Electric guitar heads are the unsung heroes of the guitar world. They’re responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals, which are then amplified and sent to the speakers. Without a good electric guitar head, even the best guitar in the world will sound thin and weak.
Editor’s Notes: Electric Guitar Heads are an essential part of any electric guitar rig. They provide the power and tone that make your guitar sound its best. If you’re looking to upgrade your sound, a new electric guitar head is a great place to start.
We’ve done the research and put together this electric guitar head guide to help you make the right decision. We’ll cover the different types of electric guitar heads, their features, and benefits. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right electric guitar head for your needs.
Key Differences: Electric Guitar Heads
| Feature | Tube Amps | Solid-State Amps |
|---|---|---|
| Power | More powerful | Less powerful |
| Tone | Warmer, more natural tone | Brighter, more sterile tone |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
Main Article Topics
- Types of Electric Guitar Heads
- Features of Electric Guitar Heads
- Benefits of Electric Guitar Heads
- How to Choose the Right Electric Guitar Head
1. Power
The power of an electric guitar head is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an amp. The wattage of an amp determines how loud it can be, and how much headroom it has. Headroom is the amount of clean headroom an amp has before it starts to distort. Amps with more headroom are better suited for clean playing, while amps with less headroom are better suited for overdriven and distorted playing.
- Small practice amps typically have a wattage of 10 watts or less. These amps are ideal for practicing at home or in a small rehearsal space.
- Medium-sized amps typically have a wattage of 15 to 30 watts. These amps are ideal for playing in small to medium-sized venues.
- Large stage amps typically have a wattage of 50 watts or more. These amps are ideal for playing in large venues.
The wattage of an amp is not the only factor that determines how loud it can be. The efficiency of the speaker cabinet also plays a role. A more efficient speaker cabinet will produce more sound with less power.
When choosing an electric guitar head, it is important to consider the wattage of the amp and the efficiency of the speaker cabinet. By matching the right amp to the right speaker cabinet, you can achieve the perfect sound for your needs.
2. Tone
The tone of an electric guitar head is one of the most important factors that will affect the sound of your guitar. The tone of an amp is determined by a number of factors, including the type of preamp and power amp circuits used, the type of tubes or transistors used, and the overall design of the amp.
- Preamp Circuits: The preamp circuit is responsible for shaping the basic tone of the amp. Different preamp circuits will produce different tones, from clean and pristine to overdriven and distorted.
- Power Amp Circuits: The power amp circuit is responsible for providing the power to the speaker. Different power amp circuits will produce different tones, from warm and mellow to bright and aggressive.
- Tubes vs. Transistors: Electric guitar heads can use either vacuum tubes or transistors to amplify the signal. Vacuum tubes are known for their warm, natural tone, while transistors are known for their clean, precise sound.
- Overall Design: The overall design of an electric guitar head will also affect its tone. Factors such as the type of cabinet, the size of the speakers, and the placement of the controls will all contribute to the overall sound of the amp.
By understanding the different factors that affect the tone of an electric guitar head, you can choose an amp that will produce the sound you want. If you’re looking for a warm, clean tone, you’ll want to choose an amp with a clean preamp circuit and a warm power amp circuit. If you’re looking for an overdriven or distorted tone, you’ll want to choose an amp with a dirty preamp circuit and a powerful power amp circuit.
3. Features
Electric guitar heads can have a variety of features, such as reverb, delay, and chorus. These features can add depth and texture to your sound, and can help you to create a unique and personal sound.
- Reverb simulates the natural reverberation of a room, and can add a sense of space and ambience to your sound.
- Delay repeats your signal back to you at a set interval, and can create a variety of effects, from subtle echoes to long, ethereal delays.
- Chorus creates a shimmering, swirling effect by slightly detuning your signal and mixing it back in with the original signal.
These are just a few of the many features that can be found on electric guitar heads. By experimenting with different features, you can create a sound that is uniquely your own.
4. Construction
The construction of an electric guitar head plays a significant role in its overall performance and sound quality. Different materials and construction methods can affect the amp’s tone, durability, and weight.
- Material: The material used to construct an electric guitar head can have a significant impact on its tone. Wood is a popular choice for guitar heads because it is lightweight and resonant, producing a warm and natural sound. Metal is another popular choice, as it is more durable and can produce a brighter, more aggressive sound. Plastic is also sometimes used in the construction of guitar heads, as it is lightweight and inexpensive.
