Video Asylum

Posted by RichardH on March 29, 2000 at 17:55:40:

In Reply to: Re: what's wrong with the sony? posted by Joel on March 29, 2000 at 15:31:25:

THD has nothing to do with sound quality. It's simply a measure of when the amp starts to distort. For example, a receiver could be rated 100w X 5, 0.8% THD 1kHz. Or it could be rated 70w X 5, 0.05 THD 20-20,000Hz. The second rating is much more useful as it is across the entire audio spectrum, not just at 1kHz, and the THD is lower. The first rating is more like a "cheat," but there aren't any rigorous standards with which manufacturers have to adhere to. That's changing somewhat.

Anyway, your Sony receiver could be rated 100w X 5 at 0.8% THD, and have a corresponding 0.05%THD at something like 65w. Now, if the Yamaha was rated 100w X 5 at 0.05%THD, then obviously it can play louder, but that says nothing about the sound quality.

If your speakers are 91dB sensitive, then you're only using 1 watt to get 91 dB. For each 3dB louder, double the power. Even at 103dB, you're still only using 16 watts. So, THD figures don't enter into it. However, it is true that in general Yamaha has better amps in their receivers than Sony DE line, unless you can hear a difference with your speakers in your room, there's no reason to make the trade.

Further, since you have a Sony DVD, can't you use S-link to make things easier? In short, don't make the trade. If you want better two-channel performance, get an outboard amp or an integrated amp and run a totally separate music system. You'll be much happier in the long run.

Hope this helps,
RichardH