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 solid build quality and good 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.
How it Performs:
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, as well as 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