The Best Compact Av Receiver For 2024

William Shatner By, William Shatner
Updated
Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel

The Denon AVR-X3700H AV receiver is the most high-tech, future-proofed and sophisticated receiver Denon has ever built. With support for the latest in audio formats and next generation 9.2ch, 8K Ultra HD video with HDR pass-through, it meets all of your needs now and into the future. Read Review

2. Best Overall: Sony STRDH190 2-ch Home Receiver

Sony STRDH190 2-channel receiver with Bluetooth. Amplify and enjoy your home audio experience in the comfort of your home. Built in Bluetooth lets you wirelessly stream your favorite music service, podcasts, and more from other Bluetooth devices. Read Review

3. Best Technology: Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver

A powerful receiver for those with a keen interest in home theatre. The Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver is not just about power, it also offers HDR support and Dolby Atmos decoding to enrich your entertainment experience. Read Review

4. Great Compact: Denon Professional DN-200BR

Denon Professional DN-200BR is a compact stereo Bluetooth receiver that adds Bluetooth to any audio system. This receiver provides a balanced XLR and ¼-inch audio outputs for integration with mixers and amplification systems. The DN-200BR also has performance driven connectivity, allowing you to have the best experience with your music. Read Review

When buying an AV receiver, the compactness of the unit is not necessarily the first thing that comes to mind. However, it can be a very important factor in your decision making process.

Compact receivers are especially useful if you are living in a small apartment and do not have access to a lot of space. They also come in handy when you need to install your receiver somewhere hidden like in a cupboard or cabinet. Compact AV receivers are generally smaller than standard models and often have smaller remote controls as well as less connections on the back panel.

Read further to get acquainted with all compact AV receiver features and our top 10 list for compact AV receivers.

