Multichannel power amplifers VS 2 channel power amplifiers

@russ69 i would think he needs something decent sounding for the 5 channels of his bed layer (fronts/center/surrounds), i.e., a 5 channel amp. Some compromise could be made on height channels and so on for sure. I personally don't know of a 5 channel amp that could keep up with the better stereo amps under 2k i.e. unless anything's changed recently.

@russ69 i would think he needs something decent sounding for the 5 channels

The Parasound A51 is about all I could recommend....and that's 5 grand. 

I kinda read the 1st paragraph of the OP as music was the primary. I failed to consider the 9-10 channel issue which seems to inconsistant with budget.  I agree with soix that not enough info was provided.  Given a 5.1 system my approach is viable.

I kinda read the 1st paragraph of the OP as music was the primary. I failed to consider the 9-10 channel issue which seems to inconsistant with budget.  I agree with soix that not enough info was provided.  Given a 5.1 system my approach is viable.

These are about the cheapest multichannel amps I've seen that would be close to the price. These are only the power amps.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649754140-buckeye-amps-hypex-nc502nc252-500w250w-amplifier-available-in-2-4-6-8-channels-free-shipping/