amplifier vs. receiver?

Question

what is the difference between these two devices? and what is a combination device of amplifier and receiver? thanks!

Answer 1

A "receiver" includes the functions of three (3) separate "components" in one unit:
- pre-amplifier (i.e. input selection, low level amplification and volume control)
- power amplifier (takes output from pre-amplifier and increases power to drive speakers)
- tuner (AM/FM radio reception as input to preamplifier / amplifier)

An "amplifier" combines the pre- and power amplifier components into one unit.

The advantage of separate components are supposedly as follows:
- each can be optimized for it's function (higher performance, more flexibility)
- only need buy what you need
- provides a more impressive looking system (wow factor)

The disadvantage is they generally cost more (if for no other reason than each needs it's own box and power supply).

In practice any advantage to separate components (at anything below esoteric audiophile levels (read VERY EXPENSIVE)) is minimal at best. It is possible to pay $5000+ for a receiver and only the deluded will claim they can improve sound quality to any significant extent with separate components.

For most people a receiver is the best choice. They come at all quality levels / prices and cover a wide range of power levels and features and even if you don't intend to use the tuner section much, at most it only adds marginally to the price.

The only real disadvantages to a receiver are that it MAY be larger than an amplifier and it limits a gradual upgrade path should you want to gradually build a good system. On the latter point, however, the lower cost of a reasonable quality receiver relative to equivalent (or more likely slightly better) separate components will most likely be pretty compelling for most people.

The thing to keep in mind about all this is if YOU can't tell the difference in the sound or features it probably isn't worth the extra money for something -- theoretically -- "better".

Re your last question ... I believe you mean tuner and amplifier (not amplifier and receiver). If so, the question is answered above. If not .. there is no such beast.

Answer 2

Amplifier Vs Receiver

Answer 3

Receiver Vs Amplifier

Answer 4

An amplifier just does what you need it to do. A receiver has a preamplifier, but you only need a preamplifier if you re going to plug in a record player. As long as the receiver has separate volume, bass and treble knobs, you re all set. A remote would be nice, but unnecessary. A receiver was necessary back when everyone used records, but now most people use CDs and digital files. Though, most people don t even use CDs anymore.

Answer 5

Spackler is correct. If you don't ever listen to FM radio, you won't need a receiver, or a combined amp/receiver. To maximize the quality of sound from DVD's and CD's, cable tv, tivo, etc. spend the money on a good amplifier. Now, here's where you need to research carefully because there's are hundreds of brands, models, and price points. I purchased a Yamaha combined receiver/amp even though I never listen to FM. Why? Because this unit was rated good, had an affordable price and had all the special effects and sound conditioners I wanted to playback my CD's and DVD's with. Dedicated amps that had the same special effects were very expensive at the time.

Answer 6

Also be aware of a new terminology called "A/V Receiver"; this is what is most commonly available and sometimes just called a "receiver" This unit has all the functions mentioned above PLUS switching (selecting) between several video and audio sources, Dolby DIgital and (perhaps) DTS decoding, surround sound amplifiers, and some have built-in audio equalizers. The high end units of Denon, Yamaha, Onkyo all have excellent audio performance.

Answer 7

The difference between an amplifier
and a receiver is that an amplifier is
just that, an amplifier. A receiver is a
combination of an amplifier, a tuner,
and a preamplilfier all in one.

H a p p y
H o m e
T h e a t e r i n g !
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Answer 8

A receiver has a tuner (radio) built into it and shares the power supply with the amplifier. Amplifiers sound better, because they have a dedicated power supply. That is why tuners can be bought separately, with their own dedicated power supply. I hope that helps you.

Answer 9

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RE:
amplifier vs. receiver?
what is the difference between these two devices? and what is a combination device of amplifier and receiver? thanks!