@g2the2nd with HT bypass, there is never any HT circuitry, not even a jumper wire, in your 2 channel system. you can work on your 2 channel system all you want, upgrade it forever, and it is completely independent. When it is time to watch a movie, your 2 channel system functions as your front 2 channels.
Many have the wrong impression that the HT Bypass requires your 2 channel system to go through a bypass system for 2 channel sound. It is just the opposite, your HT bypass sends the front 2 channels of the movie through a circuit that bypasses the preamp volume control to your 2 channel amp. by bypassing the preamp, the HT decoder is now driving and controlling the volume of your 2 channel system.
Jerry