>Is there any way to effectively have a HT set-up that also is musical?
Yes, with a combi system. First put together a musical 2 channel system like you are already planning. Then use the front L/R pre out of your HT system and connect it to a line level in on the preamp of your new 2 channel system. With a setup like this when you use your 2 channel system your HT system is not in the loop but when using the HT system it will be improved from your new more musicial front L/R 2 channel setup, see link below;
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My surround sucks and I want to get some good two-channel music
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Yes, with a combi system. First put together a musical 2 channel system like you are already planning. Then use the front L/R pre out of your HT system and connect it to a line level in on the preamp of your new 2 channel system. With a setup like this when you use your 2 channel system your HT system is not in the loop but when using the HT system it will be improved from your new more musicial front L/R 2 channel setup, see link below;
.
My surround sucks and I want to get some good two-channel music
.