Amplifier

The amplifier of your home theater system is responsible for the daunting task of delivering electrical current to your speakers without destroying them. A poorly designed audio amplifier will make even the most high-end speakers sound atrocious. In fact, an excellent set of speakers will only accentuate an amplifier's intrinsic deficiencies. So how do you choose an audio amp that will complement your sound system?

An amplifier takes an electrical waveform, such as a weak audio signal, and boosts it. When done well, the result is a signal that is powerful enough to drive your speakers. The amplifier makes use of its power supply to take the alternating current coming from your wall outlet and store it in the form of direct current in capacitors. It then uses the input signal from your preamp to control the release of this energy. The energy is then passed through the output stage where it is received by your speakers and converted into that wonderful thing we call "sound."

An amplifier will either employ a transistor or vacuum tube during the output stage. Transistorized amplifiers are the most common amps on the market. They can be used with most speakers, and have excellent low frequency performance, which translates into excellent bass. Vacuum or tube amplifiers are of an older technology. Vacuum tubes are used to amplify the sound from the preamp. While the bass sounds are not as strong on a tube amplifier, the mid-range is characterized by a warm and mellow sound.

A good power amplifier will make you feel as if the musicians are playing right in front of you. If it is powerful enough, it will produce the bass notes with integrity without distortion. If you listen primarily to hip-hop or dance music, you'll notice a huge difference in the quality of musical output once you add the right amplifier to your setup