Jon, the M22s are about average in sensitivity and use about 1 watt for a comfortably loud level(around 85dB)at a typical listening position. Of course, brief peaks in the source material will require much more power, but not likely anything that receivers such as the 589 couldn't supply.

Yes, you wouldn't want to drive them to the full rated power capacity. That refers to what the speakers, not you, can handle without permanent damage. Precautions to avoid permanent hearing loss should always be taken.

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Enjoy the music, not the equipment.