Wow, did I ever spend a lot of time trying to figure out how to make a direct DAC to amp connection work with a 5.1 receiver
I had it relatively easy. I used a Parasound P7, which is actually a really good 2 channel preamp which happens to have 7.1 channel input/outputs, fed by my Oppo BD player. That then fed my 5 amp channels, subwoofer. I used miniDSP for the center and sub only. When you make your own speakers and match them when you build them, you can pretty much do this. :)
I approached the sub/satellite integration as if I was designing speakers, taking into account the measured accoustic offset, and interference patterns and wow. The final result was just mind blowing.
Now I have 3 monoblocks, a DAC, a preamp still in a box, and 3 more class D modules looking for a case .... on top of the 6 speakers (5 of which I made).
It’s a little crazy for an apartment! :)
So, this is why it’s either just an Anthem 5.1 receiver OR a Luxman integrated + the Anthem later, and it’s STILL a lot simpler than putting the pieces back together I have now. :) Honestly a month ago I was pretty sure I was just going to give it all up for an Anthem, then I saw Luxman prices drop by a lot... :)
A real part of the problem is I have a background in theater sound systems. I’m used to making it all work myself, and making things pretty and convenient for myself is actually not something I have prioritized in the past.
Best,
E