preamplifier

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

noun

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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Origin of preamplifier

First recorded in 1930–35; pre- + amplifier

Words nearby preamplifier

prealtar, prealternate molt, preamble, preamble to the constitution, preamp, preamplifier, preanesthetic, preantiseptic, preappoint, prearrange, prearranged
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2020

British Dictionary definitions for preamplifier

preamplifier
/ (priːˈæmplɪˌfaɪə) /

noun

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 amplifierSometimes shortened to: preamp
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012