You are correct about the efficiency/sensitivity values being measured in dB. The way I think about it is that you provide a measured signal to any speaker, the efficiency is the sound power level produced from that signal.

My main speakers are Paradigm Reference Studio/60's, which have a sensitivity rated at 90dB room and 87dB anechoic (the center and surrounds have the same sensitivity). I originally drove them using the Outlaw Model 1050's built-in 65W/channel amps, although I did benefit some from upgrading to the Model 750 (165W/channel). With the 7100, I would think anything with a sensitivity at or above 87dB or so could be driven pretty comfortably, but that's just sort of a guess on my part. Others may have some better ideas for you.

EDIT: Like I said, better ideas. I think soundhound sums it up well when he says that you shouldn't have any trouble with most speakers on the market today.

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gonk -- Saloon Links | Pre/Pro Comparison Chart | 950 Review

[This message has been edited by gonk (edited November 04, 2003).]