All About Guitar Amplifiers

Everyone knows that the electric guitar itself sounds very weak. Unlike acoustics, its body is monolithic and does not allow sounds to resonate. In order for her "voice" to sound in full force, it is necessary to use a guitar amplifier, the best option is a combo. It combines three devices at once - an amplifier, a preamplifier and a speaker system.

A combo amplifier is a sound-amplifying equipment that is connected to an electric guitar, acoustics or bass using a special cord. They have many parameters on which the volume and clarity of the sound depends. All this directly affects the price of equipment. It is important for novice guitarists to familiarize themselves with this information, as experienced musicians already have their own preferences for brands and models.

The combo is very compact, which makes it easy to transport. Of course, concert devices are heavier than home ones, but nevertheless their functionality and performance are certainly high for an apparatus of this weight.

The sound from the guitar is sent to the combo via the AUX input. There are models with a microphone input, with the ability to connect multiple instruments. Also, the combo amplifier may have headphone jacks, and modern variations have USB inputs for a computer and an effects processor.

Let us consider in more detail the types of various combined amplifiers. According to their internal structure, they are divided into 4 main groups. Let's put them in the order in which they appeared on the music market:

• lamp;
• transistor;
• hybrid;
• digital.

Previously, tube technology was widely used in the production of technology, including music.In the 60s of the last century, no alternatives to it had yet been invented, so the first combo amplifiers were precisely tube amplifiers. The advent of rock 'n' roll sound happened precisely in the tube era, so the tube amp has become a classic for rockers. Even today, connoisseurs of high-quality equipment choose just such equipment, although not everyone can afford it.

Advantages:

• better sound;
• ease of repair.

Disadvantages:

• high price (at least 10 thousand rubles);
• need periodic replacement of lamps;
• careful handling is required;
• you also need an instrumental microphone to record a guitar;
• if necessary, you will have to buy additional accessories for sound effects.

For experienced musicians, a tube amp is a godsend, as it can create a unique sound. If we talk about beginners, then there is no need for such equipment for them.

In the 70s of the XX century, transistor technologies began to supplant tube technologies. In terms of value for money, they are also pretty good.

Advantages:

• relatively low price;
• ease of maintenance (no need to change lamps);
• can often be carried with you without fear of spoiling the technique.

Minuses:

• lower quality sound;
• although they rarely break down, if this happens, then repairing it will be long and expensive.

They are used with pleasure by novice guitarists, their advantages are undeniable. If it turns out to be in the hands of an advanced user, then the sound can be just excellent.

They were practically able to reproduce the unsurpassed sound of the tube, while they have good sound processing capabilities. Suitable for those who cannot make a choice between these two technologies.

Advantages:

• very close to tube sound;
• excellent possibilities for working with sound;
• the weight is less than that of the lamp.

Disadvantages:

• yet the sound quality is slightly different from that of a lamp.

Considering the various pros, cons and features of different combo amplifiers, you can form an idea of ​​\ u200b \ u200bthe hybrid, as well as whether you need it or not.

In the late 90s, computer technologies began to be actively introduced into music. Modeling amplifiers have appeared that can emulate the sound of other amplifiers, including tube ones. The difference with a real lamp is visible, perhaps, only to seasoned musicians, so this is also a worthy choice for a purchase.

Advantages:

• reliability and long service life;
• can emulate other amps;
• allow you to play musical effects.

Disadvantages:

• plug-in guitars lose their individual sound and sound the same. Ideal for undecided beginners who are still choosing their style. The digital apparatus allows you to experiment a lot with emulations of other amps, as well as try out various effects.

We offer an overview of the most common models of guitar combo amplifiers.

Perhaps all musicians know about these amplifiers. A classic tube amplifier of a small size, which at the same time produces a very powerful sound, a clear channel. To get overdrive, you need to tinker, as it is not directly intended for heavy music. This legendary model has already been discontinued.

Specifications:

• speaker 12 '- 1 pc .;
• power - 50 watts;
• three-band equalizer;
• weight - 23 kg.

