What Integrated Amplifier Is and How It Works

Integrated amplifiers play a key role in the audio world and are available in different shapes and sizes. This amplifier combines both the preamplifier & a power amplifier into a single device to provide the path ultimately to your audio equipment. These amplifiers are very common in A/V receivers, stereo (or) home theater components, and other audio equipment. These amplifiers may sound similar to a specialized part of the equipment as compared to regular amplifiers. This article discusses an overview of an integrated amplifier, its working, and its applications.

 

What is an Integrated Amplifier?

 

An integrated amplifier is an electronic device in a Hi-Fi audio system that integrates an audio preamplifier & power amplifier within a single unit. Both the preamplifier & power amplifiers are combined with AM/FM radio, phono stage, tone controls & attenuation. This allows for simplified system arrangement, decreased component count & better audio performance because both the preamplifier & power amplifier can be designed & optimized to work as one. Most current audio amplifiers are incorporated with several inputs for audio devices like DVD players, auxiliary sources & CD players.

Integrated Amplifier Working

 

The integrated amplifier has two sections: the preamplifier & the power amplifier. First, the preamp accepts a weak audio signal from an audio device like an AM/FM receiver, turntable, or DAC, then improves the signal to line level. This signal is then transmitted to the power amplifier component.

 

The power amplifier component amplifies the signal to generate a very powerful audio signal called the speaker-level signal, which is used to drive the speakers. This is how an integrated amplifier works to strengthen the signals. Currently, most modern integrated amplifiers have extra capabilities as part of their basic functioning, including an in-built DAC and numerous input possibilities such as an input selector, Wi-Fi functionality, Bluetooth, and more.

 

Integrated Amplifier in Hi-Fi Audio Systems

 

An integrated amplifier is a significant component in Hi-Fi audio systems that unites both a preamplifier & a power amplifier within a single unit. The integrated amplifier in the Hi-Fi audio system diagram is shown below.

 

In the above diagram, all the inputs are given to the amplifier, and a selector decides which one to utilize. The pre-amplifier & amplifier are combined into a single amplifier block, while different speakers & their cross-over are combined into a speaker block. The Hi-Fi audio system components mainly include inputs, processes, and outputs, which are discussed below.

 

Inputs: In the Hi-Fi audio system, the inputs include microphones, MP3 players, CD players, cassette players, DVD players, radio tuners, turntables, minidisk players, etc. The music on some media is encoded and converted into electrical signals by the different players.

 

Process: The electrical signals are processed by different amplifiers from various sources. The pre-amplifier adapts the signal by adjusting the tonal equalization, selecting which input to utilize, providing volume & balance controls, and often powering a headphone socket. The amplifier then enhances the output power, including both voltage & current.

 

The preamplifier in an integrated amplifier is responsible for processing and controlling the audio signal before the power amplifier strengthens it. The main features of the preamplifier include tone control, volume control, and input selection. A high-quality preamplifier significantly improves the audio performance of the system by decreasing noise and distortion while providing superior control over the audio output.

 

The power amplifier in an integrated amplifier is accountable for amplifying the audio signal to a level that can be played through speakers. The quality and performance of a power amplifier are critical to the system’s audio performance, as a power amplifier provides accurate and clean amplification with minimal distortion. Additionally, some integrated amplifiers include various power amplifier stages for better flexibility and control over the audio output.

 

Outputs: In the output section, the speakers convert the electrical signals from the amplifier into sound signals. The larger speaker handles low frequencies (bass), while the smaller speaker handles higher frequencies. A passive crossover divides the signal into its different frequencies, ensuring that the correct signals are transmitted to the appropriate speaker.

 

The integrated amplifier can differ significantly in performance and quality, ranging from high-end models with superior features such as several power amplifier stages, specialized power supplies, and high-quality components. Additionally, some integrated amplifiers support extra features like Bluetooth connectivity, streaming capabilities, and digital inputs, offering added flexibility and convenience in system design.

 

Types of Integrated Amplifiers

 

Integrated amplifiers are available in different types, each with its unique features and capabilities. Some of the most frequently used integrated amplifiers are discussed below.

 

Stereo Integrated Amplifiers

 

These types of integrated amplifiers are the most commonly used, combining a preamplifier and a power amplifier into a single device. They are primarily designed to power two speakers: one for the left channel and one for the right channel. Stereo integrated amplifiers are mainly used for listening to music in stereo.

Home Theater Integrated Amplifiers

 

These integrated amplifiers, also called A/V receivers, are used to power various speakers and provide surround sound for TV shows and movies. They include a power amplifier, preamplifier, and multiple inputs and outputs to connect to other devices such as a Blu-ray player, game console, or TV.

Tube Integrated Amplifiers

 

Tube integrated amplifiers are designed to amplify the signal using vacuum tubes. They provide a more natural and warmer sound compared to solid-state amplifiers. These amplifiers are frequently chosen by audiophiles who prioritize sound quality over convenience.

