Question About Reciever Wattage Distribution

bansheesho

So I am changing recievers from an Onkyo tx-sr506 (75w/ch) to a Pioneer SC-25 (140w/ch). I forgot to look at the power rating of my rear channel speakers (polk monitor 30) and the spec sheet states "Recommended Amplifier Power 20 -100 w/channel"

So according to that spec sheet I would be overpowering them? I am confused on how the wattage division works.. If it says 140 w/ch does that mean that in a channel with 2 speakers each speaker could potentially get all 140w depending on what is playing? Does it mean that each speaker can have up to 70w? I guess I am wondering if my monitor 30's are going to be ok.

Also, what happens to the wattage for an unused channel? Like lets say that you are listening to music and only the front and center channels are playing on a 7.1 system... does this mean that only 140w/ch are available or do the rest of the unused amp channels gang up on them?

Glowrdr

The pioneer will be able to hit over the 100 watt mark with all channels driven. Although the surrounds are not driven to the same extent as the fronts would be. I'd say you are safe unless you use the all-channel stereo (not sure of Pio's name for it) and CRANK the thing. Even then, it's probably questionable.

Generally if a receiver says it's 140 watts a channel, that drops. 5.1 may be more like 75 a channel. 7.1 might only be 65 a channel. It really all depends on the receiver - but the Elites do hold their power (the 37 still hits 125 watts with all 7 driven)

tonyb

You'll be fine, don't sweat it my friend. One thing to keep in mind is a receiver or amp does not put out the total rated power at all times. The speakers will only use the power it needs. Just don't be cranking the volume dial all the way up and you'll have no problems.