receiver (redirected from pass catcher)

(1) A device that accepts signals. Contrast with "transmitter," which sends signals. The term is used generically to refer to "the side being sent to." For example, "by the time the signal gets to the receiver..." refers to whatever hardware device happens to be at the other end of the communication.

(2) A unit of audio or audio/video equipment that serves as the control panel for a stereo or home theater system. It acts as a central switch between the various inputs (CD player, cable TV, VCR, DVD player, tape deck, etc.) and one or more sets of speakers. A receiver combines the preamp, which switches and processes incoming signals, and an amplifier, which boosts power to the speakers. Receivers may also include an AM/FM or FM-only tuner. In high-end stereo and home theater systems, the preamp, amplifier and tuner are always separate components.