Pioneer VSX-LX504 vs Pioneer SC-85

      Pioneer VSX-LX504

      Pioneer SC-85
      92
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      85
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      North America
      Europe Australia and Asia
      USA
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      Highlights

      • 9.2 Channels
      • 11.2 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
      • 9.2 Channel Processing
      • 135 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/60Hz Upscaling
      • Bluetooth, Ethernet

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

      Table of Contents
      1. Overview
      2. Pros and Cons
      3. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-LX504
      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-85
      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-LX504 to Pioneer SC-85 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.


      Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85

      Pioneer VSX-LX504 was introduced in 2019. 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 11.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales 1080p to 4K video signal.

      Pioneer SC-85 was introduced in 2014. It is equipped with 9 channel amplifier with 135 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz and 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 9.2 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales up to 4K/60p (Marvell Qdeo) video signal.

      We evaluated Pioneer VSX-LX504 and Pioneer SC-85 and gave them scores of 92 and 85 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Pioneer VSX-LX504

      Pioneer SC-85

      Amplifier
      91
      Amplifier
      91
      Audio Features
      91
      Audio Features
      85
      Video Features
      95
      Video Features
      73
      Connectivity
      89
      Connectivity
      83
      Zones
      92
      Zones
      96
      Radio
      92
      Radio
      85
      OVERALL
      92
      OVERALL
      85

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

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Pioneer VSX-LX504 and Pioneer SC-85.

      PROS

      Pioneer VSX-LX504

      Pioneer SC-85

      •   High Power Output - 120 W
      •   11.2 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
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Google Assistant
      •   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 - 135 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   9.2 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Bluetooth
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   4 HDMI Outputs
      •   USB Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   4 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify

      CONS

      Pioneer VSX-LX504

      Pioneer SC-85

      •   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 Digital Radio
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Tidal


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

      AVERAGE

      Pioneer VSX-LX504

      Pioneer SC-85

      •   9.2 Channels
      •   3 HDMI Outputs
      •   RCA Line Inputs
      •   Bluetooth 4․2
      •   9.2 Channels
      •   Wi-Fi

      3. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-LX504

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer VSX-LX504 over Pioneer SC-85.

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      Pioneer VSX-LX504
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      Pioneer VSX-LX504 vs Pioneer SC-85
      Higher DAC Specs 384 kHz/32 Bit vs 192 kHz/32 Bit
      More Channel Processing 11.2 vs 9.2
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      Dolby Surround Upmixer vs
      DTS:X vs
      DTS Neural:X vs
      IMAX Enhanced vs
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, DSD vs Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD
      Reflex Optimizer vs
      HDR10 vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      Wi-Fi vs via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately)
      Bluetooth SBC, AAC vs via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      Works with SONOS vs
      DTS Play-Fi vs
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 vs AirPlay
      USB Input 2 (1 Front) vs 1 Front
      More RCA Line Inputs 4 vs 3
      Phono Input vs
      Zone 2 Outs HDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B line out) vs RCA Pre/Line Out + Subwoofer
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Bigger Power Supply 850 W vs 330 W
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 106 dB vs 101 dB
      Higher DSD Sampling Rate via USB 11.2 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz vs 5.6 MHz, 2.8 MHz
      Wider AM Frequency Range 530 kHz - 1710 kHz vs 530 kHz - 1700 kHz
      Longer Warranty 3 Years vs 2 Years Parts & Labor

      4. Advantage of Pioneer SC-85

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer SC-85 over Pioneer VSX-LX504.

