It uses class D amplification. The 2170 might sound a slight bit better, and deliver more muscle. It really comes down to what system you are planning to drive with the amp. I tested with a lyngdorf MH2/BW2 system, where the MH2`s playing from 200 hz up, does not require the power of a monster amp. With this setup, there was a huge headroom and redicolus SPL possible that I could not drive to clipping.. Also, the 1120 is very modern, and has the same web GUI as the big boys (3400, MP50/60). Not all the same functionality, but all the important stuff. 8 filter voicings, flexible setup, subsonic filter, RIAA amp, ROON support and so on. It makes the 1120 quite a king of all trades, for the one seeking a "do it all" system that can be customized for perfectly tuned daily use. Great for apartments, smaller full range speakers or sat/ active sub combinations and with all the lyngdorf goodies like room perfect. At the price, you really cant fault the 1120 at all.I didn’t realise that. So what type of power amp does it use? What were your thoughts on comparison to the 2170 out of interest?