly, with large buttons and a bright display. The buttons provide feedback with a satisfying click. The display is large and easy to read, even in low light conditions.The rear panel of the receiver is just as well-designed as the front. All the inputs and outputs are clearly labeled and easy to access.

Features and specs

I would call the receiver powerful just because of its rated power output. It is said to deliver 140 watts per channel into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) with 0.08% THD. Besides, this Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 uses 32-bit / 384 kHz capable DACs that can produce high-resolution audio. In practice, it means that I can push the receiver to its limits, and it never skips a beat. It has 11.2 channels of audio processing, so it can handle even the most complex home theater setups consisting of up to 11 speakers.

The receiver is also compatible with Pioneer's Multi-Zone Technology, which allows you to play different audio sources in different rooms.

Pioneer Elite SC-LX904's features include 8 HDMI inputs, 3 HDMI outputs, Hi-Res Audio playback, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. There's also a USB port on the front panel, which makes it easy to connect a portable hard drive or thumb drive. I was able to hook up a TV, PlayStation, smartphone, laptop, and even a turntable. The AirPlay compatibility was especially handy, as it allowed me to easily stream audio from my iPhone to the receiver. By the way, there is no energy-saving ECO mode, which might be disappointing to some people.

One of the first things that caught my attention was the inclusion of HDCP 2.2 support. This ensures that the receiver will be able to handle the new 4K Ultra HD. The receiver also includes support for 3D pass-through, 4K upscaling, and HDR. I tested the receiver with a 4K TV, and it did an excellent job of upscaling lower resolution content. The list of advantages complements support for Dolby Atmos, DTS Neural:X, IMAX Enhanced, DTS:X, Dolby Digital Plus, and other pro features.

Sound quality

Listening to music and watching movies on Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 was an absolute pleasure. The receiver delivered exceptional sound quality with crystal clear highs and thundering lows. I watched Captain Marvel and during the beginning of the movie, when Carol dreams and we see the explosion and the earth falling to the ground, there were numerous tiny elements in the soundtrack around me that I hadn't noticed with my old receiver. I never had to adjust the volume levels, even during explosions and other loud scenes.

Verdict about Pioneer Elite SC-LX904

The Denon AVR-X6700H and the Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 offer high-end audio/video receiver capabilities, but their different design philosophies offer vastly different experiences. The Denon AVR-X6700H is a future-proof powerhouse that takes advantage of the latest HDMI technologies. At the same time, the Pioneer Elite SC-LX904 offers better sound quality and simplicity via its Direct Energy HD Amplifier. It all comes down to personal preference; if you prioritize features and technology over audio performance, then the Denon AVR-X6700H is the better choice.

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