preamplifier

noun

pre·​am·​pli·​fi·​er (ˌ)prē-ˈam-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

: an amplifier designed to amplify extremely weak electrical signals before they are fed to additional amplifier circuits

Examples of preamplifier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The long-running Reference Series, comprised of preamplifiers, power amplifiers, DACs, and phono stages, has reached new heights with the Reference 330M monoblock power amplifier, capable of producing 330 watts from six KT170 output tubes. — Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 8 July 2026

The preamplifier handles source switching and volume control, allowing active speakers or a power amplifier to focus on the sound. — Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026

Even in a more sophisticated hi-fi separates setup, the preamplifier part of proceedings is still often handled out of sight, within the amplifier. — Simon Lucas, Wired News, 30 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for preamplifier

• acquire
• attire
• bonfire
• campfire
• ceasefire
• conspire
• desire
• enquire
• entire
• greenbrier
• gunfire
• homebuyer