AV Receiver recommends

IMHO, yes, and will power them as well as any other receiver at that price point.

The power for the majority of a/v receivers are rated with only 2 channels being used, so when using 5 or 7, the ouput per channel will be less. The problem is that some drop in power much more than others. The SR5010 is replacing the SR5009, and both likely have the same amplifier section with some other features being updated. Here are measurements for the SR5009,

http://www.soundandvision.com/content/marantz-sr5009-av-receiver-review-test-bench#igvWdDSZH5RyTsYf.97

Rated @ 100w, measured 111.7w - 2 channels, 72.9w - 5 channels, 68.5w - 7 channels

Another poster seem to think HK was more reliable with their rating. So, look at this HK receiver at roughly the same price point,

http://www.soundandvision.com/content/harmankardon-avr-3700-av-receiver-test-bench#83IsGPgvYtsDGWwk.97

Rated @ 125w, measured 151w - 2 channels, 37.2w - 5 channels, 27.9w - 7 channels

Sorry, I'll pass on the HK. It is true that NAD does have a more reliable rating, and their receiver at this price point is rated at 60w/ch with all 7 channels.

Now, are there any better a/v receivers, absolutely, but at a much greater expense. Again IMHO, the SR5010 looks like an excellent choice for it's price point. The SR5009 got a great review, and it appears the SR5010 is just a more updated version of that receiver.

Other posts have answered your questions pretty thoroughly. I would add just a few comments. The Marantz web site claims the SR5010 can handle low impedance loads, so if the CM1s dip much below 8ohms, that may not be a problem. At under 23 lbs and delivering over 70 watts x 5 into 8 ohms and capability to handle low impedances tells me this is likely a switching amp rather than more classic AB type. Switching amps are getting much better sounding, and I have heard the CM1s sound very good with 500W per channel Rotel switching amp. That is in part why I like more power for these very inefficient speakers. Ultimately it depends on the size of your listening space and the volumes you prefer, but I can envision circumstances for rock or classical music performances, or a large dynamic shift during a Blu-Ray where more amplifier headroom would be appreciated. Just saying...

kn

WOW thanks Tls49! Very informative! Same to you Knownothing appreciate the info.

I'm still shopping so taking in all the advice you guys are giving me! Your right, the CM1's do feel like they need some power behind them. So I will look into the NAD line as well.

However, from Tls49's research seems like the SR5101 Marantz might be sufficient for my needs and my set up. Unless I want to go up in price point.

I'll keep looking for a little while longer.

The onkyo and pioneer are rinky dink. The power ratings on the consumer stuff is nonsense. Everyone is 100 watts a channel - probably peak to peak (not rms) when only one channel is running. Load up all 5 channels and its like 30 watts in the front and half of that in the back. You get what you pay for.

Thanks Cerrot! I knew that of the Onkyo's and I've read all the return merchandize and angry consumers on Amazon regarding their receivers. And this forum has swayed me away from Pioneer… when i heard they were combining companies that really scared me away.

I'm with you brethren! =)