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      Pioneer SC-85
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      Pioneer VSX-LX504 vs Pioneer SC-85
      Higher Power Output 120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 135 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      Bi-amp capability vs Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
      Dolby Pro Logic vs PLIIz
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS Neo vs Neo:X
      DSD to PCM Converter vs
      Jitter Reduction vs plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
      Dialogue Lift vs via Dialog Enhancement
      Sound Retriever AIR vs
      Digital Noise Reduction vs
      High-resolution Music Enhancer vs Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
      Optimum Surround vs
      Wide Surround vs
      Headphone Surround vs
      Virtual Speakers vs (Surround Back/Height/Wide)
      Virtual Depth vs
      More Advanced Auto Speaker Calibration System Advanced MCACC vs MCACC Pro
      Higher MCACC Memory 1 vs 6
      Full Band Phase Control vs
      Polarity Check vs
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K vs up to 4K/60p (Marvell Qdeo)
      Component Video Maximum Resolution 480i/576i vs 1080p (1125p)
      Stream Smoother vs
      Pure Cinema vs
      Video Parameter Adjustments vs YNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black Level
      MHL Input vs 1 Rear (Version 2.0)
      DLNA 1.5 vs (DMR)
      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 MAIN/HDZONE)
      USB DC Out Port vs 1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
      More Optical Inputs 1 vs 2
      More Optical Outputs vs 1
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 1 vs 2
      More RCA Line Outputs vs 1
      More Composite Video Outputs vs 2
      More Component Video Inputs 1 vs 2
      More Component Video Outputs vs 1
      Speaker A/B vs
      adapterport vs
      More Zones 3 vs 4
      More Powered Zones 2 and 3 vs 2, 3 and HDZone
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 1 / 1 vs 2 / 1
      AVNavigator vs Built-in
      PreAmp Mode vs
      More Presets 40 vs 63
      Advanced Direct Construction [] vs Advanced Direct Construction
      Transformer Stabilizer vs
      Lower THD 0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, half power) vs 0.04% (1 kHz, 110 W + 110 W, 8 Ω)

      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-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        High Power Output120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)135 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Channel Processing11.29.2
        Dolby Atmos up to with firmware update
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Advanced MCACC MCACC Pro
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component****, Composite
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
        Many HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        USB Input2 (1 Front)1 Front
        RCA Pre-Outs11.2 (barter to Zone 3 out)11.2
        Composite Video Inputs22
        Component Video Inputs12
        Ethernet
        Zones34
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
        Pandora
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        No HDR10+
        No eARC
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)up to 4K/60p (4:4:4 24-bit)
      4K/60p (4:2:2 36-bit)
      4K/24p (4:4:4 36-bit)
        Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        Few 8K Inputs
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85

      9 channel Direct Energy Amplifier: Pioneer VSX-LX504 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 Class D3 Amplifier: Pioneer SC-85 features 9 channel power amplifier with Class D3 design. It is rated at 135 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.


        AMPLIFIER Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Channels9.29.2
        Power Output120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)135 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignDirect EnergyClass D3 (Direct Energy HD)
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B

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        Pioneer VSX-LX504
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        7. Speaker Configurations

        Pioneer VSX-LX504's and Pioneer SC-85's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

        • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
        • Pioneer VSX-LX504: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier and 7.2.4 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-85: 5.2.2, 5.2.4, 7.2.2 with internal amplifier.
        • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
        • Pioneer VSX-LX504: 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.
        • Pioneer SC-85: Not supported.
        • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
        • Pioneer VSX-LX504: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Pioneer SC-85: 5.2, 7.2, 9.2 with internal amplifier.
        • Front Wide Channel support: With the presence of two front wide speakers you can enhance the front surround stage. The following speaker configurations are available for front wide channels:
        • Pioneer VSX-LX504: Does not support.
        • Pioneer SC-85: 9.2.
        • Bi-Amp: Pioneer VSX-LX504 is able to bi-amp up to 2 and Pioneer SC-85 is able to bi-amp up to 4 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-LX504 and Pioneer SC-85 support Dolby Atmos.

        • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Pioneer VSX-LX504 supports Dolby Surround Upmixer. If the content is not mixed in Dolby Atmos then the Dolby surround upmixer will expand the audio to all channels including ceiling speakers. The upmixer has replaced the Dolby Pro Logic II family with improved upmixing algorithms.
        • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization: Pioneer VSX-LX504 supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization which is a digital signal processing solution that leverages Dolby's deep understanding of human audio perception to create the sensation of overhead sound from the listener-level speakers.

        DTS:X

        Pioneer VSX-LX504 supports DTS:X.

        • DTS Neural:X: Pioneer VSX-LX504 supports 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.

        IMAX Enhanced

        Pioneer VSX-LX504 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-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Dolby Atmos up to with firmware update
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X
        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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        Pioneer SC-85
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        9. HDMI

        Pioneer VSX-LX504 comes with 7 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs - 1 MAIN and 1 SUB/ZONE 2.

        Pioneer SC-85 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 3 outputs - 2 for MAIN and 1 for MAIN/HDZONE.

