How to Add an Amplifier to Your AV Receiver - Home Theater Basics

[@airsupremacy6137]

Guess I’m buying an amplifier after seeing how easy this was Thank You

[@Youthman]

Checkout Buckeye Amps - bit.ly/buckeyeamp

[@SirRandolphB]

Richmond VA here. Thanks for the thorough yet concise video. I’ve got 7 hefty KEF speakers connected to a Marantz AVR for almost 5 years now, and I always felt like they don’t play to the best of their ability. I’ve considered adding an amp for the longest, but never have. Thanks for making it clear!

[@Youthman]

KEF speakers are not very efficient so adding a separate amp will allow them to reach their full potential.

[@voiceofreason9238]

Excellent and clear explanation. After you've connected to the external amp the first time it's very simple. But if you've never done it before it's a bit scary. What confused me the first time was only using one RCA cable to go from the AVR pre-amp OUT to the external amplifier line IN. One cable translates into Left/Right speaker wires on the amp. And there's nothing else to do, the AVR switches it over automatically. I use the pre-outs for L/C/R and as Michael discussed, use the AVR internal amps for surrounds, heights etc. My Denon 6700 does a good job of powering horn driven speakers even without the external amp but adding the amp, 200 wpc in my case, I have a lot of dynamic headroom when playing LOUD. The sound is full and effortless. I use a 1 meter long cable for flexibility in placement because I have my amp separated a bit from the AVR.

[@C2daF]

Thanks for the explanation (from you and the original post). The AVR I have does have the pre-out because I knew at some point I would want to use an additional amp but was trying to wrap my head around that connection.

[@uceddiemo]

Love you going back to the Basics on setting up a external Amplifier

[@Youthman]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it

[@biged2193]

This is literally the best basic home theater video out there. Please do more of these very basic videos. Well done.

[@Youthman]

Thank you, kindly glad you enjoyed the video. Definitely more in the works in the future.

[@cliffjohn3612]

Watching from Nairobi, Kenya. Great video YouthMan. We'll get there. Thank you.

[@Youthman]

Thanks for watching!

[@musamutetwi1948]

vp, also big in HT in Nrb. looking for a community. we can organize a showdown

[@philbertranji4636]

@@cliffjohn3612 What’s up brother. I’m watching from Nairobi too. The community is small here so I’m always happy to hear a fellow hobbyist. What system you running at the moment?

[@masterdan804]

Excellent! I'm getting the same OSD 7 channel Amp today and this video helps a lot. Thank you!!

[@Youthman]

Glad to hear it!

[@D3C4P]

I sure wish I had seen this back when I was first starting out. This is a great explanation\demonstration.

[@Youthman]

Me too! 😀

[@srt10h4rml3ss]

Excellent as usual Youthman :) Always clear and concise, very well delivered 👍👍

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly.

[@tylerfox4746]

Love watching your videos. I like that you used the Denon 4800 (im using the same receiver) as an example instead of a more expensive receiver, especially because in order to use all 11 channels, you'll need an amp. The amp assign and being able to make this amp a preamp is incredible especially if you want to buy amps as you go. You can assign as many channels as a preamp as you want. I currently have 2 4 channel emotiva basx amps for surrounds and heights and a basx 3 for the fronts. All came with the triggers as well, which was very nice. They definitely helped in clarity. I have definitely appreciated all your videos and advice, especially the advice to look for the deals or discounts. Havent paid full price for any of equipment. Glad to see you back making videos like this again. Whole reason my setup is the way it is today.

[@Youthman]

Thank you for the kind words and for the continued support. It’s good to be back!

[@davidkosta7245]

Hi Mr youthman, i love ur vdos so simple and diplomatic. im from INDIA 🇮🇳 dont stop it we are here 😊

[@Youthman]

Thank you

[@Jedi_Order81]

Thank you for the video. I'm thinking it's time I save up and try adding an amplifier to my AVR/home theatre

[@norbac]

Great video! It dispelled a lot of doubts I had about this topic. Thank you so much for posting!

[@chemicallust77]

I thought you did one of these videos a few years ago...might be mistaken, but it's nice to see an up to date one with how frequently audio/video changes...I bought some RCA to XLR cables (Monoprice) to run from receiver to amps and it made a surprising improvement...definitely won't go back to regular RCA cables

[@frankfarago2825]

And then, if you also add a DI = Digital Injection Box into the line, you would enter your external amps or pwoered speakers, active studio monitors with a balanced signal. With an RCA to XLR conversion cable, what you would have on the XLR end of the cable audio signal that is still unbalanced, so subject to a lot of interference of all sorts.

