I agree with several of the comments above. I too think that a "multi-channel" version of a two channel amp sounds quite different even though the basic circuitry is supposed to be "near identical". As such, i use a two channel amp ( Sunfire Signature ) for the mains in my HT system and the multi channel version ( Sunfire Cinema Grand Signature ) for center, surrounds, subs, etc.. The entire system runs at 4 ohms, so there is plenty of power on hand. With an advertised capacity of 6450 RMS, i think that i'm pretty well covered even if the amps fall slightly below rated output.
I've had multi-channel amps from several other manufacturers before arriving at this combo. Most of them tend to sound a little more forward and brighter than their stereo counterparts. I would imagine that this is done to add "life" or "energy" to what is already a typically "hyped" or "hot" sound courtesy of Hollyweird. You have to remember that the 2 channel and the HT market are quite different and the products are "voiced" accordingly.
Some of these amps are relatively "grainy" sounding, especially when pushed hard or using low efficiency / low impedance speakers. Much of this probably comes from lack of power supply, regardless of what the advertisements say or the pictures show. A quick way to tell if the amp is "under power supplied" is to compare the 8 ohm and 4 ohm power output levels. If there is not a VERY sizable increase, i would avoid it.
Be careful when shopping for multi-channel amps, as most rate their power output in a rather "flattering" manner. With all channels driven, quite a few do not meet advertised spec. From one test that i saw, the Sunfire Cinema Grand ( non "Signature" model ) also fell into that category. I would suggest buying more power than you actually think that you'll need or making SURE that the amp will drive your specific speaker array with ease.
Even with "slightly altered" sonics as compared to their stereo versions, multi-channel amps can be configured into a system and sound quite good. You just have to work with the sonics of that specific amp when dialing things in. DON'T take for granted that what works with the Brand X stereo amp will work with Brand X's multi-channel amp. They literally are two different creatures. Sean
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I've had multi-channel amps from several other manufacturers before arriving at this combo. Most of them tend to sound a little more forward and brighter than their stereo counterparts. I would imagine that this is done to add "life" or "energy" to what is already a typically "hyped" or "hot" sound courtesy of Hollyweird. You have to remember that the 2 channel and the HT market are quite different and the products are "voiced" accordingly.
Some of these amps are relatively "grainy" sounding, especially when pushed hard or using low efficiency / low impedance speakers. Much of this probably comes from lack of power supply, regardless of what the advertisements say or the pictures show. A quick way to tell if the amp is "under power supplied" is to compare the 8 ohm and 4 ohm power output levels. If there is not a VERY sizable increase, i would avoid it.
Be careful when shopping for multi-channel amps, as most rate their power output in a rather "flattering" manner. With all channels driven, quite a few do not meet advertised spec. From one test that i saw, the Sunfire Cinema Grand ( non "Signature" model ) also fell into that category. I would suggest buying more power than you actually think that you'll need or making SURE that the amp will drive your specific speaker array with ease.
Even with "slightly altered" sonics as compared to their stereo versions, multi-channel amps can be configured into a system and sound quite good. You just have to work with the sonics of that specific amp when dialing things in. DON'T take for granted that what works with the Brand X stereo amp will work with Brand X's multi-channel amp. They literally are two different creatures. Sean
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