The acoustic guitar is a classic instrument used by many musicians, but what if you wanted to plug your acoustic guitar into an amp? Many guitarists are surprised to learn that this is a possibility.
In this article, well discuss the basics of electric acoustic guitars and amplifiers, and explore the benefits of plugging an acoustic guitar into an amp.
Well also cover the basics of preamps and the types of effects you can add to an acoustic guitar.
By the end of this article, youll know all you need to know about using an acoustic guitar with an amp.
Lets get started!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Yes, acoustic guitars can be plugged into amps.
This is done by adding a pickup system or microphone to the guitar.
By plugging an acoustic guitar into an amp, the sound of the guitar can be amplified and modified with the amp’s settings.
Additionally, effects pedals can be used to further shape the sound of the guitar when plugged into an amp.
What is an Electric Acoustic Guitar?
An electric acoustic guitar is an acoustic guitar that has been outfitted with a pickup system, allowing it to be plugged directly into an amplifier or other sound system.
This pickup system typically consists of a single or multiple pickupssmall transducers that convert the sound of the strings into an electrical signal.
This signal can then be sent to an amp, where it is boosted and amplified, allowing the acoustic guitar to produce a much louder and more powerful sound than would be possible without amplification.
By plugging an acoustic guitar into an amp, you can also add a range of effects such as reverb, distortion, and chorus.
Its important to note that acoustic guitars require a preamp to reduce their natural sound and boost the signal before it is sent to the amp.
Preamps are small devices, usually in the form of a pedal, that can be used to control the tone and volume of the signal sent to the amp.
This allows guitarists to fine-tune their sound and get the best possible tone out of their acoustic guitar.
When choosing an electric acoustic guitar, it is important to consider the type of pick up system it has.
Single-coil pickups, which are thinner and more delicate than their humbucker counterparts, are better suited to blues, country, and rock styles, while humbuckers are better suited to jazz, metal, and other genres that require more power and a thicker sound.
Ultimately, electric acoustic guitars are a great way to add a level of power and tone to your acoustic sound.
Whether youre playing in a live setting or just jamming in your bedroom, an electric acoustic guitar can help you take your sound to the next level.
What is an Amplifier?
An amplifier is a device that increases the strength of an audio signal so that it can be sent to a speaker.
An amplifier can be used to boost the volume of an acoustic guitar, allowing it to be heard over other instruments in a live setting.
Amplifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small portable units to larger, more powerful models that are designed to be used in larger venues.
Additionally, some amplifiers offer a range of effects such as reverb, distortion, and chorus, allowing for a more unique sound.
However, it is important to note that acoustic guitars require a preamp to reduce their natural sound and boost the signal before it is sent to the amp.
Preamps are designed to reduce the sound of the acoustic guitar and allow the amplifier to do its job.
Can Acoustic Guitars be Plugged into Amps?
Yes, acoustic guitars can be plugged into amps.
Electric acoustic guitars are designed with a pickup system that allows them to be plugged into amps and other sound systems, enabling them to produce a louder sound when playing in a live setting.
This type of guitar is most commonly used in genres such as folk, country, and blues.
When plugging in an acoustic guitar, it is important to note that they require a preamp to reduce their natural sound and boost their signal before it is sent to the amp.
A preamp is an amplifier that is designed to boost the signal of an acoustic guitar before it is plugged into the amp.
It helps to reduce the natural sound of an acoustic guitar and add clarity to the sound.
By plugging an acoustic guitar into an amp, you will be able to get a louder sound and add effects such as reverb, distortion, and chorus to your playing.
This will allow you to create a unique sound that is not possible with a regular acoustic guitar.
Additionally, by plugging an acoustic guitar into an amp, you will be able to play in larger venues and have a more powerful presence.
When plugging in an acoustic guitar, it is important to take into consideration the type of amp you are using.
If you are using a tube amp, it is important to choose a preamp that is designed for tube amps.
Additionally, it is important to choose an amp that has a low-impedance input, as this will ensure that the sound is not distorted when it is amplified.
It is also important to remember that acoustic guitars require a different type of string than electric guitars.
Acoustic guitars use strings made from nylon or steel, while electric guitars use strings made from copper or bronze.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the strings are in good condition and are properly tuned before plugging in the guitar.
In conclusion, yes, acoustic guitars can be plugged into amps.
However, it is important to note that they require a preamp to reduce their natural sound and boost their signal before it is sent to the amp.
Additionally, it is important to take into consideration the type of amp you are using and the type of strings on the guitar.
By doing so, you will be able to get the most out of your acoustic guitar and create a unique sound.
Benefits of Plugging an Acoustic Guitar into an Amp
Plugging an acoustic guitar into an amp has many advantages.
