Bi-amp with multi-channel amps in H/T


I want to bi-amp my Magnepan MG3a's in the front and use a 2-channel amp (Denon 5200) with a comparable multi-channel amp (5x120 watts or more/8 ohms) to power Maggie MG1's in the rear and a center channel. Would it be better to drive the MG3 tweeters with two channels from the "multi" amp and the MG3 bass with the Denon, or just drive the front and center with the multi-channel amp? I'm open to suggestions on the multi-channel amp. 50/50 on music vs movies.
korgwave

Showing 1 response by sutts

Good question by the way- and a whasssuupp to Avguygeorge for always having interesting posts- Along with Albert Porter and others- you're an asset to this board! (great choice on the Aerials for HT- I have heard them- very nice)

OK- I happen to do home theater and 2-channel in same room (no choice, as in apartment). I recommend (if possible) to use the same model of amp for the front 3 channels if possible. I use the Theta Dreadnaught- runs at 400w into 4 ohms- speakers are Mani-2 x 5- yes, I actually use a single Mani-2 for center-channel! Very cool, as sonic signature is identical all around. I use 4 channels of the Theta and bi-amp it for the front left and right speakers (which suck power at only ~ 85 db efficiency), and use the 5th channel for the center speaker.

The rears IMO can be compromised if anything can. I use a Citation amp, only 'cause I got an OK deal; its a high-current design (actually had to turn rear-channel gains DOWN on processor as compared to more powerful Theta- which surprised me) plus the 12-volt trigger from matching processor turns it on and off automatically with the processor. When doing 2-channel, I use my tube preamp (with processor bypass) that runs the main fronts only. For me, its the ideal solution for an HT/2-channel integration system.

Back to your dillema. I would NOT recommend what you propose first. I tried using separate amps to bi-amp the same speaker, and its a problem, mainly because input impedances; gain; etc. between the different brands of amps all affect the perceived volume level between highs and mid/bass- not a great idea (IMO of course!). As to your second idea- YES!! That's the ticket- same amplification for front 3 channels (as I am doing) will prvide seamless sonic signature for HT (try and use same speaker wire across front 3 if possible- that also made a big diff in my system). Good luck!