What is the role of an audio frequency amplifier in a single sideband receiver?

The role of an audio frequency amplifier in a single sideband receiver is to amplify audio signals before further processing. In a single sideband (SSB) receiver, the actual information content of the signal is transmitted as variations in amplitude from a carrier frequency. After the radio frequency signals are demodulated, the resulting audio frequency signals, which are too weak for further use, need to be boosted in strength. This is where the audio frequency amplifier comes into play. It increases the amplitude of these audio signals, ensuring they are at a usable level for the subsequent stages of the receiver, such as filtering and further processing, which may involve driving speakers or other output devices. This amplification is crucial in ensuring clear audio reproduction of the transmitted message, as most recorded audio signals have lower power levels and would otherwise be inaudible without this essential amplification step.