Low watt amps can be great for practicing at home or playing in small venues, but they can sometimes be lacking in volume. If you need your low watt amp to be louder, there are a few things you can do.
1. Use a booster pedal
A booster pedal is a simple but effective way to make your amp louder. It works by increasing the signal level from your guitar before it reaches your amp. This gives your amp more to work with, resulting in a louder output.
There are a variety of booster pedals on the market, so you can find one that suits your budget and playing style. Some popular booster pedals include the MXR Micro Amp, the TC Electronic Spark Booster, and the Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer.
2. Swap out the speaker
The speaker is one of the most important components of your amp, and it has a big impact on volume. If you want your amp to be louder, you can swap out the stock speaker for a higher-sensitivity speaker.
Higher-sensitivity speakers are more efficient at converting electrical signals into sound waves, so they produce more volume for a given amount of wattage. Some popular high-sensitivity speakers include the Celestion V30, the Eminence Legend V12, and the Jensen C12N.
3. Add a microphone
If you need your amp to be even louder, you can add a microphone. This is a common practice for live musicians, as it allows you to amplify your amp’s signal through a PA system.
To mic your amp, you’ll need a microphone and a microphone stand. Position the microphone in front of your amp’s speaker, and adjust the distance and angle until you get a good sound. Then, connect the microphone to the PA system.
4. Place your amp in the right spot
The placement of your amp can also affect its volume. If you want your amp to be louder, place it in a corner or against a wall. This will reflect the sound waves back into the room, making your amp sound louder.
You can also try placing your amp on a raised platform, such as a chair or amp stand. This will help to project the sound better.
5. Use a PA system
If you need your amp to be extremely loud, you can use a PA system. This is a good option for large venues, such as clubs and concert halls.
To connect your amp to a PA system, you’ll need a direct box. A direct box converts your amp’s unbalanced signal into a balanced signal, which can then be connected to the PA system.
Tips for making your low watt amp sound louder
Here are a few additional tips for making your low watt amp sound louder:
- Use a clean tone. A distorted tone will be quieter than a clean tone.
- Turn up the gain. The gain control will increase the volume of your amp’s input signal.
- Use a bright switch. Many amps have a bright switch, which boosts the treble frequencies. This can make your amp sound brighter and louder.
- Use a compressor pedal. A compressor pedal can help to even out your signal level, making your amp sound louder and more consistent.
- Use a reverb pedal. A reverb pedal can add depth and space to your sound, making it sound bigger and louder.
There are a number of ways to make your low watt amp louder. The best method for you will depend on your budget, playing style, and the specific needs of your situation. Experiment with the different tips and techniques above to find what works best for you.