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Integrate AVR and 2-Channel; Why so complicated?

I have what I think is a basic system need, yet cannot seem to determine the best way to go about configuring it.

I have an A/V Receiver that I use for HT. I would like to buy an Integrated Amp, or separates, for 2 channel listening. For 2 channel, I want the signal to be Source (cd player) => Integrated Amp ==> Loudspeakers.

For HT, I really don't care, it can continue to go through the AVR, or it can go from the Pre-Out on the AVR to the Integrated.

I thought I might be able to accomplish this with something like the Channel Islands VPC•3 Passive Controller, which is a preamp with a volume pot and an imput switch. Or, do I need and Integrated amp with an HT Bypass feature? Any help is appreciated.
braudio7
danlib1
819 posts
 
Braudio7- the Nait 5i is an interesting beast. It lacks the "ethereal presence" of the Cary SLI-80, but sucks you into the music every bit as well. It won't handle the low end- or the extreme highs for that matter- like the Pass X 250, yet it has a grip on the music that's just hard to describe. I love the amp, and find it everything I heard it would be. It's a slap in the head to realize this small, rather plain looking British box can deliver as it does, but there it is.

As always, the ONLY way to really judge something is to hear it for yourself in conditions you are familiar with, but it's obvious to me that the Naim guys know what the hell they're doing.
jtori
8 posts
 
This is a meaningful thread. I have the same issue: dedicated two-channel listening room ("Virtual Systems, Done for Now, Sanctum Sanctorum"), pre-wired for 5.1, to which I will be adding a 58" plasma. I'm going to stair-step my way into HT over the coming months. I want to keep my ARC LS5-Mk. III, ARC VT200 powering MG3.5s and Vandersteen subs all cabled up just the way they are. So, the question becomes, how to integrate a processor, DVD or BluRay source and 3-channel amp into the mix. I'm a real two-channel guy who wants to have the HT option without suboptimizing the stereo that has been my passion for the past 37 years. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
chadnliz's avatar
chadnliz
3,737 posts
 
You dont need HT bypass, all you need is an empty input on Pre to route the front speakers pre outs from your HT unit then you simply find a reference volume level (many just use straight up 12 o'clock on the dial) then calibrate your mains to match other speakers in HT unit and your done.
When you eatch a movie swith 2 channel pre to proper place for HT fronts set volume at 12 and enjoy. HT bypass is handy but not a must have deal breaker.
chadnliz's avatar
chadnliz
3,737 posts
 
Jtori, you just need to route all movie stuff via your HT unit (digital and such) then route that the 2 channel pre as noted above...the 3rd channel of amp would just route from the center output of the HT pro.
braudio7 OP
35 posts
 
The consensus here then, is to use the Pre-Outs on the AVR into a line level input on the 2-channel Integrated Amp. In that scenario, the signal will have 2 preamp stages -- the AVR, and then the preamp of the Integrated. Is this an issue?

I'm not too concerned about sound quality for movies and tv as long as it is acceptable. If the only issue is that I'll need to define a "reference volume level", then this seems like a practical, inexpensive compromise. Thanks to all for the helpful responses.
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