Home theater bypass - pass through question

In my opinion, bypass and pass-through are the same. I've used both pre-amps and integrated amps with HT bypass (sometimes also called "processor loop") to good effect to consolidate my 2-channel system and HT system and use the same front L&R speakers. Works great and I've always felt it produced better sound quality than trying to use an multi-channel HT pre-amp/processor.

@reubent 
Are you describing where you used your 2 channel amp for the front end of your 2 channel listening AND the front end of your HT TV listening experience?

To clarify
 My intention is to keep my Denon HT receiver and get a preamp or integrated 2 channel tube rig for my 2ch listening.

@flavo  - Yes.

Set up your 2-channel system as normal. Run your 2-channel sources into your pre-amp or integrated amp. Same as any typical 2-channel setup.

For the HT portion, run interconnect cables from the L&R front pre-outs on the HT receiver into the HT bypass inputs of the pre-amp/integrated. Connect your center channel and surround speakers to your HT receiver. Connect your HT sources into the HT receiver.

To play your 2-channel system, just play it as you normally would. No need to even turn on the HT receiver. The play HT, turn on the 2-channel system and the HT system. Engage the HT bypass on the 2-channel system. Now the L&R front speakers will be powered by the amp of the 2-channel system and the center and surrounds will be powered by the HT receiver.

Don't forget to re-run your HT setup program after you've added the 2-channel system into the mix. If you don't the fronts won't be properly balanced with the other speakers.

Good luck. It can be a great way to have uncompromised 2-channel music sound quality and great HT too, all while only having one pair of front L&R speakers.

I went through a phase doing this, until I figured out the little bit you gain with surround is nowhere near worth the sacrifice in 2ch quality. Get four good subs and never look back.