[@adamcwatts]

Super informative, great resource!

[@hyg71886]

Omg this is very helpful as I’m planning a dedicated theater thanks so much!

[@Youthman]

I’m glad you found the video helpful. Lots more on the channel for you to enjoy.

[@housbinpharteen7445]

AVR companies should be transparent in their power output .. example .. if a receiver say is a 5.1 channel receiver ... it should read 2ch @ 125w - 3 ch @120w - 4ch @110w - 5ch @100w per channel .. that is a true way of presenting power, not 125w per channel .. only

[@edithboozy1000]

@housbinpharteen7445 Yes except that 5 channel would be a lot less than that these days.

[@Youthman]

If you look at Marantz website it shows 125 watts with 2ch driven. They guarantee 70% of that power at 5ch drive :

[@elpecemusiq]

@housbinpharteen7445 I actually feel a bit betrayed because I just upgraded my amplifier for more power (and of course, Dolby Atmos feature).

[@fonkenful]

A lot of factors in the calculus of how much power you actually need per channel, but yeah, the power supply’s current capability can quickly become a major choke point - generally more so in lower level AVRs, but potentially even so in budget multichannel amps.

[@marklloyd4153]

Wow . I never had a device like that . I’m definitely going to try this . I didn’t know it was that ez. Can you do more videos like this ? 👍❤️

[@welderfixer]

Another grand "how to" video from our friend YouthMan. Thank you Sir. If an AVR owner is a bit "tech savvy" an his/her AVR does not have "pre-outs" there is a couple of speaker level to line level(RCA jack) converters available from stores like Crutchfield. It is, of course, not the best option, but does the job on a budget.

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly. It’s good to know. There’s other options for those that don’t have pre-outs.

[@Sarathkv93]

@@Youthman Hi, What other options do we have other than speaker level to line level?

[@unies176]

I love how you explain things without rushing you definitely had me hooked on this upload from a subscriber 😎

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly. Im editing a video for today discussing Small vs Large settings in your AVR

[@unies176]

@@Youthmanin my current setup I'm using the sony pascal 5.1 sattelite speaker's with sony active subwoofer ve835ed set on small speaker over large on my yamaha rx v581, definatley looking forward to that and your views and advice..

[@garryhammond3117]

Well explained Michael! - Cheers!

[@CRTECHPE1]

Thanks, very good!

[@filippolettorno]

Wow thank you ! I lean something this moring. I always thought that pre amplification was only use for a turn table. This knowlage will be useful for me because i have a 9.1 denon AV reciver and i have a lot a big speakers to power.

[@Youthman]

Happy to hear that.

[@HomeCinemaEnthusiast]

Great video very informative

[@rosebudd007]

Great video. Where is that Pre out Rca cable from? Thanks.

[@joshuarozario5654]

Very insightful!

[@bbqjones]

Thanks! I need this. I really never knew how this worked exactly. Especially the triggers.

[@Youthman]

Glad the video was helpful.

[@scottcurl8824]

Great channel, Can I connect an external Emotiva BasX A3 amp (for front, left and center speaker) to a Denon X1800H? It has pre out but not sure about the L/C/R. I want to drive my surrounds only from the Denon. Thx for your thoughts

[@jamesjeffley4926]

Great info and presentation! Very helpful.

[@Youthman]

Thank you James.

[@markmjames66mj]

Thanks for the tutorial 👍🏾

[@Youthman]

Glad you enjoyed it Mark

[@titan2793]

This video was awesome. thanks for sharing. keep up the good work.

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly

[@JasonSmith-vo1yf]

Great informative video.

[@norbac]

Sorry, one more question, how would you connect an AVR to an amplifier when you have bi-amped speakers hooked up to the AVR? Thanks!

[@Chris-hr2uj]

Youthman, always love your videos. And the back of an AVR / an amp really is a beautiful thing. I had heard that for better/ even heat distribution on a multi-channel amp, connect the front left and right speakers to opposite ends of the amp, with the center speaker at the center of the amp since LCR generate most heat. I suppose it makes the amp last longer (as opposed to LCR concentrated at one side of AVR).

[@Youthman]

I’ve hooked my amps up for decades like I did in the video with no issues.

[@Chris-hr2uj]

@@Youthman ah ok. i guess ive noticed that my amps also dont generate significant heat now that i think about it!

[@venkatvpv3673]

Watching from india 🎉🎉🎉

[@ciprianungureanu3013]

Hi, a crazy question 😅 Can be used all Pre out channels connected with amplifier and all powered channels of avr at the same time ?

