Best 200 watt x 5 amp for the money?


I'm looking to replace a nest full of 2 channel amps with something more powerful. I've been considering the ATI 2505, parasound 2205, sherbourne.or ? Anyone out there have any experience with these? My other components are a DC-1, and a Snell 7.1 THX speaker system with 2 passive Snell 12" subs. Thinking of using 2 channels for the subs, 3 for the front array and some of my others for surrounds. I like my music too, but have two other music systems.
pmandt
I found this on the Sherbourn, ATI, and Outlaw being mostly the same machine. http://www.audioholics.com/productreviews/avhardware/clone-prepros.php
Defintely take a look at the Classe CAV 180 (Listed for $2800 recently on audiogon) It is 180 watts but the rating of watts is the most ambiguous topic in audio. Also the CAV 75 which is 75 watts x 6 can be used for 3 channels bridged at 150 watts and used with your current 2 channel amp. Classe is true high end over the likes of rotel etc...
Classe amps are built like tanks - My only other thought would be a Bryston amp which also lays waste to most others in that price range
I saw a B&K Sonata 5ch. amp for $4-$600 that is a sweet deal.The thing I like about the B&K's are that you can tweek it to improve the sonics for low cost.
I think the Outlaw Model-755 is easily the best bang for the buck five channel amp out there. I've read that Outlaws are actually ATI amp's with a different face plate. 200WPC@8Ohms and 300wpc@4Ohms with all channels driven 20Hz to 20Khz, two transformers, etc. A very nuetural and detailed sounding amp. Do a search and you will find some very nice reviews or visit Outlaw's home page. Oh yeah, it also has a three year warranty and Outlaw offers a 30 day in-home trial period. Very hard to beat at $1299.
I second the opinion for the EAD Power Master 1000. I own this unit and it really performs great. In 2 channel music it does a superb job. You should be able to find one used on A-gon for under $2k and it is well worth it. There is a reason that all 3 of their Power Master series have a solid "5" rating on Audioreview. Best of luck.

Steve Bachman
Phoenix, AZ