The Benefits of a Power Amplifier

[@RScottNH]

Best explanation I have seen yet on how an external amp works with an AV receiver. Thanks so much.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Awesome! Thanks for watching

[@donalddeorio2237]

Very well explained video, I've been into sound since I was 17, I'm almost 62. most people getting into audio and home theater don't understand the benefits of going with separates. I've had most of my current system for 17 years and the only component I've upgraded is the AV Pre-amp. Bought that used for a song, Marantz av7005 and it's amazing. For $350 I got a $1500 preamp. My power Amplifier is a Carver av705x 5 channel also purchased used for $450. For the cost of a mid line reciever I have the quality of separates. And it's only improved the sound of my speakers. It runs cool, has plenty of power for movies and music and is quiet as a church mouse. It's definitely a better option for the long term even if you paid retail.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

First and foremost thanks for commenting! You've gotten some amazing deals!!!!! I'm jealous 😆. If you enjoy home theater and intend to enjoy it for a long time I think separates are a great investment.

[@donalddeorio2237]

I always do my homework before I buy, professional reviews and owner reviews. Any knowledge I can pass on to your viewers I'm happy to.

[@mauriciob8260]

Where did you get such amazing deal

[@offdacorner]

I really enjoy your videos. I've learned a great deal and my home theater has really benefitted from the info you provide. Thanks.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Thank you 🙏🏾 and happy to help!

[@twkeyes1]

HTH, you are spot on with the overheating and longevity gain from using a power amp. One more to add, amp technology sees very few changes over the years, but source and coding tech change rapidly. Using a power amp allows to upgrade the tech components (lower cost/benefit value) without needing to replace your amplification (higher cost/benefit value).

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Great point! 😀

[@loveracing1988]

Good in principle but not in real life. The cheapest I've seen for a processor is a lot more than a 9.1 reciever.

[@rickhasting4786]

Thanks for taking the time to reach us rookies!

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

You bet!

[@akrocuba]

GREAT EXPLANATION!! Much respect!!!!

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Thank you 🙏🏾! Don’t forget to subscribe and share the videos.😁😁

[@dalanwanbdiska6542]

Now im going to upgrade my av reciever to a newer setup with a zone 1 zone 2 output so i can add a amp and speakers. Right now im just running a onkyo 7.1 av reciever and the sub output is sending signal to another amps cd channel. The 2nd amp is running 5 subwoofers, 4 on left and right A +B and 1 on subwopfer output. Its a very loud bassy system. I love it. I never had a heat problem because the 2nd amp is a very good one. Good set up , im thinking i just want to upgrade, dont need to.

[@luisflores2037]

Thanks to your video I ordered an amp, I'll update on how it improved my system in a couple of weeks. If I don't update its because my wife killed me due to the massive amount of money already spent on said system.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

🤣🤣🤣 hoping/looking forward to hearing your impressions.

[@KLiNoTweet]

That was all new to me, thanks for the good explanation! 😀

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Thanks for watching!

[@jamesbarrick3403]

Your 2nd point about reduced electrical interference is a double edged sword. So yes I buy it that having two separate components will reduce the cross-talk between the amp and all of the line level stuff going on in the pre-amp section. But in doing so you are introducing more opportunities for interference since you now have more connection points (cables from receiver to amp) and the cables themselves (you can get shielded cables which help significantly but its still there). So you reduce and you gain interference. I'm 52 years old and I was an audiophile in my teen years. Nothing too expensive but I have a nice turntable and a Technics receiver and some nice floor standing speakers... oh yea and an expensive cassette tape deck. Of course we got our information from magazines back in the day. I remember reading the more practical setup to reduce noise is a receiver (as opposed to separate components) for the reasons I listed. BTW I am a 2.0 guy.... perhaps a 2.1 guy in the right setup. There are REALLY good high end 2.0 receivers now available with advanced amp designs that bridge the gap for my purposes. I also prefer high efficiency speakers so I don't need a truckload of power. 50wpc is plenty when you are driving Klipsch. What would persuade me to get a separate power amp is if I wanted to go to tubes which I have not yet... but always tempted.

