Connecting an AV Receiver to an Amplifier
Home theater enthusiasts looking to enhance their audio experience often go beyond the basic setup of an AV receiver by adding an external amplifier. This guide will walk you through the process of connecting an AV receiver to an amplifier, detailing the different methods and considerations involved.
Understanding AV Receivers and Their Capabilities
Modern AV receivers typically feature multiple zones, allowing you to pull audio to different areas in your home while still maintaining control over volume independently. However, if you want to connect an additional amplifier, you will need to use the preamp and/or power amp outputs from your AV receiver.
Most AV receivers come with a built-in amplifier, but some high-end models are standalone and lack this feature. In these cases, you will need to ensure that your AV receiver has a line out, which is typically accomplished through RCA preamplifier outputs. If the receiver lacks these outputs, you may need to seek alternative methods or upgrade your receiver.
Connecting the AV Receiver to the Amplifier
The process of connecting an AV receiver to an amplifier mainly involves plugging one end of a cable into the audio output socket of the receiver and the other end into the amplifier's audio input socket. However, the exact method can vary depending on the model of your AV receiver.
If your AV receiver has pre-amp RCA outs, you can connect these directly to the amplifier. This will allow you to fully utilize the amplifier's capabilities and maintain control over volume. RCA style preamplifier outputs are typically used for each channel, allowing you to send the signal for each channel to the amplifier.
For older, high-quality stereo receivers, you may have two sets of RCA jacks with a jumper between them. This jumper connects the preamplifier stage of the receiver to the internal amplifiers. To remove this restriction, you can remove the jumpers and send the pre-out signal to your amplifier. However, it is recommended to initially test the amplifier at a very low volume to ensure voltage compatibility and avoid damaging the equipment.
Assessing the Situation and Choosing the Best Method
Before attempting to connect an external amplifier, it is crucial to understand the capabilities of your AV receiver. If your receiver already has an amplifier built in, you may not need to go through the extra steps of connecting an additional amplifier. This built-in amplifier is usually sufficient for most home theater setups and can provide high-quality sound without the complexity of additional components.
However, if you have upgraded your system and require more powerful amplification, or if you want to explore a multi-zone setup, connecting an external amplifier can be a worthwhile investment. Ensure that the preamp and/or poweramp outputs are compatible with your amplifier and that the connections are made with the correct cables. Taking the time to do this properly can significantly enhance the overall audio experience in your home theater or audio setup.
Conclusion
Connecting an AV receiver to an amplifier is a straightforward process that can greatly increase the performance of your audio setup. By understanding your AV receiver's capabilities and taking the appropriate steps, you can achieve the best results from both your receiver and your amplifier.