The power amp section of any guitar amplifier is the final stage between the preamp section and the speaker. While the preamp sets up the foundation of your guitar sound, the power amp strengthens the audio signal, making it powerful enough to be pushed through one or more speaker cabinets.
A Power Amplifier for Your Preamp
In practice, it's not just the preamp but also the power amplifier that plays an essential role in the sonic character of an amplifier - especially when the circuit is overdriven, like in valve amplifiers. If you're looking for a ready-made amplifier complete with a preamp, power amp and speaker, then take a look at our range of combo guitar amplifiers.
A Transistor or Valve-Based Amplifier
By using a separate preamp and power amp, you can basically put together your own custom amp sound. Here, you can either go for the stability of a transistor amplifier, the organic warmth of a valve amplifier, or a sweet mix of the two by using a valve-based preamp and transistor-based power amp or vice versa.
The Right Power Amp for Your Speaker Cabinet
When it comes to transistor and valve amps, you'll have plenty to choose from, but one thing you need to check is that the output capacity of the power amp you pick is a good match for your speaker cabinet. The power amp should never deliver a higher wattage than the speakers have been calibrated to handle. You also need to check that the impedance level of your power amp and speaker cabinet matches - which is measured in Ohms.
From Mini-Pedals to Stereo Power Amps
Guitar power amplifiers can take on a range of different forms, so if you want everything to fit on a compact pedalboard, then you could get a power amp loaded into an effect pedal. For larger rack-mounted rigs, you can get 19 inch rack power amplifiers. You can also choose between either a mono or stereo power amp to match your setup.
