Yes, amp heads can make noise, but some noise is normal. Here is a more comprehensive look at the causes of amp head noise and how to reduce it:
Causes of amp head noise
There are a number of factors that can contribute to amp head noise, including:
- Electrical interference: Amp heads are more susceptible to electrical interference than combo amps because they have separate power and speaker sections. This interference can come from a variety of sources, such as computers, TVs, and fluorescent lights.
- Ground loops: A ground loop is a circuit that is created when there is a difference in electrical potential between two devices. This can cause noise and humming in your amp.
- Tube noise: Tube amps are known for their warm, rich sound, but they can also be noisy. This is because the tubes in a tube amp generate heat, which can cause noise.
- High gain: If the gain on your amp head is set too high, it can cause the amp to make noise. This is because high gain increases the sensitivity of the amp, which can amplify any noise that is present in the signal.
Reducing amp head noise
There are a number of things you can do to reduce amp head noise, including:
- Use a shielded cable: A shielded cable can help to reduce noise caused by electrical interference.
- Move your amp away from other electrical devices: If your amp is close to other electrical devices, such as computers or TVs, it can cause noise. Try moving your amp away from these devices to see if that reduces the noise.
- Use a noise gate: A noise gate is a pedal that can help to reduce noise from your amp. It works by cutting off the signal when it’s below a certain level.
- Turn down the gain: If you’re getting too much noise from your amp, try turning down the gain. This will reduce the amount of signal that’s being amplified, which can help to reduce noise.
- Get your amp serviced: If you’re still having problems with noise from your amp, it’s a good idea to get it serviced by a qualified technician. They may be able to identify and fix the problem.
Additional tips
Here are some additional tips for reducing amp head noise:
- Keep your amp clean: A dirty amp is more likely to make noise. Make sure to clean your amp regularly, especially the input and output jacks.
- Use a power conditioner: A power conditioner can help to clean up dirty power, which can reduce noise from your amp.
- Use a ground lift: A ground lift can help to eliminate ground loops, which can reduce noise from your amp.
- Experiment with different speaker cabinets: Different speaker cabinets can produce different amounts of noise. Try using a different speaker cabinet to see if that reduces the noise from your amp.
If you’re having problems with amp head noise, there are a number of things you can do to reduce it. By following the tips above, you can create a quieter and more enjoyable playing experience.
