Lee, the same cold, hard facts of amplifier technology still apply. If the amplification takes place with level frequency response and inaudibly low noise and distortion(the norm these days even with modestly-priced receivers), that's all that any amplifier can do. Contrary reports abound, of course, usually sincere and well-intentioned, but good intentions can't change the facts, and when put to the(blind listening)test, these claims collapse. The classic
Stereo Review tests , just for example, still stand unchallenged(by contrary evidence, not just by stubborn disagreement)and illustrate the point. Flowery comments about the "sound" of the amplifiers in open listening under the same conditions are quoted, but as soon as the labels and price tags disappeared, so did the sound.
You've emphasized that, as is also the case with me, your classical listening is at moderate levels. Except in the highly unlikely situation(and then for only a split-second at peaks)that more power is needed than the receiver can supply cleanly, more maximum power capacity, regardless of whether it's in one box or two, is meaningless. Relax and enjoy the great music we have.
