> From the transistor level diagram, how can the model say that there is an Rout in series? That model is a generic one, based on the fact that it is (A) practically impossible to build any amplifier with zero output impedance, and (B) op-amps are generally not designed for low open-loop output impedance. The _entire point_ of an op-amp is that the things that matter in closed-loop -- being the gain, the gain-bandwidth product, the input offset, etc., and optimized, and everything else is pretty much left to find its own value. Output impedance is one of those things that get left to find its own value. > Is it referring to the small-signal output impedance of M5 in parallel with Mb4 rout? _In that particular schematic_, yes. But in practical terms, all op-amps have fairly high output impedances _because it generally doesn't matter_. Sometimes it does, and then you have to pay attention. But usually it doesn't (or you can work around it) and then you can ignore it.