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Integrate AVR and 2-Channel; Why so complicated?

I have what I think is a basic system need, yet cannot seem to determine the best way to go about configuring it.

I have an A/V Receiver that I use for HT. I would like to buy an Integrated Amp, or separates, for 2 channel listening. For 2 channel, I want the signal to be Source (cd player) => Integrated Amp ==> Loudspeakers.

For HT, I really don't care, it can continue to go through the AVR, or it can go from the Pre-Out on the AVR to the Integrated.

I thought I might be able to accomplish this with something like the Channel Islands VPC•3 Passive Controller, which is a preamp with a volume pot and an imput switch. Or, do I need and Integrated amp with an HT Bypass feature? Any help is appreciated.
braudio7
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,693 posts
 
This might work depending on the interactions between the selected input on the Rega and the inserted signals fromthe AVR. This is not a real HT bypass.

Kal
braudio7 OP
35 posts
 
Kal,

I'm going to see if I can speak to a dealer and get details on option #1. What about Line-Level from the AVR Pre-outs? Any idea on that? My focus here is upgrading my 2-channel sound while maintaining acceptable HT sound.

Braudio7
reubent
7,048 posts
 
Braudio7,

This is actually very simple, especially if you buy an integrated amp or amp/pre-amp with HT bypass/processor loop.

There are plenty of good integrated amps out there that have HT bypass. A few older units that I've owned with this feature were Arcam Alpha 10, Plinius 8200 and Anthem Integrated-2, and they all worked well.

Simply build a good 2-channel system using CD->integrated->speakers. Then take the L&R pre-outs from your HT receiver into the HT bypass/processor loop input of the integrated amp and connect all of your multi-channel/HT sources to the receiver. Once you calibrate your HT system with the integrated powering the front speakers, there really isn't any additional complexity over your current AVR, except pushing the HT bypass button on the integated when you plan to use HT sources.

Enjoy,

TIC
danlib1
819 posts
 
My Naim Nait 5i has a unity gain option for AV. Highly recommended unit if it meets your needs.
braudio7 OP
35 posts
 
Thanks, all.

Reubent, the HT bypass feature does restrict my options a bit, but I recognize that configuring it this way is a compromise to begin with. Thanks for the info, I'll look into some integrated amps with that feature. Danlib, how do you like your Naim Nait 5i?
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