www.kustom.comNow 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. Some tube amps has a single channel like the Kustom Defender 112 and Defender 5H but Most tube amps like the Coupe and DoubleCross have separate channels that can switch from clean to distorted tones instantly. Tube performance can deteriorate over time, so tubes need changing occasionally.
Modeling Amps (Digital Amps):
Modeling amps use digital processors to simulate the sound of old-fashioned tube technology. Using software that "models" the sound of tube amplifiers (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. Most of the Branded amps won’t exactly go for this, they are proud of their own tone, It’s like your own signature.
Hybrid Amps:
Combining the best of each type of amp into one package, these amps use an actual tube in conjunction with the solid state power section of their amps. Kustom HV amps use tubes in the preamp section and solid state circuitry in the power section to create a tube tone without requiring the use of 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 and the type 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 keep the speaker in place. Baltic Birch or Pine wood are best for tone, weight and strength. Re-think again if the amps are made of particle board, aside from nadudurog or namamaga, mabigat pa. 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. For added mobility, weight really matters. Are you going to carry it yourself every gig? Heavy amps are OK IF you have a roadie. Check out the Kustom Defender 112 all-tube amp, you wont belive how light it is.
Power , Speaker Size and Speaker make:
The power rating 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, except for Kustom KG series amps which usually has 12 inch speakers at 20-30 watt models although there are some small 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 100 watts and up. You can use "twins," or combo amps that have pairs of 12" speakers, but this is where a separate head and speaker cabinets (a "stack") are most effective like the DoubleCross or the HV100TD. Celestion or Eminence brand of speakers always delivers the best tone, there’s just no substitute.
Amps History:
It is also good to know the amps history, how it all started, the design evolution and the engineering team behind it. It’s all good to know that amps are all made with passion.
Warranty and Support:
What happens if your amp breaks down? Do you think your dealer will fix it for you? Are they going to replace it? Be sure about the warranty terms and conditions and better, do business with your favorite dealer. Even if you buy the most awesome amp in the world but they can’t help the moment it breaks down, everything is pointless.
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.
The Price :
Go for value first. Maraming cheap amps out there, better be sure that you are buying the right amp for you because NOT all amps are created equal so alamin mo muna all of the above, test it and trust your ears before you do a price comparison. You must know first what you're looking for.
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