rb-1050 v. rmb-1066

[toledoguy]

I need some help making a decision on amplifiers. I'm slowly building a new system from scratch. Out with the mediocre receiver, in with the quality components. I've already decided upon the preamp/processor, and I already have a rb-1050 to power the front speakers of a 7.1 set up and for 2 channel audio.

The question I have is in regards to the remainder of the channels. I see two options offered to me by Rotel equipment. The rb-1050 produces 70 watts per channel, but as you know is only a two channel amp. The RMB-1066 produces 60 watts per channel driving all six channels, or 70 if only driving five. So the way I see it I can get a 1066 to drive the five remaining channels on the set up, or 3 more 1050's to do the same,

What I'm interested in his anyone's opinion about the best option. Ignore issues of space for the moment. Which set up do you think produced the best sound, in a HT 7.1 set up. The two channel audio is already taken care of. In addition, would heat be a problem with four amps vs. two.

I'd appreciate any advice anyone has, and thanks for your time.

[hifiguymi]

I don't think you will hear much of a difference between the two options. Multiple RB-1050s MAYBE a little better but I don't think it would be worth the extra expense. Go with the RMB-1066 and it will give you a lot of flexibility down the road if you expand into a multi room audio system.

Eric

[markov]

Another option you might want to consider is the RMB-1075 ($1000) it's $300 more than the RMB-1066 but $200 less than 3 more RB-1050. That way you can have 120 watts for L,R,C, and L&R rears, and use the RB-1050 for the surrounds.

[Mikael]

I would go for the option with the multiple RB 1050,thereby you'll get the same amp for all channels aka the same sound from the amp.That is importent if you want to hear multi ch music, and remember same kind of speakers all around for multi ch music.

[mjb]

The RB-1050 is the better amp, I think the RMB-1066 is more intended for music distribution rather than hi-fi. The 1050 has a damping factor of 500, the 1066 only 150. As you already have an RB-1050 for the fronts, why not add more as you can, going to 4 channel, then 5.1 etc, if space is not an issue. Alternatively, consider an RMB-1077 with 7 channels, and trade the RB-1050.

Four different replies, four different answers! Confusing isn't it?