- Construction Method: The construction method used to build an electric guitar head can also affect its tone and durability. Some guitar heads are made using a solid-state construction, while others use a tube-based construction. Solid-state amps are typically more affordable and reliable, while tube amps are known for their warmer, more natural tone.
- Weight: The weight of an electric guitar head is an important consideration, especially if you plan on transporting it frequently. Lighter amps are easier to carry around, but they may not be as durable as heavier amps. Heavier amps are more durable, but they can be more difficult to transport.
When choosing an electric guitar head, it is important to consider the construction materials and methods used. By understanding how these factors can affect the amp’s tone, durability, and weight, you can make an informed decision about which amp is right for you.
5. Price
The price of an electric guitar head is an important consideration for any guitarist. The price of an amp can vary depending on a number of factors, including the features, power, and construction of the amp.
Features: The features of an electric guitar head can have a significant impact on its price. Amps with more features, such as reverb, delay, and chorus, will typically cost more than amps with fewer features.
Power: The power of an electric guitar head is measured in watts. Amps with more power will typically cost more than amps with less power.
Construction: The construction of an electric guitar head can also affect its price. Amps that are made from higher-quality materials and with better construction methods will typically cost more than amps that are made from lower-quality materials and with poorer construction methods.
It is important to consider your needs and budget when choosing an electric guitar head. If you are a beginner, you may not need an amp with a lot of features. However, if you are a more experienced player, you may want an amp with more features and power.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which electric guitar head is right for you is to try out a few different models and see which one you like the best.
Key Insights
- The price of an electric guitar head can vary depending on a number of factors, including the features, power, and construction of the amp.
- Amps with more features, power, and better construction will typically cost more than amps with fewer features, power, and poorer construction.
- It is important to consider your needs and budget when choosing an electric guitar head.
Examples
| Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Small practice amp | $100-$500 |
| Medium-sized amp | $500-$1,000 |
| Large stage amp | $1,000-$5,000 |
6. Brand
The brand of an electric guitar head is an important consideration for any guitarist. Different brands have their own unique sound and features, and some brands are better suited for certain genres of music than others. For example, Fender amps are known for their clean, bright sound, while Marshall amps are known for their warm, overdriven sound. Vox amps are known for their jangly, chime-like sound.
When choosing an electric guitar head, it is important to consider the sound you want to achieve. If you are unsure what sound you want, it is a good idea to try out a few different brands of amps to see which one you like the best. You should also consider the features that are important to you. Some amps have built-in effects, such as reverb and delay, while others have more advanced features, such as MIDI control and amp modeling.
The brand of an electric guitar head can also affect its price. Some brands, such as Fender and Marshall, are more expensive than other brands. However, it is important to remember that price is not always an indicator of quality. There are many great amps on the market that are affordable.
Ultimately, the best way to choose an electric guitar head is to try out a few different models and see which one you like the best. Consider the sound you want to achieve, the features that are important to you, and your budget. With a little research, you can find the perfect amp for your needs.
| Brand | Sound | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fender | Clean, bright | Reverb, delay, chorus | $500-$2,000 |
| Marshall | Warm, overdriven | Gain, EQ, reverb | $500-$3,000 |
| Vox | Jangly, chime-like | Treble, bass, reverb | $300-$1,500 |
7. Valve vs. Solid-State
The choice between a valve (tube) or solid-state electric guitar head is a matter of personal preference. Both types of amps have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately the best way to decide which type is right for you is to try out a few different models and see which one you like the best.
- Tonal Characteristics: Valve amps are known for their warm, natural tone, while solid-state amps are known for their clean, precise sound. Valve amps produce a more organic and “spongy” sound, while solid-state amps produce a more sterile and “sterile” sound.
- Responsiveness: Valve amps are more responsive to the player’s touch than solid-state amps. This means that valve amps can produce a wider range of tones, from clean to overdriven, and they can respond more dynamically to the player’s playing style.
- Reliability: Valve amps are less reliable than solid-state amps. Valve amps require regular maintenance, and they can be more susceptible to damage from heat and vibration.
- Cost: Valve amps are more expensive than solid-state amps. This is because valve amps require more expensive components, and they are more labor-intensive to build.
Ultimately, the choice between a valve or solid-state electric guitar head is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a warm, natural tone with a lot of touch sensitivity, then a valve amp is a good choice. If you are looking for a clean, precise sound with a lot of reliability, then a solid-state amp is a good choice.
8. Head vs. Combo
In the world of electric guitar amplification, there are two main types of setups: heads and combos. A head is the amplifier itself, while a combo includes the amplifier and a speaker cabinet in a single unit. Both heads and combos have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the key differences before making a purchase.
