amp and receiver

[miggs29]

All,

I am still new at this HT lingo. What is the difference between a multi channel amp (NAD, Emotiva, Rotel) and the receiver, Yamaha RXV1700 for example. Do you run them in series. Do you use one or the other? Could someone please clarify?

Thanks!!!

 

[mazersteven]

If I'm understanding your question the answer would be.

An amp is a power supply. It creates, and stores power. A multi-channel amp has a number of power supplies in one unit. With an amp you'll need a separate processor for audio/video. A receiver is one unit containing power supplies, and audio/video processors.

 

[miggs29]

If I'm understanding your question the answer would be.

An amp is a power supply. It creates, and stores power. A multi-channel amp has a number of power supplies in one unit. With an amp you'll need a separate processor for audio/video. A receiver is one unit containing power supplies, and audio/video processors.

Ok, so having the receiver there is no need for the additional amp since the receiver has the built in amp, correct? Or do you ever have both? What is the advantage? Sorry if the question is redundant! I am still tryingt to absorb all the info. This site is great, by the way

 

[mazersteven]

Ok, so having the receiver there is no need for the additional amp since the receiver has the built in amp, correct? Or do you ever have both? What is the advantage?

The advantage, or convenience with a receiver is,

1) all in one unit.
2) storage, saving rack space.
3) cost.

You can use an external amp, or amps using a receiver, or pre/pro. Since receivers right now are so feature packed, compared to pre/pros. Some will use receivers to get all those benefits. But use an external amp for more power, and not use the receivers built in amplification. Not all the time, but in general a "good quality" external amp with have a better power supply, and more stable power over a receivers amplification.