2. amps-preamps
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How to integrate stereo and multi channel?

I need advice. Here’s my problem: I listen to both stereo and 5- and 3-channel music. How can I use the same set of left and right speakers for both stereo and multi ch music?  That is, is there a way to configure the preamps/amps in such a way that I can use only one set of speakers? Note: this is about ONLY music; I don’t do home theater. 
I have a stereo preamp (Pass Labs) , a stereo amp (First Watt), a multi ch preamp and multi ch amp (both Parasound). Plus Tannoy speakers all around. For multi channel music I have a NAD SACD player, and a server hooked up to an Exasound e38 multi ch DAC—both with 5.1 RCA outputs. 

I’m happy to replace the parasound amp and preamp if needed.

I guess I can use a high quality speaker switcher like the Luxman AS 55, but I don’t know what the degradation in signal quality will be.

 Thanks very much. 
ssmaudio

Showing 1 response by teo_audio

teo_audio
2,197 posts
 
I used to put the surround sound mains feed through the tape loop of the given stereo preamp, and then set the level on the stereo preamp to a single known spot, and the same for the surround levels out of the connected surround preamp outs on the surround device. 

That way, serious sound is with the tape loop out, and surround happens with the tape loop switched in and that preset and known volume level on the stereo preamp.

I would use my main high end stereo speakers for the surround mains and also for pure stereo, obviously, and then accept the mis-match compromise for the surround, it being lower on the totem pole of importance.

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