Dumb amp/preamp question?

[Number9]

I have a receiver that has a "pre-out" can I add an amp or preamp to increase it's power? I don't know much about HiFi. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Michael

[jeskibuff]

I have a receiver that has a "pre-out" can I add an amp or preamp to increase it's power

Well, adding a preamp doesn't make much sense in regards to pre-out connections, but yes, you CAN connect another amplifier to those jacks to possibly improve the sound quality. Remember that more power doesn't necessarily mean better sound, but in most cases, a separate power amp will deliver better sound than a receiver that is compromised by sticking a bunch of electronics into one box.

[markw]

To clarify the above statement, you can replace your receivers power amp with an external amp. Unless you want to biamp, which requires special speakers, it's an either/or situation. You can't use both power amps at the same time.

[Number9]

Thanks Mark. So are you saying that I can't hook up an amp thru the "pre-out" or that it's completely impossible to do, period? Thanks, Michael

[topspeed]

You CAN hook up an amp using the pre-outs. You simply plug your speaker wire into the outboard amp(s) and your receiver is now a preamp/processor. This bypasses your receiver's inline amps. You can also add a preamp w/ a theater bypass function but explaining this will probably just make this more confusing. Just remember for now that it is an option. As Jeski said, it will probably sound better with the addn'l amp but it's really up to you to decide if you can hear the difference. I certainly could.

[Number9]

You CAN hook up an amp using the pre-outs. You simply plug your speaker wire into the outboard amp(s) and your receiver is now a preamp/processor. This bypasses your receiver's inline amps. You can also add a preamp w/ a theater bypass function but explaining this will probably just make this more confusing. Just remember for now that it is an option. As Jeski said, it will probably sound better with the addn'l amp but it's really up to you to decide if you can hear the difference. I certainly could.

Is there a way to use the receiver's power supply AND an amp or preamp? Which would be better, an amp or a preamp? If this is not possible would I just use the receiver as a tuner? Thanks, Michael