- Portability: Combos are more portable than heads because they are all-in-one units. This makes them ideal for guitarists who need to transport their amp frequently, such as gigging musicians or students. Heads, on the other hand, are not as portable because they require a separate speaker cabinet. However, this also gives heads a major advantage in terms of flexibility.
- Flexibility:
Heads offer more flexibility than combos because they allow you to mix and match different amplifier and speaker cabinet combinations. This gives you a wider range of tonal options to choose from. For example, you could use a high-gain head with a clean speaker cabinet for a more versatile sound. Combos, on the other hand, are not as flexible because they are typically designed to be used with a specific speaker cabinet. - Power: Heads are typically more powerful than combos because they have larger power supplies and output transformers. This makes them ideal for guitarists who need a lot of volume and headroom. Combos, on the other hand, are typically less powerful than heads, but they are still loud enough for most applications.
- Cost: Combos are typically less expensive than heads because they are all-in-one units. Heads, on the other hand, are typically more expensive because they require a separate speaker cabinet. However, the cost of a head and speaker cabinet combination can be more affordable than a high-end combo.
Ultimately, the best way to decide whether a head or a combo is right for you is to try out both types of amps and see which one you prefer. Consider your portability needs, flexibility requirements, power needs, and budget. With a little research, you can find the perfect amp setup for your needs.
9. Impedance
The impedance of an electric guitar head is an important factor to consider when choosing a speaker cabinet. Impedance is measured in ohms, and it refers to the resistance that the amp’s output transformer presents to the speaker. The impedance of the amp must match the impedance of the speaker cabinet in order to achieve optimal sound quality.
If the impedance of the amp does not match the impedance of the speaker cabinet, it can cause a number of problems, including:
- Reduced volume
- Distorted sound
- Damaged amp or speaker
To avoid these problems, it is important to make sure that the impedance of your electric guitar head matches the impedance of your speaker cabinet. You can find the impedance of your amp and speaker cabinet in the owner’s manuals for each piece of equipment.
In addition to matching the impedance of the amp and speaker cabinet, it is also important to consider the power handling capacity of the speaker cabinet. The power handling capacity of a speaker cabinet is measured in watts, and it refers to the amount of power that the speaker can handle without being damaged. The power handling capacity of the speaker cabinet should be equal to or greater than the power output of the amp.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your electric guitar head and speaker cabinet are properly matched for optimal sound quality.
Real-Life Example:
Let’s say you have an electric guitar head with an impedance of 8 ohms. You are looking to purchase a speaker cabinet to go with your amp. You find a speaker cabinet that you like, but it has an impedance of 16 ohms. If you connect your 8-ohm amp to this 16-ohm speaker cabinet, you will not achieve optimal sound quality. The sound will be quieter and distorted, and you may even damage your amp or speaker.
Instead, you should look for a speaker cabinet that has an impedance of 8 ohms to match your amp. This will ensure that you get the best possible sound quality from your electric guitar rig.
10. Effects Loop
An effects loop is a crucial component of an electric guitar head as it provides guitarists with the flexibility to incorporate external effects pedals into their signal chain. By connecting effects pedals to the effects loop, guitarists can modify their sound in various ways, allowing for a wider range of tonal possibilities.
The effects loop is typically located on the back of the amp head and consists of two jacks: a send jack and a return jack. The send jack sends the guitar signal to the effects pedals, and the return jack receives the processed signal from the pedals and sends it to the power amp section of the amp.
There are two main types of effects loops: series and parallel. A series effects loop places the effects pedals in series with the guitar signal, meaning that the signal passes through each pedal in succession. A parallel effects loop, on the other hand, splits the guitar signal into two paths, one path going to the effects pedals and the other path bypassing the pedals. The two paths are then recombined before being sent to the power amp.
The type of effects loop that is best for a particular guitarist depends on their individual needs and preferences. Series effects loops are typically used for effects that require a strong interaction with the guitar signal, such as distortion and overdrive pedals. Parallel effects loops, on the other hand, are typically used for effects that do not require a strong interaction with the guitar signal, such as reverb and delay pedals.
Effects loops are an essential tool for guitarists who want to expand their sonic palette and create unique and personalized sounds. By understanding the different types of effects loops and how they can be used, guitarists can achieve a wider range of tonal possibilities and enhance their overall playing experience.
Real-Life Example:
One of the most common uses of an effects loop is to connect a reverb pedal to an amp. Reverb simulates the natural reverberation of a room, adding depth and ambience to the guitar sound. By placing a reverb pedal in the effects loop, the guitarist can control the amount of reverb applied to the signal without affecting the overall gain or distortion of the amp.
