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Can I integrate 5Ch Surround with my Stereo setup?

Hi Folks:
I currently have what I think is a high-end stereo set up, with CRT (Electrohome 8500HT) and HTPC on the way. My question is, can I somehow integrate a full five or seven channnel surround set up with my existing stereo, leaving my stereo signal path unaffected when I'm just listening to two channel music? My existing stereo system is Supratek Syrah preamp, Blue Circle BC2 monoblocks, Audio Physic Virgo speakers, Teres 245/OL Silver/Shelter 501MK2 vinyl rig.

Ideally, I'd like to be able to introduce a three channel power amp to the system somehow (like a Bryston 3bst), using that for rear and center, and still use my BC2s to drive the front channels, also introducing a preamp/processor to drive the sound for movies, but not have to plug anything out when I switch from movies to listening to stereo (still want to rely on my supratek syrah as preamp for music but can use something else for movies). Am I asking too much? How do you guys integrate stereo with movies, without having to rely on HT preamp/process for music? Thanks for any and all input!!!
128x128outlier
islandflyfisher
94 posts
 
Outlier,

I agree with SoGood51. He is 100% correct as I use my
2-channel/HT having the ability to listen to music in 2-channel completely unaffected by 5.1 DD. As stated in his previous post, just make sure that wherever you set the volume control on your Supratek when setting up your 5.1, that you must return it to the exact same position when enjoying a movie. Your front mains output from your HT processor would run through your tape loop on your Supratek. I believe that you are also on the right track using a 3-channel amp for your center and surrounds.
lafish
151 posts
 
Actually, if your preamp/int amp doesnt have AV by pass selection, you can still connect the front speaker output from AV Amp to AUX or other available input of your preamp. The only additional work is to tune the Preamp volume to certain level (half will be max) when watching movie.

Some brands that have AV by pass: Gryphon, Sonic Frontiers
outlier's avatar
outlier OP
381 posts
 
Hi Guys:
All great info. Thanks so much. Looks like I'm more ready for surround sound that I had thought. Cheers,
John.
outlier's avatar
outlier OP
381 posts
 
Guys, just to confirm, should I link the front channel outputs from the pre/pro to a regular input on my Supratek preamp, or the Tape-in inputs? It looks like both suggestions were made - will they both work OK (I just want to be completely risk averse toward any potential damage to my supratek ;-) thanks!
John.
sogood51
2,157 posts
 
Any extra input is fine..except phono of course. You will need to get in the habit of turning down the volume on the Supratek after you watch a movie as the volume knob will be at 12:00 O'clock.

Dave
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