Does a "zone out" function as a pre-out? Sony STR-AN1000

[peet_pete]

I do not know much at all about AVR's.
But I was curious if the zone 3 output for this AVR would function as a pre-out? Nothing is labeled as such.
Or is it assuming that zone is in some other room?
I want to use this AVR with another amp (2 channel) with different speakers on that amp instead of the ones on the AVR at least sometimes.
Sony STR-AN1000/TA-AN1000

STR-AN1000/TA-AN1000 | Help Guide | Enjoying sound using another amplifier in Zone 3

here is the guide referencing this,

 

[swechsler]

It looks like not, zone outputs are controlled by a different volume control circuit. You could go through the menus to see if there is a way for it to be controlled by the main volume, but I doubt it.

 

[charles 1973]

Since you can select between fixed and variable outputs, Selecting variable gives you control over the volume, and they assume you're using an amp in zone 3. That pretty much describes a preamp out.

If you use the variable out with an integrated amp, you're adding a second volume control. The additional processing is not ideal, But you will probably never hear the Difference. Use the fixed out if you can.

"Adjust the volume level on the amplifier in Zone 3. If you set [Zone3 Line Out] in [Zone Settings] menu to [Variable], you can also adjust the volume level in Zone 3 using [Zone Controls] - [Zone3] - [Volume] from the home menu."

 

[peet_pete]

So it sounds like it would work fine if I just used a power amp with no volume control if I chose variable.
Ok, that helps clarify. I thought it might, wasn't sure. thanks I'm considering going AVR for 2-channel for now.
This seems to have enough power for my old speakers that are 90db and then later I can add an amp for my Magnepans.

edit
Well, now not so sure. It seems there are limits on what can be played in zones.
I just don't want both Main and zone playing at the same time, which might be what is happening if choosing anything on main as source?

STR-AN1000/TA-AN1000 | Help Guide | Available input sources for each zone

This is older model for zone 2 but it can only use analog source or otherwise I think if you choose same source on main, both systems are playing the same thing and the assumption would be the other system is another location. If I wanted Blu-Ray or CD through HDMI I think both would play since it says you have to choose in main. So not quite a pre-out I guess.

https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/articles/00051737

Article on pre-outs

Integrating Pre-outs and External Amplifiers with Your AV Receiver

Unlock the hidden potential of your AV receiver with pre-outs. Learn how to connect external amplifiers for an immersive audio experience.

www.halooffliesrecords.com

Anyway, a bit disappointing because that Sony AVR does DSD through HDMI. Nothing else I found lists that.

Maybe I'm wrong on that. Article found on zones.

What Is "Zone 2" On My AV Receiver & How Does It Work? | K&B Audio

Learn about Zone 2 on your AV Receiver. What is it? How Does it Work? Our guide will talk you through the benefits of using Zone 2 in your home audio setup.

www.kbaudio.co.uk

SURROUND SOUND + STEREO​

Another common use is for two channel HiFi fanatics, you can have your surround sound system for TV's and movies but a secondary stereo pair of HiFi speakers connected to Zone 2 but within the same room for general music playback.

In this instance we'd recommend only using Zone 2 separately, not playing both zones at the same time.

I still think there are limits using this though as described by the source limits of zones.
I would assume choosing main and source and zone of choice would only play the zone selected?
Analog would still work in either zone.

 

[peet_pete]

I went ahead and ordered this Sony AVR. We will see what happens.
If it is really bad compared to my old integrated, I guess I will return it.
I was going to get a shiny new high powered amp for the Maggies but I think used is going to be fine.

 

[Swokie63]

The zone outs on newer yamaha's allow for separate sources for listening, including digital, and have what they call 'Party mode' which plays the 'main' source everywhere..

I say everywhere, because we often use zone 2 for whole house audio.. 2ch stereo in various rooms using impedance matching volume controls in those rooms..

I'm not familiar with the sony you mentioned, so can't offer any useful advice..