Monitor Audio Silver 8 - Power Handling

I typically listen to orchestral recordings...my listening position is 6ft from each speaker.  The room is about 24x12 with a 15 foot ceiling.  When I 'critically' listen it's usually between -25 and -20 on my Emotiva XSP-1 preamp...but I'm not really sure what that means (read many various explanations).  I do need to get an SPL meter...the free app I downloaded was all over the place. 

Thanks rotarius. This is not a forever listening room...next house hopefully I will get my "man cave" back.

Does anyone have an amplifier recommendation that would surpass the XPA-2 in clarity/resolution?  Is it even practical to consider without putting down serious $$?  The XPA seemed like a good choice at the time as it had ample power, good reviews, and an even better price tag.  

Emotiva ERC-2 CD player, Emotiva XSP-1 Pre.  Not sure I'm "lacking" resolution.  Just not sure if there is reasonable room for improvement or if I have a good thing going.  I love the sound...but you know...always interested in hearing suggestions.  Thanks

Thanks for the insight 213runnin!  I have been looking at the Halo A21 as a possible upgrade to the Emotiva. Glad to hear you're enjoying it.  Did you replace the XSP-1 in your system as well?

I tend to agree with you regarding Emotiva's "business first model". It was a great (i.e. Affordable) way for me to get the components I needed but I think upgrades are in order for the future. Definitely want to maximize the Silver 8s. 

Ah, good to know.  What preamp are you currently using?
I would love to compare the Parasound Halo A21 to the Bel Canto Ref1000M mk 2, and the Bryston 4B3.  

Anything other amps (stereo or monos) anyone would recommend for the Silver 8s (and classical music) under $4k.

@213runnin, I'm glad you mentioned the NAD as I was just looking at some of their amps today.  I wish I had a dealer closer to home for auditioning some of the other contenders.

@rotarius, in what way would the A21 be overkill?  Higher quality than the speakers? or output?
I would love to eventually upgrade to MA gold or platinum series speakers, but that is a ways off.  I would however like to get an amp (now) that is "qualified" to drive even the PL 300s with commensurate resolution/detail/etc.  

Does anyone have experience with the Bel Cantos?  I've read good reviews on stereophile.

@rotarius, thanks for the insight!