Type of Amplifier
In simple terms, the function of an AMP is to elevate a line-level signal to a level that can drive speakers (SP). This page introduces several classifications that are helpful in recognizing AMPs.
Pre AMP / Power AMP
One classification of amplifiers includes preamplifiers (Pre AMP) and power amplifiers (Power AMP).
Pre AMP: elevates a mic-level signal to a line-level signal.
Power AMP: amplifies a line-level signal to SP level; capable of driving speakers (SP).
Today, devices exclusively equipped with Pre AMP functionality are rare, as such functions are often integrated into devices like mixers. The Pre AMP function is located on the input side of the mixer, elevating microphone-level signals to line level at an early stage and minimizing susceptibility to noise.
The subsequent articles focus on Power AMP.
Pre AMP: elevates a mic-level signal to a line-level signal.
Power AMP: amplifies a line-level signal to SP level; capable of driving speakers (SP).
Today, devices exclusively equipped with Pre AMP functionality are rare, as such functions are often integrated into devices like mixers. The Pre AMP function is located on the input side of the mixer, elevating microphone-level signals to line level at an early stage and minimizing susceptibility to noise.
The subsequent articles focus on Power AMP.
Below introduces the three classifications of Power AMP, and these combinations categorize Power AMP. For example, there is a Mixer AMP that utilizes Class D for high-impedance systems.
Hi-Z and Lo-Z
There are two important classifications for AMPs: high-impedance and low-impedance.
Please refer to this page for more information on this topic.
Please refer to this page for more information on this topic.
Class AB (Analog AMP) and Class D (Digital AMP)
These are classifications based on differences in amplification methods. However, as the details of the amplification methods are too intricate, this document does not delve into them.
Class AB has been a longstanding method, and since the introduction of Class D, it is colloquially referred to as analog AMP. Class D is a relatively newer method, commonly known as digital AMP (However, as the term "digital" has a broader meaning these days, the term "Class D" is often used). While there are no fundamental differences in the functionality of AMPs, there is a trend in the world shifting from Class AB to Class D. Several reasons contribute to this:
Class AB has been a longstanding method, and since the introduction of Class D, it is colloquially referred to as analog AMP. Class D is a relatively newer method, commonly known as digital AMP (However, as the term "digital" has a broader meaning these days, the term "Class D" is often used). While there are no fundamental differences in the functionality of AMPs, there is a trend in the world shifting from Class AB to Class D. Several reasons contribute to this:
- Class D requires fewer components, allowing for low-cost production.
- Using Class D allows the product to be made smaller and lighter.
- Class D consumes less power.
AMP as product
The function of an AMP is solely the amplification to speaker (SP) level, but as a product, AMP comes in various types.
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Mixer AMP
A mixer AMP is an amplifier with integrated mixer functionality, allowing direct connection of microphones or musical instruments. Due to the inclusion of mixer features, it is sometimes referred to as a 'package AMP' or 'desktop AMP,' depending on its placement. |
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System AMP
used as part of a system, does not have mixer functionality. The number of speaker lines in the system varies significantly depending on the project. To flexibly accommodate these variations, it solely features the functions of a power amplifier. The mixer functionality is handled by another device within the system. Consequently, direct connections of microphones or audio source devices are rare, and it lacks control elements such as faders and knobs. Additionally, it is typically mounted on a rack. |
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Whether it's a Mixer AMP or a System AMP, these terms do not have clear-cut definitions. The crucial aspect is understanding what functions surrounding the AMP are encompassed within a single product .
For instance, a Wireless AMP combines wireless systems, a mixer, and speakers all within one unit. Similarly, a megaphone incorporates the entire process from the microphone to the speaker within its casing.
For instance, a Wireless AMP combines wireless systems, a mixer, and speakers all within one unit. Similarly, a megaphone incorporates the entire process from the microphone to the speaker within its casing.
