Home theater bypass - pass through question

@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. 

@reubent  Thank you so much for the help. Shoot me a PM and I'd be happy to send you my favorite ale or nipper or whisky :-)

@millercarbon Are you suggesting I replace my center and surrounds with subs? 
FWIW I already have 4 subs. 

@flavo  - I do enjoy a nice stout or porter. However, it's not necessary. I'm more that happy to help when I can.