Having heard both amps in more than a few systems I'll tell you why it is not a 'no-brainer' (shouldn't we, at least have experienced/listened to the amps before declaring it a no-brainer?) The XPA is a good value, has plenty of power for demanding speakers where it comes up short is in the mid range and up detail and dynamics.
The Parasound is one of the best 5 channel amps I have ever heard, it does so many things right. You won't be disappointed with the Parasound and it has great resale value.
Forget about the 50 watts, they will both drive your speakers with authority.
If you don't like the Parasound you can easily sell it for what you paid. You'll take a bigger hit with the Emotiva.
That said I would never buy an amp without hearing it with my speakers.
The Parasound is one of the best 5 channel amps I have ever heard, it does so many things right. You won't be disappointed with the Parasound and it has great resale value.
Forget about the 50 watts, they will both drive your speakers with authority.
If you don't like the Parasound you can easily sell it for what you paid. You'll take a bigger hit with the Emotiva.
That said I would never buy an amp without hearing it with my speakers.