Emotiva XPA-5 vs. Parasound A51?

What Zenblaster said +1. IME, The differences will be audible on the 804's, more so with well recorded music than for movies.

If we knew what amp you are using now we would have a better idea of what quality level you are currently at. Also what, if anything, are you trying to improve upon?

I agree with Zen. I just added a used Parasound myself; I'm now using my Pioneer Elite receiver as a Processor. It's been a great upgrade. I've also been using the two channel version of the Parasound in my main system for 2 years.
I've never heard an Emotiva product, so I can't compare. The reviews that I have read have been mixed, and there seem to be a lot of product service/reliability issues withi Emotiva in forums that I have perused. I've been very happy with the two Parasound products that I have.

My old system - JM Labs Chorus 716 mains, Chorus CC and surrounds - were all run from an Emo UPA-5 (200x5 into 8ohms). My speakers are a bit more sensitive than the B&Ws, but the Emo made them come to life.

I don't think you have anything to lose by trying Emotiva, and I think you may be pleased.

I've had amps from both companies and concur with the superior midrange/highs detail. Also, the Parasound doesn't have the glare or harsh highs at upper volumes that the Emotiva did with my speakers, I actually got repeatable sibilance.

If the 804's are a forward sounding speaker, and I've heard some B&W products are, it might be a bad mix. Only one way to be sure, but be aware that if you want to return the Emotiva you will lose the shipping costs of a 100 or so.

Thanks guys. I decided it spend 2.5x more and get the parasound. It's an investment in high quality gear that will last for a long time.

Emotiva is just too new, focused on competing on price and not quality, plus I've heard their components have had longevity issues.

Thanks again for the commentary.