I run a combined system in one house. The basic components are:
Universal player
Analog Multichannel Preamp
Analog Multichannel Amp
5 full range speakers and sub.
With 2 channel sources, there is no difference from a 2 channel system as the other channels are not used nor do they have any effect on operations.
For multichannel and/or HT, the decoding is done in the player which feeds 6 analog channels to the system.
The only issue is whether one needs more flexible bass management than the player provides but with full-range speakers all around, it is usually not a problem.
I do the same in my other system but without a video display.
The biggest problem you will find is getting a decent analog MCH preamp in your budget. The big bargains, if you can find them, are a used Sony TA-P9000ES (no longer made) or McCormack MAP-1 (have not seen a used one). The Audio Refinement Pre5 is another possibility but it, too (sigh!), is discontinued.
I have heard nice things ABOUT the Outlaw 950 pre/pro but I have not used one.
Kal
Universal player
Analog Multichannel Preamp
Analog Multichannel Amp
5 full range speakers and sub.
With 2 channel sources, there is no difference from a 2 channel system as the other channels are not used nor do they have any effect on operations.
For multichannel and/or HT, the decoding is done in the player which feeds 6 analog channels to the system.
The only issue is whether one needs more flexible bass management than the player provides but with full-range speakers all around, it is usually not a problem.
I do the same in my other system but without a video display.
The biggest problem you will find is getting a decent analog MCH preamp in your budget. The big bargains, if you can find them, are a used Sony TA-P9000ES (no longer made) or McCormack MAP-1 (have not seen a used one). The Audio Refinement Pre5 is another possibility but it, too (sigh!), is discontinued.
I have heard nice things ABOUT the Outlaw 950 pre/pro but I have not used one.
Kal