[@hdtvkeith1604]

Here is my heartburn with separates and power amps. In an environment that is not driving the speakers hard you may get several pre/pro or AVR (as a pre) generations out of the amp, but you will still wind up buying higher end AVR (if that's what you want as a pre) to get the latest processing capabilities and best signal processing. One could argue that (again low speaker power needs) to just refresh your higher end AVR every few years.

[@rudrabarathan2737]

I do really enjoy watching your videos man. Love it.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Wow! Thank you!!!

[@uceddiemo]

Great Video however I was hoping to see how you hook up the Amplifier to the AVR, what cables, speaker cables etc. for 3, 5 or more speakers including ATMOS

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Thank you for watching! I show connecting wires and cables in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/imbNenWNpNxmd5o. If you need more info, respond back to this thread.

[@erod9088]

New to your channel, and I like your straight forward delivery. I would also add that those with XLR connections reduce noise in the connections from the preamp to the amp.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Thank you 🙏🏾 and great point!

[@hazchem1]

I have my Yamaha RXA3050 driving my Dali Rubicon Vokal Centre, Velodyne Q10 and 3 rear speakers. The Yammie is connected to my Roksan Caspian Integrated which drives the tweeter and mid of my Rubicon 8s and then a Roksan Capsian Power Amp driving the two bass cones of the Rubicon 8s. Gives me a lot of control over the sound I want for specific things.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

That setup sounds great!

[@hazchem1]

@@HomeTheaterHobbyist thanks.

[@1Sparkygod]

I use Crowns with my Yamaha CX-A5100. The detail is amazing.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Sweet! The additional power makes a difference!

[@velocci6666]

Do you watch .mkv content on it?

[@Guiltless765]

Amp can really wake speakers up and bring out much more detail imo.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

I agree

[@AromaFrank]

Is there anywhere u explain how to use the receiver and amp together, how to connect and where to, etc.

[@alfonsosnr]

I have 30 years old Technics A amplifier still going strong , music sound better then my modern av. receiver... Being vintage unfortunately Hdmi, there isnt one...

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

When built well an amplifier will last a lifetime, I love it!

[@Zmap6191]

Great video..So what is your opinion on the best set up for a 7.2.4 system? I was thinking of getting the Denon X3700H. Is the Monolith 7 channel Amp a good pairing with the Denon? I will be getting 2 SVS subs (2000), SVS Pinnacle Towers, Surrounds and Elevation Speakers. Appreciate any insight you may be able to provide here.

[@mikeortiz2139]

Right now, I have some entry level Sony Core Series Speakers, 7.1.4 set up. Would a power amplifier still give me a better experience out of the same speakers? I plan to upgrade when I can but for now, why not enhance the experience with Emotiva amp or something?

[@steeveabitbol2466]

I currently have 7.2 home theater system, all KEF q series, and 2 svs pb16ultra subs, all powered with my denon AVR4700h. My question, is should I go for the 3 channel model from Emotiva that offers 450w for my front stages speakers (L, R and center) and let the Denon power my Rears and side surrounds? Or do I go with an amp thats 7 chanels with lower power output? Would really love your input on this question please?

[@dougfa3515]

It is another level in your system. A very expensive level. 😂

[@imogenaris1697]

How do you add another ( newer ) processor to a power amplifier, if you're using an amplifier exclusively & not with an A/V receiver?

[@newton5954]

How do I buy wire if I'm looking at buying an amp like this but not as 7-channel one but a 2 Channel one Because I am currently by wiring my speakers right now to a Yamaha as801 integrated amp so that's four cables and total two for each speaker but on the back of this I only see four left and right channel there's only 4 plug ins I need 8 ?

[@gilramsey3518]

I'd like to add one more reason to get a separate amp. They last a lifetime and don't become obsolete like other components. The same is true of speakers. That is not true of other components (receivers that don't support newer DSP formats etc).

