Integration of A/V into 2-channel

zydeco

Well-Known Member
Oct 16, 2010
59
0
311
WA, Australia
I’m not sure if this is the correct forum – as I’m interested in 2-channel – but think the answer might be an A/V processor. My current set-up involves several A/V sources (i.e., Apple TV, TiVo, DVD) connected via HDMI to a TV with a Harmony One remote managing input selection. I’ve then got a separate, co-located, 2-channel speaker system that has dedicated music server with on-board room / speaker EQ into a stereo pre-amplifier. I’m now looking to integrate the systems to take advantage of the sound of the 2-channel speaker system after help. My requirements are:

  • a) Music portion of the system must be at least maintained (or improved)
  • b) Simple to use – specifically selection of A/V inputs must be very simple
  • c) Potential to expand the number of A/V inputs over time – probably HDMI inputs
  • d) Preference, but not a strict requirement for, a room EQ on the audio part of A/V

There are, I guess, a few basic design options to consider against the above requirements:

  • 1. Continue with all A/V sources routed via HDMI to TV with the analogue out of the TV then used to input into the 2-channel pre-amp. My issue is that it’s not simple to use (as I’d have to mute the TV) and there is no option for digital EQ.
  • 2. Continue with all A/V sources routed via HDMI to TV but with their S/PDIF output routed to 2-channel DAC connected to pre-amp. Again this seems hard to use as I can see audio / video getting onto different inputs and the TV would be muted.
  • 3. Build a HTPC that has HDMI inputs with the video out sent via HDMI to TV and analogue output sent to the 2-channel pre-amp. This option is attractive but again would seem to fail on b).
  • 4. An A/V pre-amplifier that is used for all the A/V sources – with a video routed to a single HDMI input on the TV and audio routed to the 2-channel pre-amp. This option could meet all requirements (able to default the pre-amp input).
    [*] 4.1. A/V processor or receiver – meets all requirements (a-d)
    [*] 4.2. A/V stereo pre-amp; e.g., NAD M51 – limited inputs and no EQ
    [*] 4.3. Replace DVD with Oppo 105 – limited inputs and no EQ​
It seems that the most appropriate solution is Option 4 – specifically, an A/V processor (4.1) or an A/V stereo pre-amplifier (4.2) if EQ isn’t good on the A/V processors. That said, I know almost nothing about A/V processors:

  • Can A/V processor pass video only via HDMI (with audio via analogue output)?
  • How good are the in-built EQ solutions provided as part of A/V processors?
  • What brands / models of A/V processors are appropriate for my requirements?
  • And are there alternatives to the NAD M51 as an “A/V stereo pre-amplifier?

Thanks in advance
Zydeco
 

Kal Rubinson

Well-Known Member
May 4, 2010
2,358
696
1,700
NYC
www.stereophile.com
It seems that the most appropriate solution is Option 4 – specifically, an A/V processor (4.1) or an A/V stereo pre-amplifier (4.2) if EQ isn’t good on the A/V processors. That said, I know almost nothing about A/V processors:

[1]Can A/V processor pass video only via HDMI (with audio via analogue output)?
[2]How good are the in-built EQ solutions provided as part of A/V processors?
[3]What brands / models of A/V processors are appropriate for my requirements?
[3]And are there alternatives to the NAD M51 as an “A/V stereo pre-amplifier?

1 Definitely.
2 They vary. Depends on budget but, among the more readily available, Audyssey XT32 (with Pro option) is the best. For more $$$$, you can get ones with Trinnov or Dirac.
3 Marantz 8801 or Integra 80.3 or go all the way to the DataSat (Dirac) or ADA (Trinnov).
4 Dunno. BTW, the NAD has a different array of inputs/features from AVRs or AV processors.
 

NorthStar

Member
Feb 8, 2011
24,305
1,323
435
Vancouver Island, B.C. Canada
-- Kal just said it above.

* Personally I'm using the Integra DHC-80.3 Surround Sound Processor, and the Oppo BDP-103 in my own multichannel music/cinema system.
...Very happy with both, but wish I went with the Oppo BDP-105 instead. ...But that's ok, I used the $700 difference towards the purchase of several Blu-ray Music concerts and Movies.

- The Marantz AV8801 pre/pro is another excellent choice, also with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 (and Pro Ready).
For less $$$$ (street) the Integra is the better choice for value, IMO. ...And I also love its ergonomics (easy to follow menu setups and all that jazz).

Cheers,
Bob
 

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