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Question
What is the difference between an amplifier and an AV receiver?
An amplifier (audio amplifier in our case) is a stand-alone device or can be built into another product such as an integrated amplifier, receiver or surround sound receiver - or even a Public Address amplification system.
An AV receiver integrated an audio amplifier with front other elements of a system such as a tuner, preamplifier and signal processing devices.
A monoblock amplifier used in high fidelity, for example, is just an amplifier with no preamp, no tuner, no signal processing; it is just an amplifier for powering the loudspeaker.
Also, an amplifier can be any electronic device that provides an output which is larger in voltage or current than the input. For example, a one stage transistor can amplify an electronic signal and is called an amplifier, also.
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Answers by Expert:
Cleggsan
Expertise
Audio Design Engineer; systems, loudspeakers, cd/dvd players, etc. I am knowledgeable in all high end audio equipment and installations. MAKE SURE YOU GIVE A MAKE AND MODEL NUMBER AND CAR IF IT IS AN AUTO QUESTION. Note: I am getting some who ask good questions that take a lot of time to research but then the questioner fails to read the answer. Please don't ask questions unless you are seriously looking for an answer. If you find an answer to your question otherwise then let me know with your reply. Thank you.
Experience
Have been associated with audio design, standards, testing and component systems for over 40 years.
Organizations
Life Fellow Member of Audio Engineering Society
Life Senior Member of Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers
Publications
Review technical manuscripts for IEEE Spectrum
Write occasionally for high-end audio publications
Education/Credentials
BSEE/MSCS/MBA
Past/Present Clients
Past Employee/advisor to several well known audio products manufacturers
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