Slim and Compact AV Receivers of 2023: Discover the Best for Your Small Space Setup

Not knowing what each of the inputs, outputs, and knobs does can make it difficult to choose on the best tiny AV receiver. It could be confusing to decide between a compact and a conventional AVR because of the differences between the two.

In order to provide you with the most relevant information for this assessment, I have conducted considerable research into the current deals. Customers shopping for mini AV receivers sometimes have limited space, making it easy to overlook the importance of the device’s audio output features. That’s a big mistake that could lead to trouble in the future. In my opinion, a receiver’s ability to produce high-quality, immersive sound is of the utmost importance.

To help you get the most out of your money, I’ve broken down the most important things to keep in mind when searching for a new model. My evaluation goes into much deeper detail on areas like available channels, accessible power, WIFI connectivity, and available control apps, so don’t stop here to get a feel for what you’ll discover there.

Marantz NR1711

Large housings are the standard for multi-channel receivers. So this Marantz receiver is truly a delight. 7-channel AV receiver, measuring in at 17.3 x 14.8 x 4.1 inches/43.0 x 35.5 x 10.1 cm and boasting a plethora of cutting-edge features. The creator completely redesigned the interior and was ultimately successful.

The system supports 4K at 120 fps and 8K at 60 fps.

Seven separate high-current amplifiers power a 6-Ohm system to 70 watts per channel, and the AV receiver can handle an 8-Ohm load with 50 watts of power. Audyssey MultEQ was used exclusively for speaker calibration during audio testing, and it passed with flying colours. The receiver’s manufacturer showed a lot of consideration by including features that improved volume and frequency range. 

From local network PCs and servers, as well as via the USB port, there is no issue in playing audio in any format (even high-resolution). With a wireless network, you can listen to music from Deezer and other popular services. The HEOS wireless technology is great since it streamlines the process of controlling music playback, which is something really appreciated. 

The latest video switching technology and HEOS compatibility are two major pluses. A full aural envelope has been covered. Simple navigation between different volume settings. It is powerful enough to rumble a room of average size.

The lack of an HD FM receiver forces you to acquire one at additional cost. It also gives poor quality plastic housing.

Sony STR-DH590

Since the 1980s of the past century, Sony has been producing audio equipment with audiophiles in mind. Your hard work should be rewarded with a large number of satisfied clients and glowing recommendations.

The receiver is even smaller than the Marantz NR1711, which was my first impression. This makes it a viable option for setups with restricted floor space. Specs: 17.3 x 13.3 x 30 cm (or 17 x 5.1 x 11.7 inches). One distinguishing factor is the number of channels. While the first model could act as the central hub of a 7.2-channel system with native Dolby Atmos sound, this receiver only contains 5.

In a 6-ohm load, each channel can output 145 watts of power with no more than 0.9% distortion. There are four HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, as well as ports for a wide range of devices such game consoles, televisions, Blu-ray players, and headphones. Having a wide variety of ports available is a smart way to plan ahead.

Among the several high-resolution audio formats that may be played with this receiver are DSD, Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual Mono, and DTS-HD. The absence of reverberations and artificial tones in the film and the score will definitely blow you away.

The receiver’s simplicity in installation and adjustment is a definite plus.
In addition to being nice, the soundscape is also enveloping and detailed. Boosts the clarity and sharpness of even mediocre speakers. If you switch to night mode, the voices become even more distinct.

Drawback is that the volume cannot be changed independently for each speaker. Invokes “Protect Mode” automatically if the volume is increased. ARC and optical cannot coexist on separate channels.

Marantz NR1510

Movie and music lovers alike have flocked to the 2019-released Marantz NR1510 ever since it first appeared on the AV receiver market. 

According to the manufacturer, the NR1510 is a 5.1-channel receiver with either 50 or 100 watts of power per channel (at 8 ohms). The quality of the sound in your home theatre will greatly improve by this adjustment. 