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Very true!

[@pankpant]

If i connect a stereo power amplifier to my 7 channel avr to drive front two main speakers, will it off load from the avr so that the remaining channels (5) get more power?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

It should

[@robertmcelfresh1031]

Uhhhh... The power your AV Receiver would have sent to the front speakers is NOT magically available to the other speakers. Every channel has a max current limit and even AV Receivers try to isolate the circuits going to each speaker to avoid cross-talk. If you do this - your AV Receiver will run cooler because it is not driving the front speakers. You MAY hear an improvement in 2-channel music, but I suspect you will not notice much audio improvement for movies if you add a 2 channel amp.

[@mraghurama]

Great video. I have a doubt that, If i have a AV receiver which gives 140 W output per channel attached with a power amplifier which gives output of 100 W per channel, will the 100 W gets added to the 140 W or just we get 100 W output per channel. Thanks.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

If you connect your AVR to the amplifier your speaker will only get the amplifier power, 100 watts. The connection between the two is line level not full speaker level.

[@pheotonia]

Dedicated amplifiers don't have to be in the same room as the head unit / sources. They can be tucked away in an air conditioned, air exchanged closet!

[@EQtown]

1.If a Power Amp is 80 watts RMS per channel and this is a lower wattage per channel than my AV receiver, is a Power Amp still worthwhile? 2.If I have both an AV receiver then add a Power Amp, is the volume still controlled from the receiver remote, or do I use the Power Amp to adjust volume? 3.What if have a 5.1.2 speaker set up but only get a 2 channel Power Amp? Will this lead to mismatched and uneven volume? eg Two speakers connected to Power Amp sounding disproportionately louder than those connected to the receiver? Thanks

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Great questions...... 1. The power amp probably delivers it’s power to all channels not just 2 channels driven as many AVRs so it may be worthwhile. 2. The volume will still be controlled by the AVR if the processed signal is coming from the AVR. 3. Once you get the power amp and connect everything re-run the AVR’s speaker calibration software, that should mitigate any volume mismatch. If you want to tweak further go into the AVR speaker menu and change the appropriate speaker level accordingly. Hopefully this helps! Happy New Year!

[@RESURRECT2]

Can I put AV receiver on power amplifier? Denon X3700H + Emotiva BasX A300 (I opt for them)

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

As long as the av receiver has “Pre-Out” connections it should work.

[@RESURRECT2]

@@HomeTheaterHobbyist I mean more in terms of electromagnetic interference and heat ?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Ooooo, I wouldn’t place one on top of another due to heat. If you do it I’d try to keep at least 6 inches of distance between the two but I recommend against stacking.

[@RESURRECT2]

@@HomeTheaterHobbyist even when listening at low levels with highly efficient speakers? (Klipsch rp-500m, 93dB) Heat is my main concert :( I think about some kind of heightening pads between then, below the top one's feet.

[@luiserasmo]

Hows works the room calibration when you are using the power amplifier? The avr/processor does the calibration, but only checks for the calibration mic, and doesn't check for the power on the output?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Correct, it uses the sound from the calibration mic not power output.

[@Oceansta]

Is there any reason why the form factor has to be so HUGE?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

The transformers is my thought

[@franklandgraff1190]

To connect an AV receiver to a power amp, do you need speaker pre outs?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Yes

[@velocci6666]

Great video. Would I get more definition if I'm watching .mkv movies that I downloaded? These movies are usually 50gb or higher. I'm worried that these files have noise in them from the ripping process and I'll hear it more with an external amp. What do you think?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

I haven't tested the different file formats but I would assume a file with more audio data will yield a better sound. The amplifier can push the electrical signals it's receiving for the processor.

[@velocci6666]

@@HomeTheaterHobbyist ok thanks. i'll have to do more research on this.

