ss multi-ch. amps vs multi seperate amps any adv.

While all the comments are accurate, we're talking HT here.

Unless you are going to be building the SOA $40k multichannel music sound system, there is no need to use all monoblocs.

Maybe to the L&R mains if you use must them for a 2channel music double duty system. Most good high quality multi-channel amps should give you what you need.

>09-03-10: Longhornguy
>Monoblocks are usually not the best answer in practical applications.
>
>Unless you have a dedicated 20 or 30 amp circuit in your power box, you will short out your 15 amp breaker with 5-7 monoblocks + tv + etc etc.

Only if you try to feed them test tones, have very small sub woofers with a lot of equalization, or the amps are biased for enough class-A output that they're doubling as a space heater in which case the extra air-conditioning will be a bigger problem.

For the last three years I had my home theater setup prior to moving I ran a half dozen amplifiers (7.1 with actively tri-amplified front speakers) placarded at 5760 Watts maximum off a single circuit along with 675W of recessed lighting.

It never popped a breaker because the amplifiers were generally loafing along at under 200W total (although reference level home theater can get loud, there's enormous dynamic range and the average isn't even a Watt).

To me, an important consideration is the question: What is the best use of your available funds? I suspect that investing in multiple amplifiers isn't.

Given the processor you are using, I would say that a good multichannel amplifier would be the better choice. I am familiar with multichannel amplifiers from Anthem and Parasound. Both make excellent products.

I agree with Summitav that, if you want to get the most out of music, you might consider purchasing a higher quality 2 channel amplifier for the FR and FL channels, and then a more affordable 3 channel amplifier for the center and surrounds. My own system has a version of this approach.

Good luck.

Bryoncunningham. I have a Parasound HCA 2205AT and want to upgrade. My parasound runs fairly hot(common for parasound).

I am looking into Wyred 4 Sound so I can get a mono modular amp. Say 3 dual monos + 1 mono, 3 channel and a 4 channel.etc. What are your thoughts on this brand and what else would you suggest?

I do think running seperate mono channels will have better seperation, dynamics, imaging and soundstage.

My pre processor is a Onkyo Pro SC885.

Regards Bacardi