Editing Line level (section)

== Line level in traditional signal paths ==
[[Acoustics|Acoustic]] sounds (such as [[register (music)|voice]]s or [[musical instrument]]s) are often recorded with [[transducer]]s ([[microphone]]s and [[Pick up (music technology)|pickup]]s) that produce weak electrical signals. These signals must be amplified to line level, where they are more easily manipulated by other devices such as mixing consoles and tape recorders.  Such amplification is performed by a device known as a [[preamplifier]] or "preamp", 
which boosts the signal to line level. 
After manipulation at line level, signals are then typically sent to a [[power amplifier]], where they are amplified to levels that can drive [[headphone]]s or [[loudspeaker]]s. These convert the signals back into sounds that can be heard through the air.

Most [[phonograph]] cartridges also have a low output level and require a preamp; typically, a home stereo integrated amplifier or receiver will have a special [[phono input]]. This input passes the signal through a phono preamp, which applies [[RIAA equalization]] to the signal as well as boosting it to line level.