- The word amp is a short form of the word amplifier. An amplifier, as its name suggests, amplifies the sound of an analog or digital signal. For example, a guitar amplifier receives an analog signal from the guitar from the guitar cable to produce the sound of strings being picked or plucked.
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Photo by Rob LawsonAmplifiers typically have a series of controls for gain, distortion, equalization, volume, power and filter. An amplifier takes an analog signal, such as one from the pick-ups of an electric guitar, and amplifies its vibrational properties, to put it simply. The guitar pick-up, which acts similar to a microphone, electromagnetically sends the vibrations that the strings produce through the cable and into the input of the amplifier. That input is amplified as output. -
Photo by Rob LawsonAmplifiers come in many types, styles and brands. Line 6, Krank, Peavey, Radio Shack, Kona and Mesa are a few of the brands of amplifiers. Some amplifiers, such as small practice amps, come with a speaker built in. Some are separate from the speaker cab and are built as a "head" unit. Some are part of PA systems, which require separate outboard gear, and also act as a power supply.
