Preamplifiers are used to amplify low level signals such as those from mikes, tape heads before they are fed into power amplifiers. Power amplifiers are generally less sensitive. Frequency response also can be suitably trimmed and modified at preamp stage. LA 3161 is one of those widely used in tape decks and amplifiers as a stereo preamplifier.
Block Diagram is shown in Figure. LA 3161 has two low noise preamplifiers with good ripple rejection on chip catering to stereo applications. External part count is low and Single In line (SIL))(Figure 43) package makes mounting easy. Wltile the operating voltage is 9V, the IC can tolerate voltages up to 18V. Typical input resistance is WOK and output resistance is 10K with an open loop gain of78dB. Block diagram of the IC is given below. Input is given at Pin 1 and 8, output is taken at Pin 3 and 6, and negative Feedback is given at Pin 2 and 7. Power is at Pin 5 and Pin 4 is the ground terminal. There is an internal voltage regulator.
Ready made PCBs, even populated PCBs are available using this very useful IC. You can still build one, with a Veroboard provided proper care is taken about the ground returns. It simply means that one should not connect ground terminals of output and input at the same place. This will create serious oscillations and normal hobbyist will be left in the woods. Please read general instructions for working with amplifiers in the end.