I'm constantly amazed at someof the posts pertaining to wattage and impedience applications I read on this and other forums. Unfortunately, some posts are based on information put forth by manufacturers, much of which is hype for their product.
More often than not, the rating of their sound systems is based on peak power using low impedience speakers. Peak power is almost a meainingless term, almost like an engine rated at 1,000 HP. That 1,000 HP may not be developed until the engine reaches maximum RPM.
One thing that may help in this endeavor to garner information pertaining to sound systems is to apply Ohm's Law, which is the basis for determining all things electrical. You'll find a good example of this at
http://www.angelfire.com/pa/baconbacon/page2.html The main thing that should be considered with all sound sytems, IMO, is RMS power, freqency response, frequency range, and last, physical speaker size.
Have Fun,
Gary