Guitar Amplifiers - F.A.Q.
How much power and how big of a speaker do I want in a guitar amplifier?
For a practice amp 10 watts of power and an 8" speaker is plenty. For performance, having at least 60 watts and one 12" speaker is a good place to start. More power (up to 120 watts) and more speakers (up to four 12" speakers) give you more volume. Check out a few amplifiers before you buy one.
What is the difference between a solid state amp and a vacuum tube amp?
Guitar amps were originally manufactured with vacuum tubes as were all electronic devices in the 1940's. These amps have the tone most guitar players prefer. The vacuum tubes do wear out and need to be replaced periodically. Solid state guitar amps were introduced in the late 1960's and have a different tone than tube amps. These amps require less maintenance than tube amps. Check out the difference at one of our stores.
What is distortion?
This is the sound that is usually associated with loud rock music. This sound can be achieved at lower volumes with distortion pedals or the built-in distortion on guitar amps. There are different sounding distortions that are determined by the brand of guitar amp and/or the type of distortion pedal used.
What is channel swithching?
Most amps have have two "channels". This feature gives the amp a clean or pure tone and a distorted or dirty sound. Some amps have three channels. One cahannel is clean and the other two are distorted.
What is modeling?
Modeling amps try to imitate the sounds other brands of amps so you can achieve several different sounds from one amp.
Instrument Rental/Purchase - F.A.Q.
Is it less expensive to rent or buy an instrument outright?
This depends on whether your child stays in band. If your child stays in band, buying an instrument outright would be the least expensive option. You would pay more upfront, but you would avoid the future lease fees that would occur on a rental plan. One benefit of renting is if your child does not continue in band, then you are only responsible for the money spent during the rental period. Tarpley Music has an outstanding rental/purchase plan that allows for return of an instrument at any time. (Of course, if you pay through the entire rental term you will then own the instrument.) See our rental/purchase plan for more details.
Will the instrument I buy hold value?
If you buy a quality name-brand instrument, it will always have some value as long as it is in good condition. If you decide to sell it, there are students joining band every year who will be looking for an instrument to purchase. Some music stores and pawn shops also purchase or trade instruments. Remember, stores will look to buy any used instrument at wholesale, because they have to then resell and warranty the quality of the instrument.
If I rent, can I exchange instruments?
Yes. At Tarpley Music, you can exchange your instrument any time during the first fifteen months for another instrument of equal or greater value and not lose the principal you have already paid as long as you are current on your account.
Is a service and maintenance policy necessary?
While this is your option, we believe it is a beneficial precaution for beginners. There are many small moving parts in most musical instruments. In the hands of a beginner, unintentional damage can occur which could result in costly repairs. Everyday use of the instrument and normal wear and tear can also necessitate some minor adjustments from time to time. No manufacturer, at any level, has made a band instrument that doesn’t need maintenance and eventual repair during its useful life.
Instrument Usage - F.A.Q.
Should I buy an electric guitar or an acoustic guitar?
That depends on the style of music you will enjoy playing. An acoustic guitar can be played anywhere without an amplifier. A greater variety of sounds can be produced from an electric guitar.
Why are some guitars more expensive than others?
Greater care is taken in selecting the materials used and in the construction of guitars with a higher price tag. Nicer guitars are easier to play and sound better.
How do I know I am getting a good guitar?
The most important thing to check is to see if the strings can be pushed down without making your fingers bleed. Always play a guitar (or have someone play it for you) before buying it. PLAYING GUITAR SHOULD BE FUN!
How do I take care of my guitar?
Keep it out of temperature extremes. Avoid putting it in the trunk of your car, etc. All acoustic guitars should be kept in the case with a humidifier (especially during winter) when you're not playing it.
How often should I change the strings on my guitar?
The more often you play, the more often you should change them. Some professionals change thiers every day, and some people go for weeks before they change them. Some brands of strings have a longer life span than others. Find the brand that is right for you.
What kind of microphone should I buy for my band?
For most live situations you will want a directional dynamic mic. These mics are generally rugged and less prone to feedback. The better quality dynamic mics are more durable and have less handling noise than mics of lesser quality. It's a good idea to listen to some mics before making a decision on which one to get.
What kind of microphone(s) should I get for my place of worship
Any directional condenser mic is good for the pastor be it a lapel or headset mic. A directional dynamic mic is good if the pastor prefers a hand-held mic. A directional condenser mic is a good choice for the pulpit or lectern. Solo vocalists or group singers should use a directional dynamic mic. Condenser mics are the best choice for choirs and acoustic instruments. You will want to listen to the mics or take the recommendation of a professional before you make your decision.
What is the difference between a mixer and a powered mixer?
A mixer requires a power amp between it and the speakers to achieve sound. A powered mixer has the power amp built into it. Most powered mixers also have built in effects (i.e., reverb & digtal delay) and graphic equalizer(s).
Should I get a regular mixer or a powered mixer?
That depends. With a regular mixer you can upgrade it with one that is one of better quality or has more channels and keep the power amp, or you can upgrade your power amp and keep the mixer. With a powered mixer, with everything being in one box, hooking up the system is much easier.
What is the difference between high impedence and low impedence microphones?
The cord on a high impedence mic can be no longer than 30 feet. Longer cable lengths tend to have R.F. noise and poor signal. The cable on a high impedence mic has a 1/4" connector on the end opposite the mic. The cord on a low impedence mic can have a length of 250 yards or more with little signal degredation. The cable for a low impedence mic will have XLR (three pin) connectors on each end. Most higher quality mics will be low impedence.
How many speakers can I hook up to my power amp or powered mixer?
Each power amp is different. However, most modern power amps will handle a four ohm load while the more quality power amps will handle a two ohm load. The ohm load on an amp is determined by the ohm rating of the speakers you are using. Divide the number of speakers you will be using into the ohm rating of one of the speakers to get the ohm load that the power amp will detect. Example: hooking up two eight ohm speakers will achieve a four ohm load.
Can I come out of my power amp's speaker output into the input of another power amp for more power?
No. The inputs of a power amp are designed to accept "line level" signals only. If you want more power you will need to get a more powerful power amplifier.