Multi-room configuration


I have a nice stereo system in my family room which I have no immediate desire to replace. But, I have to turn it way up to hear throughout the house. How can I use my exiting preamp (it has an available unbalanced output) as the front end to two or three other rooms (each with on/off and volume capabilities)? I could get another power amp and use a swithching device with wall volume controls in each room, but will that provide lower quality reproduction? I'm starting with nothing but my main system -- no other speakers, amps or switching devices. Since I'm building a new house, it will be easy to run wires where I want them. Thanks in advance for your help.
ozfly

Showing 1 response by costrosk

I use an Adcom GFS-6 Speaker Selector to feed 4 pairs of speakers throughout the house. Used to have all 6 sets wired up in another house, and never had a problem. I also don't try for audiophile sound through the house system, but it does a fine job for ambient music throughout the house. It has a protection circuit that "is designed to protect your amp from the very low impedances.." of driving multiple speakers, it has worked well for me, driving sundry speakers ranging from cheapo outdoor speakers to Paradigm Monitor 9s with a NAD amp. But - it doesn't have volume control on each line - for that you would need controls in each room. Again, if you're not trying for audiophile grade sound, I wouldn't lose sleep over those, either.

When I really want to hear music, it's not on this system, obviously, but for day to day, and especially when entertaining, it certainly makes for a pleasant environment.

chas