I presently have a setup like you are describing. I use a Conrad Johnson LS17 as my two channel preamp. This preamp has a HT pass-through that provides unity gain. For HT use I am using a Proceed AVP and I run the front two channels from the AVP into the pass-through input on the Conrad Johnson. The Conrad Johnson provides a wonderful two channel system and it also helps to smooth out the front two channels when using it in HT pass-through mode. The AVP has a pretty good preamp section but it can not compete with the magic of a tube preamp. I highly recomend an arrangement such as this no matter what tube preamp you go with. It can give you the best of both worlds in one combined system. Also, the Audio Research LS25 mk II and the Ref Two have HT pass-through inputs as well. There are probably others.
Adding Tub Preamp to HT setup
I'm consider adding a new tube preamp to my HT setup and I'll have my EAD Signature Processor do all the digital decoding. Would adding tube preamp to my HT benefit my 2-chanel listening?
If yes, is there any tube preamp that has HT pass-through?
My current HT setup:
Transport : Audio Research CDT1
Processor : EAD TM Signature
Power : Jeff Rowland 5
Main Spkrs : B&W Matrix 802 S3
If yes, is there any tube preamp that has HT pass-through?
My current HT setup:
Transport : Audio Research CDT1
Processor : EAD TM Signature
Power : Jeff Rowland 5
Main Spkrs : B&W Matrix 802 S3