[@zombear13]

Great video. Thanks a lot - now you’ve got me thinking about adding an amp. So long, wallet! 😂

[@markcapel688]

Ok. This is a video I have been looking for. I am a newbie. Let's see if it answers all my question as a newbie.

[@Youthman]

I would love your feedback on the video. Let me know if it covered all of the basics for you.

[@trauma50disaster1]

@@Youthman I thought it was good, you explained a lot of details a newbie would need. I'm not much further than a newbie since I'm so dense but when I was new this probably would have been over my head but it would be required learning that I needed to hear even if I didn't understand it all until I got some more experience and became familiar with the hobby. As a little bit experienced person now I found it a good explanation. Thanks

[@awesome6416]

​@Youthman Hey youthman... the same newbie... praying I get an answer. Omg you covered the mono and stereo cable for 12V. Question. If using the 12V trigger... do you still have to plug in the ac connection for the OSD?MarkCapel

[@Youthman]

That is a great question. Yes you will need the AC because the electricity from your wall outlet is what actually powers the amplifier. In the US, that’s 120 volts. A 12v trigger is just that. It’s a “trigger” to tell the amp to turn on or off.

[@joshesbmc]

Great Video! Thanks! You definitely picked up a new subscriber today. I told my buddy about you, too. I am looking forward to watching more of your content. Also, I have an option to turn off power to different channels on my onkyo rz920. I'm assuming that I can leave that feature on. I hope to get a response before I hook it up to my new emotiva amp.😮

[@Youthman]

Thanks for the kind words Josh and welcome to the Obsessed Home Theater community. It’s been quite a few years since I’ve had an experience with Onkyo. It sounds like they have something similar to Marantz, where you can put the AVR in preamp mode and shut down the internal amplification. If you’re not using those channels, it certainly would not hurt to turn those off inside the AVR. It would just allow the unit to run cooler since it’s not having to utilize the internal amplification.

[@David-qz3vp]

Great video, as always 👍 God bless. ✌️

[@Youthman]

Thank you kindly David.

[@fhood2011]

That was really helpful man ! Does using an Amplifier affect the audio delay in any shape or form ?

[@Adrian-S1]

Thank you for all the clear information. Looking to buy my first receiver and I find it disappointing and disgusting that in such a huge box is not enough power that you will need an external amp 😢. I swear technology goes backwards. Does the sound stay as clear when you put it through an external amp?

[@Youthman]

You typically don’t need an amplifier. But there often are benefits when adding one.

[@mattmos]

Thanks for the vídeo My friend, greetings!!!😎👍

[@jorenvaneverdingen4046]

Hi , I'm curious what happens in this setup if you change the volume. Do you need to change the volume on both devices or when you change the volume in the avr does the amp also change its volume accordingly to the avr?

[@frankfarago2825]

Good question but sadly, no answer. Also, I would not use the 12 Volt trigger cable in a daisy chain. If yo do not, you can turn on only that 2-channelk power amp that you need. For exmaple, I can just listen to front-left and front-right speakers for videos such as this one. Then for music, I can turn on 2 power amps for a Quadraphonic surround. Or turn on all of them for 5.1 surround and above. Of course, I have all equpment at arm's reach on a table where I sit. Can turn on and off and control everything with my right arm or left arm, and the networked gear conencted via RJ-45 Ethernet can also be controlled graphically on the GUI using an LCD touchscreen.

[@EtonieE25]

@@frankfarago2825Thanks Frank some good points there man 🤔

[@jgp5775]

Loved the video .thanks. Does the external amp have to be more wattage power than the avr for this to make sense or make an audible difference ?

[@Youthman]

Amplifiers typically will not make a night and day difference unless your speakers are really inefficient (low sensitivity rating). The more speakers you add to your AVR, the less wattage each speakers receive.

[@toekkababy5329]

Yes

[@dwoodpace]

Great video @youthman! Any word on OSD's new 7 channel and 11 channel amp? I already own a 5200.

[@empin9553]

very informative,thanks👍👏👏

[@countsvalable]

Thank you for sharing I bought that denon av .I appreciate you sharing

[@cookingwithsanjay]

Great video. I'd love to hear a side by side comparison demo of music or movie using the extra amp vs non amped setup.

[@trauma50disaster1]

he once did a video and said somthing to the effect that lots of things should come before amps. Meaning you will hear better speakers right away but adding more power is not that noticiable, especially for less experienced hobbyists. I've started to try some amps and I agree.

