PIONEER RECEIVER REVIEW!! Pioneer VSX-LX305 - 9.2 Channel Receiver

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

*Get the Pioneer Receiver here amzn.to/3DYth56 or use the 🛍️ tagged product link* ★ *QOTD: Who makes the best AV receiver, right now?* ★ *CLICK 🔝 “SHOW MORE” in the description for answers to many of your questions* Sponsored Message: For your chance to win $4.3 Million Los Angeles Dream House & support a great cause enter www.omaze.com/andrewrobinson

[@SeanVedell]

My judgment on the QOTD is based on your reviews so I’m going to say Onkyo but I’m really in over my head on this one. I love my Yamaha RX-V1085 but it’s limiting me to 5.1.2 for Atmos so I’m looking to upgrade.

[@SloDwn1135]

Ya since most of us are like Andrew and already own our dream house and dream car, I suspect we’ll be taking the cash prize.

[@michelfagan4891]

@@SeanVedell I have the same receiver also and as you mentioned love it. I was actually thinking of getting a 7 channel amp instead of getting a new receiver since there ain't no 8k content available

[@TheLkdude]

None, no one makes the best AV receiver, it's like Herding cats ! you can come to a compromise and work with what you have.

[@SeanVedell]

@@michelfagan4891 Not a bad strategy but a seven channel amp is overkill to get those two rear Atmos channels I want. A two channel amp would get it done but finding one that’s decent and under $1,000 is a chore and gets real close to the Pioneer reviewed here.

[@caryhetzel2809]

I just purchased the LX305 based on this review and I DO NOT REGRET IT! This system is the best sounding of all the receivers I've ever had! The Direcac Setup was a breeze, and watching movies is a pure joy! I can't believe how much of a difference this receiver has made! I kept the same speakers I've had for the last 8 years, yet they sound so much better! Thank you for the great review! I purchased this and do not have any regrets!

[@3483maverick]

Thanks, I also ordered the 305. Can't wait to get it.

[@mikedelara8226]

Hear me out. I'm in awe of your experience and knowledge. I've been a wannabe audiophile since 1983 when my dad bought me a Sound Design stereo, 😂 a lot of fake Vu meters and a multitude of EQ options with 4 ft tall speakers.. after a month of listening to those speakers I had to pry off the grills that were glued onto the cabinet and found one 4 inch speaker cone. I felt ripped off. From that moment on I wanted every stereo system I had to be the best that I could afford. I dabbled in Sony ES recievers, Infinity Kappas, Carver amps, Monster interconnect's and thick speaker wire. Boy has the world changed.. I was most proud of myself when S-Video came out and I could not believe the picture. I felt you couldn't get better than that.. And in 2022, I'm ready to retire. I have you to thank for steering me in the right direction of today's options and products. I bought a Sony ES receiver to start my journey again and I think the main reason I returned it was no phono preamp. After seeing this video at least 19 times, I purchased the Pioneer Elite vsx lx305 and I could not be happier. I want to thank you personally for that. I have commented before and told you you could sell me saltwater in the ocean. It still holds true. Thank you Andrew. Keep up the great work! Thank you for talking to us wannabe's and communicating with the true audiophiles in this community. Good luck in your new home and I hope for peacefulness to you and yours.

[@sphong0610]

Having owned Onkyo, Pioneer, and Technics receivers 25~15 years ago when I was starting to get into audio, its great to see these companies come back. It almost makes me home sick for my bedroom in my parents place.

[@scottyornes]

Just got the lx305 for $549 to replace my pioneer vsx-1019. Very happy! Sounds amazing and very easy to setup and use! I am running with Infinity TSS-1100 5.1 and an extra pair of 750 satellites. Thank you for the great review! At this price, hard to beat!

[@mikedinno8413]

I've had Pioneer receivers my whole life and I upgraded a few months ago. Long story short, I waited for the new 2021 models to come out before deciding. I went with the 2019 model SC-LX704. I found a great deal on E-Bay. It's more powerful, more efficient and I don't need the HDMI 2.1 at all. Even if I got a gaming system in the future I would just connect it directly to my LG C1 and eARC the sound to the receiver. Problem completely solved. 8K doesn't interest me at all especially when first generation 4K went obsolete within a year. The 8K is just marketing. Even when and if it does roll out this version of HDMI 2.1 will be obsolete as well. So the 2019 model was the ticket for me. It's got Atmos and all the bells and whistles of the 2021 models and are actually more efficient.

[@The_Brownest1]

I have noticed an issue with e arc having a delay of sound to picture when gaming on my next gen consoles. Did you have any issues with that?

