Data Structure
Networking
RDBMS
Operating System
Java
MS Excel
iOS
HTML
CSS
Android
Python
C Programming
C++
C#
MongoDB
MySQL
Javascript
PHP
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Mathematics
English
Economics
Psychology
Social Studies
Fashion Studies
Legal Studies
- Selected Reading
- UPSC IAS Exams Notes
- Developer's Best Practices
- Questions and Answers
- Effective Resume Writing
- HR Interview Questions
- Computer Glossary
- Who is Who
Difference between Amplifier and Receiver
An amplifier is an electronic device that is used to amplify an electrical signal without changing its other properties. It is used to amplify audio signals so that they can be played through loud speakers. It can be integrated into other appliance like a receiver or a home theatre system.
A receiver is a multi-functional electronic device that combines the functions of an amplifier and a tuner. It is the home theatre system's central control unit, responsible for receiving and processing audio and video signals from various sources such as cables, satellite boxes, and Blu-ray. These signals are received by the receivers and routed to the appropriate output devices, such as speakers or a display. It provides features such as volume control, tone control, and equalization in addition to amplification.
Read this article to find out more about Amplifier and Receiver and how they are different from each other.
What is an Amplifier?
An amplifier is also called an amp. It is used to amplify the audio and power signals. It is almost found in every electronic device. The input signal is a very weak electrical signal; when it is integrated with the amplifier, it generates the stronger output signal.
An amplifier is a two-port circuit that increases the amplitude of the input signal and provides the output as an amplified signal. An amplifier is measured by its gain. Electronic devices such as video equipment, audio equipment, radios, televisions, and sound reinforcement systems are some of the devices where amplifier is used.
There are various types of amplifiers available in the market, such as −
Voltage Amplifiers
Current Amplifiers
Power Amplifiers
Operational Amplifiers
Performance of an Amplifier
The performance of an amplifier is characterized by different parameters, as follows−
Gain − It determines the magnitude ratio of the input and output signals.
Stability − The ability to produce consistent and dependable results
Efficiency − The ratio of power consumed to power output
Noise − The amount of unwanted information fluctuated in the output signal.
Bandwidth − Range where the amplifier operates
Skew Rate − The maximum rate at which output changes
Distortion − The output signal deviates from the input signal.
Linearity − Input and output signals are proportional.
What is a Receiver?
A receiver is an electronic device that receives different types of signals. It can receive both analogue electromagnetic signals or waves and digital signals via wired media. The receiver is used in communication, specifically wireless communication in networking and cellular communication.
A receiver is the device that receives and decodes signals before transforming them so that another machine or computer can understand them.
There are various types of receivers available in the market, such as −
Stereo Receivers
Audio/Video Receivers
A power amplifier, a radio tuner, and a pre-amplifier are the three components of the receiver. It contains a demodulator, an antenna, and a tuner. Signals are converted into electrical signals using the antenna. The tuner receives the electrical signals which are converted in the antenna. Tuner removes the unwanted signals or noise and select the channel or frequency of the signal. The demodulator is used to convert the signal into radio waves that will be understood by an electronic device.
Difference between Amplifier and Receiver
The following table highlights the major differences between Amplifier and Receiver −
Characteristics |
Amplifier |
Receiver |
|---|---|---|
Function |
Here audio signals are amplified |
The audio and video signal are processed here which are received through various sources |
Additional Features |
It doesn’t have any additional features |
It contain the additional features such as tone control, control of volume, input switching, and equalization |
Consumption of Space |
Consumes the more space |
Consumes the less space |
Advantages |
Used to increase the audio signal strength |
Process, receive, amplify audio and video signals |
Example |
It is used as a standalone unit, it can be integrated or part of a larger system |
Home theater system |
Conclusion
In a nutshell, an amplifier is the best option if you want a simple way to amplify your audio signals. In contrast, a receiver is the best option if you want a more comprehensive audio solution with additional processing capabilities.
299 Views
