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Combo
Amplifiers - Combo amps are so-named because they combine the amplifier
and speakers into one cabinet. They are convenient to set up because no
additional speakers need to be connected before the amp can be used. Also,
the speaker cabinet design usually well matched since they are designed
as a single unit. |
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Head
and Cabinet Amplifiers - In this configuration, the amplifier is separate
from the speaker cabinet. The head usually sits on top of the speaker cabinet.
Usually, these are fairly high powered systems designed for concert hall
use. Separating the components of the amplifier allows selecting and matching
the speaker cabinet to the head by the player. Also, these speaker cabinets
are often very large. Combining the amplifier with the speakers would make
for one HUGE amp which is not convenient for those of us who don't travel
with forklifts. A head combined with a cabinet containing 4, twelve inch
speakers is often called a "half stack." Two of these cabinets
make a "full Stack." |
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Rack
Systems - This configuration allows the player to individually select
every component of his/her amplifier system. A separate component serves
each function of a typical, combo amplifier. The rack system consists of
a preamp, power amp, effects/signal processors and the speakers. The individual
components are mounted into a cabinet designed to accommodate the standard
sizing of these pieces called a rack. For many players, the rack system
provides flexibility not available with the other configurations. |
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Solid
State Amplifiers - This is the circuitry most commonly used in modern
amp designs. Typically, they are affordably priced and quite reliable. They
use transistors to deliver the output to power the speakers. Solid state
amplifiers are available in both combo and head configurations. |
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Tube
(valve) Amplifiers - Tube amps use glass vacuum tubes to shape the tone
and deliver the output power to the speakers. Tube amps are typically associated
with a warmer, more complex tone than solid state amplifiers. The tradeoff
is a higher price tag, maintenance issues (like tube replacement) and, since
the tubes are made of glass, these amps can't be abused and expected to
work properly when you get to the gig. However; most serious players agree
that for pure tone and feel, tube amps are the way to go as long as you
don't skimp on price. |
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Hybrid
Amplifiers - These amps are designed to bridge the gap between solid
state and tube amplifiers. Their preamp section uses one or more tubes (usually
12AX7) to shape the tone. Transistors take over to deliver the power to
the speakers. |