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Center Channel on an Integrated Stereo Amplifier

Background: I have an integrated 2 channel amp for stereo listening. I added a sub to it with a direct connection to the terminals on the back of the amp (2.1 setup right now). 
I also want to have a Center Channel that I can connect and disconnect when I want (so I can listen to the 2 channel for music and have the center channel connected for movies). I have a really good amp, so I would love to be able to use that amp to power the speakers when watching movies (and power the center channel too if possible!). 

Question: What is the best way for me to get this done? 
For me to have a 3.1 setup - a 2 channel integrated amp with 2 speakers, a sub, and a center channel WITH connectivity options so I can disconnect the center channel whenever I want. 


Thank you all for your help,
Shawn 
128x128shawnpmathew
jl35
4,026 posts
 
Nice system. Trying unplugging all the video components when listening to music. That was a recommendation from Charles Hansen of Ayre. Works for me. Unplug streamer too when listening to CD
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@jl35 - That is very interesting. I will try that this week and let you know if I hear a difference. Thanks for the suggestion! 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
I reread some stuff above and I think I understand now:

I have my Blu-ray player go to a processor (which I need to purchase), and send the front signals to my PrimaLuna so that can power my main speakers.
And for the other speakers (center and rears whenever I decide to get the rest) I will have to purchase a multi-channel amp that I can send the signals to through the processor and that connects to all the other speakers. 

And then I have my CD source which will send signals directly to my PrimaLuna, so I have to option of listening to stereo. 

This gives me the ability to switch between 2 channel and home theater! 
Does that sound right? 
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Hi Shawn.

Yes, more or less. : )

Here are some additional 'things' to consider.

It may be time to upgrade your BDP. Higher models will provide analog out, which may allow you to avoid purchasing a processor. And if you are going that route, it might be wise to go with a UDP/UHD player so that you are more future proof.

I'd also check to see what is output via Optical/Toslink. Some sources will allow for multichannel output, but MOST are only 2.1.

As I said earlier, the most cost effective way to move forward is to purchase an AVR which will provide you with up to date processing, can serve as a hub/switch, and offers you amplification.

Otherwise you are looking at a number of components and the needed extra cabling. This is a good path, just one that is more expensive.


shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@david_ten - Great, I understand. Thanks for the advice and clarification! 
And if I were to upgrade by Blu-ray Player you would recommend the Oppo player? 

I think I am going to take your advice! I will get a receiver - Looking into Pioneer Elite receivers unless you guys have other opinions on what I should get. 

To connect to the receiver I will go from my blu-ray to the receiver with an HDMI cable, and that will allow for the multi-channel output. 
And I will use the receiver's pre-outs to connect the front speaker outputs to my PrimaLuna which will send the signal to my main speakers, and have a separate connection from the receiver to the center channel. 
And an HDMI out from the receiver to the TV for video. 
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