Undertaking A Guitar Amp Repair

Both solid state and vacuum tube amplifiers will require regular checkups and occasionally a fault repaired. Most guitarists will at some point need a guitar amp repair. A few points should be taken into account before opting to have the work carried out.

The two types of most commonly used models are a head amplifier or a combo which has built in speakers. The costs and components required will differ depending on which kind of unit is being worked on. The combination models are more common for the amateur musician due to the compact nature and cost.

A tube amp will often need more attention to keep it working efficiently than the solid state models. Vacuum tubes will need changing occasionally and most guitarists will carry spare ones when gigging. This can be done at home or at the venue but it is always advisable to have any work of this kind undertaken by a qualified amp technician to ensure that it is done safely and covered by a guarantee.

If the amp in question is a solid state model, regular servicing is still recommended and some of this can be carried out at home. Simple repairs can be done in very little time with only a few simple tools such as soldering iron and screwdrivers needed. More complex problems may need expert attention and most guitar stores will offer this service.

The parts required for repairs and servicing can either be found online or in high street retailers specializing in guitars and accessories. Pre-owned parts can be utilized for certain jobs as long as they are the correct type and have been tested for safety. This option is most useful if you are on a limited budget and for common fixes such as a torn speaker cone or malfunctioning control switches.

Original parts should always be used if possible, particularly on vintage or valuable amplifiers. Using these factory components ensures that the value is not affected and that they will be of the correct spec. Many manufacturers and registered dealers will still stock items for older models and these should be used when available. The factory is also the better choice for carrying out the work due to their specialist knowledge.

For the do it yourself repairer there are various texts available with diagrams and pictures and also online step by step videos. After ensuring that the correct replacement items have been sourced and the appropriate tools are available to be used, the repairs can be done. Always have any work checked by a qualified engineer as many clubs and concert halls will need certificates for any equipment used on their premises.

The expense involved can differ massively depending on the items needed and time taken to complete the task. A repair can be done from just a few dollars or running into thousands, so it is a good idea to shop around and get a few different prices. If you are thinking about sending your equipment away for repair, remember that the shipping cost and insurance will be an extra charge.