I always see these rediculous looking amps (Chinese or Thai?) with funny colours, LEDs everywhere and outragious specs (eg. 10,000W RMS!!!) and I assumed they would be horrible. I had the opportunity to hook one up a while back and couldn't believe how well it actually worked. I have a friend that also said that they aren't that bad despite their appearance.

I am looking for a 2.1 channel amp for the bar (which isn't that big). I just have 2 small towers and a sub. There seem to be a lot available around 2000-3000b that l am guessing are about the right size. I haven't found any that have a sub output though so then I was thinking about getting a 4 channel one and hook the sub up to the "speakers B". I don't usually use the sub except at Songkran or wild parties so I could just turn on speakers B (my sub) when needed. Then I realized that there seems to be no separate controls for speakers B. The volume, bass etc adjusts all the speakers, A and B.

I am in Chiang Mai and wondering if anybody can recommend;

-where to buy

-which of these funny brands are best

-if they know where I might find a 2.1 channel amp or something compatible

My friend told me to turn the knobs a lot to see how they feel which often indicate the quality. I'd like to go by a bit more than just that although its not a bad start. Any additional info is appreciated!

My friend told me to turn the knobs a lot to see how they feel which often indicate the quality.

That is probably a good start.

Listen for crackling sounds from the speakers as you turn the knob (not a good sign).

Take along a CD or two and ask hear the sound and see what you think.

IME "turn up the volume we need more distortion" is the usual Thai approach

and may be the case with these amps, but worth a listen all the same.

Yes I'd spend a little more and get a brand name amp, it will last years and have some resale value.