[@Youthman]

Trauma is correct, if you watch this video, I share near the end of the video in my opinion, adding an amplifier is one of the last things needed in most systems unless you our powering a lot of speakers with inefficient speakers in a large room at high volume on a single AVR. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rH3RoXRvbNZkpZosi=VzLUjoIwcFMc-RN4

[@mikevoll8328]

Can another AVR be used as the external amplifier?

[@satishruthalla]

Great information ,where did you get the RCA cables set

[@Youthman]

Emotiva sent them to me many years ago. Unfortunately, they stopped selling them. I like the "grouping" of the cables, but the ends are not that great.

[@carlosolivia2044]

Hi Michael - i have this same AVR - can you talk a little about the settings particularly the audio - it does not show "Small/Large" on the speakers in the manual setting.

[@Youthman]

Great question. I’m editing that video as we speak.

[@canaus2016]

Glad i seen this, was looking at the sony an1000 for a future set up.. turns out it doesn't have pre outs like this, so wont be getting that i guess lol..

[@ed5779]

Hi. I have been trying to learn or find out how to connect two or three AVR's together. I'm trying to experiment with a first and second and perhaps a third stage system? Lastly can I use HDMI and Optic at the same time?

[@Youthman]

Unfortunately, that’s something that I have never attempted myself. I know it can be done, but there are definitely some challenges because now you have two volume control controls that you are working with.

[@Jeff.Slavich]

Extremely helpful (new sub)! I have an old home theater system with a Denon AVR-587 and Bose Acustimass 6 iii tws speakers. I’ve never felt that the system was all that great a now after watching this I’m wondering if power is the issue, or do I just need to start over. If starting over and replacement is the issue, so be it. Question: Do you think that incorporating an amp would help/solve the problem? If not, which replacement should I start with (AVR/Speakers)? Thanks for any comments or help. It’s much appreciated and I’ll start looking at the rest of the series to be better educated on next purchases.

[@Youthman]

Hey Jeff, welcome to the channel! I’m excited for your journey, brother. I used to sell the Bose acoustic mass system back in the day when I worked at circuit city. My honest opinion would be your speakers or your weak link. In the 90s, Bose did an incredible job marketing to the masses, causing them to believe they were the end all be all speaker system. Unfortunately, that was nowhere near the case. There are many reasons why they don’t sound that great. Take a look at my home theater basics playlist on KZbin. I also have some videos from that series here. obsessedhometheater.com/pages/video-guides

[@Youthman]

Also, this video should provide inspiration as it shares my journey over the past 14 years kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZ3TYqJ-gZuAsKcsi=-shsU8Las2KWQBLh

[@Jeff.Slavich]

@@Youthman Thanks for the response, and even more the prompt response. I just started watching the series today and looking forward to the education. So if I were to do this in two steps, you’d recommend replacing the speakers first and then the AVR? Circuit City, a blast from the past. I spent many a dollar there. I nice in the Philly area and we used to drive to Delaware for our larger purchases (no sales tax). I’m cheap when it comes to that kind of thing. Haha

[@Youthman]

Yes, I would recommend upgrading your speakers first because those don’t change. You can keep them for decades. Electronics change sometimes every year so I usually recommend purchasing those items last.

[@Mr_D555]

I have a Denon AVR-X6500H running a 7.2.2 system. Would the Sub Woofers (Klipsch R-115SW) and Atmos (Klipsch CD-5800-Cii) need to be Amp'ed as well???

[@chuckz28]

Thank you so much for this! I had no understanding as I am new to AV while preparing for a home theater build. This answered all of my questions.

[@Youthman]

That’s great to hear!

[@roco9504]

Weight doesn’t always mean much. I know you spoke with buckeye before & their 8ch amp is nearly 1/2 the weight of the denon AVR 😁 but as the title says, it’s the basics & in general heavier is better. God bless thank you for the videos! I never knew about the trigger stuff & needing the 1 black line. Duly noted if I go separates

[@Youthman]

You are correct, weight does not apply to Class D amps. Some of the Buckeye Amps would easily outperform the OSD amp. Truthfully, I'm not 100% sure if you can only use a mono trigger, I just know they typically come with a mono cable.

[@TheOneMonk]

This is a great explanation. And this is definitely needed if you want to add more speakers than your AV Receiver can power. But in case you want/need to buy a new AV Receiver: Wouldn’t it make more sense to get a more powerful AV Receiver than normally needed and use the additional headroom to power your speakers adequately? Costwise probably this would be the same, if not cheaper, and you‘d save the space in the rack, the hassle with the setup, the new EQ measurements you need to do etc.. ?

[@Youthman]

Every situation is different. Most AVR’s cannot provide the same amount of power that a dedicated amplifier can.

