Using 2 integrateds to bi-amp?


Maybe this is a really dumb idea (if yes, please tell me why). Would it be possible to connect 2 integrated amps by Y connectors to a single source (e.g., TT or CDP)then use 1 to drive the L & R tweeters and the other to drive the L & R woofers of a 2 way speaker system? I have two integrated amps but don't have $ to go mono-blocks + pre-amp.
ghosthouse

Showing 7 responses by ghosthouse

Kr4 - I'm guessing since I have volume controls on both I can regulate spl from treble and bass. By trial and error at worst, I'd expect I could find optimal settings.

Peter_s...yes, one unit does have a pre-out and this is the unit I'd be using to drive the woofers. Should I plug sources into this unit alone?
S7horton - Sorry I wasn't clear in my original post...unfortunately, I have 2 different "amps". One all tubes, the other an old but refurbished Yamaha R-1000 ss receiver (100 wpc). Horizontal looks to be the way I'll have to go if I try this. I might get an SPL from R Shack to help balancing lows and highs. Take some before "bi-amp" readings off each driver at various volume control levels using a "reference" CD. See what volume knob positions are needed to duplicate those readings with 2 amps in place.
Well, I suppose "effort" in lieu of $ is my justification plus I kind of enjoying messing around with this stuff. On the other hand, is it that much different than trying to integrate a powered sub-woofer?
Electroid - see my reply to S7horton but yes, 2 different amps. Jolida 502B (60 wpc) & a mid '80s Yamaha R1000 receiver (100 wpc). Was thinking exactly as you suggest to run upper range drivers with the JoLida and lower range drivers with the Yamaha.

Thanks for your suggestion. I do indeed have a "tape out" on the JoLida (an input to my Nakamichi tape deck that I don't use much). Is this what you have in mind? (not sure what 'fixed tape out not variable preout' means). If yes, it does seem better than running Y splitters to each amp from all sources. If this works, I'll buy you a (virtual) beer and shop around for something better to replace the Yamaha. Thanks again.
Electroid - Thank you very much for another good idea. Very helpful. If you celebrate Christmas, I hope it is a very merry one for you and your family. In any case, I wish you a healthy and prosperous New Year.
Electroid, Jefftsefu et al -
Thanks for the input. Ran into some obstacles space-wise and speaker termination-wise so the experiment is on hold for now. Again, thanks for the helpful suggestions.