How to Compare Guitar Amp Speakers
Many electric guitarists know the value a good amp, since without one the guitar may be lost in the mix or drowned out on stage. There are a few things to consider when comparing amp speakers before buying.
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Size
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Regardless of the size of the cabinet, speakers come in 8-, 10-, 12- and 15-inch speakers. Generally speaking, the larger diameter the speaker, the more pronounced your lower-end (bass) tone will be in regards to your overall tone.
Wattage
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The more watts your speaker is listed as being able to handle, the more powerful your head can sound, thus making you "louder." The ohms on your speaker(s) must be the same as listed on your head, or you'll risk damaging your speaker.
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Materials
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Many speakers are now made with aluminum for a brighter response; conversely, some vintage amps have speakers that use paper cones that create a darker, "woodier" tone. Most speakers use various magnets (i.e. Alnico magnets) to produce their tones.
Horns
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Some speakers come equipped with a separate horn that allows for additional high frequencies to be heard. This is typical of cabinets that feature the 12- and 15-inch speakers.
Price
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Depending on the manufacturer and the materials used, speakers can range from under $100 to a few hundred.
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References
- Photo Credit electric guitar image by Jeffrey Zalesny from Fotolia.com