[@michaelslocumbsr.2286]

So I have the Denon and have it in Pre-Amp mode... I'm running two 8ch Monolith 8250x Amplifiers...A big difference in putting additional power to the surround speakers.

[@Youthman]

Nice!

[@michaelslocumbsr.2286]

@@Youthman Yes sir! The AV10 will be next...

[@Barleyleg]

How do you like preamp mode on the Denon? I’m trying to decide if a Marantz 7706 is worth the $3200 jump over simply putting my 3800h into preamp mode. Does anyone have any experience with this comparison? Cheers, everyone!

[@Youthman]

I did a comparison between the SR8015 in preamp mode vs the AV7706 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/roqkdKeDapmSocUsi=8gxBGLnwultnNeuN

[@Barleyleg]

@@Youthman Thanks, brother!

[@toystarr7951]

Hello, I have the same setup w/ the exception of the amp, I have the one underneath the one you have. I followed your steps to the tee (which was very easy follow, thank you), however I am getting a buzzing/humming from the speakers. Do I need to do anything in the settings? Or could I just be a wiring issue? Or maybe something else?

[@Professor5180]

If running 11-channels (7.2.4). Is there a huge difference between using a 7-channel amplifier to power the base-layer and the receiver to power the 4 overhead heights vs. Using an 11- channel amplifier to power all channels. Wondering if its worth the investment?

[@Youthman]

I highly doubt you would notice the difference. Your AVR would easily be able to power height speakers.

[@Professor5180]

@@Youthman Thanks Michael! You saved me a ton of money 🙂

[@Youthman]

@Professor5180 you can always add an amplifier down the road if you feel it isn’t enough

[@bobrocco1203]

Hi Michael, I have an Onkyo rz50. I bought an Emotiva bass x 3 channel thinking on powering the front 3 channels, but with the Onkyo, I have to power the back surrounds to get a 7.1.4 setup. Right now, I'm just powering the surround backs. Should I also power the center speaker since I could power one more channel? Thanks again. Great video!

[@Youthman]

It certainly wouldn’t hurt. Just be sure to rerun your calibration or at least level match your speakers with an SPL meter.

[@bobrocco1203]

@@Youthman thank you

[@williamkerr8836]

At what point do you suggest folks look at adding an amplifier? I have a 7.1.2 with a AV receiver that is doing the powering and it seems fine? What am I missing out on? Would this just help if I want higher volumes?

[@KimmoJaskari]

Pre-outs tend to be in the more pricey units only these days. The Marantz Cinema 70s is probably the cheapest new AVR you can get with pre-outs, but only 7 channels. Arguably also if you do know you need a ton of channels and like power amps over AVR's, an Emotiva BasX processor can be had for just over a thousand bucks.

[@Youthman]

There are much cheaper AVR’s with preouts. Check out Onkyo, Pioneer, Yamaha, and Denon. Marantz would be the higher end AVR’s. I’ve owned the UMC-1 and reviewed the RMC-1. Both were extremely buggy. I’m not a fan of Emotiva processors.

[@frankfarago2825]

Good gues -- but a bad one. The price Emotiva jsut gave my for that thing on their own website is this: €1.394,95. Looking at what this thing really is, and the poor conenctions itr has, I would say this BasX box is worth about USD $250 tops.

[@HomeTheaterCommish]

Alright, you have a Denon available. You can try the A1 EVO Calibration script for your audience. A great teaching moment like the above video.

[@marcellcypher]

I only need a pre out for my front right and left speakers they are gonna be a crossover and i need 400w per channel or would 210w be fine. any recommendations on what receiver and amp i need?

[@Rob-sv9uq]

Hi youthman just wondering if you can help me out here I have a Denon 6500 and a Marantz 8077 I m firing a 7.2.4 all speakers are klipsch at 8ohm should I use the Marantz on just the mains or on the mains -centre and front height the Marantz is a 7 channel

[@yvovandoesburg3376]

hello michael very happy you made this video now i understand a bit more about the pre outs. does it also give you a longer life for your avr?

[@Youthman]

Glad you enjoyed the video. It could extend the life since it’s not getting as much wear. Good question

[@eEvangeliste]

Great video… Back to Basics

[@Youthman]

Thanks! With over 1,000 new subscribers each month, there is no doubt many of them are getting into Home Theater for the first time. I want to be a great resource for them as well.

