sluttstegene

Sluttstegene, or output stages, are the final amplifier stage in a typical audio amplifier or signal chain. Their primary function is to supply the necessary current and voltage to the load, usually loudspeakers, turning the modest signal from preceding stages into a form suitable for driving low-impedance loads.

Most consumer audio systems use push-pull configurations in class AB to combine high efficiency with low distortion. A typical output stage uses complementary devices (NPN/PNP transistors or N-channel/P-channel MOSFETs) arranged so one device conducts for one half of the waveform while the other conducts for the other half. This reduces crossover distortion and improves efficiency. Tube-based designs use vacuum tubes in similar push-pull arrangements.

Important design considerations include distortion, linearity, efficiency, thermal stability, and protection. Biasing networks set quiescent current to minimize crossover distortion while avoiding excessive power dissipation. Negative feedback from the load or from the output to earlier stages helps reduce distortion and flatten the response. Output stages have low output impedance and must handle short-circuit and fault protection.

Physically, sluttstegene may be implemented as discrete transistor/MOSFET stages, integrated into power amplifiers, or as tube output sections. They interface with driver and preamplifier stages and with feedback networks that shape the overall response.

Applications range from consumer hi-fi and home cinema to professional audio and musical instrument amplifiers. The term is used in Norwegian to describe this final, power-delivering stage within an amplifier system.