When it comes to playing your favorite songs on guitar or bass, you probably don’t give much thought to what goes into making that happen. But a well-equipped guitar room is nothing but an amalgamation of the various components that work together to create the sound we hear when we strum a chord or snap a beat. In this article we’ll take a look at everything from the basics of how an amplifier works, through to specific models and brands of guitar amplifier available in the market today. We’ll also discuss some of the top guitar amplifiers for beginners and intermediate players. After reading through this article, you should have a better idea of how an amplifier operates, and which type of amplifier will be right for you and your playing style.
What is an amplifier?
A guitar amplifier is a device that automatically produces and amplifies sounds from a guitar. Traditionally, an amplifier has been used with electric brands, particularly the electric guitar. But the advent of the electric bass in the 1950s, and then the electric keyboard in the 1970s, have seen the rise of what is commonly known as the home ‘spider’ – a stand-alone unit that produces the audio from a single instrument. Today, guitar amplifiers can be separated into several categories, depending on their intended use. Home users who are looking for a simple, affordable solution for listening to their favourite songs on their own, at home, may opt for a small, portable amplifier. Smaller units may be powered by batteries, so they can be taken to rehearsals or jam sessions without the need for a mains power source. The majority of guitar amps, however, are designed to be used in a studio setting, while practicing or recording new music. They come with a wide range, both in terms of price and features, and are designed to cater to a variety of needs and budgets. More expensive models offer features such as effects, digital recording and playback, and editing software.
Guitar Amplifier types
Amplifiers come in different shapes and sizes, and can be separated into types based on their intended use. – Stage: Home or professional-level amps designed for use on stage. As their name suggests, these are intended for use in front of a live audience, or in an active studio setting. Stage amps generally have bright, punchy sound and are generally loud. – Studio: Home or professional-level amps for use in a recording studio. Some models come equipped with a built-in PA system, making it easy to share your music with others. – Combo: Intermediary-level amps that combine the sound of a small stage amp with the portability of a home practice amp.
How does a guitar amplifier work?
In order to amplify the sound emitted by your guitar, an amplifier relies on an audio signal. This is produced by the guitar itself, and is transmitted to the amplifier via an audio cable. The amplifier converts this signal into sound waves that are audible to humans. The frequency range at which these waves are produced depends on the type of guitar, as well as other factors such as the string tension and the player’s skill level. While the type of guitar, and the skill of the player, heavily influence the sound produced when a guitar is played, the parts that make up an amplifier also contribute to the overall tone. When you plug your guitar into an amplifier, you are actually connecting it to several components – each one responsible for a specific function.
Popular Brands of Guitar Amplifiers
Fender Fender is a well-recognized brand in the world of electric guitars and basses. Founded in 1946, the company initially produced guitars for jazz players, but has since branched into popular genres such as rock, blues, and country. Fender bass guitars are widely considered to be the best in the market, and are known for their bright tone and legendary sustain. Martin Martin is a well-known American guitar brand, producing instruments with a hand-built appearance. The company was established in 1833 and continues to produce high-quality instruments with a vintage sound and feel. Martin guitars are widely known for their top-notch tone and impressive playability. Epiphone Epiphone is a company known for producing high-quality budget-friendly guitars. The company was established in 1883 and is now part of Gibson – a well-known American guitar brand. Epiphone guitars are designed either as flattops, with a rosewood fretboard or with a Wizard II inlays.
Brands to look out for in future
Squier Squier is a sub-brand of Fender, and offers a variety of affordable instruments. The company was established in 1975 and is now owned by Fender. Squier is known for its wide range of electric guitars, basses and amplifiers, ranging from beginner-friendly models to professional-level gear. Mesa/Boogie Mesa/Boogie is one of the best-known guitar amp brands in the world. The company was established in the 1960s and produces a range of amp heads, combo units and speakers, as well as speakers for stage monitors. Digitech Digitech is a California-based company that produces a range of effects pedals, including amplifiers, guitar effects, and keyboards. The company was founded in 1973 and produces a range of products that are designed to produce inspiring sound.
What are the different guitar amp features?
Amplifiers come with a number of features designed to enhance their overall sound quality, and make them easier to use. Each feature may have different benefits, depending on the intended use of the amplifier. – A/B Speaker Switch: This switch allows users to connect one speaker to two amps. A/B is an abbreviation for ‘back-to-back’, and refers to switching speakers so that your audience hears the full, rich sound of your guitar, and you hear the full, rich sound of your amp. A/B switching is common in practice rooms and small venues, as well as in recording studios. – Cabinet: This is the box that your amplifier sits in. Some models come with a cabinet, while others come with a speaker and require you to purchase a separate cabinet. Cabinet size and type can greatly affect the overall sound of your amplifier. – Clean and Overdrive: These two terms describe the type of distortion your amplifier produces. The clean sound is produced when a guitar is played without any distortion. The overdriven sound, on the other hand, is produced when a guitar is played through an amplifier and the pickups are pushed past their normal playing limit. – Chorus: This effect produces multiple echoes of a single note, making it easy to simulate a full, band-style chorus sound. – Digital Recording and Playback: These terms refer to the ability to record and playback music via a USB port. This makes it possible to record and edit music directly on your computer, without the need for an additional sound hardware device. – EQ: This is an abbreviation for equalizer, and refers to a set of knobs that allow you to control the quality of your sound. Some amplifiers come with built-in EQ, while others come with a variety of options. – Footswitch: This is a switch that can be used to toggle between songs, or cancel a selections. Footswitches are typically mounted on the side of your amplifier cabinet, and are used to switch between songs.
5 Best Guitar Amplifiers for Beginners and Intermediate Players
The Ibanez GAX2101WA is a great choice for beginners who are looking for an all-in-one package. With a wide range of tones, this guitar amp comes with a built-in tuner that makes it easy to get a clear sound. The 5-watt amplifier also includes an integrated speaker for a full sound.