I need to choose an amp for my setup, which is for a 12 x 5 metre room, with the TV cabinet in one corner. I have rigged 2 x JBL Control1's at ceiling height as L/R and have 3 more as rears and Centre. The 2 L/R speakers are run via a JBL SB-1 which has it's own crossover.

Will the amp generally run the sub from a separate output? (in which case do I need a 6-channel amp?, or is that standard) or are the L/R pair best left run through the sub, and regarded as simple L & R speakers? I also think that the impedence of the sub/control1 combo is 4 ohms; on the basis that I think that most amps are rated to drive 8 ohms, will this be a problem?

Many thanks

Badger,

Most modern receivers and integrated amplifiers do not offer built-in amplification for the subwoofer channel, since most new subwoofers are "powered" (contain an integral amplifier).

The more expensive option would be to purchase an additional amplifier for the subwoofer. If you do not wish to do that I would recommend the following: Leave your L/R run through the sub, set your new receiver or amp to "Mains Large" and "No Subwoofer." (If you are interested, see [Link: remotecentral.com] for an exhaustive -- pun intended -- explanation of speaker settings). Impedance should not be a problem.

By the by, I would recommend lowering your front speakers to the height of your ears when you are in your "listening position." I would also recommend you lower the rear speakers to approximately one meter above that point. If they are set too close to your ceiling you may experience unwanted reverberations.

Hope this helps! -Bruce

Many thanks