Electric Guitar Amps
Mesa Boogie Tube Amp
When you play an electric guitar, the sound you make is dependent on a number of things, including good amplification. The guitar itself has its own ‘voice’, its own sound, often peculiar to itself; something that distinguishes it from other instruments. Just like a car engine, it has its own sound.
The electric guitar amp you use makes a world of difference to the sound you are going to make. How the amplifier is balanced in terms of bass, treble distortion and so on, will affect the sound.
The speaker you use also has a role to play. The speaker may be part of the same unit as the amp, or a separate box. Either way, this is where the sound is delivered and it’s an important part of the setup. Even the cables you use have an influence. Use the best. It’s worth it in the long run.
Finally, of course, your own musical ability will invariably affect the overall sound that you make.
How Do Electric Guitar Amps Work?
An amplifier is made up of three components – the preamp, the power amp and the speaker. Each has its role to play in the creation of the sound made by the electric guitar.
The preamp
The preamp receives an electronic signal from the instrument. The preamp houses the bass, treble, middle, gain, drive and volume controls that you can adjust yourself. Depending on how advanced it is it may boast a whole host of other effects for you to play with.
The power amp
This receives the signal from the preamp and supercharges it. The bigger the power amp, the bigger the sound.
The speaker
The signal is passed from the power amp to the speaker(s) which convert the signal back into sound.
What to look for in a Second Hand Electric Guitar Amp
Of course, you don’t have to buy a brand new guitar amp, but you do have to know what you’re looking for. Here are a few things to consider:-
1. Compatibility.
Make sure that the amp you’re buying has been designed with your particular electric guitar in mind. Guitar Amps are made for specific instruments so, although you can get a sound when you plug your guitar into a bass or keyboard amp, it probably won’t be the one you’re looking for.
2. Price
Second hand amps can be very cheap although buying used goods, especially something that may have been thrashed, overloaded or generally abused, may not be worth taking the risk for. Consider what a new one would cost before you buy.
3. Expertise
Take somebody along who knows what they’re talking about. Even better, get it checked by an expert.
Electric guitar amps are an important component whenever your guitar is to be amplified. It can make or break the sound and will therefore make a significant difference to the performance given. Take time and care in the selection of your electric guitar amplifier.