Deciding On A Guitar Amp Repair

By Donald Wilson


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.

There are a few variations in models and each of these differ greatly in cost and parts needed when something fails. A head unit is a standalone amplifier that requires a separate speaker to enable the sound to be heard. The other type is a combo with the speaker built into the cabinet; these are more common for home use due to the size and affordability.

Vacuum tube amplifiers will require more maintenance than a solid state model. Spare tubes are often carried by working musicians and will need to be replaced now and then and it is imperative that the correct type is fitted. Any work carried out on this type of amp should be carried out by a professional due to the voltage running through them and also to have the necessary guarantees and after sales service.

Solid state models are a little easier to work on and maintain in the home or by the amateur electrician. Small faults can be fixed using everyday tools and do not take a lot of time to complete. If the breakdown or failure is more serious then it is always a good idea to have the job done by an expert and most musical instrument 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.

When buying new components it is a good idea to always use factory produced originals if at all possible. This is particularly important when working on an older antique model as it ensures its value is not affected due to the use of aftermarket or inferior parts. Guitar amplifier manufacturers will usually have a stock of older parts for even the earliest models produced and this is the best option when sourcing items.

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 costs involved can vary greatly depending on the particular model and work needed. Ranging from just a few dollars for a simple fix to thousands for a more complicated problem it is advisable to get a few quotes. Online repairs can often work out cheaper but bear in mind that courier costs will have to be considered also.




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