Our team had to focus on researching for 14 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel is one of the most wonderful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel
Our Score:
9.9
Denon
  • NEXT GEN GAMING – Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag and frame tearing with 4K/120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 9.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast and color, and Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn and more
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER AND TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND – USB, 10 HDMI ports (7 In/ 3 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input and Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV and Audyssey MultEQ XT32 (with 2 preset options) accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup and tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • Enjoy high quality 3D audio and video knowing that AVR-X3700H IS 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier capable of 11.2 channel processing allows to build your choice of speaker configuration to meet your exclusive entertainment needs
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
TOP Choice #2 Sony STRDH190 2-ch Home Receiver
Our Score:
9.8
Sony
  • In the box: Remote (RMT-AA400U), batteries, FM antenna
  • Connect up to 4 speakers; A/B switching to play all at once, or in separate zones
  • Built in Bluetooth lets you wirelessly stream your favorite music service, podcasts, and more from other Bluetooth devices.
  • Phono input, 4 stereo RCA audio inputs, 3.5 millimeter input, stereo RCA output
  • FM Radio with 30 station presets;
  • Full size (1/4 inch) headphone jack
  • Low profile design (5 ¼ Inch tall) fits easily into conventional AV cabinet
  • 100 watts x 2 (8 ohms, 1 Kilo Hertz). Speaker impedance - 6–16 ohms
  • Amplify and enjoy your home audio experience in the comfort of your home
TOP Choice #3 Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver
Our Score:
9.7
Onkyo
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
  • 155 watts per Channel
  • Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
  • Dolby Atmos height virtualizer* and DTS virtual: x
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
4 Denon Professional DN-200BR
Our Score:
9.6
Denon Professional
  • Immediate Bluetooth | Compact stereo Bluetooth receiver adds Bluetooth to any audio system
  • Engineered for Installation | Rugged metal enclosure with built-in eyelets for mounting screws; measures 1.8 inches (45mm) high, 6 inches (152mm) wide, and 6 inches deep
  • Long Range | Receives Bluetooth signals wirelessly up to 33m
  • Pro-Grade Specifications | Full range frequency response, ultra-low signal to noise ratio (> 75 dB) and support for all mainstream profiles (AVCTP 1.0, AVRCP 1.0, GAVDP 1.2, AVDTP 1.0, A2DP 1.2, Hands-Free Profile (HFP) 1.5, Headset Profile (HSP) 1.1)
  • Performance Driven Connectivity | Balanced XLR and ¼-inch audio outputs included for integration with mixers and amplification systems
  • HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 (4 in/1 out)
  • Providing complete compatibility with the latest HDMI standards, this AV receiver delivers transmission of 4K video at 60 frames/second pass through; It also supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) Video including Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log Gamma which provides incredible contrast, smooth tone and rich, bright colors
  • Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Rated Output Power (1kHz, 1ch driven) 100W (8 ohms, 0.9% THD); Rated Output Power (20Hz 20kHz, 2ch driven) 70W (8 ohms, 0.09% THD); Maximum Effective Output Power (1kHz, 1ch driven) (Jeita) 145W (6 ohms, 10% THD)
  • YPAO auto calibration technology for ideal sound, Exclusive Yamaha Cinema DSP technology supports playback of HD Audio (Dolby TrueHD, DTS HD Master Audio, etc.), providing natural and expansive sound imaging
  • 5.1 channel powerful surround sound
  • 4K Ultra HD support, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log gamma and BT.2020
6 Onkyo TX-SR494 AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.3
Onkyo
  • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer* and DTS Virtual:X
  • 160 watts per channel
  • 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback
  • AccuEQ with subwoofer EQ and AccuReflex
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, BT.2020)
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
  • NEXT GEN GAMING - Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag & frame tearing with 4K/120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like the Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn & more
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER & TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND - USB, 8 HDMI ports (6 In/ 2 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input & Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4K TV - Enjoy the highest quality 3D audio and video knowing that the AVR-S960H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 7.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast & color, & Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV, & Audyssey MultEQ XT (with 2 preset options) that accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup & tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • ENDLESS CONNECTION POSSIBILITIES - Features 6 HDMI In / 1 output for your favorite audio & video sources. Connect a turntable, subwoofer, speakers & a host of other devices like DVD & Blu-ray players, USB and more for comprehensive surround system
  • IMMERSIVE SURROUND SOUND WITH HEIGHTENED REALISM - Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS:X & DTS Virtual:X. Enjoy virtual sound effects without installing in-ceiling or upward firing speakers in a humble 2.1, 5.1 or 7.1 speaker setup
  • ENJOY MOVIES AND LAG-FREE GAMING WITH THE LATEST CONNECTIVITY - Masterful 8K HDMI upscaling, advanced technologies like HDR10, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, Quick Media Switching (QMS) and ALLM. Upgrade your home theater and gaming experience
  • WHOLE-HOME ENTERTAINMENT BOX - With built-in HEOS Wireless Multi-room Technology, play the same song in every room, or a different one in each room. Connect all your HEOS speakers to the app and get full control everywhere in your home.
  • EASY-TO-UNDERSTAND & USER-FRIENDLY SETUP ASSISTANT comes with an ADVANCED GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE that guides you through the step-by-step process and connects all your audio sources to the stereo amp
  • STREAM MUSIC FROM YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES - Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer, Tidal, Netflix, Amazon Prime & others via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, or HEOS app. Plus, enjoy popular voice command services such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri
  • A MUSICAL MASTERPIECE CRAFTED TO FIT IN A SLIM 4" TALL PROFILE - This powerful 7-channel discreet amplifier delivers identical power on all 7 channels (50W x 7). AUTO ECO MODE reduces power consumption without compromising on that superb Marantz sound
  • BLUETOOTH, Wi-Fi & AIRPLAY 2 ENABLED STREAMING – Listen to your favorite tracks on Pandora, Spotify or SiriusXM, watch videos on YouTube or Netflix, or simply tune in to any Internal Radio Station from around the world to enjoy unlimited hours of playback
  • ONE-STOP SOLUTION FOR TODAY'S DIGITAL MUSIC NEEDS – An all-in-one audio receiver (60W x 2 or 30W x 4 channels), disc player for WMA/MP3 (CD-R/RW), AM/FM Tuner, & network streamer. Enjoy Hi-Fi LISTENING WITH EXCEPTIONAL AUDIO DETAILING
  • ALL NEW VOICE-SUPPORT FUNCTIONALITY – Just say the commands out loud to any major voice agent including AMAZON ALEXA, GOOGLE ASSISTANT OR APPLE SIRI and play music, change tracks, turn the volume up or switch inputs hands-free!
  • FULL OF FEATURES, YET SO EASY TO USE – Start using this player the moment you unbox it. Simply plug it to an audio source and enjoy full dynamic range digital audio playback of your favorite movies and TV shows
  • MULTI-ROOM CONNECTIVITY WITH HEOS – The Digital Audio Amplifier technology allows you to configure a pair of speakers in one room or two sets of speakers in two separate rooms with independent volume control
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY – This Network CD Player includes 2 Optical Digital Inputs to connect your set-top box, Blu-Ray, DVD Player & more so you can enjoy full dynamic range digital audio playback through various sources
  • MusicCast multi-room audio and MusicCast Surround capable with MusicCast 20 or MusicCast 50 wireless surround speakers
  • Dolby Vision, Hybrid-Log Gamma and BT.2020
  • 4K/60, 4K/120AB, 8K/60B, HDMI 2.1 (via future update)
  • Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz/5 GHz, AirPlay 2, MusicPlay (iOS and Android) and Spotify Connect
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS: X
  • HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (4 in / 1 out)
  • Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant devices or Siri via AirPlay 2
  • YPAO room calibration
  • Pandora, Spotify, Napster, SiriusXM, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Amazon Music
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best compact av receiver?

You may have some trouble making a purchase if you don't research it thoroughly. You are expected to invest time and focus on best compact av receiver before investing in them. Usually, it will take you a long time to research a favorite product. But rest assured, we are here to assist you with your best compact av receiver issue, no matter what time of day or night.

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So now you are expected to focus on needed criteria about best compact av receiver. All of them will come with your investment. 

