II am running left and right pre outs out of my Marantz AVR into a 2 channel amplifier. Then on to my mains. My question is can I also Connect a 2 channel pre amplifier to the same inputs on the back of the amplifier using a y connector so I can listen to either listen to HT or 2.0 music through the same amplifier? Or do I have to buy a pre amp with HT bypass? I suppose I will have to make sure to turn off the power to the pre amp that is not in use. Any help would be appreciated.
You can make that connection. However, 1) if you forget to have one of the units powered down, you risk damage to one or both and, 2) there will be some amount of input impedance added to the unit in operation which might cause some sound degradation.
The better way is to use your existing components with an A/B, "either/or", switch.
Thanks again Jan, you offer excellent advice. I know there will be sound degradation by passing a signal through one of the a/b boxes. Though probably less than the y connector option. I think saving money for a Pre Amp with a HT by pass feature is the route I will probably take. I hear Emotiva has one for about $800 (XSP-1). Thanks again Jan.