Wattage Distribution using pre-outs

[roscoe1972]

Please clarify....

When using a stereo amp on a multi-channel reciever, does the power for those two channels get redirected to the other un-amped channels?

Does the reciever recognize that an amp is being used? How does that work?

[John K.]

Roscoe, the receiver doesn't "recognize" that a separate amplifier is being used to drive some of the speakers, but since those speakers aren't connected to the output terminals of the receiver, the receiver obviously can't send some of its power to them. The amount of power that the power supply section of the receiver is capable of delivering is then available to the remaining speakers which are connected to the output terminals of the receiver, if they would need the power at a particular moment.