The Power Behind the Music – Why Guitar Amplifiers Are the Best.
When it comes to producing the ultimate sound, guitar amplifiers are one of the most important pieces of equipment a musician possesses. Whether you are a veteran of the stage or just getting started on your musical journey, having a reliable amplifier is a key part of any guitar players’ arsenal.
Guitar amplifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small and portable to huge and powerful – but what are the benefits of different types? How does an amplifier make your sound bigger and better? And what should you look for when buying one? Read on for our guide to the wonderful world of guitar amplifiers.
To start with, it’s important to consider the type of sound you’re trying to create. Different amplifier models come with different features, including specific bass and treble settings, reverb and distortion. Knowing which aspects of your sound you want to emphasise allows you to narrow your choice down to within a particular style.
For instance, if you’re looking for a cleaner sound, then a modelling amplifier – that comes with lots of pre-set settings to emulate different styles (rock, jazz, funk, blues etc.) – is probably the best bet. But if you prefer a more traditional approach and like to create your own unique sound then a solid state amplifier will be the way to go.
Size is another factor when it comes to selecting the perfect guitar amplifier for your setup. Studio amplifiers around the 15 to 20 watt range usually offer a great balance between size, performance and affordability. But these are best suited to recording studios, or even home use.
Broadcast amplifiers, ranging from 25 watts up to 100 watts, are designed for larger stages and venues and can really pack a punch when the volume needs to be turned up. Inside these larger amps you’ll usually find a range of pre-amps and effects – such as reverberation and distortion – that allow for some truly killer sounds.
Finally, for the ultimate in sound quality and power, there are power amps and bass amps – controlled with a separate head unit – which offer a truly immersive experience. Great care and attention has to go into setting these systems up, however, they can be truly stunning when done right.
So no matter what type of amplifier you’re looking for, there’s one suitable to your exact needs and requirements. With a reliable and well-tuned guitar amplifier, you can be sure to get the best sound possible out of your playing.