How do you measure output impedance?


I'd like to measure the output impedance of my pre-amp. Is this something I can do with a multi-meter? If yes, how?
Ag insider logo xs@2xdrubin
That's exactly right. And I had my preamp modified recently with additional resistance on one set of outputs (to lower gain) and would like to know how, if at all, this has affected the output impedance for that set of outputs.

Zoya, your question strikes me as odd. Just because the process is intimidating, why do you suspect my interest in the result?

I've been curious for some time about this issue of mismatch between pre and power amp. I'd like to have real measurements to compare with what I hear to try to get a better handle on things.
Drubin, You have misunderstood me. I didn't suspect anything, I was just curious because I am new to the hi-end audio and just was trying to learn what can be accomplished by knowing output impedance of the pre.
Sorry, but you really can't simplify it any more than I described. Maybe it could be described better, but that is the process. It really isn't all that complicated. You can get the parts at Radio Shack for a few $$.

The modifications done to your preamp may have lowered or raised the output impedance depending on how it was done. If they put a resistor in series with the ouput it would raise the impedance. If they used a voltage divider it could go either way depending on the values chosen.