Ok, maybe the car analogy wasn't spot on the issue, but the question still stands; how do you know you are not damaging your driver(s) until the damage is done? The answer is you don't. This is essentially what we call a destructive testing. When I sit and set the volume to SPL level peak of 100 db, I don't get any damage. If I want to go to 101 db will it do damage, the only way to know is to try it. Hmm, "Are you feeling lucky, P@#K". Ok, only kidding. But once you hear the damage, it's too late. I know this from experience (not with my Axiom's BTW).
I am not saying receivers are bad, actually I think they are very practical. You just need to understand their limitations and act accordingly. If not, you'll be opening your pocket book to repair speakers. I just choose instead to open my pocket book to get more power to minimize the possibility of speaker damage.
paul
