Hi, I have a 5.1 Channel System. 2 Aperion 633-T's as my front, a center, a sub, and 2 surrounds. I have a 7.1 Channel Pioneer Receiver that puts out 110 Watts/Channel at 8 Ohms. I feel as though this isn't enough power for the Aperion Speakers. I can raise the volume from -40 to -20 on the receiver with very little change in volume level. This makes me think the power is insufficient for the speakers. My question is; Pioneer has a 100W x 2 @ 4 Ohm amplifier. Does it make sense to add this to my system. Will the wattage be added to that of the reciever or replace and thereby being even less power. How does the impedence effect this equation? Thanks for you help.

Anthony,

Hi, let me see if I can answer your questions.

First, what model Pioneer receiver do you have?  You should notice a huge change in volume level with that large of a change to the set volume.  Some receivers are known for having very underpowered amp sections. In fact, lots of them are that way.

The 100 watt x 2 @ 4 ohms amp will probably add little to nothing to your power output. That probably equates to about 75 watts @ 6 ohms, which is the nominal impedance of the 633t's. Also, the power from an external amp does not add to the power of the receiver, once you connect an amp to the preamp outputs of a receiver the amp sections in the receiver are bypassed for whatever channels that are connected.

I have a 5.1 system that did consist of 532's x4, 533vac and the s10 sub. I was powering this system with a Harman Kardon 240 receiver and was very happy with it. When I upgraded to 633t's up front and later the 634vac, I felt, like you, that my system was lacking in power. I ended up purchasing an Outlawaudio 7125 amp and now use the receiver as the preamp/processor. I am MORE than happy with the results. The upgrade in power is amazing! But its more than just raw spl, the soundstage is much larger the imaging is fantastic, and the seperation of instruments is incredible. The bass is also much tighter and the mids seem more open. I like to listen to music loud and there is no distortion or compression even at ear shattering levels. But even at quiet levels it sounds much better. The noise floor also dropped considerably. Sorry for rambling on there but as you can tell I love my Outlaw amp almost as much as my Aperions.

 I agree with you that you probably are lacking  in power, the 633's really thrive on it. I also agree that an external amp may be the way to go for you. I would highly recomend Outlaw, but there are lots of good companies out there. Do some research and let your ears be the judge because thats all that matters. Post back when and if you make any decisions or if you have other questions.

Good luck and enjoy,   Steve,