This may be a crazy idea but how about putting a master volume control and mute circuit on the ICBM? Then it could be used as a minimalist multi-channel analog pre-amp without all the digital domain extras. It wouldn't even really need a remote control. Most high-end stereo pre-amps don't have remotes. In fact, my current pre-amp doesn't have one.

I say this because I have a listening room that will never be used for home theater. I purchased a Pioneer DV-45a and would love to hear the multi-channel audio but can't see buying a pre-pro with all the associated digital baggage that they all have.

Any thoughts on this?

What you're describing is an interesting idea, and very reminiscent of Sony's TA-P9000ES (the six-channel analog switch/bypass box that Sony produced to accompany the TA-E9000ES pre/pro) -- volume control and several 5.1 inputs, one of which bypasses the volume control. Of course, there's no bass management in the Sony.

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gonk -- Saloon Links | Pre/Pro Comparison Chart | 950 Review

Exactly. That's what would make this such a great product. A simple multi-channel analog pre-amp with full bass management. I'd buy one in a heartbeat.

I think this has been brought up before... some even suggested two sets of 5.1 inputs with a triggerable switch, in addition to the volume knob. Certainly sounds useful...

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Matthew J. Hill
matt@idsi.net