7 Channel amp Vs. 7 monoblocks
Hiccups
Posts: 10
Im deciding between
1) Outlaw 7700 200wpc (Balanced) x 7 Channel ($2149.00)
2) Outlaw 7200 200wpc x 7 Channels ($1849.00)
3) Outlaw 2200 Monoblocks (7 of them) ($2275.00)
to drive the following...
Center: LsiC
FLR: Lsi15 x2
Surrounds: LsiFX x2
Rear Surrounds Lsi9 x2
Sub: Polk PSW1000
AVR: Onkyo TX-SR875
So whaddyathink?
One 7 Channel Amp (200wpc x 7) or 7 monoblocks (also 200wpc each)
Price is comparable. I like that the monoblocks have autosensing and turn themselves off. I also like the versatility the monoblocks provide for future configurations. But I also like the 7 channel amp for simplicity.
Also, is the 7200 plenty to drive that system or the 7700? They are both rated at 200wpc but I don't know what 'Balanced' brings to the table. Please enlighten me on the difference.
-I'm listing the WPC rated at 8 Ohms. I know they push more at 4 Ohms
-Also, I'm listing MSRP for simplicity. I might be able to find a deal.
1) Outlaw 7700 200wpc (Balanced) x 7 Channel ($2149.00)
2) Outlaw 7200 200wpc x 7 Channels ($1849.00)
3) Outlaw 2200 Monoblocks (7 of them) ($2275.00)
to drive the following...
Center: LsiC
FLR: Lsi15 x2
Surrounds: LsiFX x2
Rear Surrounds Lsi9 x2
Sub: Polk PSW1000
AVR: Onkyo TX-SR875
So whaddyathink?
One 7 Channel Amp (200wpc x 7) or 7 monoblocks (also 200wpc each)
Price is comparable. I like that the monoblocks have autosensing and turn themselves off. I also like the versatility the monoblocks provide for future configurations. But I also like the 7 channel amp for simplicity.
Also, is the 7200 plenty to drive that system or the 7700? They are both rated at 200wpc but I don't know what 'Balanced' brings to the table. Please enlighten me on the difference.
-I'm listing the WPC rated at 8 Ohms. I know they push more at 4 Ohms
-Also, I'm listing MSRP for simplicity. I might be able to find a deal.
Post edited by Hiccups on
Comments
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7 monoblocks because it's completely ridiculous and over the top.
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You also have to consider that with the auto on if there is not an audio signal in that channel for a bit of time the mono will turn off. I used to have a couple for my rear channels and I just had to leave them turned on because of that. Not to mention the additional wire mess....I would just get the 7 if its mainly for HT.Sharp Elite 70
Anthem D2V 3D
Parasound 5250
Parasound HCA 1000 A
Parasound HCA 1000
Oppo BDP 95
Von Schweikert VR4 Jr R/L Fronts
Von Schweikert LCR 4 Center
Totem Mask Surrounds X4
Hsu ULS-15 Quad Drive Subwoofers
Sony PS3
Squeezebox Touch
Polk Atrium 7s on the patio just to keep my foot in the door. -
I would never get 7 mono blocks, to much of a hassle with 7 power cords and having that many free outlets, etc. Why the infatuation with Outlaw and 200wpc?
How much music vs movies is used in the rig? How often is it used?
If it was me I would get a nice 5ch amp and a cheaper 2ch amp, or maybe just get a nice 5ch amp and leave the last 2 on rcvr power. If music is used more then 50% I would spend most of my budget on amps for the front 2 speakers. -
I tried both the 7 channel monoblocks and a 7 channel amplifier.
Sonically, they both sound the same. I prefer the 7 channel amp because it's easier to power 1 device instead of 7 individual amplifiers to 2 power sockets.SRT For Life; SDA Forever!
The SRT SEISMIC System:
Four main satellite speakers, six powered subs, two dedicated for LFE channel, two center speakers for over/under screen placement and three Control Centers. Amaze your friends, terrorize your neighbors, seize the audio bragging rights for your state. Go ahead, buy it; you only go around once. -
I would never get 7 mono blocks, to much of a hassle with 7 power cords and having that many free outlets, etc. Why the infatuation with Outlaw and 200wpc?
