The VCA2616 and VCA2611 are dual, Low-Noise Preamplifiers (LNP), plus low-noise Variable Gain Amplifiers (VGA). The VCA2611 is an upgraded version of the VCA2616. The only difference between the VCA2616 and the VCA2611 is the input structure to the LNP. The VCA2616 is limited to 0.3V negativegoing input spikes; the VCA2611 is limited to 2.0V negativegoing input spikes. This change allows the user to use slower and less expensive input clamping diodes prior to the LNP input. In some designs, input clamping may not be required. The combination of Active Termination (AT) and Maximum Gain Select (MGS) allow for the best noise performance. The VCA2616 and VCA2611 also feature low crosstalk and outstanding distortion performance. The LNP has differential input and output capability and is strappable for gains of 5dB, 17dB, 22dB, or 25dB. Low input impedance is achieved by AT, resulting in as much as a 4.6dB improvement in noise figure over conventional shunt termination. The termination value can also be switched to accommodate different sources. The output of the LNP is available for external signal processing.