If the -8 is only utilizing 2 channel stereo (i.e. for music) 700 watts would be available per 2 channels as with the true 2 channel -2....is that correct?
That's the understanding, yes. That supreme flexibility seems to be the advantage of the design. I'd think the only reason to go with the A1400-2 over the -8 is if it's for a dedicated 2-channel setup that will never expand into more channels, or if you have an otherwise excellent amplifier and you only care about providing more power to hungry mains, thus saving you a little money.
