A multi-stage optical amplifier that has an optical fiber with a first length of amplifier fiber and a second length of amplifier fiber. The optical fiber is configured to be coupled to a signal source that produces at least a signal wavelength _s and a pump source that produces a pump wavelength _p. Pump wavelength _p is less than signal wavelength _s. Signal input, signal output and pump input ports are each coupled to the optical fiber. A first lossy member is coupled to the optical fiber and positioned between the first and second lengths of amplifier fiber. A pump shunt is coupled to the signal input port and the signal output port.