Can I use an amplifier with my stereo receiver or do I need a pre-amplifier?

Why don't you just ask us for the chemical makeup of a rock in your living room on the coffee table? You might get a little better information. No one can really answer this question as you've provided no information. What speakers are you running with your receiver? What other components? What is the power draw for these components? Receiver output? Some companies build their components with built-in amps. You'd be better off writing down model numbers for all your components and the size and type of your speakers I.E. subs, tweeters, mids etc and taking ths information to a local store that specializes in stereos. Ask some questions. Let the salesman know the general size of the room your stereo is in and what you expect from your stereo? Even types of music you most want to listen to can effect what you need in your stereo. DJs make sure they have mixing boards wired into their equipment so they can adjust settings for different sized rooms and different types of music. I don't ...  more