Choose an amplifier with enough channels to power each passive speaker in your surround sound layout, including the front, center, surround, and any height speakers. The required count depends on your system, and a powered subwoofer typically does not use a channel from the amplifier.

Match the amplifier’s channel count to the surround sound layout and the outputs on your AV processor, accounting for any speakers the processor will power directly. Then check that the amplifier’s power rating and supported speaker impedance suit your speakers, and confirm the processor and amplifier use compatible connections.

Compare the amplifier’s power output per channel at the speakers’ nominal impedance with each speaker’s recommended power range. Also check the amplifier’s supported impedance range and its rated output when multiple channels are driving speakers at the same time.

Some multichannel surround sound amplifiers can power speakers in separate listening zones when they have enough channels and the connected AV system supports zone routing. Check the amplifier’s channel configuration and the processor or receiver’s zone outputs when planning the installation.