How to Choose a Guitar Amp

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Identify the type of music you'll be playing (this will be essential when you make the choice on your new amp.

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   Step 2: Research different manufacturers of guitar amps

   , Once you have completed these first 2 essential steps, you can begin your search. ,, A 10 to 30 watt practice amp will be perfect for bedroom practice and rehearsals, but if you plan on gigging, then you'll need something with more power. , It all depends on what it's being used for.
   
   Tube or transistor or Modelling? Many musicians would argue that tubes provide a warmer, more vintage tone, compared to the harshness of transistor amps.
   
   It all depends what you prefer, many metal musicians prefer the harsh growling tones of a transistor amp, whereas a blues player may prefer the warmth and crispness of tube amplification.
   
   Tube amplifiers also cost a lot more than their "solid-state" counterparts, premium sound = premium price.
   
   One thing to bear in mind when making this decision is that tube amplifiers are fragile and they need a lot more upkeep than a transistor amp.
   
   Tube amps also can be very loud.
   
   Concerts at stadiums can be played with 30-watt combos, as 100-watts or more are needed for solid-state.
   
   Transistor amps are designed for the road and they can take one hell of a beating.
   
   Also the cost of replacement tubes when the old ones die is something to be considered too. , A fully kitted out pedal board can cost a fortune, therefore many people turn to modelling amplifiers with built in effects to save on $$$.
   
   And if you're not aware what's your tone, then go with modelling amp as they provide many presets of different amps and you'll really enjoy playing and exploring tone that you like.
   
   Its kind of middle one between tube and transistor.
   
   Sounds like tube, and price and weight like transistor one!,, Or watch videos and reviews on YouTube.
   
   Once you find the one you want, be sure it's the right one.
   
   Smaller stores may offer an exchange if you take it home and you don't like it.
   
   Bigger retail chains might not be so kind. , And don't harm the neighbours.
3. 3

   Step 3: read reviews to get an idea of what you'll be looking for in an amp.

4. 4

   Step 4: Start looking.

5. 5

   Step 5: Choose what type of amp you'll be looking for

6. 6

   Step 6: different amps are suited for different styles of music

7. 7

   Step 7: for example

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   Step 8: you won't be wanting an Epiphone Blues Jr. for playing death metal.

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   Step 9: Figure out what size of amp you'll be needing.

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    Step 10: Identify your price range

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    Step 11: a half-stack will set you back easily over £500/$600

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    Step 12: But a combo amp from the same company might be a couple of hundred cheaper.

13. 13

    Step 13: Find out whether you need effects for the style of music you're playing.

14. 14

    Step 14: Try some amplifiers out at a store until you find one that you like.

15. 15

    Step 15: Enjoy your new amp.

Detailed Guide

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