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Center Channel on an Integrated Stereo Amplifier

Background: I have an integrated 2 channel amp for stereo listening. I added a sub to it with a direct connection to the terminals on the back of the amp (2.1 setup right now). 
I also want to have a Center Channel that I can connect and disconnect when I want (so I can listen to the 2 channel for music and have the center channel connected for movies). I have a really good amp, so I would love to be able to use that amp to power the speakers when watching movies (and power the center channel too if possible!). 

Question: What is the best way for me to get this done? 
For me to have a 3.1 setup - a 2 channel integrated amp with 2 speakers, a sub, and a center channel WITH connectivity options so I can disconnect the center channel whenever I want. 


Thank you all for your help,
Shawn 
128x128shawnpmathew

Showing 10 responses by shawnpmathew

shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@david_ten - I do not have a processor to send a true center channel signal to the center channel. That's why I am asking the question, so someone can guide me on which processor can do what I am looking to do. 
I have a pair of ML speakers driven by a PrimaLuna DiaLogue Premium Integrated amp, and I also have a REL R-505. That is my 2.1 setup. 

I want a  way to add another channel (a center channel) to this setup. 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@kdude66 - It does sound great! But I recently heard a 5.1 setup with an amazing center channel and it blew me away. A center channel makes a huge difference, and if this is possible to do I think it would be good to investigate it.

Do you not agree? 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@jl35 - I do sit between the main speakers. They are set up now pointed in toward a sweet spot. 
Thanks for the advice
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
Okay, here is my entire setup so far:

1. Martin Logan Vistas - Speakers
2. PrimaLuna DiaLogue Premium Integrated - Amp
3. REL R-505 - Sub
4. Simaudio MOON 300D - Dac
5. Emotiva ERC-3 - CD Source
6. Simaudio MOON 180 MiND Streamer - Dedicated Streamer
7. Panasonic DMP-BDT220 - Blu-Ray player

https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/6604


I am looking into getting a Martin Logan electrostatic center channel to match my speakers.
On top of that, what should I look into?

And if you guys have any suggestions on how to improve my system, I am all ears :)

Also, after reading all the replies it looks like I am going down the wrong road. If I want a home theater experience, I should do a home theater.. Not try to make my 2 channel listening system into a 3.1
Thanks for the advice!


Thanks again for all the help!
Shawn
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@david_ten - To answer your questions: 

1. The 3rd channel would come from my Blu-Ray player 
2. The Blu-Ray player connects to my DAC via optical cable. 

If I were to do it, I would keep my PrimaLuna. I do not want to replace that amp. And it does allow for a bypass or pass-through 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
I reread some stuff above and I think I understand now:

I have my Blu-ray player go to a processor (which I need to purchase), and send the front signals to my PrimaLuna so that can power my main speakers.
And for the other speakers (center and rears whenever I decide to get the rest) I will have to purchase a multi-channel amp that I can send the signals to through the processor and that connects to all the other speakers. 

And then I have my CD source which will send signals directly to my PrimaLuna, so I have to option of listening to stereo. 

This gives me the ability to switch between 2 channel and home theater! 
Does that sound right? 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@jl35 - That is very interesting. I will try that this week and let you know if I hear a difference. Thanks for the suggestion! 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@david_ten - Great, I understand. Thanks for the advice and clarification! 
And if I were to upgrade by Blu-ray Player you would recommend the Oppo player? 

I think I am going to take your advice! I will get a receiver - Looking into Pioneer Elite receivers unless you guys have other opinions on what I should get. 

To connect to the receiver I will go from my blu-ray to the receiver with an HDMI cable, and that will allow for the multi-channel output. 
And I will use the receiver's pre-outs to connect the front speaker outputs to my PrimaLuna which will send the signal to my main speakers, and have a separate connection from the receiver to the center channel. 
And an HDMI out from the receiver to the TV for video. 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
@david_ten - Just a little confused...
Why should I upgrade my blu-ray player? Are you saying my current one doesn't have the ability to have its audio output multi-channel formats? 
If I get a receiver with HDMI in's and out that will be able to carry video and audio, so I should be able to get my multi-channel sound through that, right? If that's true, then I might not need to upgrade my Blu-ray player yet. 

Anthem's are expensive! Great reviews though... 
shawnpmathew's avatar
shawnpmathew OP
12 posts
 
I finally got this setup working!

Check it out :D
https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/6604

Thank you all for all your help :)
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