[@woosa42]

I have some questions. If i was to get an amp would i need to plug it into a separate wall socket from all my other units(tv, avr, dvd, game console, cable, cd, and 2 subs)? I have all these plugged into a good surge protector into one outlet. Can i plug the amp into the remaining outlet from that plug, or do i need to run it to a separate wall socket? I have 15 amp breakers. Also, would i need to get a good line conditioner and surge protector for all these units too now instead of just the surge protector? One more thing, can you or do you have a vid showing how to set this up in your avr setup menu before calibration? I am thinking about getting the Outlaw 7000 for $999 for a 7 channel amp running 130 watts per channel to all channels. Read nothing but good reviews on it. Thank you for sharing.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Great questions, here are the responses. 1. On the 15 amp breaker: That's a question for an electrician. I use the Monoprice 7 Channel on a 15 amp breaker with no issues but I can't speak for your home. 2. On the line conditioner: Another question for an electrician, I don't know if your power is "dirty". I would purchase a decent surge protector for your equipment though because lightning happens to all of us 🌩😄. 3. I don't have a specific video showing AVR menu setup but I show the actual connections in this video, kzbin.info/www/bejne/imbNenWNpNxmd5o I haven't reviewed the Outlaw but I've heard nothing but good things, enjoy!

[@woosa42]

@@HomeTheaterHobbyist - Did you check with an electrian first before you hooked up everything? lol

[@josefernandez2722]

I wanted to ask, once you use a combination of avr and external amp, you must use them even to watch the news or regular tv programs or is there a simple way to use the avr/ external amp combo when watching a 4k movie with special effects and be able to switch the ext amp off and only use the avr for regular sitcoms and the news?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

The easiest way is to have your front speakers connected to the AVR and the surrounds/rears/overheads connected to the external amplifier. Then when you turn the amp off you're still able to hear the fronts. Hopefully this helps!

[@Squishmallows24]

I don’t understand watts on a receiver or amp. So I recently bought an outlaw 5000x which it does 120 watts all 5 channels driven. My question is if I just connect/use 3 channels will the watts still be 120 per channel or will it be more since I’m only using 3 of the 5 channels?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

I haven't looked at the specs of that model but based on your description it will send a maximum of 120watts of power to each speaker regardless of the number of speakers connected.

[@carlton4824]

So can I run a 5.1.2 setup all through this amp or do I need multiple amps?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

The Monoprice Monolith 7 channel shown in this video can do 5.1.2 (as long as the subwoofer has it's own amp). If you purchase an amp with less than 7 channels of amplification then you will need multiple amps for a 5.1.2 setup.

[@kenasaoka888]

I have a question. If I have a 3 channel amplifier and connect it to a 5 channel receiver. Does that mean the receiver will work as 2 channel driven????

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Yes, basically.

[@nickneo2007]

How do you connect the av and the amplifier?

[@robertmcelfresh1031]

Some higher-end AV Receivers have pre-outs/RCA jacks so you can feed an external amp from the receiver. Last time I looked you started getting pre-out jacks on receivers starting about $1,200 and above. My current Dennon receiver does not have these but my older Yamaha receiver does.

[@nickneo2007]

@@robertmcelfresh1031 Thanks! More wires i guess. No way around it. Lol

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

He’s correct, Pre-out connections work. I show that in this video: Monoprice Monolith Amplifier Full Review kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKTdfqmjfMyNes0

[@duhgreat8449]

I have a marantz sr8012 . I hear clipping at high volumes. Will an external amp help with distortion and clipping or are the speakers not good enough . There’s certain movies I can watch at high volumes no problem and others the speakers clip . Do I need more power or what you think

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

The SR 8012 is a nice receiver and no slouch at 140watts per channel 2 channels driven, what speakers are you using?

[@duhgreat8449]

Home Theater Hobbyist ccm663 browers and wilkins

[@ike7539]

Are you from Fairfield California and you are into boating and fishing? If that's not you... your twin brother lives here

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

😂😂 no not in Cali but interesting that I have a twin!