        • 4K/60Hz Passthrough: On both receivers all inputs pass up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4) video signal.
        • 4K Upscaling on Pioneer VSX-LX504: It can upscale 1080p to 4K from HDMI and analog sources.
          4K Upscaling on Pioneer SC-85: It can upscale up to 4K/60p (Marvell Qdeo) 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 Pioneer VSX-LX504 only).
        • HDCP 2.3 Copy Protection: Pioneer VSX-LX504 is HDCP 2.3 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
        • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

        HDR (High Dynamic Range)

        Pioneer VSX-LX504 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

        Pioneer SC-85 does not support HDR. 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.



        VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        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/60p (4:4:4 24-bit)
        4K/60p (4:2:2 36-bit)
        4K/24p (4:4:4 36-bit)
        Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K up to 4K/60p (Marvell Qdeo)

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        Pioneer VSX-LX504
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        10. Inputs and Outputs

        Audio

        • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Pioneer VSX-LX504 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
        • Analog Pre-Outs: Pioneer VSX-LX504 and Pioneer SC-85 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, Pioneer VSX-LX504 has 11 channel processing but has only 9 channel amplifier, so it needs external amplifier connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach its maximum speaker configuration.
        • Analog Line Inputs and Outputs: There are 4 pair of line inputs on Pioneer VSX-LX504 and 3 pair of line inputs on Pioneer SC-85 for connecting sources with analog outputs. There is also 1 pair of line outputs on Pioneer SC-85.
        • Digital Inputs: 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available on Pioneer VSX-LX504 and 2 optical inputs, 1 optical output and 2 coaxial inputs are available on Pioneer SC-85 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-LX504
          Inputs:           7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Pioneer SC-85
          Inputs:           8 (1 front)   Outputs: 3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
          8K Inputs: 0.
        • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
        • Pioneer VSX-LX504
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 0.
        • Pioneer SC-85
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 2.
        • 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-LX504 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Pioneer SC-85 supports up to 1080p (1125p) resolution on Component video connectors.
        • Pioneer VSX-LX504
          Inputs:           1   Outputs: 0.
        • Pioneer SC-85
          Inputs:           2   Outputs: 1.

        Front A/V Inputs

        • Pioneer VSX-LX504: HDMI, USB
        • Pioneer SC-85: HDMI, USB

        Pioneer VSX-LX504

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        Pioneer SC-85

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        TERMINALS Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
        8K Inputs
        USB Input2 (1 Front)1 Front
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs12
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs12
        RCA Line Inputs43
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs11.2 (barter to Zone 3 out)11.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs22
        Composite Video Outputs2
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs12
        Component Video Outputs1

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        Pioneer SC-85
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        11. Evaluations

        We evaluated Pioneer VSX-LX504 and Pioneer SC-85 and gave them scores of 92 and 85 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


        Pioneer VSX-LX504

        Pioneer SC-85

        OVERALL
        92
        OVERALL
        85

        Amplifier

        EXCELLENT
        91
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 120 W
        EXCELLENT
        91
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   High Power Output - 135 W

        Audio Features

        EXCELLENT
        91
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   No Front Wide Channel Support
        •   11.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   DTS:X
        •   IMAX Enhanced
        •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        •   DSD via HDMI
        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   9.2 Channels
        •   Front Wide Channel Support
        •   9.2 Channel Processing
        •   Dolby Atmos
        •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        •   No 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
        GOOD
        73
        •   No HDR10
        •   No HDR10+
        •   No Dolby Vision
        •   No 8K Passthrough
        •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

        Connectivity

        EXCELLENT
        89
        •   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
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet
        •   Bluetooth 4․2
        GOOD
        83
        •   No eARC
        •   Wi-Fi
        •   Bluetooth
        •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        •   8 HDMI Inputs
        •   4 HDMI Outputs
        •   0 8K Input
        •   USB Input
        •   Few RCA Line Inputs
        •   No Phono Input
        •   RCA Pre-Outs
        •   Composite Video Inputs
        •   Component Video Inputs
        •   Ethernet

        Zones

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   3 Zones
        EXCELLENT
        96
        •   4 Zones

        Radio

        EXCELLENT
        92
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   Tidal
        EXCELLENT
        85
        •   Analog Tuner
        •   Pandora
        •   Spotify
        •   No Tidal

