Monolith by Monoprice M5100X 5×90 Watts Per Channel Multi-Channel Home Theater Power Amplifier with RCA & XLR Inputs If you’re looking for a solid, entry-level amplifier that delivers real performance without breaking the bank, I highly recommend the Monoprice Monolith M5100X. In my opinion, it’s one of the best values out there for anyone who wants quality build and sound without spending “high-end” money. This 5-channel amp can be used in two ways: as the main power source for a 5.1 surround setup, or as an add-on amp to drive extra height channels in Dolby Atmos or DTS:X systems. That flexibility alone makes it appealing for anyone who wants to expand their home theater.
On paper, it’s rated at 90 watts per channel, but in reality, it performs even better. Audioholics bench-tested the M5100X and found it actually pushed out 101 watts per channel with all five channels driven—at just 0.1% total harmonic distortion. That’s impressive for an amp in this price range. In my own setup, I’m using it to power my front height speakers for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, plus a rear surround channel, and it’s been rock-solid. The sound is clean, powerful, and detailed—exactly what I wanted. During operation, the amp is extremely quiet with no hum. The fans briefly cycle on, then off at power-on, and never come on while in use. It also stays very cool and only slightly warm to the touch. Key Features:
- 5 Channels of Amplification
- 90 Watts Per Channel into 8 ohms
- Unbalanced RCA Inputs
- XLR Inputs
- 3RU Height
- Class AB Amplification
- Toroidal Transformer
- 3 Year Replacement Warranty
Specs from Monoprice:
| Channels | 5 |
| Inputs | RCA, XLR |
| Full Bandwidth Power Output @ 8 Ohms | 90 Watts |
| Full Bandwidth Power Output @ 4 Ohms | 135 Watts |
| EIA 1kHz Output Power @ 8 Ohms | 155 Watts |
| Total Harmonic Distortion: A Weighted | <0.02% |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20Khz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio: A Weighted | >100dB |
| Gain RCA Input | 28.5dB |
| Gain XLR Input | 28dB |
| Damping | >500 |
| Input Impedance | 27 kOhms |
| Speaker Connections | 5 Way Binding Post |
| Trigger Input | 7 ‑ 12 V (AC or DC); <10 mA input current required |
| Trigger Output | 12 VDC; can drive any load up to 120 mA |
| Load Impedance | Safe with all types of loads. Rated for 4 to 16 ohms |
| Packaging Method | Corrugated Box |
| Dimension | 17″ x 15.5″ x 5.9″ (431mm x 393mm x 150mm) |
| Weight | 35.5 Lbs. (16.1kg) |
Image credit Monoprice