Pioneer has long been a respected name in home theater, and their VSX series receivers are popular for delivering robust performance and cutting-edge features. The Pioneer VSX-935 and Pioneer VSX-LX105 both boast impressive HDMI 2.1 capabilities, including 8K and 4K/120Hz passthrough, making them attractive options for gamers and home cinema enthusiasts alike. This comparison dives into the video features of these two receivers to help you understand their shared strengths in delivering a next-generation visual experience.
Key Video Features Compared
Both the Pioneer VSX-LX105 and VSX-935 are equipped to handle the latest video standards. A significant highlight is their HDMI 2.1 implementation, which is crucial for unlocking the full potential of modern gaming consoles and 8K TVs. Let’s break down the key video features they share:
HDMI 2.1 and 8K/4K Capabilities
These Pioneer receivers feature multiple HDMI inputs that support ultra-high resolutions and refresh rates. Specifically, 3 of the 6 HDMI inputs on both models are capable of handling up to 8K/60p YCbCr4:2:0/10-bit video signals. Furthermore, all inputs support up to 4K 50/60Hz 4:4:4, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and content. Both the VSX-935 and VSX-LX105 also offer 8K upscaling, meaning they can enhance lower resolution content like 1080p or 4K to near-8K quality for a sharper picture on compatible displays.
HDR Support: HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG
To deliver a visually stunning picture, both receivers support a comprehensive suite of High Dynamic Range (HDR) formats. This includes standard HDR10, dynamic HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG). HDR technology expands the contrast ratio and color palette, resulting in images with brighter highlights, deeper blacks, and more nuanced color detail, creating a more immersive and realistic viewing experience.
Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
The inclusion of Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) on both the Pioneer VSX-935 and VSX-LX105 simplifies audio connectivity. eARC allows a compatible TV to send high-bitrate audio, including object-based formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, back to the receiver through a single HDMI cable. This eliminates the need for separate audio cables and ensures you can enjoy the highest quality audio from your TV’s built-in apps or connected sources.
Gaming Features: ALLM, VRR, QFT
For gamers, these Pioneer receivers are packed with features designed to minimize lag and maximize smoothness. Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) automatically switches the TV to its lowest latency mode when a game is detected. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) work in tandem to reduce frame tearing and input lag, resulting in a more responsive and fluid gaming experience.
Pioneer VSX-LX105 vs VSX-935: Video Feature Table
| VIDEO FEATURES | Pioneer VSX-LX105 | Pioneer VSX-935 |
|---|---|---|
| HDR10 | ✓ | ✓ |
| HDR10+ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dynamic HDR | ✓ | ✓ |
| BT.2020 color space | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dolby Vision | ✓ | ✓ |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | ✓ | ✓ |
| HDMI Version | 2.1 | 2.1 |
| HDBaseT Compatible | ✗ | ✗ |
| Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) | ✓ | ✓ |
| HDCP Version | 2.3 | 2.3 |
| QMS (Quick Media Switching) | ✓ | ✓ |
| ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) | ✓ | ✓ |
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ✓ | ✓ |
| QFT (Quick Frame transport) | ✓ | ✓ |
| DSC (Display Stream Compression) | ✗ | ✗ |
| 3-D Ready | ✓ | ✓ |
| Video Signal Passthrough | up to 8K/60p YCbCr4:2:0/10-bit | up to 8K/60p and 4K/120p |
| Video Signal Upscaling | 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K | 1080p to 4K/8K and 4K to 8K |
Conclusion
In terms of video capabilities, the Pioneer VSX-935 and VSX-LX105 are remarkably similar. Both offer a future-proof feature set with HDMI 2.1, 8K passthrough and upscaling, comprehensive HDR format support, eARC, and gaming-centric technologies. For users primarily focused on video performance, either receiver will provide an excellent foundation for a high-end home theater or gaming setup. The choice between the VSX 935 vs VSX105 might then come down to other factors such as audio features, power output, or price point, depending on your specific needs and budget.
