How to Install Home Amplifiers

Locate the preout terminals on the rear of the preamplifier. A preamplifier is a device that sits between CD players, turntables, and other source devices. It serves as the volume control and switcher, in addition to processing the signal. Preouts usually are RCA jacks, labeled as to their function. If no preout terminals are present, a spare "Tape Out" jack can be used.

Connect the RCA cable from the jack on the preamplifier to the associated RCA input on the rear of the amplifier. An amplifier takes the incoming signal from the preamplifier and steps up the output to a clean and audible feed. Without an amplifier, nothing would be heard.

Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the end of the speaker wire, using the wire strippers. Twist the bare wires tightly to prevent loose wires from causing a short. Loosen the binding post nut until the hole on the post is revealed. Insert the bare wire into the post, and tighten the nut to secure. Repeat this process for all speaker wires connected to the amp.

Turn on the amplifier and preamplifier. Select the desired source input on the preamp. If the "Tape Out" RCA jack was used to connect the amplifier, press the "Tape Monitor" button.

Turn up the preamp to a normal listening level. Adjust the input pots on the front or rear of the amplifier (if present) using the small flat-head screwdriver. These pots are small, flat-head plastic or metal recessed screws, used to adjust input gain. They are typically labeled "SENS" or "GAIN." Turn the knobs with the screwdriver until the sound is sufficiently loud, while remaining undistorted.