I could not notice a difference between the two, the receiver and the shelf system that is, at low listening volumes. Once I turned it up, however, obvious things happened. The noise floor of the shelf system became audible, and I could hear the output compressing when played loud. This is probably due to the fact that the unit probably puts out less than 2w per channel. But other than that, I could tell no difference. I realize this was a subjective test, so later tonight I will have a friend switch between the reciver and shelf system several times blind test, to see if I can truely tell a difference.

What do you all think of this test? Wayne? The two should sound the same shouldnt they? The only reason one needs an expensive amplifier is for high power output, right?