        12. Specifications

        GENERAL Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        BrandPioneerPioneer
        SeriesEliteElite
        ModelVSX-LX504SC-85
        TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
        CountryNorth AmericaUSA
        Release Year20192014
        PredecessorPioneer VSX-LX503 Pioneer SC-75
        SuccessorPioneer VSX-LX505 Pioneer SC-95
        AMPLIFIER Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Channels9.29.2
        Power Output120 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)135 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven)
        Front Wide Channel Support
        Amplifier DesignDirect EnergyClass D3 (Direct Energy HD)
        THX™ Certification
        Continuous 6 Ω Rated
        Certified 4 Ω Performance
        Bi-amp Capability Front, Center, Surround, SP-B
        AUDIO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Digital Signal Processing (DSP) EngineDigital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic) + Aureus™ Floating-Point DSP (TI)Texas Instruments Aureus
        DACAKM AK4458 & TI PCM5101ESS SABRE32 Ultra (ES9016+ES9016)
        DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/32 Bit
        Maximum Channel Processing11.29.2
        Air Studios Monitor Certification
        Dolby Atmos up to with firmware update
        Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        Dolby Atmos Music
        Dolby TrueHD
        Dolby Digital Plus
        Dolby Surround Upmixer
        Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
        Dolby Digital EX
        Surround EX
        DTS:X
        DTS Neural:X
        DTS Virtual:X
        DTS Neo Neo:X
        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, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, LPCM, AIFF, DSD
        Music Playback via USBMP3, WMA, AAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSDMP3, WMA, 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 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz/24 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 Reduction plus PQLS (HDMI Bitstream/ Multi)
        Auto Level ControlMulti-Channel
        Dialog Enhancement
        Dialog normalization
        Dialogue Lift via Dialog Enhancement
        Sound Retriever Advanced Advanced (Multi-Channel / Auto with ARC)
        Sound Retriever AIR
        Digital noise Reduction
        Tone Control All Channels All Channels
        Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Sound Retriever Advanced Sound Retriever
        High-resolution Music Enhancer Hi-bit32 Audio Processing
        Audyssey Dynamic EQ
        Audyssey Dynamic Volume
        Audyssey LFC
        Audyssey Sub EQ HT
        Audyssey DSX
        Direct Mode
        Pure Direct Mode
        Auto Surround
        Optimum Surround
        Advanced Surround10 + 111 + 1
        Wide Surround
        Front Stage Surround Advance (Focus/Wide)
        Headphone Surround
        Virtual Speakers (Surround Back/Height/Wide)
        Virtual Depth
        Independent Subwoofer Outputs
        CALIBRATION Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. Advanced MCACC MCACC Pro
        Manual MCACC
        MCACC Memory16
        Reflex Optimizer
        Phase Control
        Auto Phase Control Plus
        Full Band Phase Control
        Standing Wave Control Multi-Point
        EQ Bands9-Band9-Band (Advanced)
        Symmetric EQ
        X-Curve
        Distance Adjustment0.1 feet1/2 Inch
        Precision Distance
        Polarity Check
        Auto Subwoofer Crossover
        VIDEO FEATURES Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        HDR10
        HDR10+
        Dynamic HDR
        BT.2020 color space
        Dolby Vision
        HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
        HDBaseT Compatible
        Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
        HDCP Version2.3
        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 4K/60p (4:4:4 24-bit)
        4K/60p (4:2:2 36-bit)
        4K/24p (4:4:4 36-bit)
        Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K up to 4K/60p (Marvell Qdeo)
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component****, Composite
        Component Video Upscaling
        Analog to Analog Video conversion
        Component Video Maximum Resolution480i/576i1080p (1125p)
        Stream Smoother
        Pure Cinema
        Video Parameter AdjustmentsYNR, CNR, BNR, MNR, Detail, Brightness, Contrast, Hue, Chroma, Black Level
        Triple HD noise Reduction
        Super Resolution
        isf Certified Calibration Control
        CONNECTIVITY Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Wi-Fi via optional AS-WL300 adapter (sold separately)
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC via optional AS-BT100 or AS-BT200 adapters (sold separately)
        Works with Amazon Alexa
        Google Assistant
        Chromecast Built-In
        Apple Siri
        Works with SonoS
        DTS Play-Fi
        MHL Input 1 Rear (Version 2.0)
        DLNA 1.5 (DMR)
        AirPlay AirPlay 2 AirPlay
        Apple Product Connection Made for iPhone, iPod and iPad (Airplay only) iPod and iPhone via front USB
        Remote App iControlAV5 (for iOS and Android)
        InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
        TERMINALS Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        HDMI Outputs2 (1 MAIN, 1 SUB/ZONE 2)3 (2 for MAIN, 1 for MAIN/HDZONE)
