Reciever vs Amp question (1 Viewer)

[ddub]

I have been trying to find information on the benefit of using an external amp vice the amp that is built into a Receiver. I don't get what the benefit is of having a amp and a seperate reciever. Not because I have an opinion, but because I have NO IDEA what someone is gaining or losing by going with either option in a home setup. Can someone give me a explanation or point me to a website that can explain it to me..
Also, any thoughts/opinions on the below hardware is welcome.
I am considering purchasing:
- Denon AVR-2312CI reciever
- Energy RC-Micro 5.1 speakers
Already own:
46 inch Samsuch HDTV :: using 1080p and 16:9 ratio.
Samsung Blu-Ray Player
Xbox 360
Verizon FIOS
Interested in:
Movies
Gaming
Music (Apple Airplay to be specific)

 

[Al.Anderson]

The reason would be the need for a lot of power, or the ability to drive 4 ohm speakers; the latter being the primary good reason, as most speakers don't need that much power.
With a receiver/amp combo, you could use the amp (presumably) to dive the difficult speakers, and use the receiver to drive the others (usually the surrounds).
It's not nearly as common as the forums would lead you to believe, and you don't need to consider it for the Energies.