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How to Work on Guitar Amplifiers

Contributor
By Michael Cantrell
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)
Work on Guitar Amplifiers
Work on Guitar Amplifiers

Playing guitar can be a lot of fun, but if you overload your amplifier you may end up causing some pretty severe damage to the speakers inside your amp. If you are hearing a rattling noise when you play or hear a lot of static, chances are you played your amplifier too loud, blew one of the speakers and need to replace it with a a new one.

From Quick Guide: Guitar Amplifiers Guide
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Guitar amplifier New amplifier speaker Screwdriver Soldering iron
  1. Step 1

    Run a diagnostic sound test on your amplifier to find which speaker is blown. You can find these CDs on the Internet (see Resources). Hook a CD player up to the amplifier and test the sound with the different tests on the CD to determine which speaker is blown.

  2. Step 2

    Remove the amp's protective grill with the screwdriver. You now have access to all the inner working parts of the amp, including the speakers.

  3. Step 3

    Remove the speakers and look at the cones and coils. Determine if the damage is repairable or if you need to purchase new speakers. If there is just a slight tear or hole in the cone, you can slap a piece of duct tape on it and it will be as good as new. If the coils are damaged in any way, the speakers are damaged beyond repair and you'll need to replace them.

  4. Step 4

    Purchase the correct size and style of speaker your amplifier needs. On the back of your old speakers or on the back of the amplifier is important information. You need to know the serial number and the wattage the speakers can handle to get the proper replacement parts. You should be able find good replacement speakers online at Musician's Friend.

  5. Step 5

    Solder the speaker wires to the new speaker with the soldering iron. Install the speakers back inside the amplifier.

  6. Step 6

    Place the protective grill back on the amplifier case and screw it back in place. Once this is done run the diagnostic test again, or plug your guitar in and play to make sure the amplifier is working properly.

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