North of 49 is my sad slang for Canadian.

The outdoor speakers are Russound 5B65.

Thanks for the help guys. I reviewed my HEOS pricing and the difference between the amp and the link is only $200. I'm not sure where I got $400 from. Anyway I'm going to specify a HEOS ampnto power the outdoor speakers. Not much more investment. Less potential for head ache. And I think likely better sound.

Craig