preamplifier

American  

[pree-am-pluh-fahy-er] / priˈæm pləˌfaɪ ər /

noun

1. a device in the amplifier circuit of a radio or phonograph that increases the strength of a weak signal for detection and further amplification.

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preamplifier British  

/ priːˈæmplɪˌfaɪə /

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: preamp.  an electronic amplifier used to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of an electronic device. It boosts a low-level signal to an intermediate level before it is transmitted to the main amplifier

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Etymology

Origin of preamplifier

First recorded in 1930–35; pre- + amplifier

Compare meaning

How does preamplifier compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• preamplifier vs. amplifier