Need help deciding on Rotel Amp for 5.2 sys


Our home theater was created on a single income Family budget. When it's my turn for a good action packed LOUD movie, there seems to be a lack of power for me. Listed below is my set up. The amplifier I am going to purchase will be the last good effort before retirement next year. Fixed income will not allow the goodies. Thank you.

Room size: 11 ft wide(Monitor) x 25 long (seats)
Integra 50.3 7.2 bi-amped front
B&W Speakers 684 Towers (bi-amp) Front L/R
CM60 Center
8 in. ceiling
Klisch Sub Two 10 in. power subs

Should I buy a 3 channel for the front and use 130 watts on two rear ceiling speakers?

Buy 5 channel 200 watt and only use the Integra for the pre amp?

Would like to buy a pre owned upper end unit.

Thank you

amperfy

Showing 3 responses by realremo

Surround speakers typically don't need a ton of power, they are used for atmospherics more than anything on a movie track. That would mean a 3-channel amp might suit your needs, but those amps are a little more rare on this site than the 5-channel variety, and you'll be able to sell the 5-channel amp more easily, I think, if you don't like it. If it were me I'd go with a 5-channel amp, because I don't like the idea of the power coming from two different sources in the rack.
Regarding brands, research Parasound, Anthem, Emotiva, Proceed, and Outlaw, don't just go to Rotel. I've been there are better sound is available for not too much more $$$. Also consider the availability of local service in your area, if possible. I try to only buy used gear that can be serviced locally. Amps are fairly simple to work on, but still I'd make a few calls.
Totally agree on the B&K brand, had intended to mention them but was at work. Hence the typos in my previous post. I also have B&Ws in a home theater, and also suffer from a lack of power. I have chosen to place all my attention into the two channel system for now, so my HT sound is still lacking, but only have so much to spend. Please post how you decide to go so I might live vicariously.
Just my personal experience, in my HT system, Denon AVR/all B&W/HSU sub, I preferred the LCR at full range, I just thought it sounded better. YMMV. Of course now, I have absconded with my sub to the two-channel room in the basement, don't even have a sub in the HT and don't really miss it all that much. Most nights when we're watching movies, the kids are asleep upstairs, and the wife plays volume games with me throughout the movie...