Hello, I have a complicated question. I currently own a Coda/Continuum integrated amp, the built in preamp has inputs/outputs for processors. I have narrowed my search to the 950 to stay cost effective. I would like to get the 950 and integrate it with my current amp, however, I will need additional amps for the remaining surround system. I would typically prefer 4 mono amps but the 7 channel amp(7100) seems to be suiting for just home theatre needs, however, I run Legacy whipsers for the mains(96db efficient) and the Legacy Marquis for the center. Will the 7100 have enough juice...will it run 4ohms without shutting down or overheating? or do you recommend using 4 of your mono amps?? I will only use the Coda amp for stereo music and want the Outlaw stuff for HT.

Most importantly will the 950 run with an integrated amp??

The 950 has unbalanced analog and coax or fiber optic digital connections, but no balanced input or output. As long as you have room to accommodate the interconnects on your integrated amplifier, I would think you would have no problem using the 950. For more detailed information, take a look at the 950 manual online. http://www.outlawaudio.com/products/950.html and click on “manual.”

In looking at the Legacy website and comparing the efficiencies of your mains and center channels, your center channel will need an average operating power twice that of your mains. This doesn’t mean you’ll need twice the maximum power, of course. If your are running your mains at typical levels of 5 to 20 watts, then 10 to 40 watts should suit your center channel. The question is, how much headroom would you like for transients?

I’m running a 950/770 combo into speakers that are not considered sensitive. I don’t remember the specs offhand, but I seem to remember that they’re in the mid 80’s with a 6-ohm nominal impedance. I believe that gives me a theoretical maximum of 265 watts per channel from the 770. Even with a sensitivity in the mid 80’s, the level can become uncomfortably loud without clipping or noticeable distortion. I don’t know what your tastes are in HT listening levels, but a 7100 driving a 4-ohm speaker is rated at 165 watts per channel, which, considering your more sensitive center speaker, would roughly be equivalent to my speakers receiving 330 watts in the center channel. Unless you are in quite a large HT, I think you will find the 7100 to provide plenty of volume. Additionally, most audio mixing of theatrical releases includes heavy L & R main speaker involvement in the reproduction of the loudest material.

Are you running subwoofers as well? If not, would you set up your HT to redirect the lowest frequencies of your center channel to the mains? Whether or not you are sending the lowest frequencies to your center channel may affect your decision as to the power needed for your center channel.

Lastly, I almost always seem to add this comment: remember that the Outlaws will give you 30 days to try their gear. If the 7100 meets your needs, you have saved a bit by purchasing a 950/7100 combo, regular or b-stock. If the 7100 does not meet your needs, the cost of shipping the 7100 back to the Outlaws has allowed you an in-home trial on the speakers you plan to use.

All-in-all, I’d say, give the Outlaws a try.

Oh, while following this forum for about two years, I'd say I've only seen one or two threads where people were having overheating trouble. Unless, of course, they were placing their amps in an enclosed space.



[This message has been edited by bestbang4thebuck (edited April 26, 2004).]

Thanks Gunslinger, very detailed answer. I am running a Legacy sub but it is powered. To be honest I do not need high volumes in my HT setup, just clarity. I am definately going to buy the 950, however, I was not aware of the deal on the 5 mono 200's package until today so I may try that avenue and I think all would be well. I am still just shocked at the Atlantic Technolgy and Sherwood prices for the same unit as the 950 so it made me respect Outlaw that much more. I will be refering many people. What are your thoughts on the monos vs the 7100??

Thanks for the quick response!!

While some of the details and reasons are different from your situation, several gunslingers weighed in on the issue of several Outlaw 200 Monoblocks vs. an Outlaw 770 amplifier in the thread:

Newbie question 200 vs 770?

In a couple posts in that thread, I mention many of the considerations I faced at the time I was choosing between 7 200's or one 770. Back when I was making the choice, the Outlaws did not have their current 'buy some, get some free' promotion on the 200's. This promotion is definitely a help to you!

If in your situation buying several 200's would not bend the budget out of shape compared to some savings with the 7100 approach, and if having the extra wattage helps with peace of mind, then it seems the 200's are the way for you to go. If funds are tight, I think you'll find that the 7100 is no slouch.

Any 7100 owners care to comment?



[This message has been edited by bestbang4thebuck (edited April 27, 2004).]

I took advantage of the buy '4 M200 get the 5th one free' offer and have been incredibly impressed with the results. Hard to beat free.

That is my thinking too but the 7100 gives you so much more covenience and less plugs. I am more interested in the sonics of my 2 channel music and want a good HT setup but I am not so demanding with the HT so I think the 7100 for its pure convenience and proposed sound quality may be my answer. Thanks Guys

Once you’ve made your decision and have connected the new gear, please come back to the forum and let us know if you are pleased with the Outlaw equipment and service.

strange that you are considering the 7100 at 100wts each channel with the m200 at 200wts each channel. seems like to me that you would be considering the 770 at 200wts each channel instead...

I think he opted for the 7100 because he's got such efficient speakers (96dB, 4ohm load). He's leaving the mains on his integrated amp, so the 7100 will be driving a center and four surrounds.

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if so, then what decision is there to make, it already appears to be made...