Integrated Amp / Receiver for Monitor RX6 / RX8?

Originally Posted by Nversed

After much auditioning I've decided on either a pair of Monitor RX6 or RX8's for my stereo setup. Now, as a complete newbie to the hi-fi world, I am tasked with picking out the best amp or receiver.

After searching these and other forums / google, I believe the best choice for my budget would be a Marantz PM5004 integrated amp.

I will be using my stereo exclusively for listening to music in a 12 x 14 room. I will be streaming my lossless iTunes library to my AirPort Express, which will be connected to a DAC of some sort via S/PDIF, which in turn will be connected to the amp.

If I were to go with the RX6's and the Marantz, would I be able to add a sub later without sacrificing sound quality, even though the Marantz doesn't have a dedicated sub out?

Edit:

I'm also considering the Harman HK 3490. Since it has a built-in DAC, that would be one less chink in the wallet, not to mention it's considerably less than the Marantz to begin with. Would I really be missing out on that much sound quality if I went with the Harman instead of the Marantz?

Originally Posted by Nversed

So why is it that the PM5004 has an output power of only 45W @ 4ohm, while the HK3490 has an output of 150W @ 4ohm? Is the Harman lying about it's actual power? I read somewhere that ratings can be misleading but I'm not exactly sure why.

Also, I'm guessing either of the two units mentioned would have no problem with a pair of RX6's, even though they are 6 ohm?

Thanks, sorry for the noobish questions!

Originally Posted by Nversed

Also, I'm guessing either of the two units mentioned would have no problem with a pair of RX6's, even though they are 6 ohm?