[@MegaDevsta]

How do you eArc the sound to the receiver? I have a old pioneer lx03 that I was thinking to try and connect

[@mikedinno8413]

@@MegaDevsta Find the eARC HDMI on your TV and connect that to the HDMI eARC on your receiver. Go into the menu of the TV and turn on the eARC feature. Now everything connected to the TV the sound will automatically get routed to the receiver.

[@MegaDevsta]

@@mikedinno8413 thanks

[@ryanleesydney91]

Would you and Kristi ever consider making a video of how you guys do your testing/review process for equipment? I think it would be awesome to see all the work you guys put in to swapping out speakers/amps and see how that process works out. Also, sorry if I missed it, but it would be awesome to have a video of you explaining the wording/phrasing you use when reviewing gear. “Forward, heavy, forward, speed, scale, reserved”. Again, thank you both for all the hard work you guys put into the channel!

[@daltxdma]

Your reviews are amazingly literate, and your delivery is eloquent and detailed without being overwhelming. I'm currently in the market for a successor to my still-performing Pioneer Elite SC-71, and you've given me much to consider. Thank you!

[@gammaknife9933]

Great review as always, Andrew and Kristi! I think Pioneer VSX-LX505 Elite is probably more equivalent to Onkyo RZ-50 in terms of power output (120W) and 9 channel amp plus 2 channel Pre-Amp. But I heard one negative for Pioneer is that LX505/305/105 does not allow individual crossover settings for the speakers. You're stuck with the same crossover for all your channels, while RZ-50 would allow that. Can you comment on that. Is that a big issue for common folks who just want to enjoy movies and music?

[@MasterofpuppetsBS]

Good question

[@jamesreeve6465]

Common folks probably have no idea what to set individual crossovers too or how to even determine that. That said I had great hesitation in getting the 505 for this exact reason. Turns out my surround speakers that are spec'd to 100Hz are reported in Dirac as rolling off under 80Hz. So I can properly use the global 80HZ crossover. Thus illuminatiing any hesitation I had with this unit. In summation..... Depends on your speakers as to whether this issue is even an issue.

[@marshallgoldberg8376]

If you’re wondering why the HDMI 2.1 is 40 Gb/s and not the maximum 48 Gb/s, it’s because 40 Gb/s enables all of the HDMI 2.1 modes and resolutions except for 12-bit color. Since there is no plan for 12-bit color content and TV’ panels are 10-bit, most manufacturers don’t think the substantially added expense of 48 Gb/s is worth it. 48 Gb/s is really just a “spec” feature; it adds to practical benefit.

[@hmsworcester]

I got the 305 in January here in Germany. I've only done the basic DIRAC measurements until now but am quite impressed already by the sound quality. It just sounds right with the HECO Aurora 700s that I had also purchased as per your recommendation. The versatility of music features is impressive. I can even play 2-Channel DSD-files from a NAS using the Pioneer's Homeserver feature (DLNA). Music playback via Chromecast occasionally stutters, but will recover after switching the Pioneer off and on again. I paid 1,000 Euros for it, which is really cheap compared to DIRAC-enabled DENON AVRs. Thanks again for your review, I'd never have arrived with this great setup without it.

[@butchar2006]

Amazing seeing Poineer thriving after all these years. The 1st cassette deck i installed in a car was late 90's and it was a pioneer 40 watts x4!!!!!! 🤣🤣 great video.

[@w0bblyd0inkb0ink]

I remember those days, they make super amazing car decks, mine got stolen with the car and was heart broken for several several months.

[@butchar2006]

@@w0bblyd0inkb0ink getting a deck stolen is like graduation, minus the happiness and diploma 😁👌

[@lordrbray123]

Finally picked one of these up a few weeks ago. So very happy I did. Dirac Live is a game changer compared to the YPAO on my Yamaha receiver and everything is that much more alive on my Rp8000-F's. Even the wife was impressed.

[@SeanVedell]

My LX305 was delivered yesterday. Setup was easy but Dirac is twitchy as hell. Kept failing because of room noise which there was none of. I can’t control cars rolling by the house. I ended up only doing the basic Dirac sweep of three positions. Not sure how much it helps. Still reviewing scenes I’m familiar with. All in all though your review here drove my decision to buy this receiver and 24 hours in I’m very happy.

[@samuelmarquez3757]

Your channel is so insightful and therapeutic. Your review helped me make me the decision to go with the 305 and I am blown away by it. This thing is so amazing!!!

[@djchad1296]

Mobile DJ business owner here. (for over 20 years) I have upgraded my home theater speakers to 5.2.2 (Klipsch Reference Premier) and am in the market for a new receiver. I do love my special effect movies, have a PS5, and have it all hooked up to a Sony A8H. I am learning, quick, that home theater is different than mobile DJ when it comes to setting up. I am glad I have found your channel and I appreciate what you and Kristi do. Soooo cheers to both of you and Happy Holidays! Keep up the good work! (leaning towards the Onkyo after all of your praise)

[@Audiodreamer192-24]

I have a pioneer elite receiver as one of my set ups for multichannel music listening and I love it! All the features and sound quality you could ask for totally recommend it!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for sharing!

