-
- A preamplifier is an integrated circuit device that prepares a sound signal before it gets to the amplifier.
- Also known as the preamp, it first selects the input signal from a given source.
- It allows you to select which source you want to listen from, including turntables, USB ports, CD player, and streaming devices.
- The preamplifier also increases the signal-to-noise ratio to make the sound signal strong enough for processing in the amplifier.
- Signal-to-noise ratio increased to above zero decibels means that the signal is stronger than the noise, therefore, there is less distortion.
- Through the amplifier, you can also control the volume of audio by either lowering or raising it.
- Preamplifiers exist as independent units from amplifiers, however, modern stereo and AV receivers combine them inside one box.
Also read: What is a Passive Radiator and What Does it Do in a Sound System?