Now that you’ve selected your dream guitar, we need to find an amp to go with it. There are numerous options depending on size, sound, amplifier technology, and configuration. Below, you find a friendly guide to steer you through the maze.

Types Of Amplifiers
There are four types of guitar amplifiers: Solid State (analog), Tube, Modeling (digital), and Hybrids.

Solid State Amps: These amps are called solid state because they use transistors for their preamp and power sections instead of tubes. They are very reliable and seldom need repairs. They often have a very clean tone, although many come with “distortion” channels also. These amps are popular with players looking for a sturdy, reliable touring amp.

Tube Amps: Tube amps preferred by many guitarists for their warm, fat tone and “organic” distortion. Tube amps usually sound louder than solid state amps of the same wattage and have a definite “feel” that you don’t get from solid state amps. Most tube amps have separate channels that can switch from clean to distorted tones instantly. need changing occasionally,

Modeling Amps (Digital Amps): Modeling amps use digital processors to simulate the sound of old-fashion tube technology. Using software that “models” the sound of a tube amplifier (and cabinets), these amps put the sound of numerous amps in one box. Modeling amps are programmable, and often have built-in digital effects such as delay, chorus, etc. Some include digital or analog outputs with speaker simulation for going direct into a recording interface or PA system.

Hybrid Amps: Combining the best of each type of amp into one package, Vox ValveState amps use an actual tube in conjunction with the solid state power section of their amps. Marshall Valvestate amps use tubes in the preamp section and solid state circuitry in the power section to create a tube tone without using power tubes.

Configurations
In addition to types of amplification, amps come in different configurations. Combos (short for combinations) are self-contained units containing the amplifier and speaker in one cabinet. Amps also come in separate Head and Speaker Cabinets. These allow you to use any amp head with virtually any speaker cabinet. They also break the amp into two units, making each unit lighter and easier to carry than a single combo. Combining two cabinets and a head is called a “stack.”

Construction
The thickness of wood used to construct the cabinet is a major factor in determining the quality of sound. The thinner the wood used, the more likely the speaker will vibrate itself loose. A thickness of at least 1/2” will achieve a strong sound and to keep the speaker in place. Another factor determining sound quality is whether the amp has an open or closed back. Closed- back guitar amps produce a better bass response from the speaker.

When moving an amp from gig to gig, it’s quite common for them to get banged up a bit. Good corner protectors will add to the life of the guitar amp.

Power and Speaker Size
The power and size of speaker you choose for your amp will depend to some degree on application and price. Practice amps are usually solid state or modeling combo units featuring low power (10-30 watts and small (8″ or 10″) speakers, although there are some basic tube amps to be found. For rehearsal and playing smaller venues, consider tube and modeling combo amps with power ratings averaging about 50 watts and 12″ speakers for fuller sound. For larger venues or for performing loud, expect power to average at 120 Watts and up. You will find “twins”, or combos that have pairs of 12″ speakers effective but this is where separate head and speaker cabinets (Stacks) come into play.

Other Options
Other additional features you might encounter include:

Reverb Units: Some amps use spring reverbs, which can be very natural sounding, while others use digital reverb.

Effects Loops: These jacks allow you to add stomp boxes or rack units after the preamp section of the amp to avoid amplifying any effect noise.

Channel Switching: These amps allow you to switch between different preamp channels usually going from a clean tone to a distorted one. Check to see if a footswitch is included. Digital amps often require the purchase of an additional MIDI footswitch to change tones remotely.

Built-in Effects: Roland Jazz Chorus amps are famous for their built-in stereo chorus. Tremolo is another effect many amps feature (great for surf guitar.) Modeling amps usually contain multiple built-in digital effects.