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Is It Safe To Connect Speakers To Two Amps??

i've got a combined HT and 2-Channel rig whereby my mains and subs function in both. i'm currently using the traditional connection scheme whereby the HT processor sends signals to the mains via the pre outs to my preamp (in bypass mode) then on to my main power amps, then on to the speakers.

if i wanted to bypass my preamp and main power amps althogther (it's a shame to burn tube hours on movies), is it safe to simply connect my main speakers to the HT processor via speaker level connections if they are also connected to my main power amps concurrently? only one amp - HT processor OR main amps - would be running at a time.

any inputs would be greatly appreciated.
128x128srosenberg
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hi everyone

I just wanted to add to this thread should anyone stumble upon it like I did. I was searching for an amplifier selector as I have 1 solid state amplifier and 1 tube amplifier that I would like to use with only 1 pair of speakers. (I am too lazy to remove and hook-up an amp periodically. I wanted both in place and the ability to switch between them.) From searching I thought the Niles Audio SAS-1 (Automated Switching System) was a viable solution.

http://nilesaudio.com/images/PDF/SAS-1_Cutsheet.pdf

I found this thread and saw the discussion about the potential issues with using this type of switcher with a tube amp. I contacted Niles Audio for their input as well and here is what they said:

“The same note from the speaker selectors applies to the SAS-1 in regards to tube amplifiers. Most Tube amplifiers need load connected at all times. I suggest that you connect a 150 ohm, 5 watt resistor across each channel of the tube amplifier’s output in parallel with the SAS-1.

http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Vishay-Dale/RS005150R0FE12/?qs=%252b%2f1MMOhkBTd%2fEWU%2foAKqvL1By91sq69mWgcS8fbJ204%3d

Have a nice day.”

Niles Audio were quick to respond as well.

Thanks
minorl
1,016 posts
 
Obtain a 2 channel/2 amp speaker switch. That way there is no way both amps are paralled at any time. You can then switch between then amps (both amps being off when you operate the switch). I know there are several companies that offer such a switch.

enjoy
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hey Minorl

I wish I could e-mail you for the companies you've come across that have these 2 channel/2 amp speaker switches.

Other than the Niles ones mentioned I found this speaker/amplifier selector.

OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector with Remote Control

http://www.outdoorspeakerdepot.com/7-pair-speaker-selector-with-remote-control.html

Is this a viable solution or one of the companies you know of?
minorl
1,016 posts
 
I'll do some looking. I was pretty sure Niles audio had one, but I'll check.

enjoy
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