Ignition amplifier circuit wherein a transistor switch is closed to build up current through a primary winding of an ignition coil and then opened to cause an increase in the voltage of both the primary and secondary windings. A capacitor is charged during closure of the transistor switch and, in response to the increase in voltage of the primary winding, a SCR is triggered to discharge the capacitor through the primary winding, to generate a short duration high voltage pulse in the secondary winding having a sharp rise time. Thereafter, inductive discharge of the coil continues to produce a secondary voltage of substantial magnitude and a long burn time. The capacitor is charged during closure of the transistor switch through a simple diode connection to the secondary winding.