[@MrLukejosephchung]

I fell into the home theater rabbit hole almost 42 years ago when I bought a Pioneer VDP-1000 laserdisc player in spring of 1980...glad to see them still thriving...

[@KenIn_NH]

Just scored this pioneer on black Friday deal for $759 and 2 weeks latter a pair of Elac Unifi 2.0 5.2 for $379. All just showed up and will be installing over Xmas vacation, just need to order the Sony UBP-X800M2 4K blu-ray player to round out. Looking forward to getting this all together! Small home studio for 2.1 listening and dvd blu-ray for instructional lessons etc. 😊

[@EdwardCheek]

I went with the Pioneer 505 at $1300 over the Onkyo RZ50. I am very pleased with my choice.

[@vincentorosco8602]

i've had this receiver for 1 month and im very impressed with the detail from music, movies and power it puts out. im very happy with the 305 paired with 240f 450c 160m's in the rear

[@marcmenton8063]

Although Mr. Robinson did not answer my question, on the strengths of this review and several others I’ve seen on KZbin I am throwing my hat in the ring and I just ordered the LX305. I was going to originally purchased a Yamaha Aventage A2A or 4A but was very concerned that all the bugs are not worked out which was confirmed by a telephone call to Yamaha. I then was going to get the Denon 3700 H however that unit has problems with a 2.1 input output and they tend to run very hot and they are internal boards are sourced from all over as confirmed by a call to Denon again reliability issues. Stumbled upon this review and did a final analysis and determined at roughly $1200 price point for 305 would do everything I needed to do and I believe it to be the sister unit of the Onkyo 7100. From my research I believe the Onkyp/ Pioneer to be basically the same although an in person trip to Best Buy told me they thought pioneer to be more robust (questionable). For me the 305 fits the bill less money than a Denon no issues such as a Yamaha and ready to go right out of the box. If I don’t like it I’ll return it.

[@jeremycody3963]

This was probably the best video I’ve heard in years you are truly gifted

[@granddwizard8689]

Thank you Andrew! Been waiting on a Pioneer review for a while.

[@craiglamb9029]

Its annoyingly pleasing how Kristi comes in after Andrew articulately spills every nuance, detail and emotion; and steals the show. Usually with a few simple words and phrases, and a standout viewpoint or 2. 😂 She's the emperor after a gladiator dual with the almighty fate deciding thumbs up👍 or down👎 to determine the fate of a product based on its performance. I can't help looking forward to it, every video. 😂👌🏾👌🏾

[@KristiWright]

😍😍😍😍😍

[@MrDoc55]

As an audio technician, I can tell you that in the last two years, I have seen an unusually high number of LX series Pioneer Surround Receivers come in for repair. Many were overheating issues, so if you have one of these, please give it lots of room to breathe. Don't put it in an enclosed cabinet. With chips being difficult to get, an overheating situation could be serious in terms of down-time. You could also ad an external fan. Andrew, nice work on the review. Overall, this is a good receiver.

[@deadline7610]

I've been reading that many manufacturers that don't have small internal fans for their hdmi chips needs external fans. Seems like failure is just a matter of time ? The budget Cosco Onkyo Tx-NR6050 a version of the 6100 has an internal fan. Too bad not many people are talking about it :( Any 2021 lower end receivers not reaching your table for repair ? Thanks

[@stevenj5839]

Have you seen over heating issues with Denon as well? Are any certain models worse than others? I like the sound, but the warranty is useless, Denon doesn't stand behind their products, but if you get a good one you're golden. I need one for my winter home.

[@mikedelara8226]

I love revisiting this video. I once said to the reviewer, that he could sell me salt while I was in the ocean. I purchased the Pioneer Elite 305 on his recommendation. They pair so well with every speaker I put with them. Musically, they are butterly smooth..... and with 4k, Atmos, DTX etc, it explodes. The sweetest most heartwarming sound for music is the Pioneer Elite VSX-305 paired with the HSU HB-1 MK2 bookshelf speakers. Imaging, warmth, depth and sound stage is the definition of a buttery, non-fatiguing sound. (Of course it's paired with a legitimate subwoofer). Oh, and all of the Paradigm Mini Monitors blend well too. ❤️ ugh. I'm never happy. Hahaha

[@mikedelara8226]

@@mark17840 absolutely!

