Connecting Headphone Amp


I want to add a headphone amp to my system, just can't figure out how to. I don't want it connected to a particular source input component. I want to be able to use it with various sources. Here's the problem. I have a Conrad Johnson CA200 which I am definitely not replacing. It has a pre-out, perfect for a headphone amp, but when you mute the amp, the pre-outs are muted as well. Any brilliant thoughts out there. I'd really appreciate a suggestion.
adeep42
Al, still think your idea was brilliant, however, C-J told me the mute mutes everything. I’m back to square one.
Thanks, Alan! But hope is by no means lost.

First, I would give it a try anyway. It can’t hurt to try, and it’s always possible that the person was either misinformed or misunderstood the question. And in fact the manual says that activating mute "will silence the preamplifier main outputs," without mentioning the EPL outputs. Perhaps what the person was thinking is that the mute function would mute signals that would otherwise be supplied to the pre-outs in response to signals received from the EPL **inputs**.

But if the CJ person was correct, I’m quite confident that the following alternative will work: Connect the EPL1 outputs (left and right) to the inputs of the headphone amp (left and right). Select the source you want to listen to. Using the EPL/Thtr button select EPL. Turn the volume control on the CA200 all the way down (although that may not be necessary). Do NOT select "Mute." That should do it!

If by any chance a little bit of low level sound is still heard from the speakers, do everything as above except try selecting Thtr rather than EPL.

Good luck. Best regards,
-- Al

Al, Thank you again. really appreciate your excellent thoughts. You are definitely an example of what makes Audiogon such a terrific community.

Best,

Alan
Al, don't know if you're still watching, but I thought I'd let you know what's happening. I decided that the only thing I could do was experiment. Borrowed a headphone amp and some phones. Tried every possible connection I could think of. All to no avail. The C-J CA200 just is not meant to connect to a headphone amp in any way.


Thanks for your input and good thoughts.


Best,

A frustrated Alan