new to guitar..time for an Amp?? or not??

[Markocaster]

I am new to the electric guitar and am building a tele right now. My ? is probably a common one What amp to buy??? many answers I am sure. I dont' have a particular type of music preferance, I like it all , classic rock, alt rock , blues etc.. I am baffled by all the options and also the modeling amps V tube amps ... I have no effects either but do want them are the built in effects on amps good and enough for a newbie like me or should I get a " regular" amp and pedals? also what about the multi effects pedals like the boss t20 and "reg " amp ??? or the POD and thats it but how do others listen to you then and it looks complicated?? or finally just a fender G-DEC (Guitar Digital Entertainment Center), It looks like it might fit the bill for me as I am not gigging (funny cant even play very well yet) Ok I am not hopeless I have played acoustic and messed around with electrics years ago, I just regret that I stopped and want to get back into it and the G-DEC looks like it could be the fun boost I need to keep me going ?? thanks for the help this site is a great resource. Mark

[Tim Armstrong]

Man, that's a tough one to answer. I started playing electric guitar a long, long time ago, but I remember how I used to play with a lot of pedals, trying to sound like something, until one day I played a very nice Tele plugged into a regular old SF Deluxe Reverb, and wow, that was it for me! Of course, being a young idiot (as opposed to being a middle-aged idiot, which is what I am now!), I didn't keep either that Tele or that SFDR, but now, many years later, I have my Beloved Telecaster and a profoundly sweet Princeton Reverb, a pair that get me pretty much that same glorious sound I found back then.

Here's the thing about playing through a really toneful yet simple amplifier: you hear the guitar. You hear what your hands are doing. You aren't masking your own playing by processing the heck out of it. You'll develop your touch, your ability to put your mind, heart and soul out through your hands, guitar and amplifier. And you'll do it a lot faster than if you're constantly beating the signal over the head.

By all means, do get a pedal or two, and have some fun, but mostly get a really sweet-sounding guitar amp, and play until you break on through...

Cheers, Tim

[jh45gun]

Since the G-DEC allows you to play along with it with its drum and bass lines I would think for a beginner it would be a smart choice for a starter amp. Plus it does a lot of the things the pedals do with effects and modeling ect. IF I was a beginner it would be my choice. Just my Opinion as I think it would help teach you to play.

[G-P]

Here's a dirty little secret that takes a lot of time and money to figure out.

The amp is more important than the guitar.

Don't believe me? Try this then.

Plug a $1,500 Tele into a $150 solid state Crate amp.

Then plug a $200 Squire Tele into a 1970 Deluxe Reverb.

Which setup sounds the best? I'm going to say the Deluxe Reverb, hands down. Plug that Squire into an old Marshall. It'll sound awesome.

Whatever sound you're looking for, the lions share will come from the amp & speaker(s). A nice guitar will help, but if your amp is junk, the nicest guitar will not save it.

Oh, and no amp 'does it all'. Many amps are very versatile, but don't think you're going to get one amp that gives you everything.

Good luck and don't let your ears lie to you. And whatever you do, just make sure you have fun.

[Wayne Alexander]

Questions for you to answer before you can make a choice: for home use only, or to play out, and if so, in how big a situation? If you get a good tube amp (you should eventually even if you don't start there) there are several "primary" amp-tone families: Fender Tweed (Neil Young, George Thoroughgood, Pete Townshend on Who's Next album, most 50's rock, recent live Rolling Stones), Fender Blackface-Silverface (BB King, SRV, Beach Boys, every "classic" 60's twangy country record, Buffalo Springfield, Beatles rooftop concert), Vox (early Beatles, Queen, U2, REM, Tom Petty, Foo Fighters), Marshall (Cream, Allman Bros, AC-DC, Ramones, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green Day), there are a few others but those are the "main" ones. All amps have to be turned up over halfway to sound good, and the gainy rich sounds are with the amp turned up 3/4 or more. A master volume will allow some version of that gainy sound at lower volumes but won't sound as good as a fully cranked amp. If you really don't have a feel for all these sounds and a strong preference as of now, I'd suggest starting with one of the Vox modeling amps, which have VERY good simulations of a lot of those sounds, as well as a lot of the "classic" types of effects, and don't cost much for the quality. After playing awhile with a modeling amp you will probably get a feel for which amp types and which types of effects seem to fit your needs, then buy a real amp, and don't skimp on it, get a good one, and a few stompboxes of the types you need. That's my advice.

[simonc]

get a Silver face champ - cheap, they sound good, & no matter how advanced you get, you still wont want to part with it.They readily take pedals & sound great, plus sound killer on their own as well.

Im basically echo-ing what tim said.You will save money in the long run if you get something nice to begin with.That said, a g-dec with all the fruit would be a fun amp, but in a long term sense, the fun would be lost after a relaitively short while.

