Do you know how to properly operate a linear with a internal driver 1x4 or a 2x6 with the variable on the front. I've always stayed away from these type amps and I would consider my self a newbie to them.
I run my Fatboy 1x4 (all 2879s) with its variable wide open (I was told the variable on the amp are problematic if you actually try to use them) and it only takes a little more than a single watt to drive it adequately (IIRC, 1.25 watts in gives me a dead key of around 100 watts out).
I know they made different configurations: all 2290s (not common), a 2290 driving four 2879s, and all 2879s; and that will make them all act different. You definitely need a variable power installed in whatever radio you have.