Not only can it produce a louder sound than an unplugged acoustic guitar, it can also add a range of effects.
This makes it perfect for live performances, as it allows you to take your sound to the next level.
Reverb, distortion, chorus, and other effects can be added to your sound, making it fuller and more dynamic.
Additionally, with a preamp, you can reduce the natural sound of the acoustic guitar and boost the signal before it is sent to the amp.
This can help create a more balanced and powerful sound.
Finally, when plugged into an amp, acoustic guitars can be used in a variety of settings, including studios, churches, and large venues.
This allows musicians to take their sound to the highest level, regardless of the size of the venue.
Preamps
Preamps are an essential tool for amplifying an acoustic guitar.
They are designed to reduce the natural sound of the acoustic guitar and boost the signal before it is sent to the amp.
This is necessary to do in order to produce a loud sound when playing in a live setting.
Preamps come in many different shapes and sizes and are an important factor to consider when looking to amplify an acoustic guitar.
When selecting a preamp for your acoustic guitar, it is important to consider the type of sound you are looking to achieve.
Different preamps will offer different levels of boost and tonal shaping.
Additionally, some preamps come with additional features such as EQ knobs, reverb and chorus effects.
It is important to experiment with different preamps to find one that best suits your needs.
It is also important to note that some acoustic guitars come with built-in preamps.
These preamps are designed to provide a quick and easy solution for amplifying an acoustic guitar.
However, these types of preamps are often limited in their features and tonal shaping capabilities.
Therefore, if you are looking for more control over your acoustic guitar’s sound, it may be best to invest in a separate preamp.
How to Choose the Right Preamp
When choosing the right preamp for your acoustic guitar, there are several factors to consider.
The first is the type of sound youre looking for.
Are you looking for a warm, vintage tone, or a crisp, modern sound? Different preamps will produce different results, so its important to choose the one that best suits your sound.
Additionally, consider the type of pickup system you have installed on your guitar.
Different pickup systems require different preamps, so make sure to select the one that is compatible with your instrument.
Next, think about the type of effects you want to use.
Different preamps have different features, so its important to research the ones that are most suited to your needs.
Some preamps may offer reverb, distortion, chorus, and other effects, while others may only offer basic functions.
Consider what type of effects youd like to use and find the preamp that can provide them.
Finally, consider the budget you have available.
Preamps can range from very affordable models to expensive professional-grade options.
Decide how much youre willing to spend and find a preamp that fits within your budget.
With a bit of research, youll be able to find the perfect preamp for your acoustic guitar.
Different Types of Effects You Can Add to an Acoustic Guitar
When playing electric acoustic guitars, you can add a range of effects to your sound to give it a unique flavor.
Reverb is a popular effect for acoustic guitars, as it adds a layer of depth and texture to the sound that cant be achieved with just the natural sound of the instrument.
Other popular effects for acoustic guitars include distortion, chorus, and delay.
These effects can be used to add more texture to your sound or to make it sound bigger and fuller.
Reverb is a great effect for acoustic guitar because it creates a sense of space and adds a level of depth to the sound.
Reverb can be used to create a sense of room ambiance, or to add a subtle shimmer to the guitar sound.
Reverb is also great for creating a fuller sound, as it adds a layer of reverberated sound to the natural guitar sound.
Distortion is another popular effect for acoustic guitar.
It adds an edgier sound to the guitar by distorting the signal and adding more saturation.
Depending on the type of distortion, it can range from subtle to extreme.
Distortion is great for adding a heavier sound to an acoustic guitar, and it can be used to create unique sounds.
Chorus is a great effect for adding a bit of shimmer to the sound of an acoustic guitar.
It creates a shimmery, shimmering effect that is great for adding texture to the sound.
Chorus can also be used to thicken up the sound of the guitar, making it sound fuller and more full-bodied.
Delay is an effect that is great for adding depth and complexity to the sound of an acoustic guitar.
It creates a repeating echo effect that can be used to add texture and depth to the sound.
Delay can also be used to make the guitar sound bigger and fuller.
No matter what type of effect you use on your acoustic guitar, it is important to remember that it should be used sparingly.
Too much of any effect can muddy up the sound of the guitar, making it sound unnatural and cluttered.
It is important to experiment with different effects to find the right balance for your sound.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, acoustic guitars can indeed be plugged into amps and other sound systems.
This allows the acoustic guitar to produce louder sound and adds a range of effects such as reverb, chorus, and distortion.
However, it is important to note that acoustic guitars do require a preamp to reduce their natural sound and boost the signal before it is sent to the amp.
With the right preamp and knowledge of the different effects available, you can create a unique and powerful sound with your acoustic guitar.
So get out there and start experimenting!