[IronLion]

I only have enough IC's to connect my preamp to one source at any given time, so if I want to switch sources what I often do is turn everything off in order and then switch the preamp IC to the appropriate source that I want to hear next. 

What I'm wondering is, can I use the mute function of my preamp (A Dodd Audio ELP with a mute switch toggle) to switch the IC's to another source with the preamp and poweramp still on?  Or is there potential for doing something damaging if I were to do that?  I'd like to avoid switching my preamp and all my gear on and off all the time when I want to switch sources, so if anyone knows if this is ok to do I'd really appreciate it, thanks. 

[denjo]

Although not recommended, I do that most of the time with components "on" but with the mute on the pre engaged. I was told that it depends on the nature of the mute and if your pre has a hard mute (whatever that means) it should generally be alright. Having said that, I had the pre on hard mute but while I was swapping the source cables I accidentally disengaged mute! You can imagine what followed .... Luckily, the speakers did not blow!

Consequently, the best advice would be to turn off the power amplifier and let the capacitors drain completely before swapping source cables. That little extra time can save a lot of $$$. Alternatively, get another pair of ICs unless the pair you have happens to be the Stealth Indra! 

Good luck!

Dennis

[jt1stcav]

Just buy more interconnects to match what you've got...problem solved (unless I'm missing the obvious).

[IronLion]

Yeah- I've considered that, but- I just don't want to spend $300+ on another pair of IC's.  Also, I've got one more source than I have inputs on my pre, so there will be some cable swapping going on regardless...

Just buy more interconnects to match what you've got...problem solved (unless I'm missing the obvious).