Receiver or Amp?

[math wizard]

I have an Onkyo TX-SR806 AVR. I'm looking to add an amplifier to my set-up. If I add a power amp with a similar power rating of my AVR (my AVR is rated at 135 watts/channel) will I notice any improvement in audio quality? My AVR is a "high current" receiver (rated at 7.8A). I listen at moderate volume levels. I'm also using a powered sub, which helps to take the load off of my AVR.

[Dawgfish]

I also own an Onkyo 806. I would say in most instances you would see an improvement adding an external amplifier with the same approximate rating as the 806. Power ratings on AVRs are often overated (even though the 806 does deliver near the rated 135 wpc in two channel mode, just not in 5.1 or 7.1 mode). Most good quality amps are going to have much more reserve power and headroom than what a typical AVR can deliver. Of course there are always exceptions, but most cases you will definitely see a difference with an external amp.

What amp(s) are you considering using? I see you are running RTI-10s for your mains. I can tell you from experience that the 806 will not power those RTI-10s to anyware near their potential without an external amp.

[Lasareath]

If you're thinking of upgrading I think you should look for at least 200 watts per channel as your next step.

[Dawgfish]

If you're thinking of upgrading I think you should look for at least 200 watts per channel as your next step.

+1 on this. My RTI-10s did not really start to sing till I put a clean 200 wpc on them.

[lakesailor]

I also own an Onkyo 806. I would say in most instances you would see an improvement adding an external amplifier with the same approximate rating as the 806. Power ratings on AVRs are often overated (even though the 806 does deliver near the rated 135 wpc in two channel mode, just not in 5.1 or 7.1 mode). Most good quality amps are going to have much more reserve power and headroom than what a typical AVR can deliver. Of course there are always exceptions, but most cases you will definitely see a difference with an external amp.

What amp(s) are you considering using? I see you are running RTI-10s for your mains. I can tell you from experience that the 806 will not power those RTI-10s to anyware near their potential without an external amp.

I am with Dawgfish on this one. Good advice.