[acme15]

I just had the idea of using my stereo as an amplifier, and WOW what a difference compared to no amplifier! I can play my music about twice as loud with better bass response! Im pretty sure that it is a terrible amplifier, but wow, what a difference xD
 
How exactly does an amp work? In laymans terms at first, and then in detail if you want to show off and fill a gap in my knowlege
 
Thanks guys  

 

[bcg27]

How an (ideal) amplifier works: Output = Input * Gain

 

[amham]

An amplifier DOES NOT create anything.  It is simply analogus to a resistor controlling a larger voltage/current source.  Picture a variable resistance throttling the power supply reserve developed from the AC mains.  The tube or transistor is switched on off or varying a large reservoir developed by the power supply.  Of course there is more detail to it but always remember, the amp is not magically creating anything not already there. 

 

[acme15]

Quote:

An amplifier DOES NOT create anything.  It is simply analogus to a resistor controlling a larger voltage/current source.  Picture a variable resistance throttling the power supply reserve developed from the AC mains.  The tube or transistor is switched on off or varying a large reservoir developed by the power supply.  Of course there is more detail to it but always remember, the amp is not magically creating anything not already there. 

a rubbish amp can take quality away though cant it? For example when i used my sterio as an amp it made everything louder but there was a decrease in bass even at the volumes i used the phones at before i used the stereo as an amp. (it is a pile of crap though, panasonic mini system using a music port and a headphone port, totally maxed out with the bass cranked up.) the whole system only cost £150 and this is just a side function... so you can probably imagine lol