Sometimes there is the necessity to use only the preamp or the power amp of the amplifier, for instance in a case where we find that the preamp or the power amp is unsatisfactory. It's possible to connect the preamplifer to an amplifier or to a header, using the send-return for the latter. With this system you therefore use a separate preamp that can be chosen from different makes and models, and the power amp of the amplifier (or header). The signal from the output of the preamp is sent to the return of the amplifier, skipping the entire preamplification of the amplifier (or of the header): in this way only the power amp and the speakers of the amplifier are used. The overall volume can be adjusted using the Master Volume.
If you don't want to use the power amp of the amplifier (or header), the signal taken from the send can be sent to a separate power amp or to a Speaker Emulator, which is then sent to the mixer. The first system is generally more common.
When should you adopt a preamp and power amp system in place of an amplifier? There is no answer that deals with every situation. It's clear however the fact that if we perform a series of concerts where we use only two or three sounds,
it is useless to spend a lot of money for a system that we won't really use, unless we have specific sound requirements.
Many believe that the sound characteristics of a compact amplifier (or a header and speaker) sounds a little better than a system with a separate preamp and power amp.
Remember that personal taste counts more than anything, and therefore the choice is yours.
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