For efficient speakers, how much difference does an amp really make?

Watts do matter if you want top notch dynamic peaks. That is basic physics.

A 50 watt tube or Class D amp may seem to deliver more per watt but that is mainly due to the fact that these amps soft clip which makes clipping more digestible to the ear by rounding off the peaks smoothly.

For best performance always best to be sure to avoid clipping, especially hard clipping like most amps but also soft.

How much exactly is needed is very speaker dependent.

My personal experience has been most any speaker benefits from more watts where the amp does not have to ever break a sweat to drive them.

I use 500. W/ch Bel Canto Class D. This will drive almost any speaker to lifelike volume effortlessly without ever getting warm.

I also have 60 watt Bel Canto Class D amp. This is lovely within its SPL limits with most speakers like a good tube amp but more limited in regards to ultimate dynamics and SPL.

If an amp does not clip, chances are it will sound good. What sounds best from there is much more subjective and harder to predict.

Years ago I worked in a TechHifi where we live demoed and sold most every line of receiver and amp from 15 w/ch to 200 or so.

The bigger model in every line always sounded best. Nobody ever chose fewer watts after listening because it sounded better.

Amps do sound different. The difference can be subtle or huge. Sometimes subtle differences can be worth the upgrade too.

I would not recommend an older Adcom. I just don’t think they’re a very good amp.

I don’t know your amps or speakers, but I wouldn’t solely focus on more watts as the solution for greater clarity and bass. What is your price range?

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Horses for courses

@millercarbon   

Sorry, but its been a long day of silly questions- and even worse replies.

This is supposed to be a forum to pose question and exchange ideas about audio.  Why do you prefer to turn it into a platform for you to critique both the questions and responses from forum members? Obviously playing this role gives you some sense of self validation but it really isn't in a positive spirit.  You're like trying to be some martyr who suffers fools all day, and despite the agony you endure listening to the substandard drivel, you still offer nuggets of wisdom to the undeserving masses.  You just give and give don't you?...(gag)