Quote Originally Posted by HMT
If by putting the 200wpc power amp, it really only gains me 3db (which in theory I would turn the volume to 67 instead of 70). Am I understanding this right? That's still high and still consider "overdrive" the receiver?...If the max volume is 90, what is considered the maximum SAFE volume level (where it's not clipping distortion)? 50, 60?
Technically, maximum output is always 0 db. The volume control is simply a dimmer and everything is a negative figure relative to maximum. Also, different sources have different output levels so a setting that will just clip the amp on one source may not even come close on another. My DVD player requires more gain, for example, than the cable box. I went to the Onkyo site and looked at the manual. Unfortunately, it provides no clue as to what those numbers mean. Also, the receiver is only rated 85 watts with all channels driven.

When amps clip, they start sounding edgy and rough. You will likely need to experiment as to when that occurs. Good luck!

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