Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
preamplifier

preamplifier

1 5.6
A device that makes weak electrical signals stronger before they go to the main amplifier
  • noun
  • /priːˈæmplɪfaɪər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : preamplificador
  • For example, a mixer's input section can feature as few as 2 or as many as 128 or more inputs, along with professional-grade microphone preamplifiers and specialized routing devices called "patch bays."
  • microphone preamplifier

Examples

  • In the work presented in this paper, we used preamplifiers manufactured by IOMED, Inc., of Salt Lake City, Utah.

    Academic text (1992)

  • Such a device or circuit is called a "microphone preamplifier," and its task is simply to boost the microphone's small electrical signal.

    Academic text (2012)

  • This is the cable from the preamplifier going into this low pass filter.

  • Signals from the preamplifier were converted to digital values, and information was transmitted to a personal computer.

    Academic text (2000)

  • Most sound cards have microphone or "line in" inputs that connect to the microphone preamplifier outputs.

    Academic text (1997)

  • They were used as low-noise preamplifiers in some radiotelescopes.

    Academic text (1993)

  • The 442, which has been replaced in the product line by the 552, contains four microphone preamplifiers that redefine portable audio performance.

    Blog text (13)

  • Acoustic signals were subsequently amplified by a Symetrix preamplifier (Model 302; Symetrix Inc.).

    Academic text (2012)

  • The 744T implements a no-compromise audio path that includes Sound Devices' next-generation microphone preamplifiers.

    Blog text (13)

  • The signal is sent from the microphone to the preamplifier to boost its strength before reaching the main amplifier.

Synonyms

booster
vspreamplifier
  • Specialized
13 4.4

A device that makes a weak signal stronger

works at an earlier stage to boost weak signals before the main power stage
preamp
vspreamplifier
  • Specialized
1 6.3

A device that makes weak sound signals stronger before the main amplifier

is placed before the main power stage rather than after other processing
booster amplifier
vspreamplifier
  • Specialized
5.9

An electronic device that makes a signal stronger so it reaches farther

amplifies weak signals before they reach the main power stage not mainly for transmission

Antonyms

attenuator
  • Specialized
1 9.0

A device that makes an electrical signal weaker without changing its shape

How Amplifying

amplifier
  • Specialized
30 3.4
preamplifier
  • Specialized
1 5.6

Surface Forms

preamplifier singular
preamplifiers plural

Morphology

preamplifier = amplifier (transparent) = pre + amplify + er

The meaning is directly built from 'amplifier' with 'pre-' meaning that it comes before the main amplifier stage.

Etymology

The word preamplifier comes from pre- 'before' and amplifier 'to make louder', the same root as amplify and ample. So, a preamplifier is a small device that makes a weak signal stronger before the main amplifier, helping the sound stay clear.