If you want to evaluate the validity of continuous amplifier power output claims, all that's required is some simple math.
In North America, with a typical 15A AC circuit at 120V, you can draw a maximum of 1800 watts. For a 20A circuit you can draw a maximum of 2400 watts. Now that's simply what you can get out of the wall, not what you can get to your speakers, because no amplifier+power supply can be 100% efficient. Class AB amplifiers with linear power supplies typically range from 50-65% and Class D amplifiers can range from 80-95%. So, for a 5-channel Class AB amplifier with 50% efficiency to continuously supply 600 watts to all channels would require 6000 watts from your household AC, not to mention having to dissipate an enormous amount of heat...

Last edited by Andrew; 01/12/14 02:38 PM.