Customers sometimes ask me to test drive an amp they’re
thinking of buying. Although finding the perfect amp
is part art, there’s also some science, so let
me share some things you should do when trying out an
amp. You may be surprised to know that much of what
you should do has little to do with the actual amp you’re
testing.
- Use your favorite guitar. Many people make the mistake
of using someone else’s (e.g., the sellers)
or one at the guitar shop. Doing this prevents you
from truly hearing how the amp will work for you;
using your own guitar however will let you more accurately
experience how it will work with your equipment. If
your guitar is not available, make sure you use the
same type of guitar. For example, if you typically
play Strats, don’t try the amp with a Les Paul.
An amp will react very differently (e.g., sound, feel)
depending upon the type of guitar, pickups, hardware,
strings, etc. that are used with it.
- Make sure you have fresh strings on the instrument.
Old strings can make an amp sound dull and lifeless.
This is yet another reason not to use one at the guitar
shop – most instruments in typical stores haven’t
had their strings changed or basic maintenance in
quite awhile. If you’re using a guitar with
old dead strings, you’re really not hearing
the true sound of the amp.
- Bring your own cables or make sure the seller is
using quality cables. As with strings, cables dramatically
affect tone. Good cables will bring a lot of clarity
to an amp while crappy cables will reduce high frequency
response making the amp sound dull.
- Put the amp through its paces - don’t be
afraid to crank it up all the way as well as low volumes
and everything in between. Listen for any odd noises,
such as hums, pops, crackles and loud hissing. If
you do hear any of these sounds, the amp is either
not made well or in need of service. In this case,
you may want to move on or negotiate for a lower price.
- Lastly bring another pair of ears, preferably someone
who plays guitar. It’s always good to get another
opinion.
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