An amplifier is the device that turns the low voltage signals from your source equipment into a signal with enough gain to be used to power a pair of speakers. A receiver is an amplifier that has a radio section built in.

What does a receiver do?

Put simply, a receiver has two main functions: firstly, it amplifies the sound so it can be fed to your speakers, and secondly, it allows you to select the audio and video you wish to watch.

What does a receiver do for audio?

A/V receivers act as the nerve center of your home theater system. They perform a host of essential functions, including decoding your DVDs surround sound formats, driving your loudspeakers, and switching between audio and video components. If you want high-quality surround sound, you need a high-quality A/V receiver.

Can I use an old receiver as a preamp?

A preamp boosts the signal from a record player or other non-amplified component to a level that can be processed on an AV receiver and heard on the speakers. An old stereo receiver can be used as a preamp with standard stereo cables and two tape-deck connections.

How do you use two receivers?

How to Hook Up Two Audio Receivers TogetherPlug one of the audio receivers into the wall and locate the output on the device. Plug the other receiver into the wall and locate its input. Plug the RCA cable into the output on the first device and into the input on the other one.