[@tonyrobles9070]

I have a Sherbourn 5/1500 amplifier (200 Watts per Channel) that I tried connecting to my Yamaha RX-V860 to power my two JBL L7 speakers and Klipsch RC-64ll just to see what it would sound like. Once I connected everything using the pre-outs, my Yamaha went into protection mode so I have to take it for repair. I tried a couple methods (that I found on KZbin) to get it off protection mode but none worked. So now I have a Denon x8500h and I'm 100% afraid of connecting it to the Sherbourn because I don't want to have the x8500h go into protection mode too. Would you happen to know what causes a receiver to go into protection mode? The Sherbourn is definitely working so I don't think that's the problem. Thanks for your time always Michael! I really appreciate it and appreciate your hard work for the community! 👍 😊 By the way, is your daughter still playing on a Pool/Billiards team? We spoke about it a while back. I'm a professional pool player/Instructor and you and your family are welcome anytime for a lesson if you're ever in the South Miami area! 👍😊 🎱

[@frankfarago2825]

Tony, I hear you pain. The major problem with this video is, of course, that the poster showing the wire conenction trickery never bothered to turn the units on, never did we hear the system in action at high power levels with all speakers blasting. Also, think about it, if the PRE-OUT RCA conenctions are always active, then technically you can conenct all 11 of those to external power amps, and at the same time connwct 11 speakers directly to the AV receiver as well. That would be not 11, but 22 speakers running concurrently! How would that plan out, you think, when it comes to the dreaded "protection & self-preservation mode" of the AV receiver/amplifier combo?

[@claudiofrancisco9278]

Great video

[@bulcub]

for the balance xlr connections, could I attach 2 separate subwoofers? (monolith M-12's)

[@angeltomascrespomartinez6235]

Is it necessary to do a new calibration when you connect new external amplifiers?

[@Youthman]

Great question. I tend to run it just because the trim levels may be off. I would imagine you could also just use an SPL meter to make sure your levels are balanced without having to do a full recalibration.

[@HomeTheaterCommish]

You should. You output will be different. Doesn't hurt.

[@psyphonyxaudio]

I would say yes ... if you change anything in the room or system. All the factors can make changes in the sound.. so even if you move a chair or carpet.. new cables or amps. Always run calibration again to maximize your system with the new factors.

[@PauloSprezz]

I am debating adding something like this to my Denon 3700x and my Klipsch setup mainly RP600m. I use a lot of Stereo speakers only, with Sub sometimes. Would I see a big difference? I don't play at high volumes enough for me to hear distortion but I do feel it with some tracks at 0db from time to time. Not often, but it happens.

[@bingobaz6402]

Pretty good video. Couple of questions though. 1. Does this mean you got 2 separate volume controls or does the volume adjust on the amplifier when you adjust the volume on the avr? 2. Say you connect the front left and right cables to the amplifier from the pre outs on your avr. Does this mean this will cancel out the left and right speaker outputs on your actual AVR? Or can you use both front left and right speaker outputs on the avr as well as the speaker outs on the amplifier from the pre outs? Like 2 sets of front left and rights? 3. If i connect up to an amplifier using pre outs, will my auto speaker calibration on my avr just work the same? Thanks for vid and please let me know as i really want to know.

[@Youthman]

1. No, amplifiers typically do not have a volume adjustment. 2. No, AVR preouts are always on unless you are able to disable them within the setup menu. I would not recommend duplicating speakers as there is no sonic benefit and can cause issues. 3. Yea auto calibration works the same with or without external amplification

[@CSOCSO]

Can you bi amp using the amp for the lows and the original receiver for the highs? Sounds like offloading front speakers and center would leave the received a lot of headroom just to power the surround speakers.

[@hectorortega9131]

But will the rexeiver volume controls the receiver sourround channels and the out put rcas simultaneously?

[@Youthman]

Yes, the preouts on the AVR are controlled by the volume on the AVR. Amplifiers typically do not have volume knobs and only a few have gain adjustments but that’s different.

[@vinayaraj1478]

Hello Sir Can I use a power amp only for front speaker A+ B on a MARANTZ receiver? I tried the way you explained Pre-out power is always there, but it did not work. I would appreciate your answer.

[@jamiemesser1990]

Excellent video! I'm happy I found your channel. Great quality and information

[@Youthman]

Thank you for the kind words Jaime. Welcome to the Obsessed Home Theater community!

[@naveenkumaralex]

Hi Youthman, does the trigger cable has to be only mono cable or stereo is fine? would be any risky that could cause a short?