How much music vs movies is used in the rig? How often is it used?
If it was me I would get a nice 5ch amp and a cheaper 2ch amp, or maybe just get a nice 5ch amp and leave the last 2 on rcvr power. If music is used more then 50% I would spend most of my budget on amps for the front 2 speakers.
Ditto but I don't think Outlaw makes a 5 anymore...do they?Sharp Elite 70
Anthem D2V 3D
Parasound 5250
Parasound HCA 1000 A
Parasound HCA 1000
Oppo BDP 95
Von Schweikert VR4 Jr R/L Fronts
Von Schweikert LCR 4 Center
Totem Mask Surrounds X4
Hsu ULS-15 Quad Drive Subwoofers
Sony PS3
Squeezebox Touch
Polk Atrium 7s on the patio just to keep my foot in the door. -
I would never get 7 mono blocks, to much of a hassle with 7 power cords and having that many free outlets, etc. Why the infatuation with Outlaw and 200wpc?
Been reading the crap posted on this forum too much. Nothing more, nothing less. -
The units are only 2 inches high and can stack. So I would zip tie the power cords down to a power strip. A Monster HTS2000 MKII Power Center to be exact.
A follow up question. Can a regular wall outlet handle all that amp and a/vr power, plus a PS3 and sattelite box? -
At those prices, you ought to look at a Sunfire 7x200 or 7x400.
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I would also just get on 7 channel amp. Neater, cleaner look, & don't have to have so many wires or outlets to worry about.
Yes your wall outlet will handle it fine. and 200wpc will drive the LSI's just fine and should really be the minimum to start for power with this series of speakers.
BTW unless you have a receiver or prepro that takes balanced connectors, don't worry about it.
Welcome to Club Polk Hiccups!Marantz AV-7705 PrePro, Classé 5 channel 200wpc Amp, Oppo 103 BluRay, Rotel RCD-1072 CDP, Sony XBR-49X800E TV, Polk S60 Main Speakers, Polk ES30 Center Channel, Polk S15 Surround Speakers SVS SB12-NSD x2 -
Hey Darla, of course they still make a 5 channel amp, I would think that is still the predominate configuration that most people have.:)wingnut4772 wrote: »Ditto but I don't think Outlaw makes a 5 anymore...do they?Marantz AV-7705 PrePro, Classé 5 channel 200wpc Amp, Oppo 103 BluRay, Rotel RCD-1072 CDP, Sony XBR-49X800E TV, Polk S60 Main Speakers, Polk ES30 Center Channel, Polk S15 Surround Speakers SVS SB12-NSD x2
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Well I own the 7700 and the only benefit of the monoblocks that I can think of would be the weight difference. The 7700 damn near weighs 100lbs. so once its in it's place, you won't be moving it around a whole lot. Having to deal with 7 seperate power cords just for the amps sounds like a pain to me, to each it's own I guess. If your pre/pro doesn't have Balanced inputs, save the extra cash and get the 7200, they are nearly identical amps other than one having balanced and on doesn't.Money Talks, Mine says Goodbye Rob!!!!
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Thanks for the welcome
So then what IS the difference between the balanced and unbalanced amp? I'm a nooblet!
Anyone know if the Onkyo 875 has balanced or not? -
If I'm not mistaken, having balanced inputs is a benefit if you have to have long runs of wires to hook everything up.
The 875 doesn't have balanced inputs. Most receivers don't have them.Marantz AV-7705 PrePro, Classé 5 channel 200wpc Amp, Oppo 103 BluRay, Rotel RCD-1072 CDP, Sony XBR-49X800E TV, Polk S60 Main Speakers, Polk ES30 Center Channel, Polk S15 Surround Speakers SVS SB12-NSD x2 -
rear view of the 875...it does not have balanced inputs
my 7.(1x4) HT setup
TV - Mitsubishi WD-65734
AVP / Amp - Onkyo PR-SC885P / D-Sonic 2500-7
Front - Emerald Physics CS2
Center - JTR Triple 12LF
Surround L/R / Back - Polk RTi4 / Polk FXi A4
Sub - 4 X Hsu ULS15 playing nearfield
DVD / CDP - Sony PS3/40GB / Sony SCD-XA9000ES
Belkin PURE AV PF60 / UPS
Buttkicker
http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?t=60612 -
If I'm not mistaken, having balanced inputs is a benefit if you have to have long runs of wires to hook everything up.
