A guitar amplifier increases, or amplifies, the input signal from an acoustic or electric guitar to make it louder with minimal distortion. An amplifier is a device that changes the signal, but it usually comes with a speaker or speakers to deliver the louder sound. The sound quality, loudness, distortion, and choice of audio effects differ between different types of amplifiers, such as tube, solid state, and digital.
Vacuum tubes powered the first guitar amplifiers, as did many other electronic devices in the 1940s and 1950s. Many musicians preferred the distinct sound and quality of a tube guitar amplifier even after electrical technology replaced vacuum tubes with transistors. As a result, there is still a sizable market for vintage and reproduction amplifiers. They’re pricier and may be more difficult to repair, but they produce natural feedback loops and a sweet tone.
The transistor or solid state amplifier is another type of guitar amplifier. With an electric guitar, a preamp is required to boost the unamplified signal before it is sent to the secondary power amplifier. The vibrations are strong enough to cause the speaker to vibrate and become audible. Distortion and feedback, for example, can be precisely controlled rather than evolving organically as they do in tube amplifiers. For a clearer sound, those effects can be easily removed. Solid-state guitar amplifiers are rarely in need of repair.
Consider volume, flexibility, portability, and how it sounds with your particular guitar when choosing a guitar amplifier. Bring your guitar(s) to the store and we’ll put them through their paces. Clean amplification, a responsive EQ, or equalizer, balanced bass and treble, and the option for sound effects like reverb, delay, or echo are all things to look for. It should be suitable for solo practice, jamming with other amplified instruments, and performing in larger venues.
The power amp “head” can be purchased separately from the speaker, but most guitar amplifiers come as a “combo.” Depending on the type of wood, size, and whether the back is open or closed, the cabinet will affect the sound. Closed-back cabinets, for example, boost bass. You can build your own combo guitar amplifier if you know exactly what you want.