Amplifier Output Stage Having Enhanced Drive Capability

The invention is an operational amplifier (50) having an output stage (52) for enhancing the output driver capability near the negative source voltage (66). The output stage of the invention includes a voltage detector (M14) in combination with a current redirector (82) or redirecting arrangement. The voltage detector (M14) converts the voltage difference between the amplifier output (76) and the input to the output stage of the amplifier to a control current, which is redirected at the positive source voltage and applied to the negative output driver (84). The current redirector (82), which is operably connected to the voltage detector, allows the amplifier output to be driven at full rated current (e.g., approximately 40mA) close to the negative source voltage (e.g., within approximately 1.5 volts) while maintaining an output configuration appropriate for stability.