Articles of Interest


Guitar Amps: Many Options To Consider

by Dan Wright

The guitar is one of the most celebrated musical instruments today. Blame it on the popularity of guitarists among women or on other factors, the truth remains that the guitar is considered to be a chic instrument. There are hundreds of music bands in the world; some play rock music, some religiously play heavy metal and so on. However, one thing which is common to almost all music bands is the use of guitars.

Bass guitars, acoustic guitars and electronic guitars are among the numerous types of guitars. Each has its own unique qualities. An acoustic guitar, for example, requires no amplifier but an amplifier is absolutely necessary with an electric guitar. It is needed to enhance the sound of the guitar. That is why it is called an amplifier.

There are many types of guitar amplifiers or better known among musicians as, "guitar amps". Some amps include processors and some are just simple amplifiers. Amplifiers can vary from low to high output. When playing different genres of music (e.g. pop, rock, heavy metal, etc.), the guitar begins to need different types of amplifiers.

Some musical compositions require high treble sounds. For them, the use of conventional guitar amps is suggested. However, if a guitarist plays heavy solos pertaining to rock genre, then he must use heavy amplifiers which have built-in distortion effects and microprocessors for producing different types of sounds. That's just one example of a music genre for which a different type of amplifier is used.

There are a wide variety of guitar amps on the market these days to match the equally large selection of electric guitars available. The amplifier you purchase depends on the style and quality of music you'd like to play. Also be sure that when picking an amplifier for a bass guitar, you choose a bass amplifier.

Selection of guitar amplifiers ceases to be a difficult affair if you know exactly what you want. It is advisable to buy amplifiers of those brands which are established ones. If you have to play the guitar indoor, then you should opt for a 40-watt amplifier. However, if you have to play outdoor then you should buy high-output guitar amps. If you carefully consider your guitar, playing style/genre, and usual venue, you will then be able to select the most appropriate guitar amplifier for your own individual needs. Rock on!

The Guitar Center features dozens of guitar amps including bass amplifiers. Browse hundreds of electric guitars for sale. Vintage or modern, it's all here!

Published December 6th, 2007

Filed in Music