Pioneer VSX-LX503 Review and Specs

Pioneer & Onkyo Europe Introduces the VSX-LX503 Network AV Receiver. This is a 9.2-channel unit with Multi-Room Audio, which provides the ability to distribute the signal from different sources. Find out other Pioneer VSX-LX503 specs in this Pioneer VSX-LX503 review.

Pioneer VSX-LX503 review

Features

The Pioneer VSX-LX503 Network AV Receiver has a 9.2-channel configuration with 180 watts per channel (8 ohms). The device is compatible with almost all modern audio and video formats. The list of surround sound technology supported by the model includes Dolby Atmos, DTS: X and DTS Neural: X. As for the video, the receiver accepts UHD, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision. Nine output channels, the high-performance Direct-Energy-HD design, provide the VSX-LX503 with the superb acoustic and dynamic performance you would expect from a high-end receiver. At the same time, heat dissipation and power consumption are unusually low - Direct Energy HD works with extremely low losses.

Design and build

The built-in DAC copes with Hi-Res audio up to 384 kHz / 32 bit (decoding ALAC, FLAC, DSD). HiRes high-resolution files uploaded by audio fans play seamlessly on home NAS devices with resolutions up to 24bit / 192kHz or Quad-rate DSD (11.2MHz) - while AKM's high-end DACs ensure that high-resolution data is converted to great sound.

Connectivity

As for the connectors, there are enough of them: seven HDMI inputs and two outputs (eARC support, HDCP2.2), an AV input component, analog connectors for audio sources (there is a phono amplifier input), digital audio inputs. You can listen to music from a home wireless or wired source, as well as from streaming services Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, TuneIn. There is support for wireless technologies ChromeCast, AirPlay, Play-Fi and multi-room FlareConnect.

Setup

Separately, it is worth noting the presence of the MCACC multi-channel acoustic calibration system and the ability to use unused channels to connect speakers in other areas. There is compatibility with management through Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. The receiver is ready for automation systems: RS232C, IR, 12V trigger, IP-control.

Pros and Cons