Hi Beaverme,
The Z7 just handles itself better, more control. My speakers "came alive" when connected to the Z7, i was hearing sounds i couldn't with the other amps. I have various test discs and i've watched them numerous times so i know what to expect when it comes to specific scenes, with the Z7 there are sounds i never heard before, surround sound effects etc. I could hear the difference with movies and music.