The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the type of music you play, your personal preferences, and the amp you are using.
In general, high gain amps are better for genres of music that require a lot of distortion, such as metal and hard rock. Low gain amps are better for genres of music that require a cleaner sound, such as jazz and blues.
However, there are many exceptions to this rule. For example, some guitarists use high gain amps to achieve a clean sound by using the amp’s volume control to reduce the amount of distortion. Conversely, some guitarists use low gain amps to achieve a distorted sound by using pedals or other effects.
Ultimately, the best way to decide whether high gain or low gain is better for you is to experiment with different settings and find what sounds best.
Here are some things to consider when choosing between high gain and low gain:
- The type of music you play: If you play a lot of metal or hard rock, you’ll probably want a high gain amp. If you play jazz or blues, you’ll probably want a low gain amp.
- Your personal preferences: Some guitarists prefer the aggressive sound of high gain amps, while others prefer the cleaner sound of low gain amps. Experiment with different settings until you find what you like.
- The amp you are using: Some amps are better suited for high gain than others. If you’re not sure which type of amp you have, consult the manual or ask a salesperson.
Here are some examples of how different gain settings can be used to achieve different sounds:
- High gain: A high gain setting can be used to create a heavy, distorted sound that is often used in rock and metal music.
- Medium gain: A medium gain setting can be used to create a more versatile sound that can be used for a variety of genres.
- Low gain: A low gain setting can be used to create a clean, uncluttered sound that is often used for jazz and blues music.
No matter what type of sound you’re trying to achieve, it’s important to experiment with different gain settings until you find what works best for you.
Here are some additional tips for choosing between high gain and low gain:
- Start with the gain turned down low and gradually increase it until you get the desired amount of distortion.
- Be careful not to turn the gain too high, or you’ll start to experience distortion, clipping, and feedback.
- If you’re using a distortion pedal, experiment with the settings on that pedal as well.
- If you’re still having trouble achieving the sound you want, you may need to invest in a noise gate or noise suppressor.
