How to combine 2ch int amp with HT

Use a preamp or integrated that has a pass through input that bypasses the volume control. Two terms you may encounter to describe this are Theater Bypass, or unity gain out. Using this features allows you to run your A/V receiver's main speaker line levels into the preamp (or integrated). When in bypass mode the volume control of the A/V receiver controls the mains, along with the other theater speakers. Now you can leave your speakers connected to your music amp full time. Pre-amps and integrateds that have this feature include models by VAC, Conrad-Johnson, Blue Circle and Simaudio. If you find an integrated, or preamp you want that does not have this feature you can always run the mains from the A/V receiver through the tape loop, but you'll have to have a reference volume level set on the preamp to keep all the theater speakers balanced.

Duddley is correct, and I have run several different integrated/HT combo systems over the years. Here are some other nice integrated amps that have HT bypass/Processor loop. BTW, I've owned all of them!

Arcam Alpha 10
Anthem Integrated 1
Anthem Integrated 2
Plinius 8200

All of these were nice, with the Arcam having the best functionality and ergonomics and the Plinius having the best overall sound. However, I might consider the fully tube based Anthem Integrated 1 to be the best value by a large margin. The integrated 1 sounds very good for its sub-$500 used price. The Integrated 2 has much more power, but loses a bit of the tube sound as it is a hybrid.

I would have to consider auditioning the newer Arcam Diva A-85 if I were in the market for a nice sounding Integrated amp with great functionality.

You may have to consider the effeciency of your speakers when deciding how nuch power you need.

Enjoy,

TIC

Thanks!

Do you know if McIntosh MA6500 and Classe CAP-151 have Theater Bypass? I cannot figure it out reading specs on their web sites.

Thanks

No, not personally, but since this has become a new selling point/feature I would think you would come across it in the marketing literature. Then again, some of these companies have abysmal marketing.

One more thing I forgot to mention: If remote operation is important to you, be sure that you can perform the necessary input selection for the theater bypass with a remote. The VACs, for instance, don't have this ability.