Preamplifier

An example of a typical high-end stereo preamplifier.

A preamplifier, also known as a preamp, is an electronic amplifier that converts a weak electrical signal into an output signal strong enough to be noise-tolerant and strong enough for further processing, or for sending to a power amplifier and a loudspeaker.[1] Without this, the final signal would be noisy or distorted. They are typically used to amplify signals from analog sensors such as microphones and pickups.[2] Because of this, the preamplifier is often placed close to the sensor to reduce the effects of noise and interference.

  1. ^ "preamplifier". Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Merriam-Webster.
  2. ^ "Definition of preamp". PCMAG.