Model 7220 vs Monolith 7x200

Posted by: WBlackwood

Model 7220 vs Monolith 7x200 - 06/02/21 12:38 PM

Ok, here it is and don't beat me up on this.

I currently have an Outlaw 7000x and want to upgrade to something more powerful such as the Outlaw Model 7220 however, the Monolith 7x200 seems to be a better bargain given its price point at $1,729.99. I know the Model 7220 boast an additional 20 watts per Channel but it also priced at $3499.00. Literally twice as much as the Monolith. There are a few cosmetic and functional differences (Binding post on the Monolith are lesser quality than that of Outlaw, etc.) but both are quality sounding amps; based on the reviews. Putting your Outlaw biases aside, what is the opinion/consensus out there.

BTW, I really want the Outlaw but can't justify "double" the cost. Kind of wish I had purchased the 7220 a few years ago when it cheaper.
Posted by: arbitrageur

Re: Model 7220 vs Monolith 7x200 - 06/03/21 05:20 PM

Your logic favoring the Monolith as a cost effective power upgrade adds up. Double the power will get you ~3 more db of low noise output compared to the 7000x.

The Outlaw might differentiate itself if you have a lower noise floor listening room or a speaker load that benefits from the differential amp design (additional benefit when feeding a balanced signal). If you've allocated more total system cost to the speakers and room then the Outlaw may be a proportional upgrade.

Both amps have ATI family heritage, good power supplies.
Posted by: WBlackwood

Re: Model 7220 vs Monolith 7x200 - 06/04/21 06:20 PM

Thank you for your advise. Just needed a sanity check before I pull the trigger on this purchase. Outlaw (the company) has great customer service and since I have a few Outlaw amplifiers (2x Model 2220 & 1x 7000x), I feel sorta guilty abandoning them; especially when their products have served me well. It however, comes down to dollars and sense…heavy emphasis on the sense side. Thank goodness this is not an immediate purchase so, I have some time to decide. Again, I appreciate you taking time to respond and providing some insightful suggestions.
Posted by: arbitrageur

Re: Model 7220 vs Monolith 7x200 - 06/05/21 11:51 AM

Are you using the 2 x 2220 amps in the same system? Have you considered adding a 3rd 2220 (using the monoblocks as left/right/center) and using the 7000x for surround channels?