[@l_speed8797]

Given that the Pioneer LX305 is basically an NR7100 (just as an LX505 is the same thing as an RZ50) with only a few modest differences, this shouldn't come as a surprise. If chip shortages weren't a thing, Onkyo/Pioneer/Integra would probably be kicking some major Denon/Yamaha backside in the sales department. Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes of near insolvency, they are killing it.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I think Pioneer will be a force to be reckoned with in 2022 and beyond given that they're now on firm ground alongside Onkyo/Integra. I think the storied brand has a bright future.

[@jc4626]

I got my 305 last night, and your review was spot on. Amazing vocal clarity, clear highs without being harsh, and was worried about the power as it only weighs 23 pounds. But it controls my speakers fine. I can finally see 4K HDR from Netflix now. Will be taking this to another level with Dirac this afternoon as well. Thank you so much Andrew! Great work!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Great to hear!

[@ricke.2205]

I've always liked Pioneer. Never been disappointed with them.

[@MrHallTV]

I’ve had 3 pioneer elites, it’s all I’ve used until the last time I needed to go 4K and there were no good pioneer options. Ended up with Denon and have been happy but I really liked the Pioneer stuff. All of them still work great, they just became technologically obsolete. Side note, the pioneer elite plasma was one of my favorite televisions as well.

[@lonniefarmer7067]

I love my Marantz 8015 as it is the best step before going separates and means I don't need to rewire my house for a full Dolby ATMOS system.

[@anthonyh7600]

I purchased the Pioneer LX305 recently it sounds incredible coming from an Onkyo TXNR797, very similar sound ,but the Pioneer has a slight warmer tone and being that both are rated 100 watts 2 channels driven the Pioneer seems to be louder and has better stereo imaging at the same volume level, but....my only gripe is I can't seem to calibrate the Pioneer using Dirac Live gives me error codes out the wazoo, so I had to resort to running the MCACC calibration, I'm not sure if I'm missing out on better audio quality by not being able to use Dirac ,but other than the one issue, this receiver is everything Andrew hit on in this review, this Pioneer is great with music and movies and for the killer price I got on Amazon $676.00 , brand new out of the box , it's a definite keeper

[@henrymethorst9108]

676 on amazon from 3rd party? Seems really good for brand new???

[@dj_kac]

I currently have the TX-NR797 and thinking of replacing it with the 305. What’s your opinion now that you’ve had the 305 for months?

[@supermegaunderrateduploade6686]

I think the Pioneer is perfect for me if I had a larger room! My friend has a 20 year old Pioneer and it’s functionality is the same as the new LX-305, it just works!

[@michaelcoakley3139]

I have a lx503 and still love it. I have a 7.2.4 setup and haven’t had a single issue.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's great! Thanks for sharing your personal experience.

[@navid617]

I bought an open box VSX-LX303 (also a 9.2) for $360 in 2020. It's worked flawless for me. Looking at the current AVR market, the Pioneer has by far been the best investment in my setup for its price.

[@curt5802]

I have an older 2006 Pioneer Elite vsx-84tsi avr, totl of that year for Pioneer, and I think it's every bit as good for 5.1 surround anyway as the new Marantz sr7015 that I'm regretting buying for more than $2200... For ease of use, as mentioned about this new Pioneer, hands down the Pioneer wins; I've been futzing with the 7015 for hours and hours and I STILL can't get it right. The Pioneer: almost plug and play. I find the old Pioneer vocal intelligibility to be superior to the new Marantz, and that is critically important, especially at lower volumes. Based on my experience with that old Elite in 5.1 (vs. the new Marantz), I totally believe the Robinson duo on this review; I'm sure the Pioneer 305 is excellent and easy to use, and a great bang-for-buck. Save the money: get the Pioneer AND maybe one of those cool SVS micros that Andrew uses for the same or less than a 7015 or 8015 Marantz. Even the well-regarded 6015 Marantz is more expensive than this new Pioneer, and I'm not sure if Marantz's "softer(?)" sound signature is as serviceable for surround sound, especially for dialogue intelligibility.

[@Burevestnik9M730]

I have an old Pioneer VSX-33 AVR and now am thinking how to connect the new Bluesound NODE, Roku 3, music server, hifi DAC etc. to it.

[@4tothes25]

The only reason I would wait for the onkyo rz50 over this one is because of being able to add 2 more channels. I have the pioneer VSX-LX304 now and I love it, and looking to do the 8k upgrade. Thanks for this video! I was almost about to get this one until i found out no extra channels. Great video as always!

[@JohnSeitz]

Was gonna get the pioneer 505 - but decided to get a Yamaha a4a. The Yamaha has amazing surround sound and dialogue enhancements.

[@aaronbrown5252]

I ordered the Pioneer VSX-LX105 after watching this video (and your other video comparing multiple recommended units) and I am completely happy with it. I didn't need the 9.2 and felt the extra cost wasn't really worth it considering the specs are pretty much the same. In any case, easy to install and setup, it sounds great, much better than the 7 year old Yamaha that it replaced. Thank you for the excellent reviews and honest feedback regarding what really matters for most people.

