Using a receiver just for a source switcher

[Kruz]

I found a good deal on a denon x4000 so now I will have a lower end pioneer receiver to use in my man cave. The man cave is also wired for external speakers but I don't have the funds this year for that.

I was wondering though if I could use the receiver to switch between my cable box and my xbox 360 in the mean time and use the tv speakers for sound. I have a hdmi running through the wall between my tv stand and my wall mounted tv and have had to switch the cable manually between the cable box and xbox in the past.

Is there any issues doing this?

 

[rojo]

If the Pioneer receiver has the appropriate inputs and outputs, I don't see why not. Using a receiver as a pre-amp is a pretty common thing. We can answer with a little more certainty if you tell us what model Pioneer you've got.

 

[Adam]

If your Pioneer supports HDMI and can output audio through the HDMI output, then you're set.

For a smaller option, you could look at getting an HDMI switch box. I got one of these (about $20) and it works great for me.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

what rojo said, but I highly doubt that lower series Pio would have full pre-outs

 

[rojo]

 

[Kruz]

It is the VSX-523-K. The reason I ask is I remember somewhere reading it is a bad idea to run a receiver with no speakers plugged into it. I could be mistaken though.

I would connect the cable box and xbox to the receiver and then the hdmi out to the tv.

 

[slipperybidness]

It is the VSX-523-K. The reason I ask is I remember somewhere reading it is a bad idea to run a receiver with no speakers plugged into it. I could be mistaken though.

I would connect the cable box and xbox to the receiver and then the hdmi out to the tv.

Running a tube amp without a load (ie speakers) is usually very bad. SS on the other hand is usually not a problem. Some receivers also have the option to shut off only the internal amps.

 

[Kruz]

Thanks. Sounds like I will be good to go.

 

[Adam]

The button on the front panel that says "Speakers" turns the internal amps on and off.

Did you look at the switch that I linked to? Much smaller...but no remote control.