Carver M1.0t vs NAD 2200PE


So I have a HK3380 which I use as a preamp The volume control goes from -80 to +10db. I am currently driving a pair of Polk Audio LSI15 which are 4 ohms.

When the NAD 2200PE (200wpc @ 4 ohms .03% THD) is the playing amp, it plays loud at the volume -25db but will start to clip at -20 to -15db with slight distortion.

As for the Carver M1.0t (400wpc @ 4 ohms .15% THD), to match the volume of the NAD at -25, I have to turn the volume to -10 on the Carver. But the thing is the Carver can be pushed to +5 without any clipping and no distortion.

Does the NAD have more power/reserve because it can play louder at the lower db volume setting or it can pull more power from the wall socket?
OR
Is the Carver more efficient or has more headroom since it can be push well beyond the 0db mark?

It would help for me to understand what exactly to look for determining power and drive. Thanks.
sevoodooan

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