That is a pretty large room for an amplifier with such limited output (only 70 watt *peak*). Unlike some here I do not believe that competently designed amplifiers used within their specifications have a sonic signature (and they most certainly should not). What I have experienced is that an amplifier without enough power does degrade the sound, by clipping and compressing the signal in more dynamic music.
One issue, however, that can degrade the sound is a load dependent frequency response. Tube amplifiers in particular suffer from this problem, with a response and hence a sonic character that can deviate far from neutrality/reality. Here, the definition of perfection is a response that is flat within 0.2 dB over much or all of the audible range. I am afraid a test of another Octave amplifier in Stereophile showed that at least that model suffered rather badly from this problem: https://www.stereophile.com/content/octave-audio-v-40-se-integrated-amplifier-measurements
Almost any solid state amplifier would be better than this, and such amplifiers do not even need to cost much. I recently bought a 2x250 watt Yamaha p2500s pro audio amplifier, and it beats this Octavo by a very wide margin, and for only 300 euro (about $350, yes indeed). See here for a test of the bigger P3500s: http://www.homecinema-fr.com/forum/amplificateurs-de-puissance-haute-fidelite/mesures-ampli-yamaha-p...
I am sure it will also sound far cleaner because of its hefty power output. I think it is time for a rethink. And if you want to spend money, get yourself a Benchmark AHB2 or a Bryston.
One issue, however, that can degrade the sound is a load dependent frequency response. Tube amplifiers in particular suffer from this problem, with a response and hence a sonic character that can deviate far from neutrality/reality. Here, the definition of perfection is a response that is flat within 0.2 dB over much or all of the audible range. I am afraid a test of another Octave amplifier in Stereophile showed that at least that model suffered rather badly from this problem: https://www.stereophile.com/content/octave-audio-v-40-se-integrated-amplifier-measurements
Almost any solid state amplifier would be better than this, and such amplifiers do not even need to cost much. I recently bought a 2x250 watt Yamaha p2500s pro audio amplifier, and it beats this Octavo by a very wide margin, and for only 300 euro (about $350, yes indeed). See here for a test of the bigger P3500s: http://www.homecinema-fr.com/forum/amplificateurs-de-puissance-haute-fidelite/mesures-ampli-yamaha-p...
I am sure it will also sound far cleaner because of its hefty power output. I think it is time for a rethink. And if you want to spend money, get yourself a Benchmark AHB2 or a Bryston.