Using an integrated amp for home theater set up


Here is my set up:
Classe CAP 150
Magnepan 1.6

I'm planning to make the leap to a home theater set up but want to continue using my Classe to run my main Maggies.

Do I now simply buy a home theater receiver and somehow connect my Classe to that amplifier?

I have approximately $1000 to spend on that receiver and plan on using it to run a Magnepan center speaker and magnepan surround speakers. The room isn't huge and only meansures 13 x 19 with an 8 foot ceiling. I know the Maggies are tough to drive but I don't plan on waking up the neighbours with this system.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be great. I have no idea how to incorporate my Classe integrated amp within the home theater realm.

Thanks
butterscotchmusic

Showing 1 response by dtc

I believe the CAP-150 has a "Separate" option (the 151 has this and I think the 150 does also), which allows you to separate the pre-amp and amp sections. The AMP input then bypasses the pre-amp section and goes directly to the amp.

You can use a HT receiver with pre-outs and connect the L/R pre-outs to the AMP inputs on the CAP-150. The center and surrounds can be connected directly to the receiver. The setup, room equalization, volume control etc. is all handled by the receiver.

I am not very familiar with the Magnapan center and surround speakers, but I think they may be fairly low impedence, which means you will need a HT receiver that handles the low impedence. I would look at Onkyo (NR807/SR707), Pioneer Elite(21/23 TXH) and NAD (T 747) as good receivers that can also probably handle the low impedence. Hopefully you can get input from people with your center and surround speakers.

Take a little time to learn about the options and I am sure you will be pleased.