[kck]

I think the answer is no, but I will try anyway:

Can an analog signal be passed thru the XR50 and emerge via the digital (optical) out? In essence, will this do a DA conversion via some trickery? Its ok if sound quality is not great.

I have already tried what I can and no dice. Like I said, unlikely but worth a shot.

[Wayne1]

The quick answer is NO.

The digital ouput is only for the digital inputs. The analog ouputs are only for the analog inputs.

The only A/D functions on the SA-XR50 are to convert the analog inputs to the digital needed for processing and amplification. They do no have any switches to route that signal to any output connectiions

You would have to spend a bit more to get a receiver or Pre/pro that would do what you want.

[kck]

Thanks Wayne. Can I try another one?

My plan B is as follows: I have two inputs on my power amp. I would like to use the XR50 as a pass-thru (preamp, if you will) for certain sources. So I ran ICs from the tape out to the amp, then switched on the Panny to FM. I got sound, but at a lowish, fixed level (turning the volume knob had no effect). From the listening position, I could hear the sound but it had about the level of a slightly turned-up clock radio.

When I switched to the tape input, no sound at all. I am not too savvy with this stuff (I haven't fooled with tape outputs since the '70s and for some weird reason that is all a blur now).

[Wayne1]

The Panasonic SAXR-50 is not designed to be used as preamp.

It is an inexpensive, home theater receiver.

If you want other functions, you will have to spend quite a bit more money on components from another manufacturer.

Tape outputs are designed to send a fixed level to a tape recorder, not a variable level to a power amp. Tape inputs are designed to run the OUTPUT of a tape recorder into.