Preamplifier - Definition and Overview

A preamplifier is an electronic amplifier designed to prepare an electrical signal for further amplification.

Preamplifiers may be:

• in a separate housing.
• incorporated into the housing or chasis of the amplifier they feed.
• mounted in other items of equipment, such as microphones and electric guitars.

Examples are:

• the integrated preamplifier in a foil electret microphone.
• the first stages of an instrument amplifier.
• an audio mixing desk.
• a masthead amplifier used with television receiver antenna or a satellite receiver dish.