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SSP as 2-Channel Preamp With Sub???

sorry if this is an obvious question, but is it possible to use an SSP in analog direct mode AND a subwoofer?

i'm consolidating my rig and will be using an SSP as a preamp for HT and 2-Ch listening, and from what i've read, the best 2-ch sound is possible when using the analog bypass (or direct) mode on an SSP. BUT, in doing so, there's no way to get a sub channel.

so, for those that would prefer to run their SSP in analog bypass mode, but also use a sub to augment small speakers, how is this done? in my 2-channel rig, my preamp has multiple outputs that i use... i fail to see how i can replicate this using an SSP.

any suggestions would be appreciated!
128x128srosenberg
raks
468 posts
 
I’ve got a Theta Casablanca II with one of the 6 inputs set up in the Analog Direct mode. The Theta manual says “Since there is no surround processing in Analog Direct, the sub woofer, phantom center channel, and crossover effects are not available”. In the Analog Matrix mode, the manual says the signal routing is the same as for Analog Direct, but adds that the surround channels can be crossed over “creating a sub channel”, but the front left and right channels cannot be crossed over. In other words, if you’re running two channel Analog Matrix, the sub crossover effects are not available.

IMHO, I can’t imagine a straight up two channel stereo rig sounding better than the Casablanca.
edorr
714 posts
 
Hooper,

The Casablanca's top of the line Xtreme cards are very good, but in my experience not competitive with the Perfect Wave DAC (I have both) for 2 channel. In fact, even the Marantz ud9004 sounds better analog over the Theta six shooter MCH preamp than using digital into the casblance using the Xtreme DACs. How the just released CBIII HD with HDMI stacks up we'll have to see.
hooper_ke
37 posts
 
Edorr,

I need to use a better DAC with my system as my transport is my weakest link. I think I will forgo the CB and keep my 2-channel and HT separate. Thanks for the advice, I apologize for highjacking the thread as well.
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