Yamaha RX-V677 vs Pioneer VSX-LX102

Pioneer VSX-LX102 vs Yamaha RX-V677: Which 7.2-channel A/V receiver is Better for the Money

Looking for a solid, feature-rich home theater, customers compare their sound, features and performance. Is Yamaha RX-V677 vs Pioneer VSX-LX102 more powerful and impressive? Which amp is easier to set up and which one sounds better? Let’s check.

Features

The most significant drawback of the Yamaha device is lack of Bluetooth feature. Thus, the budget-friendly, entry-level Pioneer receiver is better in terms of functionality. It supports the latest Chromecast music streaming opportunity that is still slow. Its Bluetooth option is suitable for connecting only audio devices, but it works. Additionally, it comes with DTS:X and Dolby Atmos decoders while its advanced counterpart does not support these formats. On the contrary, the Yamaha amplifier stands out by the innovative YPAO sound optimization system. Wi-Fi connectivity, AirPlay, DLNA, Spotify Connect are typical of both devices.

Connections

Having a lot of HDMI ports, Yamaha RX-V677 versus its Pioneer counterpart is easier to set up and calibrate, quick to adjust the setting like volume, etc. by means of iPhone and Android app. It comes with 4 scene buttons, clear online menu, being easy to navigate. It has 2-zone audio support that is absent on its Pioneer counterpart. However, its remote is a bit complicated and not universal, so some users prefer to buy an additional one. On the other hand, Pioneer VSX-LX102 has a phono input that is necessary to connect turntables, as well as several composite inputs. The number of the HDMI ports are less than of its counterpart, but they are sufficient to meet the major connectivity needs. Meanwhile, the amp is also easy to set up, calibrate, navigate and use. It comes with the universal remote that is convenient to control all the components and features, and the wireless networking is quite simple.

Performance

In terms of power and sound quality, Yamaha RX-V677 vs Pioneer VSX-LX102 is definitely more impressive and engaging. It stands out by great bass performance, expressive midrange, impactful and solid sound effects that are passed to the speakers effortlessly. The sound is well-balanced as a result of manual calibration. YPAO calibration adds bass power and opens midrange. The Pioneer receiver produces good sound, but it’s still weaker than of its counterpart.

Conclusion

The Yamaha home theater is a powerful device that comes with many HDMI ports and offers great listening experience. It is more powerful versus its Pioneer counterpart, but it has no Bluetooth options. On the contrary, Pioneer VSX-LX102 is feature-rich, easy to control. It supports the newest Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats. It has less ports that are still sufficient for most users.

Yamaha RX-V677 review

The AV receiver is powerful and high-performance. It has 5 rear and 1 front input, offering great connectivity. The home theater produces an impressive sound that stands out by impactful bass and midrange. But is has no Bluetooth option and its remote is not universal.

Pioneer VSX-LX102 review

The home theater is affordable and entry-level. However, it’s feature-rich, supporting the latest Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats. It comes with a phono input and the minimum number of HDMI ports that are essential to connect a TV, a gaming system, a Blu-ray player, but it has not two-zone opportunity.