[mca]

Does anyone know if a simple home theater bypass switcher exists? I know more manufacturers are putting this function into their preamps and integrateds. Since I am using a modded SB3 as my source, I will probably be running it straight into an amp and using the digital volume of the SB3. I am looking for an easy way to incorporate the amp into my theater setup.

[JoshK]

You could put an A/B switch between your preamps and your amp then you could switch between your pre/pro & your SB.

[mca]

I don't use a preamp. SB3 goes direct to amp.

[sleepysurf]

Up until recently, I used a Niles AXP-1 rotary switch for this exact purpose, feeding my SB2 direct to my Sunfire amp, and alternatively feeding a Yamaha RX-V1000 (pre-outs) to that same amp, for home theater playback.  It sounded fine, despite the extra sets of RCA interconnects required.  However, seeking to inject some "tube magic" in my system, I recently upgraded to the Modwright SWL 9.0SE pre-amp, which includes a home theater bypass loop.  I ended up giving the Niles switch back to the audio friend who had lent it to me.  However, they are available with a street price under $75.  There are also many other (expensive) passive switches out there.

[JLM]

mca,

Just curious, have you tried adding various pre-amps to see if the sound improves with the better impedance matching?  BTW I ran mine that way, being a purist, but always wondered if...

[mca]

JLM,

I did use a tubed preamp, but have now sold it. I found the sound to be better without it. I have not tried any other preamps with it.