Combo amps are popular among guitarists for their convenience and all-in-one design, combining the preamp, power amp, and speakers into a single unit. However, some musicians wonder if it’s possible to use a combo amp as a cabinet by bypassing the internal amplifier. In this insightful and informative article, we explore the possibilities and considerations of using a combo amp as a cabinet.
Understanding Combo Amps and Cabinets: Before delving into the topic, let’s clarify the differences between combo amps and cabinets:
Combo Amps:
- A combo amp integrates the preamp, power amp, and speakers into a single unit.
- It is designed to be a standalone amplifier, offering convenience and portability.
- Combo amps come in various sizes and power ratings, catering to different performance needs.
Cabinets:
- Cabinets, also known as speaker cabinets, are separate units that contain one or more speakers.
- They are typically paired with a separate head or amplifier to complete the guitar rig setup.
- Cabinets are often used for their tonal characteristics, power handling capabilities, and customization options.
Using a Combo Amp as a Cabinet: While the primary function of a combo amp is as a self-contained amplifier, it is possible to use the speakers of a combo amp as a cabinet by bypassing the internal amplifier. Here are the essential factors to consider:
- Amplifier Bypass:
- To use a combo amp as a cabinet, you need to bypass the internal amplifier and connect an external amplifier or head to the speakers directly.
- This typically involves disconnecting the internal speaker leads from the amp’s circuitry and connecting them to the external amplifier’s speaker output.
- Impedance Matching:
- Ensure that the impedance of the external amplifier matches the impedance of the combo amp’s speakers.
- Mismatched impedance can result in poor sound quality, reduced power transfer, and potential damage to the amplifier or speakers.
- Check the specifications of both the external amplifier and the combo amp, and adjust settings or use impedance-matching devices if necessary.
- Power Handling:
- Consider the power handling capabilities of the combo amp’s speakers when using them as a cabinet.
- Ensure that the power output of the external amplifier is suitable for the combo amp’s speakers, preventing speaker damage or distortion caused by overpowering.
- If the power levels differ significantly, attenuators or power soaks can be used to adjust the output to match the speakers’ handling capabilities.
- Tonal Characteristics:
- The tonal characteristics of the combo amp’s speakers may differ from those of dedicated speaker cabinets.
- Experiment with different settings and adjustments on the external amplifier to achieve the desired tonal qualities, considering the inherent characteristics of the combo amp’s speakers.
Benefits and Considerations: Using a combo amp as a cabinet offers several benefits and considerations:
- Cost and Space Efficiency: Utilizing a combo amp as a cabinet allows you to maximize the use of existing equipment without the need for an additional speaker cabinet.
- Convenience and Portability: The combo amp’s all-in-one design makes it easy to transport and set up, providing convenience for rehearsals, gigs, or recording sessions.
- Potential Limitations: The tonal characteristics of the combo amp’s speakers may not match those of dedicated speaker cabinets, potentially impacting the overall sound and tonal customization options.
While combo amps are primarily designed as self-contained amplifiers, it is possible to use their speakers as a cabinet by bypassing the internal amplifier. By considering factors such as amplifier bypass, impedance matching, power handling, and tonal characteristics, you can explore the possibilities and utilize your combo amp in new ways. Experiment with different setups, adjust settings on the external amplifier, and embrace the versatility and flexibility that using a combo amp as a cabinet can offer. Remember to consult the manuals and specifications of your specific equipment for guidance. Enjoy the creative journey of maximizing your gear and discovering new sonic realms with your combo amp as a cabinet.
