Guitar lessons are pretty exciting, especially when you start learning to play some of your favorite songs. Eventually, after you have learned some chords, you can even compose your owns songs. Guitar-playing is even fulfilling if you get to share your newfound talent to other people, especially to musically-inclined audience.

If you are determined to bring your skill to a higher level, you need to invest in various implements like electric tuners, capo, effect pedals (for electric guitars) and amplifiers. For novice guitar players, amplifiers or amps may seem unimportant. But it actually plays a big role in making your guitar-playing fun and audible, especially if you are playing outdoors or in front of a big crowd.

Why Do You Need an Amplifier?

After you have advanced in your guitar classes, it is now time to perform for other people. Learning the guitar typically results into giving entertainment to others. It is a social activity, and it is a lovely experience to play the musical instrument for a bunch of people.

An amplifier is very handy when you are performing for a big crowd. Acoustic guitars sound louder than electric guitars, but at some point, they may need to be amplified too. For instance, if you have a band and want to bring music-playing outdoors, you'll need an amplifier to make the sound of your guitar audible. Electric guitars on the other hand sound better when played with an amplifier. Amps are also used in magnifying effects created by electric guitars. Without the support of amps, electric guitars sound bland.

Different Types of Amplifiers

Guitar players and students have a wide range of guitar amps to choose from. Commonly, there are tube amps, solid state amps, and hybrid amps which utilize different techniques in intensifying sound. A tube amp is the earliest model of amplifiers and the heaviest as well. The solid state amplifiers comprise the majority of amps available in the market. It is often a favorite of guitar players because it is light and requires less maintenance. You can also find this model used by teachers in their guitar classes. Finally, the hybrid amp is a combination of the two amps, utilizing both a tube to generate initial sound and solid state circuitry.

Amplifiers also fall in different categories depending on the guitar you are using. Traditional amplifiers are meant to project sound coming from your guitar as it is. There are also amplifiers for hard rock and metal musical genre which are equipped with control knobs to create a variety of effects. There are also acoustic amps and bass amps which are used in acoustic and bass guitars respectively

Things to Consider When Buying Amps

There are different factors you need to consider in buying an amplifier. For instance, not all amps are suitable for all venues and situations. If you are using your amp for practice and guitar lessons, a small and low-wattage amp will do. But you might need a heavy duty amp if you are planning to perform in a larger crowd, especially when playing with a drum set.