Breakout Loops

Let’s have a show of hands. How many of you know what the term “breakout loops” means? Not many? I thought not. Now, for a tougher question. How many of you have actually seen breakout loops?

It’s time for a little soapbox action. Breakout loops are a very cool feature found in a disappointingly small number of A/V Receivers. Essentially, a breakout loop gives you the opportunity to insert a standalone equalizer (or some other device) into the signal path between the preamplifier and amplifier sections of the AVR. You have up to 8 pre-outs and the same number of direct amplifiers inputs on the back panel. They’re typically right next to each other, connected by jumper pins when there’s no device inserted. Without breakout loops, there’s no way to use an external EQ, which is essential for custom-tailoring speakers to the room’s acoustic signature. You may still have the AVR’s automatic EQ system, but who knows how useful (or accurate) that is. No, you really need to be able to supply your own EQ.

If these breakout loop things are so cool, why aren’t they everywhere? Believe it or not, they’re actually quite expensive to build. I’d estimate we’re talking about adding $200 to the MSRP of an AVR. With competition tight and demand low, manufacturers figure it’s just not worth the extra clams to have breakout loops. The only brand I know of that bucks the trend is Marantz – and not even they do it for every model.

If you’re a fan of EQ – and everyone should be – get on the horn with your favorite AVR maker and let them know that there are at least of few of us out here crazy enough to spring for some breakout loops.

Tony Grimani

President & Lead Consultant

Comments

[Richard Guzinya]

I once broke out in loops. My problem was I couldn't figure out the insert cables and whether ring was send or return and which the tip was. My Marantz did not like it when I inserted a ring modulator cranked to 0 dbFS on my insert loop. RG

[Joseph Gaydosh]

I agree with Tony. Without breakout loops on receivers, we are forced to either use external amplifiers or settle for the automatic EQ. A receiver may cost more with breakout loops, but not nearly as much as external amplifiers do.