The difference between a guitar amplifier head and a combo guitar amplifier is that, while combos come with a speaker built in, an amp head simply doesn't - so it will usually need to be hooked up to an external speaker cabinet. An amp head and speaker stack doesn't just look solid on stage, but gives guitarists a touch more control over their sound, since it makes it easier to experiment with different speakers. Another bonus is that you can stack two or more speaker cabinets to built a literal wall of sound.
The Best Guitar Amplifier Head
At Bax Music, we stock a massive array of electric guitar amplifier heads, so if you're looking for something that you can rehearse at home with but can still take on smaller gigs, then a 30 Watt head will be enough. If you're playing on big stages and need big volume, then it's better to look at amp heads that will give you 100 Watts or more. Add a compatible guitar speaker cabinet and a speaker cable to link it to your amp head, and you're all set up. The combo of an amp head and one or more speaker cabinets is affectionately termed a stack.
A Valve-Driven, Hybrid or Transistor Amplifier Head?
Many a legendary guitar sound was shaped by a traditional valve-driven amplifier head, and as such, they're as popular as ever. But valve amp heads can be a little unpredictable; the sound can change day-to-day depending on where you're playing. Transistor amp heads are much more consistent and reliable, but while they will sound exactly the same no matter where you're set up, many guitarist think they have a less warm and lively sound than a valve amp. The perfect middle ground is a hybrid amp, which has a tube-driven preamp and a transistor-based power amp, so you and your guitar gain the best of both worlds.
Digital Guitar Amplifier Heads with Modelling & Effects
There are lot of modern transistor amplifier heads that feature a modelling function, meaning that they're able to emulate the sound of classic or vintage amplifiers - or even both. The sound quality of modelling amps has improved massively over the last few years, so you're starting to see models appear on bigger and bigger stages. A lot of professional guitarists go for a modelling amp simply because they're so consistent, offer a wider array of tonal options, and are often a lot smaller, lighter and easier to tour with.
Compact Mini or Micro Amplifier Heads
As you'd expect, mini and micro amplifier heads are extremely compact and easy to lug from gig to gig - a great perk since not every guitarist is lucky enough to have a team of roadies at their disposal. Besides tiny transistor heads with modelling functions, you can also find low-power models. You can even get smaller versions of traditional 50 Watt or 100 Watt valve-driven amplifier heads, which are particularly popular.
Frequently Asked Questions About Guitar Amplifier Heads
What's the best guitar amplifier head?
This will depend on what you value most. So, with a valve-driven amp head, you'll get warm, vintage-style sound. But if you want more options when it comes to the sounds and effects, then a transistor amp head with built-in digital modelling and effects will give you exactly that. If you're touring a lot, then finding a micro amplifier head will definitely save your back a lot of grief in the long run.
What's an amplifier head?
A guitar amplifier head is a preamp section and power amp section combined in one box. An amp head almost always needs to be hooked up to an external speaker cabinet to produce sound. But, if you're looking for an all-in-one solution, you could opt for a combo guitar amplifier instead.
What's the best guitar amplifier head for me?
Valve-driven amplifier heads deliver that classic, organic guitar sound while transistor heads are considered more stable. Hybrid heads, on the other hand, give you both. Basically, the best amp head is the one that best suits your needs and gives you exactly the kind of sound you want.
