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Would a source selector switch degrade sound?

Dilemma.

I bought a Rotel RA-1062 integrated amp 7 or 8 years ago that I liked a lot, but I have not set up or used it yet - long story.

I'm finally ready to put my system together in my living room.

I only have one room for a music / HT system so I will only have one stereo / home theater.

Two channel music is most important to me - I'm willing to sacrifice a little on the movie side.

So, to my dilemma...

My Rotel integrated amp doesn't have HT bypass.

Which leaves getting a source selector switch of some sort.

Something like the Niles Audio DSP-1.

But I DO NOT want to set up anything that will adversely affect the sound.

Would the DSP-1 source selector switch degrade the sound?

If so I'm left with either getting an integrated amplifier with HT bypass (and a less expensive AV receiver) or getting a very expensive higher end AV receiver.

Which way would YOU go?

I have B&W DM602 S3 speakers by the way...three pairs of them.

Appreciate all advice.
timothyd11
11 responses Add your response
imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,181 posts
 

Depends on systems, trust your ears!

jollygreenaudiophile2's avatar
jollygreenaudiophile2
275 posts
 

"Yes", Such a device will affect the sound of the system. There is simply no way around that. And the better the system? The more detrimental those effects shall be. 

 I looked into this awhile back for a friend who couldn't see any other "real" option at that time. But I do advise against it.

 Having said that. If you absolutely "Have To" do this...

Two thoughts for you. First, Unless you (Need) processing "like an active DSP for use as a crossover with BSC"?? Then the device used "Must" be passive. (If you have to plug it in, add batteries or charge it for use? Just Say No!)!

[If you need the processing? That is another discussion entirely}!

And secondly, I still believe that either a, "ETO" device or SCC/SP or LR system from "Mapletree Audio" is the ONLY way to go. Unless you "yourself" can DIY a device of this nature from scratch. "Which really isn't that hard to do". But knowing the design elements needed and then the prioritization of those elements is beyond many people. And of course, there is always the matter of "Your time" to consider as well.

I believe that "Mapletree Audio's" devices for this still begin at about, ($1,000). Which is a bargain considering the parts used and the quality of the people who will design/build that device.

If you are seriously thinking of this as an option? Contact Mapletree Audio and tell them about your specific needs/wants in this project and ask for their thoughts as well. You will quickly discover and also understand why I called these devices, "A Bargain" at their given price-point. "Simply by chance, I had noticed an article mentioning "ETO" from Mapletree in some audio related mag I was perusing, while my friend was again actively in my ear seeking my advice on the subject. I decided to contact them by phone to get a feel for the company. And I was seriously impressed by the time that first conversation ended".

Well, Thats my two cents...

Good Luck!

schubert
7,386 posts
 
Never heard one that didn't and I've heard ones in the 2K range.
imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,181 posts
 
Not all AVR has Pre-out, I believe the DSP-1 is a simple solution, go for it!
Post removed 
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 

Thanks Al, have a great day!!
.
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Great minds think alike :-)

Best,
-- Al
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
Looks like I just duplicated Al's post, guess we were just thinking the same thing at the same time.
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
You can use the Rotel RA-1062, however it will not be as simple as using an integrated amp with HT bypass. Connect the front L/R preout from the AV receiver to any input on the Rotel, except phono. Set the Rotel’s volume control to minimum. With all the AVR’s individual channel level trim controls at the default 0, start the test tone on the AVR. Then increase the Rotel’s volume control so the L/R speakers match the volume of the center speaker. Remember the position of the VC on the Rotel for future use with the AVR. You can always run the test tone to make a minor adjustment.
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Why not just plug the AVR's left and right channel line level outputs into an unused pair of line level (non-phono) inputs on the RA-1062? Then determine a setting of the RA-1062's volume control that allows you to use the AVR's volume control at reasonable settings for movies, and return the RA-1062's volume control to that setting each time you watch a movie.

Regards,
-- Al
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hi Timothyd11

I have experiences with the Niles AXP-1 as well as the Niles DSP-1 and IME I have never experienced any sound degradation or coloration at all.

I used the Niles AXP-1 when I had a preamp with limited inputs but I had multiple sources.

I use the Niles DSP-1 to use 2 different kinds of amps with the same pair of speakers. My only issue with the Niles DSP-1 was the speaker wire connectors in the back. It states you can use 14 AWG but it the spacing did seem kind of tight.

I'm not sure but with your situation I would get the Niles AXP-1. Both are built quite well and are solid quality.
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