It is popular with session guitarists, as it is very mobile, and at the same time it produces an excellent sound. After its release, users suggested that the manufacturer make improvements - this is how an improved version of this combo was created.

Specifications:

• speakers 12 '- 2 pcs.;
• power - 50 watts (changes by 25);
• there is an equalizer;
• weight - 37 kg.

Some musicians believe that this is a great option for both concerts and rehearsals. Others find flaws in it. In any case, this model is worthy of attention.

A good buy for a studio or playing at small concerts. The sound of the "old school" will delight true connoisseurs. Both blues and jazz will sound quality with him.

Specifications:

• speaker 12 '- 1 pc .;
• power - 22 watts;
• there is an equalizer;
• weight - 20 kg.

An excellent combo from a global manufacturer. True, with its not too high power, it is expensive.

A comic with which the musicians from Queen, The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Deep Purple played. This already says a lot, so the model can be considered legendary.

Specifications:

• speakers 12 '- 2 pcs.;
• power - 30 watts;
• there is an equalizer;
• weight - 19-32 kg.

Many argue that this amplifier has no disadvantages. He, indeed, surpasses the competition in many ways. True, it was released quite a long time ago, so it may not respond to all the trends of the times.

Its sound is recognized as one of the best in the world.

Specifications:

• speakers 12 '- 2 pcs.;
• power - 30 watts;
• there is an equalizer;
• weight - 19-32 kg.

In this rating of sales leaders, he confidently bypasses competitors. Its only drawback is the cost - more than 200 thousand rubles.

How to choose the best combo amp? To decide on a purchase, check out their most important characteristics. And then check the correct model in the game.

Power determines how loud and clear the device can sound - remember, it is measured in watts. For home use, there is no need for powerful equipment, a 12 or 15 W combo will be enough. And then, most likely, you will not have to set it to the maximum. If you are doing rehearsals with another guitarist and bassist, a 40W technique will work. And if there is also a drummer in the group, then it is worth taking 60W equipment. But a strong amp can be rented at a rehearsal point, and a simple one can be bought for a home.

Combo amplifiers are produced not only for electric guitars, but also for acoustics and bass. Their sound is tuned to clearly output the desired frequencies.

Speaker size is also important for sound. The 8 "speaker is suitable for beginners and the 10" speaker for more experienced musicians. The coolest options start at 12 inches but are not cheap.

They also make the sound louder. If you have two or more speakers, you can achieve a thicker, more surround sound.

Resistance is not such an important characteristic, and this point usually matters for more advanced musicians who experiment with equipment. In a nutshell, we can say that if you need to connect additional speakers or an amplifier to the combo, then this indicator should be the same for them.

If the combo amplifier has several channels, then this gives additional opportunities for working with music. It is sometimes convenient when each of them can be debugged in its own way. For example, one you will include on the rhythmic parts of the compositions, the other - on the solo. If the group does not play at a professional level, then 2-3 channels will be enough for it, and only one will be enough for a novice guitarist.

And a few more tips from professionals.

1. Connect all equipment to the switched off amplifier. And also do not turn it on idle when nothing is connected to it.
2. The equipment, as you know, sometimes makes phonies when connected. If you set the preamp to maximum, then set the master volume to minimum, and vice versa.
3. Many amps have settings for different effects.But it should be borne in mind that the built-in effect will sound worse than the one that is additionally purchased on the pedals (lotion).
4. It is not recommended to carry the tube amplifier from place to place. They are not as "tenacious" as their brothers of the next generations.
5. If in a specific place it is problematic to turn on the combo to the network, then you can try to do it from the battery. The easiest and fastest way to create a portable power source is to use a 12 volt battery and a car inverter (from 12 to 220). Although for solo performances, a 4-watt model, which is powered by batteries, may also be suitable. Such a stand-alone mini-combo amplifier will do its job quite well.
6. If the group has bass, then the amp should play 2 times more powerful for it than for an electric guitar.

So, the choice of a combo depends on the purpose for which it is purchased. Every musician wants to play high-end equipment, and yet there are models that are more suitable for both beginners and professional musicians.