Came across this thread as I was considering adding a preamp after my HT processor for the mains. My processor has a "pure direct" function (some call it HT bypass) where it disables all processing of the signal and even turns off the unit's front display and TV output signal to ensure the best pure audio. The unit is a McIntosh MX122, but still considering adding a Mc C53 preamp after it for feeding 2-channel-only audio. Tough choice as reading all the specs and reviews, it's hard to justify the outlay for a separate preamp when the specs seem to indicate that there would be no sonic benefit for human ears by doing this. Ith my current combo I think I've already got what most would recommend, for even critical listening, so maybe no benefit adding a preamp for the 2-channel-only stuff. Tough choice, but I think much of the opinions of 2-channel audio from a HT processor are based on low end and outdated gear. These days there are a lot of HT processors that are also fantastic for 2-channel listening.
Home Theater Bypass , why am I hearing this now.
I have a Home Theater and when I upgraded my Onkyo to a Marantz it was a true Upgrade I was impressed, anyway like any other hobby I wanted to make improvements on top of what I just gained. The more I read the more I realize AVR HT receivers will never get you a tru HIFI experience because of the processing that takes place and a dedicated 2 ch is the only way to go ask Millercarbon he will surly be all over this one. I only have one room in my house that doubles as a home theater and listening room. I was ready to pick up a Prisma NP5 streamer (to move to my rack and network ) and a Denafrips ares Dac thinking I would get an upgrade to my source that is Tidal over my phone over the air currently( anything is better than this method). Im wondering if its a waste of time and money since I plan on using it with my AVR, then I stumbled onto guys talking about HT bypass for this reason. I haven't read or herd HT bypass yet on this Forum and wanted to know what you all thought, at some point i wanted to get a 8k marantz Processor and dedicated Amp but before I drop $7k I want to make sure I figure out this HT bypass because I want better High Rez audio from my HT system.