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Center Channel on an Integrated Stereo Amplifier

Background: I have an integrated 2 channel amp for stereo listening. I added a sub to it with a direct connection to the terminals on the back of the amp (2.1 setup right now). 
I also want to have a Center Channel that I can connect and disconnect when I want (so I can listen to the 2 channel for music and have the center channel connected for movies). I have a really good amp, so I would love to be able to use that amp to power the speakers when watching movies (and power the center channel too if possible!). 

Question: What is the best way for me to get this done? 
For me to have a 3.1 setup - a 2 channel integrated amp with 2 speakers, a sub, and a center channel WITH connectivity options so I can disconnect the center channel whenever I want. 


Thank you all for your help,
Shawn 
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shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@david_ten - Just a little confused...
Why should I upgrade my blu-ray player? Are you saying my current one doesn't have the ability to have its audio output multi-channel formats? 
If I get a receiver with HDMI in's and out that will be able to carry video and audio, so I should be able to get my multi-channel sound through that, right? If that's true, then I might not need to upgrade my Blu-ray player yet. 

Anthem's are expensive! Great reviews though... 
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Your current BDP will output multichannel via HDMI to your receiver.

The argument for upgrading is only if you want to get a more up to date BDP (and more specifically a UHD with current video processing) and possibly more output options, like analog out.

You can also output audio via HDMI from your TV, if it allows for it.

Your budget is of course a factor. If you want to keep your spend lower, then only invest in the new receiver. The other path(s) are options you could also pursue.


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harrylavo
346 posts
 
The main reason a center channel sounds better on movies is that they tend to use it primarily for the voices in order to "bring them out" (eg higher volume, closer miking) and these can easily be correlated with the folks being portrayed, which tend to be center staged.

The most straightforward way to get what you want would be to buy an older AV preamp with a pass-thru.  Use it for movies, keep your current preamp, and use it for your stereo listening with no audible deterioration.  Your sub, if it has both line and speaker inputs, could use the line input from your AV receiver, and the speaker inputs you are now using for stereo music.
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shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
I finally got this setup working!

Check it out :D
https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/6604

Thank you all for all your help :)
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Congratulations. Pics look terrific. And you sound happy! 
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