[@Youthman]

My assumption is it wouldn’t harm it, I just don’t know if it would work so I asked ChatGPT. “Using a stereo 3.5mm cable in place of a mono 3.5mm cable for the 12v trigger on an AVR and amplifier generally won’t cause harm or a short. However, it’s not recommended because the stereo cable has an extra ring for a second signal that isn’t needed for the 12v trigger system. The mono cable has two contacts: one for the positive (tip) and one for the ground (sleeve). A stereo cable, on the other hand, has three contacts: tip, ring, and sleeve. Since the AVR and amplifier expect only two connections, using a stereo cable might lead to unreliable behavior or improper signal transmission, though it typically wouldn’t result in damage. To avoid any issues, it’s best to stick with a mono 3.5mm cable as specified.” I’m not sure how accurate this is but it might be helpful.

[@flyingjeff1984]

I tried this with Anthem AVR90. Unreal hum.

[@anuragsomayagi5362]

Sir. Can we use speaker out and preout using external amp simultaneously

[@Youthman]

Yes, but I would not recommend duplicating channels. You will run into issues.

[@trauma50disaster1]

@@Youthman from the standpoint of not duplicating channels but is the avr power working harder sending a signal to both preout and speaker?

[@frankfarago2825]

Beforew you can do that, your AV receiver will got into PRTECTION MODE, and then you have to mail it in to factory service for resetting. So, an AV received is easy to "brick" that way.

[@juanpablodiaz5392]

Hello Youthman, I need those RCA cables for my power amplifier, where can I get them? Greetings from Argentina!!

[@Youthman]

Unfortunately Emotiva no longer makes them

[@trevormckinson4491]

thank you YouthMan

[@TonyZ1717]

Hey Michael - if using the AVR with a 3 channel amp does that mean the AVR is providing more power to the other surrounds ?

[@Youthman]

That is correct. The more you can offload to an external amp, the more power the AVR can deliver to the channels it’s internally driving.

[@TonyZ1717]

@@Youthman Great thank you.

[@trauma50disaster1]

@@Youthman is that the case if you can't turn off those channels? On some avr's you dont get a choice like on the denon 3800 to choose amp channel off/speaker wire/preout.

[@Youthman]

Yes, even if you cannot physically turn those channels off and disconnect them within the receiver, the less channels you have connected, the more power you can deliver to the channels that are connected. That’s why most brands only share two channel ratings because it’s not very impressive when you say you can only deliver 55 W to 9 or 11 speakers.

[@TonyZ1717]

@@Youthman Got it. That makes sense.

[@tomconnell7154]

Sir, if you could choose or had to choose between a Sony STR-AZ5000ES or a Denon AVR-X4800H.... Which one would you go with?

[@Youthman]

My preference would be Denon. I’ve never been a fan of Sony AVR’s

[@solera2008]

Great video as always. Those are good deals right now. How do they compare to the Emotiva Amps? They are pretty comparable in price. What about quality and power?

[@Youthman]

It’s hard to say without having measuring equipment. All we can go by is the specs on their website.

[@schemkesa]

It's pretty easy stuff. Connect the pre-outs to the amps. Connect the speakers to the amps. It's really worth it because receivers just don't have enough headroom (powersupply) to power all speakers and certainly not enough for the LCR. I suggest at least the main speakers left and right

[@Youthman]

It really depends on what AVR, how many speakers, how large your room is and the sensitivity of your speakers.

[@frankfarago2825]

You want to use BALANCED (SYMMETRICAL) SIGNAL to enter any amplifier. To get that, you need to convert your unbalanced OUT from the AV receiver to a balanced OUT that would go into the pwoer amps or active speaker, minitors using a simple DI DIGITAL INJECTION BOX. Some of these DI boxes come in 8-channel configuration in a 1RU rack size. Well worth using them.

[@desiman0786]

Do we need to change any settings in the Receiver menu .?

[@Youthman]

Typically you don’t have to change any settings in your AVR. They’re always on.

[@desiman0786]

@@Youthman Thank you Sir 👍

[@Kpaceguy]

@@desiman0786 I want to add to this. Even though the pre-outs are always on, you may have to go into your settings and "amp assign", meaning telling your receiver or pre-processor how many speakers you're using. Maybe your receiver had 7 channels of processing available but only 5 channels are available without external amplification, and you purchased an amplifier. You need to tell your receiver what speakers are being power with the receiver and what is powered with an external amp. going from 5.1 to 7.1 for example.

[@Youthman]

This is true. Denon and Marantz have Amp Assign, depending what setup you have.

[@desiman0786]

@@Kpaceguy That's very kind of you.. Thanks for sharing that .

[@TheMobilemak]

question, i took your advice and got a marantz av8805 with separate amps, I have two rows seats with side surround speakers on each row.. how do i make both rows speaker have the same output to make it sound better? should i use a rca splitter? or minidsp? what are other solutions?

[@Youthman]

You could split your surrounds with a wire splitter going to separate channels on your amps.