Practical Significance:
Effects loops provide guitarists with a powerful tool for shaping their sound and creating unique tonal possibilities. By understanding how effects loops work and how to use them effectively, guitarists can expand their sonic palette and enhance their overall playing experience.
Table: Effects Loop Types
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Series | Effects pedals are placed in series with the guitar signal. |
| Parallel | Guitar signal is split into two paths, one path going to the effects pedals and the other path bypassing the pedals. The two paths are then recombined before being sent to the power amp. |
FAQs
Electric guitar heads are essential components of any electric guitar rig. They provide the power and tone that make your guitar sound its best. If you’re looking to upgrade your sound, a new electric guitar head is a great place to start.
Question 1: What are the different types of electric guitar heads?
Electric guitar heads come in two main types: tube (valve) and solid-state. Tube amps are known for their warm, natural tone, while solid-state amps are known for their clean, precise sound.
Question 2: What are the key features of electric guitar heads?
Electric guitar heads typically have a variety of features, including gain, EQ, reverb, and delay. Gain controls the amount of distortion, while EQ allows you to shape the tone of your sound. Reverb and delay add depth and ambience to your sound.
Question 3: How do I choose the right electric guitar head for my ne
eds?
When choosing an electric guitar head, there are several factors to consider, including the type of music you play, the power you need, and the features you want. If you’re not sure what you need, it’s a good idea to try out a few different models at a local music store.
Question 4: How do I maintain my electric guitar head?
To maintain your electric guitar head, it’s important to keep it clean and free of dust and debris. You should also have it serviced by a qualified technician on a regular basis.
Question 5: What are some common problems with electric guitar heads?
Common problems with electric guitar heads include blown fuses, noisy pots, and microphonic tubes. If you experience any of these problems, it’s important to have your amp serviced by a qualified technician.
Question 6: How can I get the most out of my electric guitar head?
To get the most out of your electric guitar head, it’s important to use it in conjunction with a good speaker cabinet. You should also experiment with different settings to find the sound that you like best.
Summary:
Electric guitar heads are essential components of any electric guitar rig. By understanding the different types of electric guitar heads, their features, and how to choose the right one for your needs, you can get the most out of your electric guitar and achieve the sound you’re looking for.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you know how to choose and use an electric guitar head, it’s time to learn about the different types of speaker cabinets and how to match them with your amp.
Electric Guitar Head Tips
Electric guitar heads are the unsung heroes of the guitar world. They’re responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals, which are then amplified and sent to the speakers. Without a good electric guitar head, even the best guitar in the world will sound thin and weak.
Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your electric guitar head:
Tip 1: Choose the right head for your needs.
There are many different types of electric guitar heads on the market, each with its own unique sound and features. Consider the type of music you play, the power you need, and the features you want when choosing a head.
Tip 2: Match your head to your speaker cabinet.
The speaker cabinet is just as important as the head when it comes to getting a good sound. Make sure to match the impedance of your head to the impedance of your speaker cabinet. This will ensure that you get the best possible sound quality.
Tip 3: Use a good quality cable.
A good quality cable will help to ensure that your signal is clean and free of noise. Avoid using cheap cables, as they can degrade the sound of your guitar.
Tip 4: Keep your head clean.
Dust and dirt can build up on your head over time, which can affect the sound quality. Make sure to clean your head regularly with a soft cloth.
Tip 5: Have your head serviced regularly.
A qualified technician can help to keep your head in good working condition. Have your head serviced regularly to ensure that it is operating at its best.
Summary:
By following these tips, you can get the most out of your electric guitar head and achieve the sound you’re looking for.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Now that you know how to choose and use an electric guitar head, it’s time to learn about the different types of speaker cabinets and how to match them with your amp.
Electric Guitar Head
The electric guitar head is a crucial component of any electric guitar rig. It is responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals, which are then amplified and sent to the speakers. The choice of electric guitar head can have a significant impact on the overall sound of your guitar.
When choosing an electric guitar head, there are several factors to consider, including the type of music you play, the power you need, and the features you want. It is also important to match the impedance of your head to the impedance of your speaker cabinet. By following these tips, you can choose the right electric guitar head for your needs and get the most out of your electric guitar.
The electric guitar head is a versatile and powerful tool that can help you to achieve a wide range of sounds. By understanding the different types of electric guitar heads and how to use them, you can expand your sonic palette and take your playing to the next level.
