HT Bypass necessary?


My plan to build two separate systems has gone out the window, so I must combine the two. I have a Mcintosh C15 preamp and before I consider selling it, I was wondering how I could incorporate it into my home theater. I'm not sure of the method, but I've read that using a pre without ht bypass has been done.

So the question is, should I replace the mac with a preamp that has ht bypass or is it unnecessary?
hawk28
So in connecting it in the manner described above, is the pre-pro going to have full volume control of the left and right fronts?

Yes, it will. I also would recommend when you do the level calibration, set the L & R trim output level to its maximum in the pre-pro, in this manner, you won't have to raise the volume in the preamp that much higher (safety leverage).
OK, this is good news. Thanks to everyone for the responses and valuable information. Now I have to get started on putting everything together!
So you guys are saying that the output from his AVR into any input on the preamp will work? How is the volume going to be controlled? Everything he changes the volume on the AVR for the surround speakers he will have to adjust the volume on the preamp no? This is how I understand it.
HT by pass does exactly that... bypasses the signal and lets the AVR control the volume of all speakers.
Exactly. The preamp is maintained at a fixed gain and all levels (for mch) are adjusted in the AVR.

Kal