Like ESC mentioned earlier, it's a matter of objection and opinion... BUT, most of what will determine one's opinion of an amplifier, is how that amp is being used. In what application with what speakers, is there anything inbetween like cross-overs, EQs etc...
I've heard cheap amps sound great and expensive amps sound terrible. It just depends on the setup and most importantly what speakers are used. The loudspeakers represent 80% of the overall sound you hear. The amplifier's power rating has to be determined by the loudspeaker's max RMS (speaker RMS x 2 is a good starting point). Then, the total number of speakers and amps is dependent on your desired max SPL in the intended listening area. 8 ohm setups are preferred, but if multiple speakers have to be used and daisy-chained they should be an exact match in terms of make, model. The lower ohm setups will not have the clarity or predictive behavior of the 8 ohm, but it will get louder quicker and can be a cost effective alternative if you're trying to increase the efficiency of the system in a pinch. Subs should always be run off their own amps.
When setting up a new system, or before making changes to an existing system, I suggest listening to it carefully while using only the amps, speakers and playback device, (no EQ, Crossover, Mixer, etc). THAT is the only true way to analyze the amp/speaker combo (if your speakers don't have passive crossovers you'll need to add an e-xover here). MAXIMIZE your volume controls... They should be as far counter-clockwise as you can make them without clipping or making your speakers distort. Try a variety of music, single instrument tracks, vocal only, test tones etc. Mark that point on the volume knob with a piece of tape or paint pen. You won't know what your system is or isn't capable of until this is done. This will be a baseline for all modifications going forward.
The mixer is the next critical element in between the playback and amps. Slowly add the components one at a time with all settings at 0 gain. EQs should be next and electronic crossovers I wouldn't even use unless the speakers don't already have built in xovers.
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Todd
Free DJ America
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