        8K Inputs
        USB Input2 (1 Front)1 Front
        USB DC Out Port1 Rear for AS-WL300 (5 V, 0.6 A)
        Optical Inputs12
        Optical Outputs1
        Coaxial Inputs12
        RCA Line Inputs43
        RCA Line Outputs1
        XLR Line Inputs
        Phono Input
        Multi-Channel Input
        RCA Pre-Outs11.2 (barter to Zone 3 out)11.2
        XLR Pre-outs
        Composite Video Inputs22
        Composite Video Outputs2
        S-Video Inputs
        S-Video Outputs
        Component Video Inputs12
        Component Video Outputs1
        Ethernet
        Ethernet Switch
        PC In
        Front A/V InputsHDMI, USBHDMI, USB
        Speaker A/B
        Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
        Detachable Power Cord
        adapterport
        ZONES Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Number of Zones34
        Powered Zones2 and 32, 3 and HDZone
        Zone 2 OutsHDMI, RCA Pre/Line Out (shared with Zone B line out)RCA Pre/Line Out + Subwoofer
        Zone 3 OutsRCA Pre/Line OutRCA Pre/Line Out
        Zone 4 OutsHDMI
        RS-232C Interface
        +12V Trigger Output2 (A: 100 mA, B: 25 mA)2 (Main, Zone2, Zone 3, HDZone)
        Remote (IR) Input/Output1 / 12 / 1
        MISCELLANEOUS Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        On-Screen DisplayGraphical User Interface (GUI) with Album Artwork (HDMI only)
        GUI Languages7
        Multi-Zone On-Screen Display HDZone
        AV Navigator Built-in
        IP Control
        PreAmp Mode
        Versatile Speaker ConfigurationSpeaker 11ch Out (FRONT, CENTER, SURROUND, HEIGHT 1/Bi-AMP, SURROUND BACK/HEIGHT 2/ZONE 3, ZONE 2)Surround Back/ Front Height/ Front Wide/ Front Bi-Amp/ Zone 2/ B-Speaker/ Powered HD Zone
        FL Dimmer
        Function Rename
        Remote ControllerLearning Remote Control (Lumius)
        RADIO Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
        Presets4063
        Digital Radio
        Internet Radio TuneIn vTuner
        Pandora
        Spotify
        Tidal
        Deezer
        Napster
        SiriusXM
        CONSTRUCTION Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Front PanelBrushedBrushed
        Solid Aluminum Front
        ConstructionAdvanced Direct Construction
        Speaker Terminals1111
        Large Speaker Terminals1111
        Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
        Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
        3D Space Frame Construction
        Gold plated RCA terminals
        POWER Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
        Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
        Transformer Stabilizer
        Power Consumption850 W330 W
        No Sound Power70 W
        Standby Power0.15 W0.1 W
        ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
        Auto Power Standby
        PHYSICAL Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        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"        		435 mm x 185 mm x 441 mm
        17-1/8" x 7-5/16" x 17-3/8"
        Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)541 mm x 310 mm x 487 mm
        21-5/16" x 12-3/16" x 19-3/16"
        Weight13.0 kg (28.7 lbs)15.1 kg (33.3 lbs)
        Weight of Package16.0 kg (35.3 lbs)
        SPECIFICATIONS Pioneer VSX-LX504 Pioneer SC-85
        Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)120 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven, FTC)135 W (0.08% THD)
        Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)175 W (1.0% THD)
        Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)230 W (10% THD)
        Power Output (4 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel Driven)220 W (1.0% THD)
        Multi Channel Simultaneous Drive760 W (8 Ω, 1 kHz, 1.0%)
        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)0.04% (1 kHz, 110 W + 110 W, 8 Ω)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ390 mV/47 kΩ (Line)
        Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ
        Rated Preout Level and Impedance1 V/470 Ω
        Rated Lineout Level and Impedance390 mV/2.2 kΩ (REC OUT)
        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 dB101 dB
        S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)80 dB
        Frequency Response (Analog In)10 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio)
        DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
        DSD Sampling Rates via USB11.2 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 2.8 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)
        Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
        Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
        Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
        Wi-Fi Terminal5 V, 600 mA
        Bluetooth Version4․2
        Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
        HDMI Terminal19-pin (not DVI)
        HDMI Output Type5 V, 55 mA
        HDMI Input/MHL Terminal5 V, 900 mA
        USB TerminalVer. 2.0, 5 V, 500 mAUSB2.0 (Type A) 5 V, 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: 1.0 µV (11.2 dBf)
        AM Frequency530 kHz - 1710 kHz530 kHz - 1700 kHz
        Warranty3 Years2 Years Parts & Labor

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

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