I had the same problem: my Denon receiver (2802) was simply not cutting the mustard for 2-channel.
Ended up buying a Plinius integrated amplifier. Here's how an integrated (w/ phono) can solve your stereo vs. HT problem:
1) Turntable is connected directly to integrated,
2) Main L+R preouts from HT receiver connected directly to integrated,
3) Main speakers connected to integrated,
4) That's it!
When you're listening to vinyl, the receiver is not even turned on. When you want to pop a DVD in, switch the integrated's input* and it will function as a power amp.
The bottom-line is that the speakers are only connected to the integrated amp.
Check my system to see how I do it.
* Many integrateds have a 'HT pass through' or 'pre-amp in' which allows you to bypass the integrated's preamp function and go straight to the power amp section. Examples include the Plinius 8200, Musical Fidelity A308, Arcams, Primares.
Ended up buying a Plinius integrated amplifier. Here's how an integrated (w/ phono) can solve your stereo vs. HT problem:
1) Turntable is connected directly to integrated,
2) Main L+R preouts from HT receiver connected directly to integrated,
3) Main speakers connected to integrated,
4) That's it!
When you're listening to vinyl, the receiver is not even turned on. When you want to pop a DVD in, switch the integrated's input* and it will function as a power amp.
The bottom-line is that the speakers are only connected to the integrated amp.
Check my system to see how I do it.
* Many integrateds have a 'HT pass through' or 'pre-amp in' which allows you to bypass the integrated's preamp function and go straight to the power amp section. Examples include the Plinius 8200, Musical Fidelity A308, Arcams, Primares.