The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 is a high-end home theater receiver that offers 9-channel amplifier and 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms at 0.08% THD with 2 channels driven. The receiver supports Dolby® and DTS® surround sound decoding, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X® processing for use with in-ceiling or “height” speakers for ultra-enveloping home theater sound, and supports 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X setups.
One of the standout features of the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 is its Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization technology, which creates three-dimensional effects without height speakers. The Dirac Live® room correction feature also tailors the sound to your room’s acoustics, with a microphone included to help you optimize the settings.
The receiver offers an impressive range of connections, including 7 HDMI audio/video switching inputs and 2 outputs, with rear-panel HDMI 2.1 connections that support 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz signals. The HDCP 2.3 technology ensures compatibility with 4K and 8K Ultra HD sources and TVs, and it supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision®, and HLG. It also has digital audio inputs, analog line-level RCA stereo audio inputs, a phono input for turntables with moving magnet cartridges, a front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input, and a 1/4″ headphone connection on the front panel.
The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 also has music streaming options, with Chromecast built-in, Spotify® Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth with support for high-quality aptX® HD streaming. The receiver is also compatible with the Sonos Port, and it works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control assistants.
The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 boasts MCACC Auto Room Tuning, a feature that ensures optimal sound quality by adjusting the sound based on the listening room and speaker setup. With up to nine positions available for measurement, this feature provides a wide listening area. Additionally, it suppresses standing waves that occur between walls or ceiling and floor, resulting in clearer sound. The Auto Phase Control Plus feature provides real-time analysis of phase differences and automatically compensates for the gap between the LFE and main signals. This results in strong bass and clear high-frequency sound.
While the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 offers impressive features, there are some cons to consider. Firstly, the receiver is quite expensive ($1,099.00), which may put it out of reach for some consumers. Additionally, the remote control included with the receiver may not be as user-friendly as some users would like. Finally, the receiver does not support Wi-Fi connectivity, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer wireless connections.
Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 pros:
The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 home theater receiver has several main advantages that set it apart from other receivers in its class.
Firstly, the receiver has a powerful 9-channel amplifier that delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms at 0.08% THD with 2 channels driven. This allows the receiver to produce clear, detailed and immersive sound, making it an excellent choice for home theater enthusiasts.
Secondly, the VSX-LX305 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing for use with in-ceiling or “height” speakers, which creates a truly enveloping home theater sound. Additionally, its Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization technology creates a three-dimensional effect without height speakers, making it easier and more cost-effective to set up a home theater system.
Thirdly, the receiver has advanced connectivity options, including 7 HDMI audio/video switching inputs and 2 outputs, with rear-panel HDMI 2.1 connections that support 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz signals. It also supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision®, and HLG, making it compatible with the latest video technology. photo: Pioneer
Fourthly, the Dirac Live® room correction feature tailors the sound to your room’s acoustics, providing a more customized listening experience. Additionally, the receiver is compatible with popular music streaming options, including Chromecast built-in, Spotify® Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth with support for high-quality aptX® HD streaming.
Finally, the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 comes with a 3-year warranty, providing peace of mind to consumers who invest in this high-end receiver. The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 offers an impressive range of features and capabilities that make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-end home theater receiver.
Experience premium home theater performance with the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 receiver. With nine channels of robust power and advanced surround sound decoding, this receiver offers cinematic overhead effects with upward-firing or in-ceiling speakers, supporting 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 speaker configurations. The Dirac Live room correction software allows you to perfect your surround sound on your mobile device, PC, or Mac. Additionally, the advanced HDMI connections include ports that support 8K and 4K/120 Hz sources, including next-gen game consoles. Gamers will appreciate features like Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh Rate for smooth and stutter-free on-screen action.
This receiver also offers various music streaming options, including Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, and Spotify Connect, allowing you to create your own concert hall. Furthermore, the Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 is compatible with Sonos Port, enabling you to integrate your home theater into a whole-house audio system using the Sonos app on your mobile device, PC, or Mac for a whole-home Sonos experience.
The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX305 is an excellent home theater receiver that offers impressive sound quality and a wide range of features. While it may not be the most affordable option, it is definitely worth considering for anyone looking for a high-end receiver with advanced technology and versatile connectivity options.
