Any 5.1 processor with integrated 3 ch amp

I would look for a receiver that has the following:

5.1 channels of amplification (at least)
pre-outs for all channels
Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS, plus DPL-II(great for VHS & TV)

Because of the release date of DPL-II, you may need to look at 6.1 or 7.1 channel receivers as many of the 5.1 channel units won't have DPL-II. You may also want to consider buying a receiver that has auto-calibration. The Pioneer VSX-1015/1016 have it and also have all of your other requirements. The Onkyo 702/703 also have auto-calibration and meet you other needs. Some of the mid-priced Yamahas also have auto-calibration.

I've owned several mid-high end Sonys and liked them, however the setup was difficult and the remotes are kind of quirky and non-intuitive. Of the units I've owned, I would recommend the Pioneer VSX-1015/1016 for best compromise between price, usability and sonics. It's a great deal at under $400 new (street price, $369 at J and R).

BTW, none of the receivers I've owned, that met your criteria, were compact in size. They were are similarly large at about 17" X 19" X9" .

Enjoy,

TIC

Thanks Reuben, the Pionner is to tall, I can only fit a 6" component at he max.

What do you think about older (5.1 DD, DTS) SONY ES receivers?

I had a couple of older Sony DB and ES receivers and they were fine. The remotes are a bit quirky, but workable. Build quality and sonics were good. Setup was slightly more difficult than some of my other receivers, but once I got the hang of it, no issues.

Are their any that will fit into a 6" tall space and still have enough room for ventilation?

TIC

Actually I have 6.9" between shelf and sides are open. I want to keep about one inch for ventilation.

The (Outlaw Audio)surround receiver should fit your shelf and has preouts. The biggest problem?... is it's power output, which may, or may not be a problem at all...depending on your speaker choices for center and rears.

Dave