Amplifier specs, does they matter?

I really like Onhighway61s response, particularly

The information won't tell you how the amp will sound, but it will tell if it can operate properly in your system.

IOW, use certain specs to rule out an amp in the context of your speakers and pre-amp, but from there, their usefulness is questionable for a variety or reasons.

I also endorse the use of weight when comparing otherwise similar amps because of what it tells you about output xformers and power supply. Of course, its non-scientific and is not applicable to OTLs ;-)

Well, I'm talking about two-channel only. And I'm not sure that the color of the amp is critical here. Unless its flaming red-orange.

If I may tweek the subject matter just a bit.....I see many conversations here about matching pre-amps to amps based on specs. I hear some claim positive results while others have found unfavorable matches. I guess what I don't understand is why it wouldn't be most favorable to use a pre and amp combination from the same manufacturer. This would seem to lend itself to the highest level of system "synergy". Since (presumably) the same engineering team developed both units to work in conjunction with each other, this would be more favorable than trying to match specs. between different manufacturers especially if there may be different standards used for measurement.

I also endorse the use of weight when comparing otherwise similar amps because of what it tells you about output xformers and power supply.

Seriously, what could the weight tell you about the engineering and design that went into these components of the circuit. Granted, my business partner winds transformers and the outputs tend to be fairly hefty, and depending on the amount of power the amp is spec'ed at so might the power transformer. On the other hand I can carry my Music Reference RM-10 under my arm like a text book, yet it is quite a ballsy little amp. It has held it's own against any amp I've had and I'll further state it has embarrassed a few as well, regardless of weight.

Speaker ratings are especially superfluous. All amplifiers can drive 4-ohm speakers, and can usually handle 2-ohm loads. If an amplifier maker lists 4- or 2-ohm capability in their specs, they're probably trying to distract you from the amp's low-quality footpads.