This is my first post. I am a happy owner of Bent Tap-X configured as a 5-channel HT preamp, plus input select functionality for the front 2 stereo channels (fully balanced for inputs 5 & 6). The center and rear channels are single-ended. There are 7 copper slagleformers altogether inside the deep chassis.
For HT, I am using Oppo 95. The main FL + FR channels are from Oppo XLR output, the C, SL, SR from Oppo RCA output. Since there is no switching for C, SL and SR channels, I need to switch off my 3-channel HT power amp when not in HT mode. There is no need for subwoofer channel since I am running the front speakers as large. The XLR output from Tap-X goes into Bryston 10B-SUB which manages the crossover for the bookshelf speakers and subwoofer.
Originally intended for use as HT preamp only, my Tap-X has become the preamp of my stereo + HT system. My original stereo preamp is the AR Ref 5 SE used with Rotel RSP-1570 processor. Now, there is no more need to waste tube life in HT processor (bypass) mode. The other stereo sources are AR Ref 2 SE phono stage (balanced) and Ayon CD-07 (single-ended).
What a different experience I have now with almost no background noise and high resolution sound I am getting. The Auric OHNO wires need time to break in as initially it does not sound that good, but now it performing very well. It was a very nice experience working with John Chapman in building this unit.
