How to Tell Tube Amps From Solid State Guitar Amplifiers

Guitar amplifiers come in two basic options, solid state and vacuum tube. While solid state amps dominate the market, many musicians prefer tube amps for several reasons, even though they require more money and time to maintain. The following steps explain the difference between tube and solid state amps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look behind the amp. They rely on transistors or integrated chips for power. If you see a heat sink and metal housing on the back of the amp, it's solid state. Solid state amps have great bass sound and produce a lighter, cooler sound vs. their tube counterparts.

2. Test the sound of tube amps. Tube amps are powered by a set of thick glass tubes. They give the guitar a noisy, relaxed sound, and many rock and blues guitarists prefer them over the more compact solid state amps.

3. Study the pros and cons of a solid state amp. Since solid state amps weigh less, they're easier to transport. They're less expensive than tube amps and warm up quickly. However, repairs take longer since the transistorized components must be serviced by a professional.

4. Consider a tube amp's attributes vs. solid state models. If one of the tubes burns out, it can be replaced. It's also possible to test tubes to determine their quality. Tube amps handle overdrive and clipping better, and this cuts down on distortion and gives the guitar a cleaner, warmer sound.

5. Note possible tube amp problems. The tubes inside the casing can break after repeated moves. Unlike solid state amps, they must warm up for up to an hour before reaching maximum performance level. Although more susceptible to wear and tear, tube amps can last a long time if maintained properly.