I agree that center speaker quality is of utmost importance. Ideally you want to have a center channel that is identical to your L and R speakers for a seamless sound across the front. If your speaker manufacturer doesn't make such a beast, I would inquire as to which of their centers would best match up to your current L and R.
If I were trying to cut the budget somewhere at this stage, I would buy a cheaper three channel amp with the same power rating as your 2ch.
Eldartford is correct, the phantom center of a 2 ch stereo will be reproduced through your center channel, therefore if your cc speaker doesn't match up to your L and R (at least in mid-range, treble, and sonic signature), then your entire front sound stage will be out of balance.
You will never know if there is a difference in amp quality if your center channel isn't good enough to convey it.
If I were trying to cut the budget somewhere at this stage, I would buy a cheaper three channel amp with the same power rating as your 2ch.
Eldartford is correct, the phantom center of a 2 ch stereo will be reproduced through your center channel, therefore if your cc speaker doesn't match up to your L and R (at least in mid-range, treble, and sonic signature), then your entire front sound stage will be out of balance.
You will never know if there is a difference in amp quality if your center channel isn't good enough to convey it.