[@dbo8888]

I have a sony str-za 2100es that sounds superb, not to many bells and whistles but the build quality, amplifiers and sound with movies and music is way way more than I expected plus a five year warranty. Comming from a Yamama A3000 and a Denon 4300x is a much beefer sounding unit and it does not run hot like the Denon. Had it for the past year and could be happier with it.

[@KristiWright]

Hi everyone! We hope you are all getting ready to have a wonderful holiday. First though, how cool is today's video sponsor? I wish we were eligible for this one!! Second, I'm a little shocked nobody has commented on the new Magnat speakers in the video. I'm not sure you're ready. :) Lastly, Thank you so much for all the support you've shown us this year.

[@jeffmarshall1024]

Would you recommend the Magnat Atmos speakers?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Yes

[@SeanVedell]

I’m trying not to look at them because they look like studio monitors and you’ve already sold me on their sound but they just wouldn’t fit my current AV space. But that doesn’t mean I can’t drool over the pictures. Someday….

[@sdemosi]

Happy Xmas to you both

[@KristiWright]

@@sdemosi

[@brianjackson708]

Onkyo RZ50 allows individual crossover for the Front LR / Center / Side surrounds / Rear surrounds / Ceilings. I believe the pioneer locks all speakers to one crossover when set to small.

[@sriniwass]

Is this still the case? Any information if it can be corrected with a firmware update? I'm considering pulling the trigger on either a RZ50 or a LX305/LX505. That fixed crossover could be deciding factor.

[@steel_001]

hey andrew, i did alot of research, and couldnt figure out which receiver to go with, after watching your video i was swayed enough to give this thing a shot, and i gotta say thanks! dirac really is worth it. im so glad i watched this video!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's great! Glad you found something that works for you.

[@justinsarafin7445]

I purchased the Pioneer XL305 receiver and Sonance MAG series ceiling speakers and looking forward to providing an update soon. I am new to this area of audio technology but have watched several of Andrew’s videos and his level of detail and knowledge are impressive. All will be installed next week. Continue…

[@boutrosj17]

I was absolutely thrilled to see this review! You changed my mind from the Denon x3700h to the Onkyo RZ-50, but when I saw the Pioneer as an option I've been back and forth on this and the Onkyo. I think you've changed my mind again!! 😂

[@freightdawg6762]

Pioneers are readily available, who knows how long you’ll have to wait for onkyo to be in stock

[@boutrosj17]

@@freightdawg6762 I'm actually having trouble finding one here in Ontario, trying to snap up an lx505

[@slick1979uk1]

Denon has been taking a lot of flack, but I love my x4700h.

[@boutrosj17]

@@kman9387 I believe the lx505 has pre-outs so I'll most likely be looking for that, going to set it up with a vintage pioneer sx-828 for stereo listening with my turntable!

[@garycooper8652]

Wish it did, I want pre-outs on my next receiver

[@rushingaming8347]

I picked up an LX102 for $80 just a year ago or so. definitely like the pioneer brand so far and it being my first receiver has treated me well!

[@ast-og-losta]

I purchased the SC-LX501 back in 2018 because of the price. I couldn't pass it up. But its a great receiver, Ive been using it ever since.

[@cryptos99]

Thank you Andrew. I couldn't figure out why my 4k/120hz wouldn't work but setting the port to 8k standard did the trick!!!

[@Keyatonenews981]

Will this passthrough the Xbox series x 4k/120 signal?

[@beitie]

Oh wow, I got into this one early! Awesome! I'm really glad to hear the good things about this review as my current AV Receiver is a Pioneer Elite VSX-50. So if I were to replace it, I'd like to stick with the Pioneer brand, and I'm glad to hear that it would be a good choice going forward. However, I'll have to wait as I have a lot of other things that are begging for my financial attention in my home at the moment, and the VSX-50 still works very well.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. When the time is right, there will no doubt be an upgrade path for you and I would encourage you to keep Pioneer in mind when the time comes!

[@cb1982]

Thanks for the Dirac tip. My 505 kept stalling until I tried it out and was off to the races. Great content and practical too.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad it helped!

[@davidshanaman4647]

I just received the LX 105 and I am so excited to set it up in my theater. I considered the 305 however, some of the features I didn’t feel that I needed. Considering these two have the same amplifier, I should get similar results in the sound. I was able to get the 105 for $499 brand new. And I’m pairing them up with a full klipsch series. RP 8000f ii, RP 502c ii, and klipsch surrounds and atmos. Lastly a klipsch spl 120 sub. I can’t wait!!!!! I love your channel and this hobby

[@luispere0728]

How has the receiver been treating you so far? I’m also thinking of the lx105

[@crabbydaddy3641]

Thank you for this review!! I purchased (fall 2023) and paired with a Klipsch Reference Cinema System…..it is amazing. The mountain of features packed into the 305 makes it a great value.

