Most speakers are 'ruined' by underpowering them rather than overpowering.

What's the scientific basis for that claim? Clipping can damage speakers, but simply giving them less power than they may require for full performance isn't going to hurt anything.

I'd say if your current amp isn't straining and levels you typically listen to and there's no evidence of clipping then no reason to spend more money.

matt: agreed.

As I re-enter the market to buy yet another audio system, I find lots of comments and statements that are just not based on scientific/ engineering principles. Few understand power amplifiers and speakers. And, boy have I seen some good ones about speaker cable and power conditioners.

WOW!! Enough said.

I have had a gazillion 'audio experts' tell me that more power is better and that underpowering can be damaging to your speakers. I have read this in many HT and Stereo mags so ....if this is incorrect, I apologize but my own experience has been that the more power of the 770 has definitely been an advantage in my system.

wingnut: what your "audio experts" tell you MAY be the absolute truth whether or not they actually are "electronic experts!" If you like to listen to really loud, and I mean really loud, music, a low powered amplifier may clip and distort. This causes a large (huge) amount of electrical energy to fall in the audio high frequency range. In most speaker ensembles, the tweeters are NOT designed to take the full rated speaker power. For example, for a speaker that is rated at 400 watts, the tweeters may only be rated at 40 watts. You can verify this by reading reviews from some of the audio review boards.

If your amplifier clips/ distorts, you risk damaging/ destroying your tweeters.

I suppose that one could have too much power, but I suspect that you are more likely to damage your hearing and rattle your house before you hurt anything (that supposes that you have "good" speakers).

Enjoy your 770!!!!! I would be interested in further comments.

wingnut: one other thing. I went to view your obsession. That is one fine looking HT ensemble. I am envious. That is a GREAT setup.

I did notice that fan behind the amp. Does the amp really get that hot?

What sort/ brand of fans did you purchase and where did you get them.