I own both the Adcom GFP750 and a Muse Model 3 Signature, both of which have processor loops. They work as Zackmun said, in that the processor loop is totally separate from the 2 channel electronics in the preamp, except when the processor loop is engaged the volume is controlled by the processor and it passes through the preamp at a "unity gain," which then drives your two-channel power amp and speakers as the two front speakers in your HT set-up. When the processor loop is off, no signal passes through the preamp from the processor. Both of those preamps work very well in that regard, and make it super easy to incorporate your two-channel music speakers into your HT system, without adversely affecting your two-channel sound. My processor is the Lexicon CP3+ which is perfect for incorporating everything since it has 7 channel outputs plus a subwoofer output, and allows different gain settings for each output. However, since it is an older unit, it does not incorporate the latest processing software. Trust me, these preamp processor loops work well and are not hard to set up if you follow the manual. All that is required for the Muse is a single patch cord from the processor's main L&R output. Good luck.
Processor Loop for 2 channel?
I keep seeing 2-channel preamps (Adcom, McIntosh, etc.)advertising a processor loop for integration with a home theater set-up. My problem is that I don't see how a loop would work. The idea of using a 2-channel preamp would be to have a "better" preamp then the one in a Preamp/processor and route 2 channel music through it instead of the processor but then use the pre/pro when watching movies or other multi-channel music.
I've seen a few preamps advertise a "unity gain" or HT pass-through and this makes sense. I just don't see how a processor loop would work. Can anyone explain this to me?
I've seen a few preamps advertise a "unity gain" or HT pass-through and this makes sense. I just don't see how a processor loop would work. Can anyone explain this to me?