2. home-theater
  3. 1294790809

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
srosenberg's avatar
srosenberg OP
209 posts
 
i've come up with three options, but would still love to hear from the experts here!

1. theta casablanca has a analog direct (matrix) mode (pure analog to mains, duplicate signal created and crossed to generate sub channel);
2. use a y-adapter on the main (L/R) pre outs on the SSP to route signal to both the power amp and sub;
3. my dac (Wyred) has multiple outs so i can route the main signal to the SSP using one set of outs and to the sub using the other.
srosenberg's avatar
srosenberg OP
209 posts
 
@ Hooper_ke... thanks for the suggestion - i'll have to consider it as i look into SSPs.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
dbphd
1,630 posts
 
Have you tried the SSP in digital mode? You may find it's so good you don't need to screw around. I have no idea how unbalanced vs balanced outputs are relevant to your perceived (imagined) problem. I'd pass on Options 1 & 2, dubious about 3.

db
srosenberg's avatar
srosenberg OP
209 posts
 
@db... i don't own an SSP presently - just planning / researching right now. i'm just going off everything i've read, which is pretty consistent in that these SSP's really only excel for 2-channel listening when used in analog direct (bypass) mode.

i don't know one way or another, as i haven't had a listen yet... if there are some out there that are comparable to decent 2-channel preamps in digital mode, i'd love to know about them!
Ag insider logo xs@2x
dbphd
1,630 posts
 
My mistake, Srosenberg. I read SSP to mean Classe SSP 800, one of the processors reviewers suggest can serve well as the basis of a system used for stereo, multi-channel surround, and HT. I'm using a Cary Cinema 11a, another processor lauded for audio quality. I've been very satisfied with it for stereo, with both digital and vinyl. Well recorded DSD surround can be glorious. Try the Arts recording of Corelli violin sonatas for a treat.

db
More to discover