HT and 2 channel in same room? 1 or 2 systems?


Hi all, I wasn't exactly sure where to post this but hoping someone here may have some advice for me.  This dilemma has been stressing me a bit so would appreciate any advice.  I'll try to make this as concise as possible.

I have recently put together a multichannel system as do a lot of movies/PS5.  System is Onkyo RZ50 AVR, Klipsch RF7-iii, RC-64iii and RP-600 for surround.  I plan on adding in ATMOS speakers and some big DIY subs soon.

I have always wanted to get into 2 channel audio also.  I have a fairly big room, 21x28, so I have also purchased a 5 year old pair of La Scala II's a few weeks ago and I just had a Willsenton R300 tube integrated amp delivereda day or two ago.

I thought at first I would have 2 separate systems in the same space.  I started doing some research into how to add a sub to that tube amp and found out I can do this via high level inputs, however, for every 1 discussion that seems to like that idea, I find another discussion or two that says you really need RCA out/bass management to make everything fit together.

So..my dilemma is do I push forward with 2 separate systems?  I'll have to find a way to fit another pair of subs for the 2 channel system via high level.  But this way I'll be able to enjoy the La Scala's via tube (thru Bluesound Node streamer) which I have been really looking forward to and then have a whole separate HT for gaming/movies.

But.....more than a few people have suggested this might be way over-thinking and over-complicating this and that I should just listen to music thought my multi-channel setup and forget the 2 separate systems.  If I did this, I guess I would just sell the RF7's and just listen to everything through the La Scalas.  And then I'd only need 2 subs, which would be a plus but then also kind of lose the dream of having a tube setup for music.  However, I have more often than not done upgrades and not heard any difference so I'm kind of expecting this with the tubes, too.  I have alot of hard surfaces in this room, which I'm working on rectifying, but I am def worried that if I hook up this tube amp, its not going to sound any different to me than going via Pure Audio/Direct thru the AVR.

So plusses to keeping separate, I get to listen to tubes.  Plusses to going down to 1 system, I can consolidate and sell extra set of speakers, only need 1 set of subs, get to return the tube amp.  I'm just not sure if saying I have tubes is worth that or not.

Appreciate any advice anyone may have on this situation.

128x128johns21

I have 2 completely separate systems in my 15 x15 space.  5.1 on the TV and a 2 channel setup on an adjacent wall.  Both have streaming, disc and LP playback.  The sectional allows me to sit in the sweet spot for either system.

I have a surround system for movies, and a system for 2-channel audio in same room, posted here on A’gon. Works perfect, and simple to use. Rectangle room and one end is audio and one video. A swivel chair is in optimized position for audio and rotates to video when needed. Plus the couch can be used for sports and movies. I would never use tubes for video. I’m fortunate to have this room. I have a single sub for movies and dual for music. Just my 2 cents. I am sure you will figure it out! Have fun!

more than a few people have suggested this might be way over-thinking and over-complicating this and that I should just listen to music thought my multi-channel setup and forget the 2 separate systems

Or, just listen to TV through your 2-channel audio setup. All it takes is an optical (Toslink) cable from the TV to your preamp or integrated. Better yet would be HDMI ARC, if your HiFi system supports that.  

Mine is in the same room. If you have the proper space and acoustics why not. Ht receivers especially high end receivers have a “pass thru” circuit that allows for isolation of each pre amp and respective amps. I’m my scenario it works out great. 

@Johns21,

In my view,+1 Carlsbad configures it exactly how you may want it. I do it the same. Bypass for the avr, means one volume control for the entire theater system or use a second preamp input and use two volume controllers as sometimes the ratio of fronts to surrounds you will want to vary on the fly.