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:
There are, I guess, a few basic design options to consider against the above requirements:
Thanks in advance
Zydeco
- 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
- 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