TECHWEEK
The main link of a high-quality home theater is, of course, a multichannel power amplifier, a device that “pumps” five to seven (or more) pairs of speakers and guarantees sufficient dynamic bursts. It is the realism of the sound picture, the adequacy of handling both music and speech or furious effects that is the criterion for evaluating this class of technology.
Of course, the ability to unleash the potential of many speakers at once is a very difficult task, but the editors make it easier to choose – we have compiled a rating of the best multi-speakers that are on the market at the end of 2021 – beginning of 2022. The list is sorted by cost increase – so you can find an interesting candidate in almost all budgets.
8. Emotiva BasX A7
As usual, Emotiva reigns supreme in the entry-level (for this class of equipment) price segment – the multi-channel amplifier A7 weighs as much as 13.6 kg, provides seven channels of 125 W (8 Ohm) amplification and sports a signal-to-noise ratio of 115 dB. The output stages of the amplifier operate in class A / B, the damping factor reaches an impressive 500 units, as a result of which the model can be easily controlled even with 4-ohm speakers. The working range of Emotiva A7 lies in the range from 10 to 80,000 Hz, and it is difficult to find fault with the sound quality of the device – it is, perhaps, a little bright, but very dynamic.
Pros: Excellent value for money
Cons: The bass could be deeper
Verdict: cool device for entry-level component recreation center
7. Marantz MM7055
The five-channel Marantz MM7055 is solid in everything. The amplifier weighs 15.3 kg, operates from 8 Hz to 100 kHz, develops 140 watts into 8 ohms and guarantees a signal-to-noise ratio of 105 dB. The amplifier is distinguished by a very natural confident sound and easily copes with both the transmission of birds chirping and explosions – you can scold the Marantz MM7055 with a big stretch only for not too high transparency, in some places I would like to feel more “air” in the sound picture.
Pros: Sweeping and powerful sound
Cons: None
Verdict: Marantz MM7055 looks very decent
6. Primare A30.7
The seven-channel digital amplifier Primare A30.7 is made according to the proprietary Ultra-Fast Power Device circuit and is based on discrete amplifier assemblies operating in class D. The device weighs 13 kg, operates in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz, develops 150 W into 8 ohms and provides a signal-to-noise ratio of 94 dB. The extremely low THD (0.009%) guarantees a very clear sound with sparkling detail – however, it was not possible to get rid of the digital nature of the sound completely, against the background of excellent speaker control in rare moments, the sound does not seem as warm as we would like.
Pros: Modern technology on the march
Cons: In some places it gives out a somewhat refined sound
Verdict: stylish model that can handle almost any speaker
5. Emotiva XPA-11 Gen3
The third generation of the renowned powerhouse Emotiva XPA-11 weighs 24 kg and uses three 300W single-channel modules and four 75W dual-channel amplifiers. As a result, the unit offers eleven channels of amplification, easily coping with even Dolby Atmos 7.1.4 or 5.1.6 circuits. Exceptional attention to the frontal sound image ensures the device is the benchmark for music or speech; technical characteristics of Emotiva XPA-11 Gen3 are excellent (frequency response from 5 to 80,000 Hz, THD 0.005%, signal-to-noise ratio 117 dB), and a harmonious and organic sound will surprise even seasoned fans of home cinema.
Pros: Angry and cool!
Cons: still want more texture “below”
Verdict: Emotiva XPA-11 Gen3 looks fantastic for the money
4. Rotel RMB-1585
Five discrete channels with a power of 200 W into 8 Ohms, a gigantic weight of 36 kg, frequency response from 10 to 100,000 Hz, signal-to-noise ratio of 116 dB and THD of 0.03% – all this is the Rotel RMB-1585. Installing a pair of fans in the case to cool the “economy” of such strength is inevitable, otherwise the dimensions of the model would exceed all standards accepted on the market. In terms of sound, the device grabs stars from the sky and most of all resembles a “steel fist in a velvet glove”.
Pros: Sound that can be carried off the chair
Cons: Considering the price – nothing significant
Verdict: mastodon and jack of all trades
3. Parasound Halo A 51
The all-new Parasound Halo A 51 represents the American school of sound in all its glory, displaying limitless scope and stunning lengths in the bass section. After plugging the device into the tract, even the thought “why is it so expensive” does not arise. Weight – 36.3 kg, 15 transistors operate in the range from 5 to 100,000 Hz and deliver 250 watts of power into 8 ohms for each of the five channels, the signal-to-noise ratio of 112 dB, again, is not satisfactory.
Pros: American Approach – Wild Dynamics and Great Scale
Cons: HF is sometimes not as transparent as you would like it to be
Verdict: Parasound Halo A 51 appears to be a sector breakout
2. McIntosh MC8207
Another purebred American – McIntosh MC8207, provides 7 channels of 200 watts each at 8 ohms, weighs an awesome 37.6 kg and operates in the range from 10 to 100,000 Hz. The signal-to-noise ratio reaches 112 dB, and the proprietary Dynamic Power Management system provides a surprisingly plastic and natural sound that has no genre preferences.
Pros: A reliable partner who will never let you down
Cons: Very large dimensions
Verdict: McIntosh MC8207 continues signature approach with recognizable sonic signature
1. Anthem Statement P5
The top of the pyramid is the Anthem Statement P5 five-channel model from the Canadian company Sonic Frontiers International. A circuit design that is redundant in every sense dictates the use of a pair of power supplies – accordingly, two electrical outlets will be needed to power the device. The device consumes up to 3,600 VA from the mains: it weighs 60 kg and operates in the range from 10 to 100,000 Hz. The signal-to-noise ratio of 125 dB, the damping factor of 400 units, THD less than 0.00019%, the output power of 325 W into 8 ohms and a total of five power transformers inspire “shock and awe” – as well as the sound of the model. If you want to know what animal drive and reference dynamics are – you are welcome here.
Pros: Stunning drive, excellent resolution
Cons: Price
Verdict: Anthem Statement P5 – the leader in the high price category
