2 Channel Amp for Surrounds: Need Recommendations


Hi,

I need a 2-channel amp to power my back surrounds which are rated at 150 watts.

I plan to bi-amp my VT-2 mains when I add an AV7005 Preamp later this year. My Wired 4 Sound Mini MC-7 puts out 7 x 220 wpc.

I'd like to find a 2-channel amp for $500 or less that delivers about 150 to 200 wpc.

Something that would generate minimal heat is a real plus.

I would love to hear suggestions/ opinions.

Thanks!

My System as of July 2011

Wyred 4 Sound Mini MC 7 Multi Channel Amp
N H T VT-2 Speakers
N H T iC4 In-ceiling Surrounds (4) Monitor
N H T VS-2 Center
Denon 3803 Receiver (Temporary Preamp)
Sony BluRay
DirecTV HD Receiver
760raptor
Prior to moving into a big $ amp I had a Yamaha MX-1. It is thin, makes great clean sound and does not creat a lot of heat at all. I still regret selling it, as I always figured it would work great for an application such as yours.
Good luckm John
you should consider B&K amps - they are the most neutral sounding amps, and the best value out there. Easy to find one <$500.
Stringreen... You say "Surrounds do very little."
That may be true for some discs, but for others the surround channels are equal to the mains.

Case in point is Tacet recordings of classical chamber music where certain instruments are almost 100 percent located in surrounds. This mix brings the performers into your room instead of taking you to their studio. Works well for chamber music and jazz. IMHO of course.
To say dont worry about sound quality goes against everything you and our group stands for. Yes the surround info is limited but limited quality sound is better than limited crap sound. Go with any of those big names listed and you will get both quality and price. I am surprised to hear you say that String, its nonsensical.
Adcom GFA-535....$400 when new in 1992. 2x60 watts. Solid piece with some weight to it. I owned one with a white faceplate ($50 extra). Adcom also made a Mark II version. You may also try the Adcom 545 and 555 amps.