2. amps-preamps
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One system, two amps...one for tv and the other for music

My preamp has dual outputs going to a decent low power (consumption) amp and the other to my Threshold S200 space heater. I only run the Threshold while doing serious music sessions and my small amp for tv and casual listening. My speakers have dual binding posts with a factory jumper. I'm currently swapping my speaker cables from one amp to the other. Is it ok to have both amps connected with separate cables but only having one amp powered up at a time? My concern is added impedance from the other powered down amp. I'm guessing this isn't a very good idea no matter how convenient it would be.
treynolds155
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I do something similar, although I use two separate but identical speaker cables. All I need do is disconnect a particular cable at the speaker input binding posts, and connect the one I wish to use.

This is done to allow the use of an SET 300B, or a Class D amp. I also use a preamp/processor, and a tube preamp with the SET 300B. A bit of an initial expense (separate tube DIY preamp, power and interconnect cables, but the convenience has made it well worth doing, for me, at least). 

Regards,
Dan

treynolds155 OP
184 posts
 
Yeah I was thinking of going that route, was looking to upgrade the speaker cable anyway, getting better ones for the Threshold obviously. But the sheer convenience of just powering up the amp I want to use is tempting. 

Thanks Dan
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,478 posts
 
I don't see a problem with powering your amp seperately
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