Video Asylum

Posted by Larry on February 24, 2000 at 09:14:27:

In Reply to: Re: need 5 channel amp recomendations posted by Eric J on February 23, 2000 at 12:39:08:

One other point I just thought of. In the next year or so, Dolby EX might take off (is DTS coming out with something similar?). That'll require yet another amp channel. So, if you allocated your money for a high quality 3 channel amp now, you could upgrade later on by purchasing an identical 3 channel amp for the 3 surrounds. Or, the way I'd go, you could buy an even better quality 2 channel amp right now, and plan to get a good 4 channel amp later on (they can be found).

For example, you could get a great 3 channel amp for $2,500, and look for a used HK Citation 4 channel amp (I've seen them used on the net for less than $1,000). That would give you the 5 channels you need now, plus an extra channel for future needs. If you buy a 5 channel amp, and if EX becomes important later (possibly a BIG if, but Dolby has a lot of clout), you'll end up looking for a monoblock amp (wouldn't be a problem to some people - depends upon your preferences).

Kind of confusing when you try to plan long term. But, that's the fun (or frustrating, depending upon how you look at it) part of this hobby.