Do You need an amplifier if You have a receiver?
A receiver or amplifier is the heart of your home cinema or hi-fi system. But what do you have to pay attention to make a good choice?
What is a receiver?
There is already discussion about the definition of a receiver extensively, but in short a receiver is the center of your home cinema system where all incoming signals are processed and then forwarded to the speakers and the display (the TV).
A receiver has an integrated amplifier that controls the speakers, and receivers also have various additional functions and features, including a tuner, video editing functions, streaming options and digital connections.
What is an amplifier?
An amplifier can be described in two ways. For example, a receiver as described above has an integrated amplifier, which is part of the receiver. In addition, it is possible to purchase a separate (integrated) amplifier. This is a device that in most cases focuses purely on audio and thus processes incoming audio signals and forwards them to connected speakers.
An amplifier amplifies the signal so that it can be reproduced through the speakers, and has various basic options to adjust the sound to your own liking. In terms of video options and other features and functions, you can expect little from these devices.
Receiver vs amplifier
It is not really interesting for this article, but for those who are just starting to put together a home cinema system, it is wise to read this article about differences between an amplifier and a receiver. The main difference between an amplifier and a receiver is both devices, have a certain capacity, indicated by the Wattage, with which the connected speakers are controlled.
What is the best?
The logical question that follows the above information is of course; do you now have to buy a receiver or an amplifier and if you choose an amplifier should this be a separate preamp and end amp? There are best stereo receivers that you can opt for. The answer to this is not that simple and depends, among other things, on the quality you expect, the budget you have and the experience you already have with the equipment in question.
A receiver with an integrated amplifier is already a big step forward for most people compared to an all-in-one home cinema system and can offer a very good quality, even for the real audio fanatics.
However, use amplifier with a receiver, which you also pay for, can offer just that little bit of extra audio quality because the device is purely focused on audio and the many whistles and bells that you can find on receivers have no influence on audio quality.
If you want to do it perfectly like some audio freaks, a separate pre-amplifier with a separate power amplifier is the ultimate solution, of course also dependent on the quality of the devices you choose.
Connect a subwoofer to AV receiver
If you’re looking to get the most out of your audio equipment, connecting a subwoofer to your AV receiver is a great way to do it. By adding this extra level of bass, you can really improve the overall sound quality of your system. But, with so many different subwoofers on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Well, that’s where we come in. We’ve put together a list of the best 12-inch subwoofers currently available, so you can find the perfect match for your home theater setup.
From big brands like Klipsch and Polk to more budget-friendly options, we’ve got you covered. And, if you’re not sure where to start, be sure to check out our buyer’s guide at the end of this article. It’s packed with everything you need to know about choosing the right subwoofer for your needs.