The 875 doesn't have balanced inputs. Most receivers don't have them.
You are correct.Money Talks, Mine says Goodbye Rob!!!! -
Money Talks, Mine says Goodbye Rob!!!!
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Hey Darla, of course they still make a 5 channel amp, I would think that is still the predominate configuration that most people have.:)
Ok. It's too early for me and I have been away from this hobby for way too long.Sharp Elite 70
Anthem D2V 3D
Parasound 5250
Parasound HCA 1000 A
Parasound HCA 1000
Oppo BDP 95
Von Schweikert VR4 Jr R/L Fronts
Von Schweikert LCR 4 Center
Totem Mask Surrounds X4
Hsu ULS-15 Quad Drive Subwoofers
Sony PS3
Squeezebox Touch
Polk Atrium 7s on the patio just to keep my foot in the door. -
7 2200's is $1820 with free shipping. Check the 2200 specials page.
EDIT:
That makes it the cheaper of the 3 options, balanced inputs for future upgrades, and a separate power supply for each channel. Disadvantage being 7 power cords(just use a separate power strip/surge protector) and foot print(7 RU + feet is a lot of space, and remember stack 3 high at the most) -
Here's another good article on the benefits of balanced vs single ended. It involves a lot more than just a benefit for a longer cable run.
http://www.balanced.com/ The info is in the FAQ section (Balanced Operation)"2 Channel & 11.2 HT "Two Channel:Magnepan LRSSchiit Audio Freya S - SS preConsonance Ref 50 - Tube preParasound HALO A21+ 2 channel ampBluesound NODE 2i streameriFi NEO iDSD DAC Oppo BDP-93KEF KC62 sub Home Theater:Full blown 11.2 set up. -
Honestly I was all about balanced when I first got into this to. I was pumped that my first amps had balanced inputs and then I got a pre with balanced out. Hooked it up and guess what? It sounded worse then unbalanced.
Long story short I tried balanced again later on with a different amp and never heard a difference. The only time I think it is worth it is if the amp is a true differential design, if not then chances are you won't hear a difference.
Buy a amp that is fits your budget, has enough power for your listening preferences, and is of good build quality. -
Just because a component has balanced output does not mean the entire design is balanced, it is possible to have the design be balanced and the output single ended. Its something you can get your learn on about.
True Balanced design trumps unbalanced but no one thing is ever the end all for a musicial rig. I would not pass on a piece just because it had single ended output. I would opt for a five channel and a two channel amp if you have the budget, if not and you want outlaw I would get the little mono blocks. If one goes down your not out of business. They made hold value a bit better.
You could just use the onk to start and see how you like that.
RT1 -
Buy a nice 7 channel amplifier.....7 inexpensive monblocks is silly and not even that cool.CTC BBQ Amplifier, Sonic Frontiers Line3 Pre-Amplifier and Wadia 581 SACD player. Speakers? Always changing but for now, Mission Argonauts I picked up for $50 bucks, mint.
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I'm in the 7 channel amp boat. I love my Outlaw, and as cool as 7 mono-blocks could look, 7 pairs of binding posts on the back of an amp looks equally as impressive; and one amp is a lot easier, no matter the weight.
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Hiccups, if you're willing to spend that much money, just snag the Earthquake from the flea market before someone else does. Add a decent 2ch amp for the rears if necessary (I think your Onkyo will drive them so it's not absolutely needed).
Disclaimer: I haven't heard that amp myself, but I have no reason it isn't at least as good as an Outlaw (whom are not bad, just not my personal favourite). I also have NO personal motive to suggest you buy that amp, other than it gone would save myself the money to buy it.