Digital Integrated Amplifiers

 

Digital integrated amplifiers utilize digital signal processing to amplify the signal. They are more compact and energy-efficient compared to analog amplifiers and offer features like network connectivity and room correction.

 

Integrated Amplifier vs Power Amplifier

The differences between an integrated amplifier and a power amplifier include the following.

 

Integrated Amplifier	Power Amplifier
An electrical device that combines a preamplifier and a power amplifier is known as an integrated amplifier.	A remarkable electronic device designed to amplify the signal's strength with raw power to one or more speakers is known as a power amplifier.
Integrated amplifiers combine two audio devices into one unit, rather than being separate audio systems.	A power amplifier is a standalone audio device that contains a single audio component within its enclosure.
This amplifier integrates both preamp and power amplifier functions to enhance the audio signal.	The function of the power amplifier is to amplify an audio signal for driving speakers.
Integrated amplifiers are less powerful and cannot drive large speakers and subwoofers as effectively as power amplifiers.	Power amplifiers are very powerful and drive large speakers and subwoofers much more efficiently compared to integrated amplifiers.
The amplified audio signals in this amplifier are not as strong as those amplified by power amplifiers.	Amplified audio signals in power amplifiers are stronger compared to those amplified by integrated amplifiers.
The integrated amplifier uses less space and is suitable for compact configurations.	The power amplifier consumes more space and is suitable for custom configurations.
Integrated amplifiers offer audio and bass control.	Audio and bass control is not available.
Power output ranges from moderate to high.	Power output is high for driving demanding setups.
It is integrated with different audio sources.	This amplifier is specialized mainly for raw audio amplification.
Its sound quality is balanced.	This amplifier's sound quality is raw and uncolored output.
Perfect for small to medium-sized rooms.	Appropriate for larger and open spaces.
Integrated amplifiers have limited expandability.	Power amplifiers have flexible expandability.
It has a simple setup and an easy-to-use interface.	This amplifier requires advanced knowledge for setup.
The integrated amplifier is affordable.	Power amplifiers are expensive.
Its maintenance and troubleshooting are simple.	It requires more maintenance due to its complexity.

 

How to Select an Integrated Amplifier?

 

When choosing an integrated amplifier, it is important to consider various factors such as compatibility with other components within the system, the quality of the preamplifier, size, budget for power amplifier stages, and the overall construction and design of the device.

Additionally, some integrated amplifiers are designed with specific performance characteristics, such as high power output or a focus on low noise.

When selecting an integrated amplifier, the first consideration should be the output power, as this determines how much power it can deliver to speakers.

The number and types of inputs and outputs should also be taken into account.

An integrated amplifier for your home audio system should be chosen based on your requirements and budget. Factors to consider include connectivity options, build quality, and power output.

 

Advantages and Disadvantages

 

The advantages of integrated amplifiers include the following.

 

• Integrated amplifiers are compatible with a broad range of speakers.
• They are very convenient and flexible.
• Integrated amplifiers deliver an appealing auditory experience for the majority of listeners.
• These amplifiers are primarily designed for small to medium-sized settings.
• They provide a streamlined setup process with integrated controls and functions.
• These amplifiers have elegant and compact designs.
• Maintenance is incredibly simple due to fewer components to manage and troubleshoot.
• They require fewer interconnects and cables.
• They occupy less space.
• They are flexible and widely compatible with passive speakers.
• Integrated amplifiers are cost-effective.
• The disadvantages of integrated amplifiers include the following.

 

Integrated amplifiers do not provide as much flexibility as separate components.

 

• They may have limitations in terms of power output.
• They have limited upgrade potential.
• The power supply may be shared between channels.
• They may have limited inputs and power ratings.
• Their price varies based on different designs and features.
• Integrated amplifiers may strain a single loudspeaker.

 

Applications

 

The applications of integrated amplifiers include the following.

 

• Integrated amplifiers are essential components of any home audio system.
• They can be used to power the front right and left speakers in home theater systems.
• These amplifiers are utilized in hi-fi systems to drive high-quality speakers effectively.
• They are an excellent choice for music systems, powering floor-standing or bookshelf speakers to deliver complete and rich sound.
• Integrated amplifiers are used in commercial sound applications, allowing users to plug in microphones and connect speakers for a comprehensive setup.
• They are very popular in home audio systems due to their compactness, convenience, and user-friendly nature.
• These amplifiers are favored by audiophiles for listening to music.

 

In summary, integrated amplifiers are significant components in Hi-Fi audio systems that provide both pre-amplification and power amplification within a single unit. The performance and quality of both the preamplifier and power amplifier stages are crucial to the overall audio performance of the system, with higher-quality components and features offering greater flexibility and control. When choosing an integrated amplifier, factors such as audio quality, compatibility, and additional features should be considered to achieve the best possible audio performance. Here's a question for you: what is a preamplifier?

 

Related Articles

 

Difference Btween Amplifier and Current-Sense Amplifier

What is Buffer Amplifier?

What is TL074 Operational Amplifier?

Voltage Amplifier vs Power Amplifier: What’s the Differences?

Push-pull Amplifier ：Overview and Working Principle