How to Convert a Tube Preamp for a Home Theater

A tube preamp (a.k.a., preamplifier) is designed to modify aspects of an audio signal, including tone, gain and presence. This modified signal is then sent to an audio amplifier which is connected to audio speakers. Converting the audio signal from a home theater source device, for example, a Blu-ray player, requires that the audio signals to first enter the preamp. The procedure is straightforward and requires audio cables as well as some adjustments to the audio amplifier. The video will not be affected in any manner whatsoever.

• 1

  Connect the red and white RCA plugs at one end of an audio cable to the red and white RCA audio outputs on the back of the Blu-ray. Connect the red and white RCA plugs at the other end of the audio cable into the red and white RCA inputs on the tube preamp.

• 2

  Connect the red and white RCA plugs at one end of an audio cable to the red and white RCA audio outputs on the tube preamp. Connect the red and white RCA plugs at the other end of the audio cable into the "Aux" red and white RCA inputs on the back of the amplifier.

• 3

  Pull the HDMI cable connected to the TV out from the audio amplifier's HDMI input. Reinsert it into the "AUX" HDMI input.

• 4

  Turn the audio amplifier on with its remote. Press the "Menu" button. Select the "System Setup" menu. Go to the "Audio" menu and select "HDMI setup." Uncheck "Automatic" from the choices presented.

• 5

  Back up one screen. Select "Surround" from the list of choices. Select "Prologic IIX" from the list of choices presented. Exit the menu screen. Press "Aux" on the remote to select the audio coming from the tube preamp.