An amp head is the amplifier section of a guitar amplifier in a separate enclosure from the speaker. It is typically connected to a speaker cabinet, which houses the speaker. Combo amps, on the other hand, have the amplifier and speaker built into a single unit.
Both amp heads and combo amps have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a comprehensive comparison of the two:
Amp heads
Advantages:
- More flexibility: Amp heads can be used with any speaker cabinet of your choice, which allows you to create a custom sound that meets your specific needs. For example, you can use a high-power head with a high-wattage cabinet for a loud, powerful sound, or you can use a low-power head with a low-wattage cabinet for a more mellow, vintage sound.
- More power: Amp heads are typically more powerful than combo amps. This makes them a good choice for gigging musicians or players who need a lot of volume.
- Better tone: Some guitarists believe that amp heads produce better tone than combo amps. This is because amp heads and cabs have separate power and speaker sections, which can reduce noise and interference. Additionally, heads often have more features and controls than combos, which gives you more flexibility in shaping your sound.
- Upgrade potential: If you want to be able to upgrade your amp in the future, a head and cab setup is a better choice. Combo amps are more difficult to upgrade.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive: Amp heads are typically more expensive than combo amps.
- Less portable: Amp heads are two separate components that need to be transported together. This makes them less portable than combo amps.
- More difficult to set up: Amp heads can be more difficult to set up than combo amps. This is because you need to match the power output of the amp head to the impedance of the speaker cabinet.
Combo amps
Advantages:
- More affordable: Combo amps are typically more affordable than amp heads and speaker cabinets.
- More portable: Combo amps are more portable than amp heads and speaker cabinets because they are all in one unit.
- Easier to set up: Combo amps are easier to set up than amp heads and speaker cabinets because you don’t have to worry about matching the power output and impedance of the two components.
Disadvantages:
- Less flexible: Combo amps are less flexible than amp heads because you cannot change the speaker cabinet. This means that you are limited to the sound of the speaker cabinet that is built into the amp.
- Less powerful: Combo amps are typically less powerful than amp heads. This makes them less suitable for gigging musicians or players who need a lot of volume.
- Lower tone quality: Some guitarists believe that combo amps produce lower tone quality than amp heads. This is because combo amps have a single unit design, which can lead to increased noise and interference.
Which is right for you?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to get an amp head or a combo amp is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, as the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
If you are looking for a versatile, powerful, and high-quality amp, an amp head is a good choice. If you are looking for a more affordable, portable, and easier-to-set-up amp, a combo amp is a good choice.
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between an amp head and a combo amp:
- Genre of music: If you play music that requires a lot of clean headroom, such as jazz or classical, a head and cab setup may be a good choice. If you play music that requires a lot of distortion, such as metal or hard rock, a combo amp may be sufficient.
- Size and weight: Combo amps are typically smaller and lighter than heads and cabs. This makes them more portable, but it also means that they may not be as loud.
- Budget: Head and cab setups are typically more expensive than combo amps. However, you can save money by buying a used head and cab.
- Upgrade potential: If you want to be able to upgrade your amp in the future, a head and cab setup is a better choice. Combo amps are more difficult to upgrade.
- Your personal preferences: Some people prefer the sound and feel of a head and cab setup, while others prefer the convenience of a combo amp.
It is important to try out both amp heads and combo amps before making a purchase. This will help you to find the amp that best suits your needs and preferences.
