It's true you don't need a big amp to sound loud, and small amps cranked can give you big time distortion. I started with very small amp, then a twin twelve, but I finally settled on a 100w/4-12. Even though I probably never get passed three on my master volume, there's a big time "presence" with the big cabinet and bass response that just doesn't seem to be there with a small amp no matter how loud you crank it or mike it for that matter. For me, a three channel amp is a must!