Elite SC Series: this is top-of-the-range for audiophiles with the best technology and engineering. The Direct Energy HD amplifier in the SC-LX904 AC Receiver provides the power to the system from its 11x215 watt channels. The repeating tuning ensures the continuous supply of power and enhanced patterning. Pioneer has also changed the complete transmission path to transmit high quality and noise free signals to power stage. The Pioneer SC-LX904 AC Receiver supports HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), HDR10 and Dolby vision signals. The user can easily enjoy the latest video standards by connecting any compatible source device. All the HDMI terminals of SC-LX904 AC Receiver support 4K resolution. Pioneer SC-LX904 11.2ch AV Receiver features Image Credit: Pioneer Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 Manual Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 Specifications Channels It is a 11 channel processing, 9 internal power amps AVR. In 11 channnel mode only 9 internal power amps are available. Thus if you configure front L/R channels to use external amps the front L/R (as was) amps are reconfigured as heights. The pre-outs for front L/R therefore don't have amps in their loop to affect the clipping voltage.

DTS:X is the next-generation audio codec from DTS that leverages object-based audio to enable new immersive and interactive audio experiences. Since DTS:X can automatically adapt the audio to the existing channels and speaker system, no specific speaker layout is required. Experience an immersive soundscape with incredibly rich and lifelike audio. Other audio codecs such as PCM and DSD can be upmixed using DTS Neural:X for enjoying 3D surround sound. band Parametric EQ for all speakers, 4-band Parametric EQ for 2 subs. Pioneer/Onkyo, and Denon/Marantz only use Graphic EQ, which isn't very good compared to Parametric EQ. Instead we had to set it one setting lower to 4k HDR on the Apple TV and then turn on the content matching settings (to match frame rate and dynamic content). The receiver is also compatible with Pioneer’s Multi-Zone Technology, which allows you to play different audio sources in different rooms.

Pioneer Previews New Flagship AV Receiver

to transmit near noise-free high-quality signals to the power stage. The receiver boasts a Class D3 (Direct Energy HD) amplifier with 140 W x 11ch (8 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 0.08 %, 2ch Driven FTC). No hidden figures or inflated power specs here! Both models have seven HDMI inputs, including one on the front panel, three HDMI outputs, and support 4K/60-Hz passthrough with HDCP 2.3, wide color gamut, 4K upscaling for 1080p sources, and three high dynamic range (HDR) formats — Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). 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 I used to own an Onkyo TX-SR876 that had a significantly lower noise floor than the '94, and was specced for less THD. I definitely prefer the sound of the Elite. Front end magic for me I suppose. I am simply unwilling to accept a 1080p signal with my 4k HDR system any longer, and have to choose between good audio or good video. I want both dammit! None of the splitter/scalers I have used (including HDFury) have worked for me. I have no need of 8k (yet). The remote is much better by far you can even dim the receiver display from it....big plus for myself and its much more user friendly

The SC-LX904 is compatible with 7.2.4 ch configuration of the latest theater immersive sound platform, Dolby Atmos. The SC-LX904 can reproduce object oriented compatible movies/music in smooth, curving movements, or the realistic three-dimensional movement overhead by utilizing Dolby Atmos enabled and/or in-ceiling speakers. I have had similar thoughts regarding waiting, however there will always be something bigger and better just around the corner. You are correct, the SC-LX904 is the current PE flagship (soon to be superseded).

Features and specs

Obviously nothing can compare with the likes of those heavy weight Onkyo 805, 875, 876 or their equivalent Integra cousins.