Using 2 preamps

[dwmann]

I'd like to add multi-channel to my main system using a Yamaha RXV1 as PART of the front end. I've discovered that the surround processor in the RXV1 does a VERY good job of making poorly recorded/masterd CDs that I can't stand to listen to in stereo sound acceptable, at least for non-critical listening, and the built-in amplifiers are acceptable for running the 5 surround speakers. However, I've got a problem. The main section of my 2-channel setup consists of Klipshorns powered by dedicated McIntosh MC7270s bridged for mono. I want to use the KHorns for the mains for both stereo and multi-channel, which means I need some way to switch preamp inputs between my preamp and the RXV1 without having to swap wires. I don't want to run line level from the preamp to the RXV1 because I want to keep the signal path from the preamp to the amps as clean as possible. Does anyone know how I can use 2 different preamps with a single set of amps? Is there a high-end switcher that will handle this without degrading sound quality?

If they ever start producing multi-channel SACDs that only use the surrounds for ambience, I'll probably upgrade to separate amps for the surrounds eventually, but I don't want to dive in that deep at this time.

Thanks...

[aashton]

Hi dwmann

In concept my system is as you have described above - the trick was a "stereo" pre-amp that has a "unity" input i.e a pass through with no volume control

stick man diagram below

........___________ ....................________________
........|CD/DVD(a) |....................| SOURCES(d) |
........|__________|.................... |_______________|
.............|.......................... ......|
.............|.......................... ......|
........_____________ .............._______________
........| SURROUND |..............| STEREO |
........| PROCESSOR |______________| PRE AMP |
........| AMP(b) |.(Pass thru)..| (e) |
........|____________|..............|___ ___________|
.............|||||...................... ....|
........ _____________.............._____________ ___
........| SURROUND |..............| MAIN POWER |
........|SPEAKERS(c) |..............| AMPLIFIERS(f)|
........|____________|..............|___ ___________|


- When I watch/listen to a DVD or a CD that I want to have processed I use (a) with (b) doing the processing and volume control and (e) set to pass through - in this case (e) does nothing it just receives the signal and it goes straight through. when I listen to vinyl or a "straight" CD I use (d) with (e) set to the appropriate input - (e) then acts as the volume/balance control and (a), (b) and (c) can be switched off.

sorry if that's as clear as mud

All the best - Andrew

[BradOlson]

If you need 2 preamps, why not consider buying a DJ mixer?

[Paul Chang]

Andrew's solution is a good one. My VAC Renaissance preamp has a "Cinema" path just for that.