Now, if you absolutely want only 200wpc amp...buy my Sherbourn so I can buy the Earthquake...
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One thing with the 7ch amp and monoblocks... if one channel goes bad, it's easier and cheaper to get it fixed with the monoblock system. If I had to ship something to Outlaw to be fixed, I'd rather send in one 200W monoblock than a heavy 7ch amp.
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I never liked the all your eggs in one basket amplifiers...usually for the reasons mentioned here in the thread....ONE single problem with the amp and your system is dead in the water.
7 monoblocks would also be a bit overboard ( Not for me ) for most people for a lot of reasons mentioned in this thread as well.
Why not have your source feed one 2 channel amp for your L/R
Use a monoblock for your center channel
Another 2 channel amp for your surrounds
And another 2 channel amp for your back surrounds
The reason I said not for me on the 7 monoblocks was I have an Onkyo PR-SC885P waiting to feed ( Room not built yet ) amplifiers as above...along with 7 other amplifiers for a sub for each channel as well ( 3 driven by bridged RF2000's @ 1,200 watts into 4 ohms....3 driven by Proton D1200's...and I need to buy one more amp before the room is done ). Which I would have grabbed today actually if I hadnt left 900 bucks at the casino yesterday
The first rule of Fight Club is you don't talk about Fight Club -
One thing with the 7ch amp and monoblocks... if one channel goes bad, it's easier and cheaper to get it fixed with the monoblock system. If I had to ship something to Outlaw to be fixed, I'd rather send in one 200W monoblock than a heavy 7ch amp.
Exactly....and not just the shipping hassle...you aint watching no movies either if ANYTHING happens to your one 7 channel amp.The first rule of Fight Club is you don't talk about Fight Club -
7 mono's?? That would be fugly,rack space would be limited.It is unlikely,though not unheard of,that a single channel on a multi channel amp will go bad.Most are built to last years upon years with minimal upkeep.SS anyway. Hit the 5 or 7 channel amp and don't look back.HT SYSTEM-
Sony 850c 4k
Pioneer elite vhx 21
Sony 4k BRP
SVS SB-2000
Polk Sig. 20's
Polk FX500 surrounds
Cables-
Acoustic zen Satori speaker cables
Acoustic zen Matrix 2 IC's
Wireworld eclipse 7 ic's
Audio metallurgy ga-o digital cable
Kitchen
Sonos zp90
Grant Fidelity tube dac
B&k 1420
lsi 9's -
Bingo! I purchased my speakers & my first Rotel 50wpc amp on 2/6/90. I still have the speakers & they are going strong. The Rotel I bought finally passed on in 2007. That's 17 yrs folks & it went from me to my brother down in DC without a problem. My original Rotel CD player also with my brother lasted just as long & passed on last year as well.
After 17 years I don't think they owe anyone anything & its worth it to buy a new one.7 mono's?? That would be fugly,rack space would be limited.It is unlikely,though not unheard of,that a single channel on a multi channel amp will go bad.Most are built to last years upon years with minimal upkeep.SS anyway. Hit the 5 or 7 channel amp and don't look back.Marantz AV-7705 PrePro, Classé 5 channel 200wpc Amp, Oppo 103 BluRay, Rotel RCD-1072 CDP, Sony XBR-49X800E TV, Polk S60 Main Speakers, Polk ES30 Center Channel, Polk S15 Surround Speakers SVS SB12-NSD x2 -
Bingo! I purchased my speakers & my first Rotel 50wpc amp on 2/6/90. I still have the speakers & they are going strong. The Rotel I bought finally passed on in 2007. That's 17 yrs folks & it went from me to my brother down in DC without a problem. My original Rotel CD player also with my brother lasted just as long & passed on last year as well.
After 17 years I don't think they owe anyone anything & its worth it to buy a new one.
You owned an amp of only 50 watts?
As for all the mono's, it is cool at first but wears off quickly. I had 5 Outlaw mono's. Too much rack space and too many outlets needed. Get 1 7 channel amp or a 2 & 5 channel.
Venom