[@jjguillen65]

I believe pio is back! Also those magnat speaker are gorgeous 🤤 great review a year ago a was debating between a pio or denon receiver I end up getting a denon since I didn't seen much improvement from pioneer.

[@paulofreitasjr]

Andrew I’m glad that because of your videos, I could learn about hi-end, and I did yesterday night my system with 5.1 Klipsch reference, Svs sb 1000-pro and pioneer vsx-Lx105 7.2, I choice the 105 because is $350 less against 2 channels more, I think is the best cost benefits of the year $849,00. Your video make me glad, I got it before your review! Thanks

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate you sharing and enjoy your setup!

[@balanair9384]

Put in my order at Best Buy. I was waiting (in vain) for the RZ 50. Thank you, Andrew and Kristi for your illuminating review.

[@DavidStella]

What are your thoughts on it after having it for this long?

[@balanair9384]

@@DavidStella Its been pretty much problem free. The Dirac is as awesome as described. It makes a huge difference, especially since I have in wall and floorstanding speakers.

[@ravipalpanesar4181]

Great review Andrew. I’m in the market for a new receiver. Which one would you recommend between the pioneer vsx-lx305 and the onkyo tx-nr 7100. Would really appreciate any feedback. Thanks.

[@drummingdrumtech9642]

Honestly guys, I think that the Onkyo RZ-50 and this new line of Pioneer elite receivers are the best, but if Sound United could get their lives together, than I think Marantz will be back on my top list. Also yall are making me highly consider the bigger brother of this receiver, the LX505. Pioneer was myfirst receiver that I ever had and I loved, went to Denon on a sell reps recommendation. I have loved the receiver, but I want a more further thinking receiver with all its current features on it ready to go and I want to get a true Atmos and DTS:X setup. While I want to hear Auro 3D, but its not necessary, so....... if I get it I'm just gonna blame. Still love y'all and y'all are my favorite Hi-Fi channel. Keep up the amazing work.

[@noahman27]

Love your descriptions of the audio characteristics. Another great video. Thanks.

[@danwoodward1527]

Merry Christmas Andrew!! Keep up the great reviews. Here’s to a happy new year.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks, you too!

[@KristiWright]

Thank you, Dan! Happy Holidays.

[@philw8712]

Can you compare this one to the Pioneer VSX-LX505

[@vonkruel]

I was looking at the LX105, but you've sold me on the 305. It'll sting a bit more when I buy it, but I'll be keeping this receiver for a long time. I'm really curious to try Dirac!

[@adamgibson8050]

I own this receiver and wouldn't recommend it. Software is flawed and if you find it lacking in power like I do its not easily expandable. I will still recommend this channel. I love my Monitor Silver 500 7g that Andrew helped to sell me on but take a pass on this Pioneer.

[@MasterofpuppetsBS]

So what did you get to Feed those MA 500?

[@shemsureshot]

Todays QOTD is a tough one! I like where Marantz is going with the compact NR1711 receiver because av receivers are usually so big, finding somewhere to put them isn’t always easy. I might buy one of their compact models in the future if they manage to make one with a higher wpc.

[@CobaltLobster]

Pioneer Elite has the been the unsung hero for the last 20 years. I've had a few and they were always better than Onkyo, Sony, or others in that class. Sure there's better, for a small fortune.

[@SteveSmith-cm1hx]

I have always wanted a Pioneer Elite AVR and this may be it. Great all around review Andrew.

[@LarsonChristopher]

The elite receivers have been fine midlevel gear. But they are not high end gear.

[@ricardogomes9227]

Pioneer all day long ,im a Fan since 1990

[@DJCasanovaToronto]

Hey Andrew. Just some clarification. You said for the initial sweep you set your subwoofer's volume to 12 o'clock but then turn it down to 3 o'clock for the actual measurements. Isn't 3 o'clock increasing the volume from 12 o'clock and therefore turning it up? Glad to see Pioneer back in the game.

[@Torch4Life]

lol, I was wondering if anybody else noticed that.

[@raulgarcia1718]

As a past pioneer owner and current yamaha owner I would lean towards the yamaha for sound quality . However, I think this year is a great year to not be in the market for an AVR, but the pioneer not needing future firmware updates for key features could push things in their favor given the current market.

[@LarsonChristopher]

Yamaha is a much healthier company than Pioneer.

