Amp Up Your Sound: Beginners Guide to Guitar Amplifiers

 

What Is a Guitar Amplifier?

A guitar amplifier is an electronic device designed to channel the electrical signal from guitar pickups with the help of an electronic circuit, all in all, to “shape” the tone and make it sound better. This modified tone is sent to speakers in order to create an audible sound, making it an essential part of guitars. Generally speaking, the amp consists of two parts: the preamp and the power amp.

The preamp has the job to take the weak guitar signal and boost it to “line level”, after which the signal is sent to other sections. But aside from this, the job of a preamp is also to shape the tone tone shaping, and most have at least applied some effects like 3-band EQ (bass, mid, and treble) and distortion effects.

The power amp, on the other hand, takes the already shaped signal and amplifies it more to drive the speaker.

Types

Well, the guitar amplifier can improve the signal to make it more audible for sure, however, you should know that there are four main types of guitar amps from which you can choose. Going over them will help you see their purpose and benefits, and make the right choice.

Tube (valve)

Tube or valve amps are one of the oldest types of amps, having been present on the market for centuries. These amps use vacuum tubes to achieve richer, more dynamic and distinctive sound. Even after the appearance of the other types of amps, many musicians still prefer the use of tube (valve) amplifiers.

According to musicians, the sound of these amplifiers is often described as warm and full in comparison to other amps. It's been said that quite often, these amps boast two different channels, where one gives clearer sounds, and the other more distortion. The greatest thing about this is that you can switch between these two channels according to your needs.

The only drawback of these amps is that they are a bit costly and pricier for maintenance. They're also more fragile and prone to wear and tear.

Solid State

The solid state, also known as a transistor, is another type of popular amplifier. You can also find it under the name analogue amp, and its secret is that it relies on electronic circuit boards for preamp and power modules. Given the fact that this type of amp doesn't contain the highly breakable vacuum tubes, this means that it's much more reliable and consequently more affordable.

The solid-state amp is a more advanced version, giving you a better sound. According ot professionals, this amp is a great option for beginners.

Hybrid

The hybrid amps are the perfect option for those of you who cannot decide whether to choose a tube or solid state amp. A hybrid amp is designed to give you the best of these two amplifiers, featuring a tube preamp section with a solid-state power amp. By combining the valve preamp section with transistor circuitry, this amp can create an amazing tube-like tone.

Modelling

The modelling amp is also known as a labelled digital or profiler amp, and this certainly is the newest invention of them all. This amplifier is a software-dependent tool designed to mimic the sound of vintage tubes. Some of these amplifiers are available with built-in effects, designed to eliminate the need to buy separate pedals. Out of all types of amplifiers, the modelling ones seem to be the lightest and easiest to move around. But even though light, they are super durable.

Another great benefit is that the modelling amp can also produce a range of different sounds, making it one of the most versatile of them all.

Things You Need to Set It Up

Before setting it up, you should know that there are some important things that you should have in order to be ready.

• Guitar – This, in fact, is the first and foremost thing you should have to be able to have a sound.
• Amplifier – Regardless of the type you choose, the amp is needed for boosting your guitar’s tone.
• Speaker Cabinet (Cab) – This is an essential tool to have in case you use an amp head.
• Power Cable for the Amp – Powering the amp won't be possible without the use of a cable.
• Guitar Lead – This is an essential cable that allows you to connect the guitar to the amp.

How Big Should It Be?

Well, it's said that desktop amps should be able to be placed on a desk or shelf without taking up too much space. The combo amps, on the other hand, are larger and take up more space. While the desktop ones are more designed for home use, the combo ones are more preferred for use by bands.