Newbie PreAmp question

[jpaul]

Greetings,
What is the benifit of having a preAmp and what exactly does it do?I've just started my system: Sony, 40" Bravia LCD Flat, Denon AVR 3806.
Next step is Speakers and Sub, Possible preAmp and Amp.
Thanks
jpaul

 

[sokrman14]

Its basically your processor and whole audio/video switchboard. It does just about everything a surround sound receiver does except for power your speakers

 

[Nomo]

Basically your 3806 is the pre-amp (and amp). Depending on which speakers you choose you may want to look for an extra amp to power the fronts. But look at speakers for now as the next step.

 

[Nick250]

Your 3806 is a preamp and amp in one box, as are all receivers. Usually the best stragety is to pick your speakers first since they contribute almost all of what you hear. Then you select a receiver or amps that best mate with them. That being said the 3806 is a very good receiver and should have no trouble powering most speakers all by it's self.

 

[mike c]

take the rest of your budget, add some more money and then pick your speaker and sub ... before you start thinking about amps and pre-amps

 

[jpaul]

Thanks

Thanks everyone,
Thats what I'm going to do, look for speakers.
Jpaul