Amp/Preamp/Pre pro/etc....

[Randos]

Forgive me for being ignorant, but what is the difference between an amp/pre-amp/pre-pro/and a receiver. From my understanding a receiver has an amp built in...no? I'm assuming a pre-amp is essentially comes before the amp to increase the signal before going through an amp (or receiver). And a pre-pro? That just loses me. I've tried to do some basic research but I get lost in terminology. Thanks guys.

 

[gregz]

I'm right there with ya, Randos. I'm lost on the pre-pro.

A receiver actually has a pre-amp, an amp, AND a radio tuner.

If you buy the same thing without the radio tuner, it's called an integrated amp.

An amplifier does not have any volume control, just rudimentary input gain control to allow matching it to different sources. The purpose of the pre-amp is to provide a volume control, and just as importantly, multiple inputs and switches that let you change input sources between a CD player, DVD, etc. without having to connect and disconnect each one.

Pro is a term used to describe DJ and concert equipment. Pro amplifiers are typically fan-cooled high power rack-mount units with handles on the front that are made to output as much power as possible with the least amount of weight.

 

[MDS]

What gregz said, except that the term pre/pro stands for 'pre-amp/processor' - a combination of the pre-amp which amplifies the signal slightly to get it to line level, controls volume, provides for input switching, etc and a processor which has functions for decoding signal formats such as DD, DTS, etc.

Modern a/v receivers contain an amp, pre-amp, processor, and radio tuner all in one box.