Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Home Theater Power

Correct, Andrew; at the same sound level, within the designed limits of each unit, there would be no audible difference. All that any amplifier can do is to amplify with audibly flat frequency response and inaudibly low noise and distortion. This is routinely accomplished these days in relatively moderately-priced units; there's no special magic in putting the amplifier in a separate box.

Claims of the "more detail" sort lack factual support when the volume levels are equal. Of course if one is set slightly louder, more detail is heard simply because it was louder, but this isn't a valid comparison. This is why in blind testing the volume levels are matched to within 0.1dB. When this is done neither "detail" nor any other sound characteristic is audibly distinguishable.

Additionally, when one listens more intently, like after purchasing new equipment, one is more likely to hear details missed in casual listening.

It's easy to prove to yourself. Take a track you know pretty well, and sit down with no distractions, and really concentrate on it. Try to place each instrument in the sound field, take notes (whether mental or actual) about what you're hearing. I'm sure you'll notice details you didn't hear before. And you didn't have to spend a dime (unless you're taking actual notes and have to cover the cost of paper).