An integrated amplifier is one of the most important components, within an audio set-up, to guarantee quality, immersive and engaging listening, allowing yourself to fully immerse in your chosen musical experience. In this short guide, we will go deeper into some of the highlights of these electronics, so as to better know their preponderant and distinctive features. We will explore in detail the criteria to consider when choosing an integrated amplifier and how these parameters affect the hi-fi listening experience. If you are interested in maximizing the sound output of your audio system, continue reading to find out everything you need to know about built-in amplifiers and how to improve your music listening experience.
The Integrated Amplifier: Definition and Functions
The integrated amplifier is an essential component in a home hi-fi system, playing the role of amplifying the audio signal from sources such as drive drives, CD players or other devices and controlling the output volume to the speakers.
It therefore stands as an electronic device whose purpose to amplify an audio signal and power the speakers with enough energy to play the sound. It is defined as integrated when there is the presence of a preamplifier and a power stage, embedded in a single unit. This feature makes it ideal for hi-fi enthusiasts looking for a high-quality audio system without the complexity of having to combine several separate components. In practice, the integrated amplifier performs the “work” that a preamp section, combined with one or more power ends with separate frames, would perform.
The importance of having a high-quality integrated amplifier, built with selected components and optimized circuits, can guarantee faithful and detailed music playback, preserving the integrity of the audio signal and providing an engaging audio experience for high-faith enthusiasts.
The key parameters of an integrated amplifier: Output Power and Impedance
The output power and impedance of the integrated amplifier play a crucial role in the overall quality of the audio played. Output power determines the amplifier's ability to drive speakers effectively, directly affecting the intensity and clarity of the sound. It is essential to adjust the impedance of the amplifier to that of the speakers to avoid distortions and ensure adequate matching. Today, all the best integrated amplifiers are able to easily handle impedances in the order of 4 ohms, although the data provided, often, report those detected with a use of 8 ohms. If speakers have impedances even lower than 4 ohms at certain frequencies, it becomes essential to use integrated amplifiers that are capable of handling power and piloting difficult loads. In the absence of this, an unoptimal yield of the machine may occur.
Signal/Noise Ratio and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
The signal/noise ratio and distortion level of the built-in amplifier significantly influence sound performance. A high signal/noise ratio indicates a lower presence of undesirable interference, contributing to a sharper and disturbing listening experience.
Total harmonic distortion (THD) refers to the presence of any distortions or alterations of sound in relation to its original shape. A low THD amplifier will ensure faithful and accurate sound reproduction, minimizing distortions and preserving the details and nuances of the original sound signal.
What parameters would you need to pay attention to when judging an integrated amplifier?
The best integrated amplifiers are those that guarantee an excellent sound quality, excelling, in particular, in these items:
- Clearness:
Sound clarity refers to the ability of the amplifier to reproduce sounds in a clear and definite way. A high-quality integrated amplifier should be able to reproduce every instrument and every note clearly and distinctly, without unwanted overlaps or loss of detail.
- Dynamics:
Dynamics refers to the amplifier's ability to handle volume and intensity changes accurately and realistically. An integrated amplifier with good dynamics will be able to reproduce both the most delicate and subtle sounds as well as the most powerful and intense ones, ensuring an engaging and realistic sound experience.
- Frequency response:
Frequency response refers to the amplifier's ability to reproduce a wide range of frequencies in a uniform and balanced manner. An integrated amplifier with accurate frequency response will ensure faithful reproduction of all sounds, from low to high tones, without unwanted deviations or excessive emphasis on certain frequencies.
- Accuracy and Sound Details:
The accuracy and detail of the sound are crucial for a satisfying hi-fi listening experience. The integrated amplifier plays a decisive role in influencing these aspects. The ability to produce sharp and detailed sounds depends on the quality of the amplifier. When choosing an integrated amplifier, it is important to evaluate its ability to reproduce subtle details and sound nuances, which can fully engage the listener.
- Connections and Entry/Exit Options:
The connections and input/output options offered by the built-in amplifier influence its versatility and the ability to integrate with other audio devices. The presence of analog and digital connections ensures compatibility with various audio sources, even the latest ones, such as the streamer, allowing to expand the possibilities of listening. It is essential to evaluate the connectivity options available to meet your needs. Some built-in amplifiers are equipped with internal Dac and Bluetooth compatibility, significantly increasing the opportunities of music enjoyment.
In conclusion, the integrated amplifier is a key component for getting the most out of your hi-fi system. Considering the basic characteristics and parameters when choosing an integrated amplifier is essential to ensure optimal performance, meet individual requirements and reach a perfect match with your speakers. Our selection in the store includes what we consider to be the best integrated amplifiers on the market, in terms of their performance in driving the needed power and the price for their availability, competing in class with some of the highest brackets of hi-fi.
