The Pioneer VSX-LX305, is priced more competitively than its predecessor, the VSX-LX505. Nevertheless, it remains classified as a “premium” product within the company's lineup. This device is not only outfitted with cutting-edge technology but also delivers outstanding audio performance for both movie viewing and music listening.
The Pioneer VSX-LX305 features amplifiers that utilize Direct Power technology, enabling this relatively compact unit to deliver impressive output power. A standout characteristic of this model is its compatibility with the new and enhanced IMAX Enhanced audio signal encoding format. While a software upgrade will be necessary to fully utilize this feature, the required hardware is already integrated, and the update is expected within a few months. Additionally, content encoded in this format has only recently started to become available in the market. This advancement represents a significant step forward in home theater technology, as many enthusiasts have long aspired to replicate the immersive experience of an IMAX theater in their own living rooms.
Furthermore, a contemporary AV receiver must not only deliver high-quality audio and video for movies and music but also align with modern operational standards, particularly by offering extensive wireless capabilities. The VSX-LX305 excels in this regard, featuring compatibility with Sonos, a leader in wireless multi-room systems, as well as support for all major streaming platforms, including Deezer, TIDAL, Amazon Music, and Spotify.
The output stage power is specified at 185 watts per channel; however, this rating is based on a distortion level of 10% while driving a 6 Ohm load. A more accurate assessment would indicate a power output of 170 watts at 1% total harmonic distortion (THD) with an 8 Ohm load. It is important to note that these figures pertain to a single channel, raising questions about the performance when all channels are engaged simultaneously. Despite these considerations, the power provided by the Pioneer VSX-LX305 is generally sufficient for any multi-channel audio system of its class.
The Pioneer VSX-LX305 features seven HDMI inputs, including a front-panel input for easy access to various devices. It also includes two HDMI outputs and supports 8K Ultra HD signal transmission with HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Additionally, this model offers a comprehensive array of both analog and digital connections, including an input for an MM cartridge from a vinyl record player. The AV receiver is equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoders, allowing for the creation of surround sound systems in configurations such as 5.2.4 or 7.2.2. Enhanced MCACC multi-channel audio auto-calibration technology ensures that the system's sound is optimized based on the specific listening environment.
The Pioneer VSX-LX305 features cutting-edge streaming capabilities. This AV receiver is compatible with DTS Play-Fi and FlareConnect multi-room systems, and it includes built-in support for Chromecast and AirPlay 2. It can seamlessly integrate with Sonos systems, access music from network drives, and stream from various online services. Additionally, the Pioneer VSX-LX305 supports High Resolution music playback. Notably, it is equipped with a USB port for portable drives and has built-in Bluetooth functionality. This versatile AV device is designed to serve as the hub of a contemporary home entertainment system.
Pioneer VSX-LX305 Specifications
- Number of Channels: 9.2
- Output Power: 170 W per Channel (8 Ohms, 1 kHz, 1 Channel Driven, IEC)
- Input Sensitivity/Impedance: 200 mV/47 kOhms (Line Input), 3.5 mV/47 kOhms (Phono)
- FM Tuner: 87.5 MHz – 108 MHz
- AM Tuner: 522 kHz – 1611 kHz; 530 kHz – 1710 kHz
- Number of memory presets: 40
- Built-in decoders (main): Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Pro Logic IIz, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Express, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Height Virtualizer, DTS Virtual:X
- Processors: Dolby Surround, DTS Neural:X
- MCACC auto-calibration system
- Number of additional zones: 1
- Output to the second zone: linear (including after the DAC), acoustic
- Wireless multiroom: DTS Play-Fi, Flare Connect
- DSP processor: 32 bit
- Enhancer for compressed music files
- Supported streaming audio file formats (local network / USB): MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, FLAC, WAV (24 bit / 192 kHz), Ogg Vorbis, AAC, Apple Lossless, DSD (11.2 MHz), LPCM
- DLNA: v1.5 protocol
- Wi-Fi: 5 / 2.4 GHz support
- Chromecast support
- AirPlay 2 support
- Bluetooth: version 4.2 support
- Pioneer app support for iPhone and Android
- Direct Mode
- Supported Internet services: TuneIn Radio, Tidal, Spotify, AUPEO!, Deezer
- Independent crossover frequency adjustment for each channel: 40/50/60/70/80/90/100/120/150/200 Hz
- Inputs: 7 HDMI inputs (one on the front panel) 2.1 with support for 8K / 60 Hz, HDCP 2.2 / HDR10 / Dolby Vision, Phono, 4 line (RCA), 1 coaxial, 1 optical, 2 composite, USB port, Ethernet
- Outputs: 2 HDMI 2.0 with support for 8K / 60 Hz, HDCP 2.2 / HDR10 / Dolby Vision, Line (for zone 2), 2 subwoofer outputs, 6.3 mm headphone jack
- Other connections: RS232, mini-jack for calibration microphone, AM and FM antenna jacks, ground terminal
- Speaker output terminals: 9 pairs of screw terminals
- Power supply: high-current transformer
- Power consumption: 760 W, in standby mode: 0.15 W
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 435x173x370 mm
- Weight: 11 kg
