Running 2 amps (not at the same time) via switch box?

[Dr.Jones]

Is it possible to do something like this?

1 input (from DAC)
2 amps
1 set of speakers

So you can switch between the 2 amps without having to unplug everything and plug into the other.
eg valve amp for some occasions, SS for others?

Cheers

[Cable Monkey]

Yes, but you have to do the switching with everything switched off. Beresford Audio Router for the amp outputs in to your speakers, QED switch box for the DAC to inputs.

[Dr.Jones]

I only want to use 2 different amps into 1 set of speakers (SS some days, valves others) so i think the beresford box will do - thankyou!

[Sprockens]

Valve amps for winter, SS for summer?

[keiron99]

I have been looking into this as I want to have an AV receiver and stereo amp in the same system.

I have discovered that Niles (who I am familiar with from the days when I was into home automation and make excellent kit) make a range of devices to allow this. Google for something like Niles SAS.

[michaelb]

I use the Beresford switch to switch my main speakers between my valve amp and the AV Receiver.

It works really well; has allowed me to remove one pair of boxes from the room (the AV fronts) and means the AV Receiver plays through better speakers.

The downside - with a valve amp in this configuration - is you have to be very careful to have the speakers switched in BEFORE you turn the amp on. Valve amps don't like operating with a load, it harms them.

[stewartwen]

I think you mean that a valve amplifier requires a load!

[DMA]

Hasn't anyone designed a box that supplies a dummy load to the amp that's been switched out of the signal path? Seems an obvious thing to want to do. Would be awfully handy for A/B tests in selecting equipment.

[stewartwen]

Very good suggestion Simon. rep added.
S

[DMA]

Hasn't anyone designed a box that supplies a dummy load to the amp that's been switched out of the signal path? Seems an obvious thing to want to do. Would be awfully handy for A/B tests in selecting equipment.

Maybe they have ... http://www.palmergear.com/pga02.shtml

Not exactly HiFi, I know.

[nick dartmoor]

Good thread - I've been wondering about this for a while. I have a second pair of speakers by the same manufacturer as those in my main system, and have mused over the idea of an optional surround set-up, but I don't want to ditch the amplification currently in the main system to achieve it.

[keiron99]

I found this old thread here relating to a Beresford switch.

http://www.hifiwigwam.com/showthread...0-Audio-Router

If only there was a remote controlled version.

Then there is this here, but crumby connectors on it:

http://www.sonance.com/products/accessories/detail/24