Interface

If you don't know how to use your high-tech receiver, it is useless. A well-designed receiver panel that is easy to navigate can make the difference between having high quality sound and picture quality or having your costly system go stale because it's difficult to get on. It's important that you use the receiver display panel to navigate and learn all functions. A graphical interface is the screen that allows users to set up the receiver and operate it. The viewer must display song information and album art when AirPlay is used.

Inputs And Outputs

This is because the device has more outputs and inputs than it can handle. A receiver might accept audio signals from a television via the input, and then send them via an out to speakers. There should be enough outputs and inputs for all your equipment. You can also have a few more in case of expansion.

Calibration

Audio-video beginners will find it difficult to set up an entertainment system in their home.
Automatic speaker calibration is an option on many receivers that makes it easier to calibrate the speakers. The receiver sends test sounds to each speaker and subwoofer, and monitors the sound with a microphone. This allows it to determine the size of the speaker, to measure distance between the speaker and the listener, and to check that the connections are correct. This technology is compatible with surround sound as well as traditional 2-channel home entertainment systems.

Multi-zone Audio Feature

Some models of amplifier-receivers support the ability to use one or more speakers in a different room. Some receivers can support multiple zones while others allow you to play different sources simultaneously in two rooms. One person may enjoy surround sound in their living room while another can listen to music through the speakers connected to the receiver. If you want to enjoy a great audio experience in your bedroom and living room, but don't have the budget to purchase two speakers systems or amplifiers to achieve it, this feature will be a huge help.

Power

Power is not simply another term for volume, it's also measured in Watts. This also affects the receiver's ability deliver dynamic and detailed sound. A high-wattage receiver produces better sound quality, regardless of the volume.

Total Harmonic Distortion

THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) is the measurement of how much distortion the sound produces. THD can be measured as a percentage. It is the amount of deviation from the original signal. THD is a measure of distortion. The higher the THD the more beneficial. THD is a norm in most receiver amplifiers, and it should be below 0.1%.

Network Connectivity

Some receivers come with both wired or wireless network support. You can either connect them to your router using an Ethernet cable, or Wi-Fi. You can stream media from any device connected to the same network, such as laptops and smartphones. AirPlay will only work with Apple devices. It is not compatible with other AV receivers. If you live in a house where everyone uses Apple devices, make sure that the model supports AirPlay.

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FAQs

Does An AV Receiver Improve Video Quality?

Advanced video processing abilities can be found in some AV receivers that improve image quality. The best performance is only possible with high-end, expensive models.
Even if your receiver is not high-end, modern televisions are equipped with excellent video processing algorithms, which will produce a stunning picture, regardless of source.

What Is The Difference Between A Stereo Receiver And A Surround Sound Receiver?

Stereo receivers have two channels, and can be used to play stereo audio. Surround sound receivers have five channels or more and can connect to surround sound speakers.
To get surround sound, most people desire surround sound speakers. Stereo amplifiers can be used to enhance the sound quality in your home.

What Is The Difference Between 5.2 And 7.2 Receivers?

Five surround sound speakers can be connected to a 5.2 receiver, as well as two subwoofers. For the surround sound speakers, there are five options: front left, front right and center.
Seven channels are available for surround sound speakers, and two subwoofer channels. A 7.2 receiver can handle both. The 7.2 speaker arrangement is identical to a standard 5.1 setup, with two additional surround sound speakers at the back and one more in the back.

What Is Upconverting In An AV Receiver?

You connect the player to the receiver with one type of connection and expect that the receiver will output the video using another type.
You might, for example, connect an analog DVD player to the receiver and ask it to transmit this via HDMI.
Only the most expensive receivers are capable of upconverting different video inputs to HDMI output. You will need to transmit the component video signal through a component attached to the receiver if the receiver is unable to upconvert.

Which A/V Receivers Are Better For Music Or Movies?

No. Music can reveal more about sound quality and character than movies soundtracks. Those who listen to music may prefer one brand over another.

What Is The Difference Between An AV Receiver And An Amplifier?

An integrated amplifier that includes a preamplifier as well as a power amp in one box is called an AV receiver. It is also known as a receiver. It could be called an amplifier.
A receiver can be described as an integrated amplifier and a tuner that receives AM/FM radio signal. Technically speaking, an AV amplifier should not be used if it doesn't include a tuner. An AV receiver can be used, but it is still a common term.

Is An A/V Receiver Good For Gaming?

You might find it possible, particularly if surround sound is important for immersive gaming. Before you purchase, make sure it supports the most recent standards, such as Dolby Atmos (one of the newer HDMI standards), and HDR compatibility. You can also find features like Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh rate support on the Denon AVRX4700H. While an A/V receiver doesn't need to be used for gaming, it is a great addition if surround sound is important.

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About William Shatner

William Shatner

William Shatner is a writer and editor who has worked in the audio equipment, computer, and projector industries. He also enjoys repairing and modifying audio equipment, and he has a particular interest in projectors. William is a critical thinker and problem solver, and he takes great pride in his work. He currently serves as the freelance editor of The Audio Insights.