You may enjoy high-resolution multi-channel audio with crystal-clear bass and high tones thanks to the unit’s compatibility with decoders for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. If you have a device that is HEOS-compatible, you may use it to control the Marantz NR1510 and enjoy its high-quality sound.

Wireless connectivity is guaranteed by the presence of Wi-Fi (dual band), Bluetooth, and AirPlay. When compared to the Sony STR-DH590, which just features Bluetooth, this is a huge selling point. Every little of ease brought on by a somewhat larger supply is appreciated.

This model is indeed very likeable because of how small it is. It may be presented with ease in a number of different environments thanks to its small size of 17.3 by 14.8 by 4.1 inches (43.1 by 35.5 by 10.1 cm).

The receiver has several positive features, such as fast media switching and the ability to add TuneIn stations as HEOS favourites. The Audyssey MultiEQ system is a system for adjusting the acoustics of a given space. A phonograph or turntable can be connected to the MM input.

The lack of a Zone 2 is a drawback. and playing music from a USB device does not allow you to play songs randomly. Furthermore, it doesn’t have Dolby Atmos support.

Marantz NR 1200

Getting this product up and running doesn’t take long because to its robust aluminum front panel and intuitive layout of its primary functions.

This little stereo receiver is the same dimensions as the Marantz NR1711/1510, which is to say, 17.3 x 14.8 x 4.1 inches (or 43.1 x 35.5 x 10.1 cm). Therefore, it is a great choice for compact to moderately sized rooms. The unit can produce 75 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 150 watts at 6 ohms of power. Given that it is a true stereo receiver, the fact that it only has 2 channels is not surprising.

Every necessary digital input and output is built into this model (5 HDMI inputs and one HDMI output). The NR1200 may be connected to an external DAC thanks to its integrated converter. Moreover, dual subwoofer connections are supported. The sound quality remains excellent. The volume-controlled headphone amplifier incorporated into the device was a wonderful surprise that lets you listen to every musical change in full volume.

Its video-sound skills aren’t up to snuff with the Marantz NR1711, but that’s understandable given that this model was made for music.

Management is simple. Without a hitch, the system functioned well. The A and B speaker volumes cannot be adjusted, however other preferences can be set up front.

The receiver’s positive features include a pure direct setting and a rotary knob for adjusting the sound’s tone. Produces clean, well-defined lows and crisp, clear highs in a wide range of musical styles. Eco Mode lowers temperature and power usage without affecting audio quality. The user interface allows for both a variable and fixed pre-output in Zone 2.

Dolby and DTS decoding are not supported, which is a drawback. The volume of speakers A and B cannot be changed independently.

Yamaha R-S202

Yamaha is a globally recognised brand of musical instruments and related products, and has been doing so for nearly 150 years. I was hoping for a high-quality product because of R-incorporation S202’s many years of experience in the industry.

The design is simple but modern, so it can be used in any type of house. This 2 channel receiver is small, measuring only 17.1 x 5.5 x 12.6 inches (43.1 x 12.7 x 30.4 cm). The receiver stands out from other small devices because of its powerful 100-watt output into 8-Ohms.

The receiver has speaker connections on the back so you can connect an extra pair if you want to. It’s easy to toggle between the two speaker configurations (A or B) and to listen to both at once (A Plus B). I tried both, and was blown away by how clear and powerful the sound was. It lacks multi-room audio compatibility like the Marantz NR1711.

Benefits of this getting this product are that the vocals are crisp and the bass is deep. You can control just about anything with the convenient remote. The receiver will automatically power off after a period of inactivity if you forget to do it yourself. Streaming music from a phone from up to 40 feet away is possible thanks to Bluetooth, which is a nice addition.

Flaws are that the phono input is not available. It does not have a subwoofer connection port. There is no way to control the volume independently for each speaker.

Conclusion

There you go! Your top brands have been reviewed for you to make the best choice buying a slim receiver. Honestly who doesn’t want light weight and classy looking receivers for their home theatre? Providing the best visuals and listening experience to your ears one could only be all heart eyes for slim receivers. All things considered we hope you make the best buy, for which our website is also here to provide you with the above mentioned products