Hello friends
My 2 HT systems have each evolved from using the onboard amps in the receivers to using each receiver as a preamp/processor and outboard amps.
The difference was noticeable when I got an Anthem PVA-5, 5 channel outboard amp and a vintage silver faced Kenwood KA9100 2 channel for channels 6+7 and used the Onkyo 797 receiver as a processor.
In the case of my smaller office system, I picked up Onkyo M282 2 channel amps, first a pair for front and surround speakers. I finally got my 3rd Onkyo M282 and hooked up one channel to my center speaker. Previously, the center channel was the only one driven by the onboard amp in the Sony STRDB 1070 receiver. Each M282 is rated at 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, 130 wpc into 6 ohms. My center speaker is an Axiom made Merak MC6H with a pair of 6.5" drivers and a great big horn tweeter.
Well, in this case, the difference is very noticeable. Using the M282 slam (attack) is terrific! Detail is 100% superior. Depth, purity, sonority, all MUCH better than when using the onboard Sony amp.
This is a really big improvement.
The Onkyos are a bargain. I picked up 2 2 channel M282s from ubid for about $130 each. The last one I got from Onkyo's online store, refurbished it set me back $200.
I have 6 channels of outboard amplification (that I am really happy with) for a total of about $550 with shipping.
For anyone looking for relatively inexpensive outboard amplification I HIGHLY recommend the Onkyo M282 amps.
Now, I guess I have to pick up a single QS4 for the back surround (6th channel). Darn, just when I thought I was done ... !
