Translation guide
An amplifier is a device that increases the power of a signal, especially for audio. In Japanese, the most common term is アンプ (anpu), a loanword from English. There are also more specific technical terms.
アンプ
amplifier (general)
A device that amplifies audio signals, such as for musical instruments, home stereos, or public address systems.
The most common and versatile term for an amplifier, borrowed from English. Used in everyday conversation for audio equipment.
ギターのアンプを買った。
I bought a guitar amplifier.
このアンプは音がいい。
This amplifier sounds good.
A more formal or technical term for an amplifier. Often used in engineering contexts.
この増幅器は高周波に対応している。
This amplifier supports high frequencies.
Specifically a power amplifier, which drives speakers. Often used in hi-fi or professional audio.
A direct loanword for 'power amplifier'. Common in audio enthusiast circles.
パワーアンプとプリアンプを分けている。
I separate the power amplifier and preamplifier.
Literally 'main amplifier', often used to refer to the power amplifier in a stereo system.
A preamplifier that boosts weak signals before the main amplifier.
Standard term for preamplifier, used in audio and recording.
マイクにはプリアンプが必要だ。
A microphone needs a preamplifier.
An amplifier specifically for musical instruments like guitar or bass.
Common term for guitar amplifier. Can be combined with other instruments: ベースアンプ (bass amplifier).
彼は新しいギターアンプを試している。
He is trying out a new guitar amplifier.
Bass amplifier.
ベースアンプの音量を上げた。
I turned up the volume on the bass amplifier.
An amplifier for any electronic signal, not just audio. Used in circuits, radio, etc.
Even in electronics, アンプ is widely understood. Context clarifies the type.
この回路にはオペアンプを使っている。
This circuit uses an operational amplifier.
Technical term for any signal amplifier.
Specifically 'amplifier circuit', used in electronics design.
この増幅回路は低ノイズだ。
This amplifier circuit is low-noise.
In everyday conversation, アンプ is perfectly natural and understood. 増幅器 sounds more technical and is often seen in written specifications or formal documents. For most learners, アンプ is the go-to word.
The main amplifier broke down.
増幅器のゲインを調整する。
Adjust the gain of the amplifier.