Is there a way to switch one set of speakers between two sound systems?


This may seem nutty at first, but it's been suggested as an unorthodox solution to a tricky configuration problem.  Before dismissing it out of hand, I thought it'd be worth asking for constructive feedback on Audiogon.

Is there any way to switch a single set of speakers between two different amplifiers without compromising sonics?  Switching would be done often, so the mechanism would have to be easy -- preferably with a remote or the twist of a dial or even done automatically by sensing input signals, and definitely not involving moving cables.

If this is confusing, here's a simplified example: A listening room contains two systems, one solid-state, one with tubed components.  A single stereo speaker system has only one set of inputs.  Is there any product or configuration method that would like the speakers to seamlessly reproduce signals generated by either system.  Since the two amps would never be playing simultaneously, the speakers might merely play any signal that reaches them, like MartinLogan subs, which  automatically play any signal received at any of their three inputs.

I understand that a “simple” 2-to-1 junction box would not be so simple in an audiophile environment, especially when routing amplified signals from components that might have greatly different output-stage characteristics. 

Any ideas?

cundare2

boomerbillone: Yes, I used to be a hobbyinst, building, updating, & restoring tube gear & electrostatic speakers.  But I'm afraid that I"m too old for that now.  The last time I held a soldering iron, my hands were simply too shaky to work safely.

"Surrender the things of youth"

@cundare2 , I just swapped the Luxman AS-55 in/out of my big rig a few times. (Relevant equipment: Lux M900u --> AQ Thunderbird  --> TAD), I can't hear degradation/anything different...Typically (for the  most part), i can hear a gnat's fart in this room. Only trying switches in your rig can reveal if it's good for you or not...(what some other forum dude is saying doesn't matter)...

deep+333: Your last comment is right on the money.  Unfortunately, I don't have that option.  I can only buy without actually hearing beforehand, not even a showroom demo.

FWIW, I'm learning that the Ayre EX-8 integrated may make all these questions moot.  So I'm seriously considering going that route.  That box has some very unique functionality.  And what's really amazing is that this 100/170 wpc integrated, weighing only 24 pounds, is NOT Class D!

I take the cables out of one amp and put them into another. Pretty cheap and effective!