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. While the availability of these services may vary by region, users in Russia can confidently access Deezer, although utilizing other services might necessitate some additional steps.
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
