My 5.1 setup is in a small room and seating is about 8.5' from the speakers

Since the receiver has met my needs, when I buy a replacement I'll look for one that meets/exceeds these specs but lists them properly for all channels driven so consumers don't have to guess.

Am I correct in thinking that if all else remains the same, the only thing more power does is let you go to higher volumes of sound?

Thank you for the feedback, greatly appreciated.