hey James,
I use the amp in 5 channel mode, I currently have a small room so bridging would be to much for me. :)
I was able to demo at home the floor model from my local dealer, see if you have that option. At home playback is what really counts!
good luck
Hi!
I bought one of these amps last year-it's great! very clean and alot of power for both HT and music. I almost never crank my system, but when I do, the amp never strains. For it's price range it is a worthwhile amp!
enjoy,
JP