I think you may be asking it to do more than it was intended to do. I can make ANY sound system break up (distort) by overdriving it, Bose, conventional, or any combination thereof. You said you wanted something for living room or family room parties, this may be the answer. Don't know until you try. Keep in mind that Bose is one of the only companies that provides you with that money back trial period - so there's really no risk involved, unless you decide you like what you hear and keep it.

Gary