Does there exist a quality switcher (A/B selector) to switch between the output of two amplifiers into a single pair of stereo speakers? See attached image.
I have to imagine, as people would want to test the differences between two amps into a single pair of speakers, a device like this would make sense. This would make switching between the two amps easier, rather than unplugging/plugging speaker wires.
Thoughts?
Yes they exist, the big box brick and mortar stores used to use them to demo gear.
quick 2 s google search
It’s a passive device you you just run it backwards for what you want to do.
The only thing to be aware of is some higher powered Tube amps in particular do not like not having a load connected, and will blow a fuse if you disconnect the speakers while they are turned on.
Your also going to want to turn the volume down before switching, if there is volume mismatch, or a phase difference between the amps there is a good chance you’ll get a loud POP into the speakers when you switch.
Ok then, switch the speaker outputs into amp inputs, and then connect the amp input to the speaker output. Correct?
yes
10 characters
The only thing is, the device linked, seems to only split the signal, therefore having power continuously being delivered to all outputs simultaneously. If wired in reverse, this could run the risk of overloading the speakers if all sources were active at the same time. Curious if there exists a device that would isolate the power, as to only connect one output at a time, preventing a possible overload.
Don’t the buttons on the front select the output?
The device linked says, “Speaker Selector Can Play 4 Sets of Speaker at the Same Time”, which in reverse would mean, multiple amps would be delivering signal to the speakers at the same time.
I just linked the first thing from amazon, I wasn’t suggesting it. I’d do your own research
This one specifies 1 at a time
There are going to be lots of them, I personally prefer rotary switches for input selection.
I wasn’t sure if you could run a switcher in reverse. This was very helpful. Thank you.
If you want a high quality one, I’ve used this one for several years. It’s great and specifically made so you don’t blow up your speakers by sending two signals at once. TC-7220 2-Way Amplifier Speaker Selector Switch Switcher Comparator Crossover Router.
I don’t think all of the ones linked earlier in the thread are specifically for amplifiers. It can be dangerous trying to run those speaker switches in reverse.
How many watts are you putting through this device? I have some amps I’m using at a restaurant that have a rating of 2000w max. I’m running a 70v system. Will this device work?
@Mike_Swanzy I was just using it in my listening space, so probably not huge amounts of power. I don’t know how much it could handle, but it seems to be built pretty sturdy, especially compared to the really cheap switches.
WARNING
Polygonhell has given BAD advice above! The switch he is showing is NOT for switching from one amp to another (using the same speakers)! It is for switching to different speakers using the same amp. If you try to run two amps through that device you will try your electronics.
If the switch is a 2 pole break-before-make style, then it will work fine.
I would not trust Scamazon (or chinese-junk-express) sites for a switch that actually does that though.
Did anyone find a solution? I was wondering if a simple 3 way rocker switch would help in connecting the speaker to multiple amps. I wasn’t sure if 16 gauge wire is applicable to such switches and whether there is any degradation. I have 2 fronts and a center and 2 denon receivers. I was planning to use 3 of these switches. Google search of 2 in 2 out or 1 in 3 out switches or the suggestion earlier, doesn’t work for me.
Something like this - Joinfworld 3 Way Round Rocker Switch 12V, Waterproof 3 Pin 3 Position ON/Off/ON 6A/250V AC 10A/125V DC SPDT Circle Toggle Switch with Wires for Auto Car Marine Boat - 8Pack https://a.co/d/5AoShZB