[@stevecampbell7790]

If my AVR by itself can power all the speakers to a volume level I need am I good to go or is it more nuanced than that?

[@philindeblanc]

I need to do somewhat the OPPOSITE of this...I have a newer processor, but I have a old Marantz AVR with a solid 140x7 amp (with 2 external mono amps) I want to power the speakers with this power, but I want the room correction and movie audio processing of the newer Onkyo PR-SC5508 . I have everything disconnected from a rather complex setup, and I am just stuck on what to connect from the Onkyo to the Marantz AVR-Amp. Any help or video links would be greatful! Happy Post Thanksgiving!

[@FatFolksProductions]

Great vid. Would you consider doing a vud on how to connect amps that have gain knobs and give suggestions on how your gains should be set?

[@Youthman]

Unfortunately, I do not have any amps that use gain. Typically you will find those on pro audio amplifiers (QSC, Crown etc).

[@FatFolksProductions]

Some of the Parasound amps have gains. Would love get some thoughts on the correct way to set gains on consumer brands that have those on their products. And btw, it's great to see you getting back to putting out great content.

[@richiebraylin8172]

Good Day Sir. I was wondering if I could run a 5.1.4 set up using pioneers VSX-935 along with an external amp. Thanks in Advance. -Ricky-

[@drifter5436]

I just bought the 5200. I don’t know how hot this amp will get do people use coolers with these

[@saccity1985]

If you have an AVR, say 7 channel but 2 channel driven at 100w RMS, do you just divide 7 by 2 = 3.5, 100w by 3.5 = 28w per speaker?

[@garyausten5939]

I have my X4700H hooked up to a TonewinnerAD-8300PA amp using all the inputs for a 7.2.4 configuration. Can I use my old AVR via a signal splitter so i can bi-amp my front speakers (Klipsch RP600Mii) or would I need to lose my rear heights (technically they're probably too close anyways as I sit against the back wall)? OH, wait...you said the pre-amp is always on...could I just switch out of preamp only and add an extra set of speaker cables from the internal amp to the L/R mains? Would it make much of a difference in the power to the low and high frequency drivers is significantly different?

[@Youthman]

I’ve never heard any difference when biamping speakers.

[@garyausten5939]

@@Youthman I believe I've heard a difference (subtle) when I had my front 2 speakers bi-amped, before I added the rear heights. Probably most noticeable was either when I added the amp - R/C/L have higher power modules than the others - and/or when I changed from skinny braided "Monster"-style speaker wires to a set of 12g cables. hooked up one at a time and listening closely, there was definitely a difference. I dream of someday getting at least one high-end audio component (receiver, speaker pair, etc.). My most recent upgrade was to a 65" LG G4 TV. I like your videos :)

[@trauma50disaster1]

even though he doesn't hear a difference, I would be interested if that setup of sending out power from preout and speaker wire to one speaker is stressing the power supply in a way that is not intended. My guess is the mfr does not want that but I don't know, maybe the "protect" mode would shut it down or the power supply would start over working.

[@mainlymusicman]

i have a bit of a different setup. i have a similar av receiver, although it is very old, and lower end ((bought in ~ 2005) but i only have two speakers, and my external amplifier is an integrated amplifier. currently i go from the L and R preamp out of my receiver to the processor in, or power amp in of my integrated amplifier. but this still uses the preamp of my receiver. i wish there was a way to bypass both the preamp AND power amps of my receiver, since it's a much lower end unit than my integrated amplifier which is much higher end (Plinius 9200) and use the receiver for just the audio decoding and DA converters. that way i would be getting the most from my integrated amp.

[@threepedalrebel1266]

could you do a video hooking up 2 amplifiers to a receiver - such as 2 x 5 channel amplifiers to a 13 channel receiver?

[@Youthman]

Truthfully, there’s not much to the video. The AVR doesn’t even know what’s connected on the other side. It’s sending out a signal for each channel through an RCA output. Each one of those outputs goes into one of the inputs on an amplifier and then speaker cable from that amplifier channel to that speaker. If you needed to use two, 5ch amps, you could connect the front left, Center, Wright, and two surrounds to the first amplifier, and your five heigh channels and voice of Hod to the second amplifier.

[@adamfrbs9259]

Can I ask a dumb question. Seems like price per watt is way cheaper for car audio. What if an electric motor was used to spin a high amp alternator in the house. Run car audio amps that put out 18,000 peak watts and 7,500 rms watts. Have a way louder stereo. Put some plexiglass over the motor and alternator and some lighting like the computer nerds do. Aside from being odd, the payoff for watts per dollar seems worth it. What am i missing?