Difference between amps


OK so let's talk amps.  I'm sure this has been addressed before but are there real differences between  multi-channel amps among the various brands in the mid-fi to high end markets with comparable specifications? Adcom, Anthem, Classe, Emotiva, Krell, McIntosh, Marantz, NAD, Parasound, Outlaw, Rotel, etc.  What are the differences in these brands?   I can site one difference.  In multi-channel Marantz amps, the specs never state "all channels driven".  They are notorius for misleading the consumer with their power output ratings.  But that's a marketing decision. What are the real or should I say physical or performance differences among these?  .  
pdn

Showing 3 responses by russ69

"...I can site one difference. In multi-channel Marantz amps, the specs never state "all channels driven". They are notorious for misleading the consumer with their power output ratings..."

Mass consumer products are made for the mass consumer, not top quality audio. You will find nothing on the spec sheet that will tell you anything about their sound quality or ability to drive a loudspeaker except in very general terms. 
"...Only one spec matters: speaker sensitivity..."

I know you have posted this over and over but why limit yourself? Sure efficient loudspeakers make it easy to buy amplifiers, but that eliminates a lot of VERY good top end loudspeakers. I'm not willing to do that but I'm willing to buy an arc welder of an amp if I need to. .   
"...In 1968 Sansui was in the top high end and in the mass market of top high end..."

Not sure if that was ever true.  The  Sansui AU 7700 could never drive the hi-end loudspeakers of the day like the hi-end Infinities.