[@ErgosProxy]

I'm still using the same receiver in this video and am thinking about getting an amp, mind reader much? 👁️👁️

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

😀

[@robertmcelfresh1031]

You have to look at how much Music vs Movies vs TV shows you watch. IMHO: an external amp mainly benefits 2-channel music. Most modern name-brand AV Receivers do a great job for TV shows and 5.1 audio. If you watch a lot of movies and don't have a subwoofer, this should be your next upgrade before an external amp. But this is just my opinion. Studying, auditioning and 'anticipation' is a part of this hobby so don't let me ruin this for you.

[@richardcampbell8843]

How do I connect a power amplifier to a receiver?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Good question! I show that process in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/imbNenWNpNxmd5o

[@richardcampbell8843]

@@HomeTheaterHobbyist thanks! I have a budget of $2,500 for home theater audio not a fan of out the box sound bars any recommendations?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Good budget, how many channels do you want to run?

[@myhomeaudio8751]

anyone answer please, one question, forget 105db any one does listen above 80db ? as 75db is itself loud enough, so does home theater speakers calibrated at 75db ?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

105db was just an example 75 - 80db is fine.

[@myhomeaudio8751]

Home Theater Hobbyist so in that case a speaker with 80-85 dB sensitivity is enough right ?

[@tap13out]

Sensitivity is how efficient the speakers work, not a loudness measurement. It’s how much sound a speaker will put out at 1 meter being pushed by 1 watt.

[@cruzingrsx4484]

If I’m watching a movie by myself I prefer to use a pair of Sennheiser TR 185 wireless headphones

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Why do you prefer headphones? Are you still on the couch watching TV or watching on a computer or iPad? Just curious about your setup

[@zombielandiii2711]

Hey! Im curious too. I really love my setup for movies which consist on a 9.2 channels and can handle Dolby Atmos etc.. besides don't bother others in the house, how can you compare? Can you please share? Thanks. By the way I have a basic Sennheiser and a Sony (don't remember model) wireless best-hype of the year headphones.

[@cruzingrsx4484]

Home Theater Hobbyist I’m an old timer and have had a surround sound system setup from its minimalist 5.1 format inception. I have made small upgrades throughout the years, it’s a very modest system 1) Panasonic 50” plasma tv 2) Onkyo TX-SR705 AV Receiver 3) Oppo UDP-203 4) Sony PS4 5) Apple TV & Roku 2 for streaming 6) NHT 2.3a towers, two C center, hdp-1 surround & sw2p powered sub. 7) Sennheiser headphones hd 6xx & hifiman he-4xx 8) wireless headphones sennheiser rs 85 & rs 185 9) Arcam irDac 10) last but not least cable I find unless I’m with the family or company the headphones sound very good, I can play them as loud as I want without disturbing the others in the house. But on occasion I do exercise the speakers especially when playing records.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

Ok gotcha! I was curious but it makes sense to me! 👍🏾 Thanks for sharing. Nice setup by the way!

[@cruzingrsx4484]

Home Theater Hobbyist, thanks bro. Dig the videos keep up the great work sir. By the way that Monolith amp by Monoprice looks like something I’m going too add to my wish list, it should improve the sound of my speakers.

[@deathtron5000]

Most people do not need a power amplifier if they posses a 100 watt plus AV receiver and listen at normal volume levels.

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

I have found there is additional detail and clarity that can be heard from adding a power amplifier especially with demanding speakers. Now will "most people" care? No, probably not so I agree with your statement 🙂.

[@jayjustgames1725]

Power amplifier Con: my wallet 😂😂😂😂

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

🤣🤣🤣 it is an investment

[@hd4100]

Your background music is super distracting

[@bullpup33]

You forgot bragging rights. 😀

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

😁😁

[@carlton4824]

So can I run a 5.1.2 system all through this amp or do I need multiple amps?

[@HomeTheaterHobbyist]

For the 7 channel model, you can definitely run 5.1.2 as long as the sub is powered.you’ll also need a processor or Avr with pre-out connections.

[@eddievega1100]

So , can you hook up a separate amp to a AV amp and use the AV amp as the processor ,source selector.