Using Y-adapter to duplicate preamplifier outputs


Is there any loss from using y-adapters to duplicate an output on an amplifier? Case in point; I want to duplicate my preamp output to feed a ss amplifier and a tube amplifier. Both will not be used simultaneously. I just don't want the hassle of having to remove interconnects each time I am going to use one amp or the other.
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Showing 1 response by seandtaylor99

It is really a question of impedance.

In theory a preamp has a low output impedance and likes to see a high input impedance (10k ohms or more).

If you use a Y adaptor you can halve the input impedance of the power amp as the preamp sees the two power amps' impedance in parallel.

Reduced input impedance on power amps can manifest as reduced high-frequency clarity and a loss of dynamics. Using interconnects with the minimum capacitance can help to mitigate this effect. Something like the Chris Venhaus DIY interconnects with eichmann bullets would probably be the minimum capacitance.

The best thing to do would be to get a relatively inexpensive Y adaptor and try it, and if it sounds OK get a more expensive one made up. I certainly would not have the preamp modified to add extra outputs, since these most likely are simply extra jacks wired to the existing output and do nothing to solve the impedance problem, but could reduce the resale value of your preamp.