Amplifiers
The Amplifiers section covers the components that select sources, set volume and drive loudspeakers. Output in this section spans from under 10 W per channel for some valve designs to well over 1,000 W for large monoblocks. Decide whether you want one box or separate units, and whether the system is two-channel or multichannel, then move to the matching subcategory for full advice.
Types of amplifiers
Integrated amplifiers put preamplification and power amplification in one chassis and suit most two-channel systems, often with a phono stage or DAC built in. Preamplifiers handle input switching and volume on their own and feed a separate power stage, including passive models with no active gain. Power amplifiers stereo carry two channels in one case and take the line signal from a preamplifier. Power amplifiers mono drive one loudspeaker each, giving every channel its own transformer and supply. Receivers combine multichannel amplification with surround decoding, HDMI switching and usually a tuner, which makes them the usual choice for home theatre with a TV. Headphone amplifiers sit in the headphones section.
How to choose an amplifier
Match the amplifier to your speakers first. Sensitivity and minimum impedance decide how much power and current you need, and a speaker rated at 84 dB needs about four times the power of one rated at 90 dB for the same level. Then choose between integrated and separates based on space and upgrade plans, and count the inputs your sources require. Each subcategory page covers the key specifications.
Brands & related reading
The section includes large electronics makers offering every amplifier type, alongside valve specialists and small builders of high-power separates. Names like Yamaha, McIntosh or Naim appear only as examples of these approaches. For background on amplifier classes, valves versus transistors and speaker matching, see the separate guides published on the site.