Definitions

[hmd666]

Hello there.

I have a REALLY NEWBIE question (sorry ). But as i'm new in this world i would like you to give me some explanation and definitions.

While surfing on web sites about audio i see some different equipment, but i'm not always sure to understand what's all this about .

So can you tell me what's all those things, and what do they do in life ? What's the differences ? etc....

Things like Amps, pre and pro-amps, receivers, etc, etc, etc........

Thanks a lot for help.

Olivier

 

[jp_over]

Hello there.

I have a REALLY NEWBIE question (sorry ). But as i'm new in this world i would like you to give me some explanation and definitions.

While surfing on web sites about audio i see some different equipment, but i'm not always sure to understand what's all this about .

So can you tell me what's all those things, and what do they do in life ? What's the differences ? etc....

Things like Amps, pre and pro-amps, receivers, etc, etc, etc........

Thanks a lot for help.

Olivier

Here's a good start:

Glossary of Electronics Terms — Reviews and News from Audioholics

 

[Adam]

Hi, Olivier.

In addition to the great reference sited above, I'll throw this in because I didn't see some of this on there.

A preamplifier (or preamp) is a piece of equipment that goes in between a source component (like a CD/DVD player, TV, or radio tuner) and an amplifier. So, "pre" means before. It will let connect multiple sources and let you select between them, convert signals from digital to analog when required, and allow you to adjust the volume.

An amplifier (or amp) boosts the signal level so that it can be heard. The signal coming out of a preamp is very low and not enough to drive a speaker, so an amplifier increases the signal level enough to drive a speaker. Amplifiers normally don't have a volume control, as that is on the preamp.

An integrated amplifier combines the functions of a preamp and amp.

A receiver combines the functions of a preamp, amp, and radio tuner.

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A "pro" amp is not something that comes after an amp, as the name might imply. In this case, "pro" stands for "professional." These are more commercial looking amplifiers that are used by professionals at concerts and such. While they work fine in home applications, they don't have the same aesthetics as home amplifiers. Also, they might have louder cooling fans, which aren't an issue when the DJ booth is removed from the dance floor - but they might be annoying when they're 10 feet away in your living room. There are some Class D pro amps that some people here really like.

 

[hmd666]

WOW, thanks for your answers.

But can you explain me the amps class ?

 

[Adam]

But can you explain me the amps class ?

I'd recommend checking out this page from Wikipedia, with the class definitions starting further down the page here.