Newbie amp help......why?

A receiver is a combination of preamp, amplifier and tuner. An integrated amp combines the preamp and amplifier. You could also choose to go with separates— a preamp in one box and an amplifier in another box. In all of these scenarios, there is an amp in the system. If you're going to listen to music via speakers, you need an amp; you already have one in your receiver.

right then why would i need an amp. my reciever is 120watts per channel. would even a small amp help clarity or bass? i am very confused. thanks alot

You don't need an amp at all...you got the music already.

It sounds like your question may be ... why do I need a separate amp, if I already have a receiver? The answer is that you don't. If you like the music that it is coming from your present set-up, don't change a thing.

The parts of the reproduction chain are the same regardless of packaging...
a source (CD player or radio) ... a preamplifier ... an amplifier ... speakers. It is just a question of how they are packaged ... from a boombox (everything in one) to receivers (tuner/amp/preamp) to separate components for each piece of the reproduction chain.

You may find that if you try separate components that the music will sound better ... clearer sound, deeper bass, etc.

Regards,

Rich