[@alpzepta]

If pioneer bring back the old omega logo I'll buy it. Not bad receiver but the old pioneer logo will make the receiver look more presentable

[@jp93309]

Sometimes the most common (boring) consumer gear has to be reviewed to remind us that we all just want to watch TV with decent sound. My workhorse is a 3 year old VSX-LX503 (120wpc) running only three front 25 year old Definitive speakers. It just works.

[@michau_12]

Pioneer has always sounded good, I listen to the first surround receiver (5.1) in 1995, music just sounded like their 2 channel receiver.

[@pomenti]

Would the LX305 with DIRAC be worth the price over an LX-304? Most other specs between the 304 and 305 seem fairly equivalent and the price difference is about $600 at this moment. Thanks!

[@mattromano4998]

Andrew...you stick with that Klipsch subwoofer. Once I purchased a Rogers Speedwoofer my lifelong quest for bass was fulfilled. Also, why wouldn't Pioneer include SiriusXM in it's app list? Seems like Yamaha is the only company that offers sxm.

[@gustavomeza6193]

Rogers speedwoofers are amazing brother.

[@craigosterberg5045]

I’ve had Pioneer in the past and they were a good receiver.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I agree! Thanks for joining us today, Craig.

[@markwalsh2709]

I'm so glad you did this review at this time. I love the Pioneer Elite products and I've been bouncing back and forth between the Pioneer Elite, Yamaha's and Denon over the last dozen years or two for one of my home theaters. I prefer the pioneer elites and I was just pondering moving from my 304 to the 305 (not a big gain, but get the Dirac and 4k120hz/8k 60hz). Thanks again! Now I need a review on on-wall speakers. I have old Angstrom Suono's

[@JadeB628]

if the 305 is as good as the RZ50. How would the VSX-LX505 Elite 11.2 Channel be compared with the RZ50? and as of right now. there is only a $200 price difference between the 305 and 505.

[@johnnydardenne7840]

To me still Onkyo I Started with the TX NR646 and to be honest, it still can match up with my newer RZ50 , Set up and installing the speakers through the firmware are easy peasy, the sound quality of both are sublime, i tried the Denon AVC X4700 and it couldn't match my Onkyo even for a week I have tested the High-End Yamaha (Euro 8799), oh men after 2 days I installed back my Onkyo RZ50. So in my honest opinion go for Onkyo or his sister/brother brand Pioneer. Oh yes my speaker set is DALI Opticon series, 8 - 2- VOCAL and LCR Set and as atmos speaker DALI Alteco C1 and Subwoofers DB4S , and also i wish you both a merry Christmas and a super healthy 2022

[@Turtleback8024]

Great system you have over there. Wish I could hear it in person, must sound amazing!👍🏼

[@askmatt7283]

I appreciate this review. The lack of pre amp outputs will keep me away but its nice to hear its comparable to the RZ50. Happy Holidays 🎄

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for watching! Same to you!

[@celioguim]

I don't if would venture myself back to a Pioneer receiver. I had one, and I replaced it with a Marantz 6014 and to me, at that time and moment, was night and day! I could not believe!

[@Nomorepain57]

For me…it’s between the Onkyo RZ50 and the Pioneer LX-505

[@phillipgoodyke8473]

I bought the onkyo TX-NR7100, which is pretty much the same as the pioneer 305. I was going to get the 305 but found onkyo for $899.99. Also has direc live and my system sounds so much better than my old denon. Now planning on adding couple ceiling speakers. Currently have 5.1.2 system and hopefully gonna make it a 5.1.4.

[@sturomain]

Where for 899 please

[@jackchong7279]

Good to hear Phillip, which Denon unit did you have?

[@ryanfonkert1885]

Thanks for the review! I've been waiting for this one, as I'm looking to update my receiver soon, and as a frequent Pioneer owner over the years (I've always liked the sound of their amps, and find they usually provide pretty good features for the $$), I've had my eye on this one. It looks like this one might tick all the right boxes for me.

[@reese373]

Great review. Just picked up the 505. Would you suggest connecting ps5/series x directly to the receiver or directly to tv. I’m working with LG C2

[@tylergray8030]

Main reason for buying the receiver for ps5 would be to connect it directly to the receiver, not the tv. Hooking it up to tv and using eArc would not give you true surround as it does when connecting directly to the receiver. Currently I do not have a 4k 120hz receiver so I have mine directly to tv, which is mehh. Even crazier, for my PC living room setup, i run two hdmi, one to my non 120hz receiver and one to my 120hz tv, which was only way to get 120hz and full surround sound

[@ZdenekHadascok]

I purchased LX505 to replace my old Onkyo 636. Cannot be happier with my choice!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's great! Thanks for sharing.

[@felipencl]

Considering the prices are similar, what would you rather have in your system, a Bluesound Powernode or an AVR with Dirac Live (ex: Onkyo 7100, RZ50, Pioneer VSX-LX305, VSX-LX505)?

