Hooking up 2 amps to one set of speakers

Yes, a switch is non-directional, at least for those of us who believe that things like fuses are non-directional :)

"One that just does A or B" refers to what is called a "break before make" switch, which is definitely the kind to get (as opposed to a "make before break" switch, which would momentarily establish a connection to both amps as it was being switched).

If you use a switching arrangement, it would be good practice to be sure to have the unused amp turned off at all times. Tube amps generally cannot be safely operated without a speaker load; most solid state amps I believe can handle no-load operation ok, but there is no point to taking any chances.

Also, keep in mind that a switch can probably be expected to have sonic effects comparable to or greater than the differences between speaker cables, if you are one of those to whom that may be significant.

Regards,
-- Al

I am glad I asked. It seems pretty clear that this option is completely out of the question. Thanks for your responses.

A (potentially effective, if not very creative or elegant) solution for your
problem, provided the speaker terminations are readily accessible.:

Use 2 amps as you suggest, but simply lay the terminated end of the speaker
cable from the "inactive" amp (that which is is not in use) on the
floor behind the base of the speaker. To switch amps, disconnect and drop
the active cable, replace with the other cable. This is a 30 second process. I
do it all the time.

Good Luck

Marty

I AGREE WITH MARTYKL,,,100%.

HAVE FUN.

PESCOLAR

I agree with Martykl as well. I was hoping to not have to swap cables, but outside of an amp with HT Bypass, this is the only option outside of adding a switch. I am not willing to accept the sonic trade off adding one.

thanks again.