I saw an old post from Alan where he explained the volume level readings on modern receivers. Basically he said that they tend to get 'loud' and about -20db and most have given their all by 0db - beyond that, there tends to be distortion etc.

I have just bought a NAD 573 - its bloody heavy compared to my old receiver so expected plenty of power - when playing CDs, it does get plenty loud at about -20, but for DVDS it has to be pushed to 0 or +1,+2 to give fairly average loudness. Is this a sign that its a bit underpowered for my medium sized room?

I am currently running without a center, using M60s and some older 6ohm bookshelves as surrounds.

Thoughts welcome

Is this consistent for all the DVDs that you watch?

I am suspecting that some DVDs, specific formats may have lower output levels.

At 100 wpc you should have enough power. Are you sure the receiver is calibrated properly?

New, it has little or nothing to do with the maximum power capability of the 753(which should be more than enough in nearly all cases)and relates to the calibration of the volume control and the strength of the output from the source material. As long as the volume is enough with the control at less than max there's no good reason for concern.