Audio Systems: Preamplifier & Integrated Amplifier Connections, rca cables, audio amplification

Question
Hello Cleggsan,

I have Cambridge Audio A300 Amplifier and Harman Kardon PM6665 Integrated Amplifier. I have never used the preamp part the HK and was wondering if the sound quality would improve, but I have a bit of trouble making this cable connection. The HK has a switch in the front for "Integrated" and "Separate".  Here's how I made the cable connection:  From the CD players RCA Right/Left Interconnect I brought this to the HK "Main in".  From the HK "Pre-Amp Out" i connnected another set of RCA cables to the Cambridge "CD in".  The Cambridge already has speaker wires to the speakers.  I set the HK preamp switch to "Separate".  I get a very very faint music from the speakers even with the volume at 12:00 position.  Am I wiring something wrong?  Is the preamp section on the HK bad? (I just had this serviced).   Thanks for you help in advanced!


Answer
The source inputs  (from the cd player, for example) must go to a program input such as aux or tape or cd input.  The selector switch will then select the input you have chosen to use.

The separate outputs from the HK are sent to the inputs on the Cambridge.

So, correct your cd to HK inputs and you should be alright.

BUT: Why do you want to run it through the Cambridge Audio A300?  The audio amplification of the HK is probably as good as the Cambridge, don't you think?  Unless you have some really potent speaker systems you may not hear any audible differences.

Let me know if you need more.

C