A switch for 3 amps


I’m hoping for a solution:  I’m running the usual Frankenstein setup for multiple source playback, CD, streaming, and vinyl.  This hybrid system: tube preamp, SS amp, and WiFi streamer all lead to  1.7i modded Maggies (GR Research).  In the chain is a Schitt Lokius (primarily for digital only). The room is an open plan family room.  The issue is I want to add 2 mono tube amps to the system for moderate volume playback (jazz, acoustical, etc.), but I want to use the SS amp too with a switch to go back and forth from the monos to the SS for different music (prog rock and electronic).   Is this even possible?  I’ve looked and see switch’s but nothing that exactly address my setup.  The room is  20 x 30, 9’ ceiling damped by rug, and heavy fabric furniture.  And, to add to all that, the mono’s are  Quicksilver M60s which are only 60w per, but I got a great price on them and have heard others who’ve used them with 1.7 or 1.6s with good results at moderate volume.  So I want to give it try.  Thanks for your suggestions.

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Showing 1 response by 8th-note

Maybe I'm missing something but I don't think the Luxman will work for what you are trying to do. It is simply a speaker selector with only one amplifier input. The Douk is also not the answer because it is designed to go between the amp and the speaker. You need something that has one source input for your preamp and two line level outputs to go to your amplifiers. Then you need an additional selector to direct the speaker level output from the one of the amplifiers to your speakers. The Douk could serve as the second selector but there is a better way.

+1 for Mapletree Audio. You specify exactly what you want and they build it to your needs. I have one and it is looks nice with a retro vibe, is built solidly, and is noiseless. As @alucard19 mentioned, Al Freundorfer is very helpful and he can build you a switch box that will do everything in one chassis. It isn't cheap but it's by far the most elegant solution. If you explain to him what you are trying to do he will custom build exactly what you need.

When you set this up you should use a consistent turn on/turn off procedure to protect your tube amps. With the amps off, set the switches for the amplifer and speaker output and then turn on the amp once everything is properly switched. As with all proper audio hygiene make sure your preamp is muted when you turn on your amplifiers.