Wiring multiple amps to multiple speakers

leftyfarmer

I am trying to figure out if it's possible to wire multiple amps and speakers from 1 preamp, I have not used a component stereo in 15 years, understand
my questions may be basic.

ben62670

What are you trying to achieve?

leftyfarmer

I would like to drive 2 pair of speakers with 2 amps from a 2 channel preamp, same audio source.

OldmanSRS

I assume your preamp has only one set of stereo line level outputs. If so, get a pair of Y-adapters (one for each channel). The Y will drive two stereo amps from one stereo preamp output. You will also need need the straight phono cables used between the Y and the amp, of course.
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2103709&clickid=prod_cs

Greg

ben62670

Have you thought of using a speaker selector switch? That way you only need one amp.

leftyfarmer

I have thought about the speaker slector box, but I am trying to drive both pair at the same time, I can do this with my 5-1 and 7-1 integrated amps, but was trying to do the same with a 2 channel preamp, I have 2 set's of Montor 10's, a set of 7, 5, 4 and RT16. So was hoping to be able drive them in different combos with the more powerful 2 channel amps.

ben62670

If you are planning on running them in the same room you would be better off running just one pair of speakers. The Y splitter will work if you want to run both amps, but they will not have any level control unless your amps have a level control.

gdb

Some Carver pre's have two sets of RCA outs and can drive two amps at one time. If the amps are identical you won't have any problems with different gain levels. A Y connection works too, just not as well as having two sets of outputs. Just be sure to make your connections with everything powered OFF!!:eek::)

leftyfarmer

the amps are the same model Phase Linear 200 Series 2, preamp is Phase Linear 4000, it's all mid to late 70's vintage

gdb

Lots of Carver,Sunfire & Phase Linear technical discussion at the site linked below.;)

http://thecarversite.com/yetanotherforum/default.aspx?

leftyfarmer

Thanks to all, you have been very helpful. I ordered a Niles Audio DPS-1 for the amps and a Monster Cable SS-4 for the speakers, now its wait and see.

OldmanSRS

Never mind.

leftyfarmer

I pulled out my old Marantz 3200 preamp 140 power amp it has the main and remote hookup, wired the RT16 to the main and Monitor 7 to remotes, they kick **** on the Phase Linear setup, those two speakers are really well matched the 7's add the bass, played Tut Taylor, dobro master it was amazing crystal clear.

BuckeyeTim

Sure! I suppose though it would depend on a few things....
Like for one...How many amps are we talking? And, do the amps have enough umph to handle multiple speakers.

The splitter is always an option as already stated..but, such as in my case, it is very easy.

I run twinn mono blocks...meaning a seperate amp for each channel...with a single pre-amp. Out of the pre-amp, one cable feeds each amp. Left and right channels have their own amp. My amps have 2 sets of binding posts (one for each set of speakers) and have enough power to drive 2 sets. It is just a plug and play set up.