Preamps in a HT System

[JustinGN]

So, I've got a question having reviewed Emotiva's lineup again after their HDMI 1.4 announcement (and oh-so-ready to pull the trigger, though my common sense thankfully stepped in and stopped me). Their page on the USP-1 Preamplifier says it's perfect for use in a traditional Home Theater Setup, and having looked over other Preamps from manufacturers like Parasound, I've noticed they all make that claim to some extent.

I guess what I'm asking is, why would you use a preamp in an HT system? If your pre/pro doesn't have a phono input, I could see using an external preamp for the turntable itself, but why use one for tape decks, CD players, etc when most processors already have a plethora of RCA connectors for analog audio? What about those of us who make use of transports and digital pathways; are preamps still recommended? Finally, how would I integrate a preamp into an HT setup, and how would I control it (together with the AVR/Processor, or seperate)?

Thanks!

[whoaru99]

Some people integrate an analog preamp into their HT system because they claim all the additional circuits in a pre/pro degrade the sound.

The best and most convenient way is to use a preamp that has "HT bypass". This allows the HT system to function normally via a unity gain bypass loop in the preamp so there is no change in the calibrated levels. When you want to use the preamp, you merely turn off the HT bypass mode and your sources are routed through the same downstream amp(s) and speakers with the preamp running the show.

[JustinGN]

Some people integrate an analog preamp into their HT system because they claim all the additional circuits in a pre/pro degrade the sound.

The best and most convenient way is to use a preamp that has "HT bypass". This allows the HT system to function normally via a unity gain bypass loop in the preamp so there is no change in the calibrated levels. When you want to use the preamp, you merely turn off the HT bypass mode and your sources are routed through the same downstream amp(s) and speakers with the preamp running the show.

So essentially, you could use a preamp to tailor sound to your liking without replacing your pre/pro or amplifier (both of which tend to be much larger investments, especially in the high-end world of audio and video). Well, I'll keep that in mind depending on how my eventual upgrade sounds.

[LCSeminole]

Some people integrate an analog preamp into their HT system because they claim all the additional circuits in a pre/pro degrade the sound.

The best and most convenient way is to use a preamp that has "HT bypass". This allows the HT system to function normally via a unity gain bypass loop in the preamp so there is no change in the calibrated levels. When you want to use the preamp, you merely turn off the HT bypass mode and your sources are routed through the same downstream amp(s) and speakers with the preamp running the show.

Just to add to what "whoaru99" has already stated. The "HT bypass" also keeps from having audio switching for multiple power amplifiers with the added benefit of being able to use those full range tower front speakers that are so prevolent in home theaters now a days.

[JustinGN]

Just to add to what "whoaru99" has already stated. The "HT bypass" also keeps from having audio switching for multiple power amplifiers with the added benefit of being able to use those full range tower front speakers that are so prevolent in home theaters now a days.

Like my shiny 684s? :P