Experienced Audio Advice - Since 1981
Electronics
Your amplifier decides how your speakers sound, how loud they can play and what you can plug in. Shop integrated amps, preamps, power amps, tuners and the accessories that help them perform, all hand-picked by the hi-fi specialists at Audio Advisor.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Start with the system you have, or the one you want to build.
"I'm building my first system."
An integrated amplifier puts everything in one box. Add speakers and a source, and you're listening.
"I want room to grow."
Go with separates: a preamp plus a stereo amplifier. Upgrade one piece at a time as your system grows.
"My speakers need more power."
Look at a stereo power amp or a pair of monoblocks. Tell us your speaker model and we'll help match the power.
"I'm setting up a home theater."
Multi-channel amplifiers power the front, center and surround speakers from one chassis.
Amplifiers, Explained
Integrated vs. separates
An integrated amplifier combines a preamp and power amp in one box. Separates split those jobs into two or more boxes, so you can choose and upgrade each one on its own.
What does a preamp do?
It's the part you control. A preamp selects your source, adjusts the volume and passes the signal to a power amplifier, which drives the speakers.
Watts and speaker sensitivity
Power is listed in watts per channel. Speaker sensitivity tells you how efficiently a speaker turns that power into sound. Less sensitive speakers need more power to play at the same volume.
Impedance (ohms)
Speakers are rated in ohms, commonly 4 or 8. Check that the amplifier you choose is rated to drive your speakers' impedance.
Playing records?
A turntable needs a phono stage. Some amplifiers have one built in. If yours doesn't, add a separate phono preamplifier.
Count your connections
List every source you'll connect, then check the inputs: RCA, balanced XLR, and on some models digital inputs with a built-in DAC.
Electronics FAQs
How much amplifier power do I need?
How much amplifier power do I need?
It depends on your speakers' sensitivity and impedance, the size of your room and how loud you like to listen. Call us with your speaker model and we'll help you choose.
Do I need a separate preamp?
Do I need a separate preamp?
Not if you choose an integrated amplifier, which has one built in. A stereo or monoblock power amplifier needs a preamp, or a source with its own volume control, in front of it.
Can I connect a turntable?
Can I connect a turntable?
Yes, if the amplifier has a phono input. Each product page lists its inputs. If there's no phono input, add a phono preamplifier between your turntable and amp.
What cables will I need?
What cables will I need?
Speaker cables connect your amplifier to your speakers. Interconnects connect your sources and link a preamp to a power amp.