[@zardoz2627]

If I was in the market to upgrade my theater setup, this is what I'd choose.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

What speakers would you pair with it?

[@zardoz2627]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews If I went this route I would probably get the Magnat Transpuls 1500s and keep my Yamo center and Surrounds for now. Oh and add two of the SVS 3000 Micro Subs for grins

[@deadline7610]

Nicely Done. While watching the video around 5:00 in you are talking about dirac. You set the subs to about 12 o clock for the initial sweep. ( I get that) Then you turn it down to about 3 o clock for the measurements. ( I don't have dirac but 9 o clock seems to be turning it down not 3 o clock) Does it work differently with dirac ? You have worked with many a receivers. Thanks

[@deadline7610]

I watched another video on dirac and would like to rephrase my question. are you making all your sub adjustments via the dirac software or the sub itself ? Thanks.

[@thobekanikhoza4038]

excellently articulate and thus delivered with utmost precision this presentation as always, thank you Andrew for taking us on this kind of ride well done.

[@dvinmf]

Are there significant differences between the 305 and 505? Is there a users choice?

[@singram1978]

505 has more preouts, more power, & a few more features.

[@megazine]

Any chance you will review the Pioneer VSX-LX505? It’s the direct competitor to the RZ50. It seems to be the better value but not sure on audio differences. Would be an awesome comparison due to both of them having many features and similar price points.

[@johnsmith-zk8uv]

Dear Andrew, thank you for sharing all of your trustworthy opinion on each one of these topics. I’m grateful that KZbin brought me to you. I have seen many videos praising Auro-3D in contrast to Dolby Atmos, but I believe most of these people are biased. I would really like to hear your opinion on Auro-3D.

[@tommyK7282]

My pioneer elite vsx-52 Yes it may not have 4K or 8K and all the bells and whistles but when it comes to power and sound quality hands down it's better than the new vsx lineup.....

[@KingLeo-nf3bj]

How would you compare the Pioneer lx 305 to the Anthem mrx 540 in terms of sound quality?

[@justinmetcalfe2669]

I have an elite vsx-lx303 , I've never had the center channel issue you mentioned, I've had pioneer receiver's for years and haven't had issues with them 👍😁👍

[@chutgowdingo-loon3212]

The Pioneer Elite LX products are grossly under rated. They punch well above their weight and dollar for dollar are some of the best performing on the market and have been for a while. Their Kuro plasma was the absolute best HD TV of its' day and would possibly still hold its own against todays tech when it comes to jitter and flicker free pictures at all refresh rates during fast moving and panning sequences. IMHO.

[@sdemosi]

Pioneer sold its tech to Panasonic. I have one of their top spec 50 inch plasmas from 2011 & it outperforms my Sony master series OLED for sports action. It's a smaller TV but the picture quality is so enjoyable that I can't part with it. Panasonic's THX mode on that screen was a thing of beauty.

[@chutgowdingo-loon3212]

@@sdemosi Yeah, I know that Pioneer sold the rights to Panasonic. The beauty of plasma is that there was no latency - reaction to changes in colour, movement etc is instant. Cons of plasma are power consumption, weight and reported issues with burn in. If plasma was re-introduced I would not hesitate to get one.

[@LarsonChristopher]

Kuro plasma was superb before Sony OLED. Now Sony masterpiece OLED are the best TVs.

[@sdemosi]

@@chutgowdingo-loon3212 it's definitely heavy but, then again, when you go about 65 inches OLEDs are also very awkward to move around. Sony Master series are grest tvs and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend one but there's something special about those plasmas & thanks to chrome tv I still get a lot of use out of it. Burn in risks aren't any worse than OLED in my experience.

[@chutgowdingo-loon3212]

@@sdemosi Agreed'

[@aussierob7177]

Andrew and Kristi. Wishing you a Happy Christmas and a safe and enjoyable New Year.

[@KristiWright]

Thank you, Rob. Right back at ya!!

[@oevereng]

Luke Skywalker of AV equipment ✌ love it !

[@АндрейЗотов-ы4г]

Hi, Andrew. Which receiver would you recommend to power 4 ohm speakers? Thanks.

[@pzencovich]

Hi Andrew, thanks for your excellent review as always. I'm about to compromise on the Sony STR-AN1000 for the phantom channels and their 360 magic, because my current setup is a 5.1.2. However, I'm noting that more and more experts incline towards a 5.1.4. Is this case, is the Pioneer a better pick? Would you compromise Sony's room correction extravaganza for more channels? Thanks Andrew!

[@pzencovich]

@@DeepDishPizza I did buy the Pioneer at the end, I must say I'm impressed! And Dirac Live does an incredible job at room correction with some tweaking. Never the less, it's an amazing AVR!