Joe,
You can build an integrated combo system using the components you mention. You would first set up the 2-channel system in the traditional manner, i.e. source->pre-amp->amp->main L&R front speakers. This will give you the best possible 2-channel music playback.
You would then integrate the HT components into the existing 2-channel system by connecting your HT sources (DVD Player, sat/cable TV, VCR, etc.) in the following manner: HT source components->receiver->center channel, surround, LFE(sub).
Finally you will need to connect the L&R main speaker pre-outs from the HT receiver to either the HT bypass/processor loop of the 2-channel pre-amp. If your pre-amp does not have an HT bypass/processor loop, you can connect the L&R pre-outs from you receiver to any unused line-level inputs on the pre-amp (aux, HT, TV, etc.)
Finally, when you need to calibrate the system for HT with the 2-channel rig also in the mix. Select bypass on the 2-channel pre-amp (if it has this feature). If the pre-amp doesn't have bypass, select the input you chose for the HT L&R inputs, set the volume control on the 2-channel pre-amp to a pre-defined setting (like top dead center, 5, etc.) and run your calibration routine.
Now, anytime you want the best 2-channel sound, simple play the 2-channel rig in the traditional manner. When you want multi-channel and HT, turn on the receiver, select bypass or the appropriate input(and set the -pre-amps volume to the pre-defined setting) and play your multi-channel sources using the HT receiver's controls for volume, etc.
It's not really difficult once you have it set up, but it may sound confusing now. BTW, HT bypass/processor loop greatly simplifies things and prevents issues with the volume of the front L&R speakers. You can live without it, but remember to always set the pre-amp to the pre-defined level or you may get a big, loud and potentially costly boom from your front L&R speakers.
You can build an integrated combo system using the components you mention. You would first set up the 2-channel system in the traditional manner, i.e. source->pre-amp->amp->main L&R front speakers. This will give you the best possible 2-channel music playback.
You would then integrate the HT components into the existing 2-channel system by connecting your HT sources (DVD Player, sat/cable TV, VCR, etc.) in the following manner: HT source components->receiver->center channel, surround, LFE(sub).
Finally you will need to connect the L&R main speaker pre-outs from the HT receiver to either the HT bypass/processor loop of the 2-channel pre-amp. If your pre-amp does not have an HT bypass/processor loop, you can connect the L&R pre-outs from you receiver to any unused line-level inputs on the pre-amp (aux, HT, TV, etc.)
Finally, when you need to calibrate the system for HT with the 2-channel rig also in the mix. Select bypass on the 2-channel pre-amp (if it has this feature). If the pre-amp doesn't have bypass, select the input you chose for the HT L&R inputs, set the volume control on the 2-channel pre-amp to a pre-defined setting (like top dead center, 5, etc.) and run your calibration routine.
Now, anytime you want the best 2-channel sound, simple play the 2-channel rig in the traditional manner. When you want multi-channel and HT, turn on the receiver, select bypass or the appropriate input(and set the -pre-amps volume to the pre-defined setting) and play your multi-channel sources using the HT receiver's controls for volume, etc.
It's not really difficult once you have it set up, but it may sound confusing now. BTW, HT bypass/processor loop greatly simplifies things and prevents issues with the volume of the front L&R speakers. You can live without it, but remember to always set the pre-amp to the pre-defined level or you may get a big, loud and potentially costly boom from your front L&R speakers.