[sax4blues]

Originally Posted by Markocaster

... a fender G-DEC (Guitar Digital Entertainment Center), It looks like it might fit the bill for me as I am not gigging (funny cant even play very well yet)

As someone that started guitar 3 years ago at mid life I believe learning how to play in time with chord changes is more important than searching for the holy grail of tone for right now. I like the G-DEC for learning to play. When you get more experienced a year from now with what/where/how you want to play then get the tone amp.

[beep.click]

I suggest you get an amp that sounds good. It's no fun to learn if the sound isn't there -- just feels like a constant struggle.

I think you should try some of those Vox modeling amps, and maybe the new Fender Champ XD series. Also some more traditional-style tube amps, like Fender's Blues Junior, or the Peavey Classic 30. If resale value is an issue, see what you can find used, cheap.

Your computer is an amazing music tool; I also recommend you look into some inexpensive software, like Cakewalk Music Creator and/or Sony's Acid Music. Fry's runs sales on that stuff all the time (often, you can get those programs for $20, or FREE, after the rebate). You'll be able to create and play backing tracks, and even record yourself -- speeds up the learning curve DRAMATICALLY, when you can hear what you actually sound like!

[4 Strings]

Originally Posted by G-P

Here's a dirty little secret that takes a lot of time and money to figure out.

The amp is more important than the guitar.

Don't believe me? Try this then.

Plug a $1,500 Tele into a $150 solid state Crate amp.

Then plug a $200 Squire Tele into a 1970 Deluxe Reverb.

Which setup sounds the best? I'm going to say the Deluxe Reverb, hands down. Plug that Squire into an old Marshall. It'll sound awesome.

Whatever sound you're looking for, the lions share will come from the amp & speaker(s). A nice guitar will help, but if your amp is junk, the nicest guitar will not save it.

Oh, and no amp 'does it all'. Many amps are very versatile, but don't think you're going to get one amp that gives you everything.

Good luck and don't let your ears lie to you. And whatever you do, just make sure you have fun.

+1!

Originally Posted by simonc

get a Silver face champ - cheap, they sound good, & no matter how advanced you get, you still wont want to part with it.They readily take pedals & sound great, plus sound killer on their own as well.

Im basically echo-ing what tim said.You will save money in the long run if you get something nice to begin with.That said, a g-dec with all the fruit would be a fun amp, but in a long term sense, the fun would be lost after a relaitively short while.

+1!

Good luck in finding the right amp, Markocaster!

[1293]

Originally Posted by Tim Armstrong

Here's the thing about playing through a really toneful yet simple amplifier: you hear the guitar. You hear what your hands are doing. You aren't masking your own playing by processing the heck out of it. You'll develop your touch, your ability to put your mind, heart and soul out through your hands, guitar and amplifier. And you'll do it a lot faster than if you're constantly beating the signal over the head.

Excellent advice.

[BoB/335]

I like it all , classic rock, alt rock , blues etc..

or finally just a fender G-DEC (Guitar Digital Entertainment Center), It looks like it might fit the bill for me as I am not gigging (funny cant even play very well yet)

Hey Mark,

I've read a lot of great advice here and some I may not necessarily agree with. What are your goals with this new hobby of yours? Do you hope to be able to play with some guys including a drummer or will you be happy sitting at home jamming along with recorded music? I know sometimes it's hard to see what the future holds. I'm such a shopper and I hate buying twice and taking a loss. I also hate the idea of spending the "right" amount of money the first time only to see it just sitting there after a short time. Some people also do not have a hard time spending other people's money.

I have some great vintage equipment that my father bought for me when I was quite young. Sometimes I can't believe that he spent that much on me because we didn't have much growing up and I am one of four. Good equipment is a good motivator MAYBE. And who really knows what I'm trying to say anyway

I just got a Roland Microcube for $99 on sale at Guitar Center. For playing at home it can't be beat for this kind of money. It has some great sounds and should keep you inspired for quite a while. We never had the kind of choices you have at such a low pricepoint. I even took the Microcube (instead of my Princeton Reverb) to my keyboard players house for just the 2 of us to go over a few songs. He also plays some guitar and he was amazed at the sound and the volume.

I say find something with a sound that you like and that will keep you motivated. Try to find something that you can also grow with. It also depends on your finances. If you keep at it you will grow out of the G-dec and need to spend more money to get what you want. If you sell the G-dec you will take a loss. Something like the Microcube can stay with you the rest of your life. It won't break the bank to buy and you won't get enough to help finance your next purchase so you will keep it and you WILL use it even after getting another amp.
OR I saw a really clean Black Face Deluxe Reverb for $3799.

[jh45gun]

Well it is not like he will never buy an other amp again. I suggested the G DEC as a learning tool and I think that is why Fender built it. From what I have have read here since I have been here is most of you guys have more than one amp anyway. I find myself now with 5 now and I am in the process of building a 5E3. Why if he bought it he would have to sell it????? I am not saying that he may not go to the Music store and find something else either. There has been all good suggestions here it all at the end depends what he finds and likes. From his post it sounded like he has thought about the G DEC because of the teaching tools and all the effects and modeling ect. If it helps him learn why not. Back when I was learning and playing to the dinosaurs a amp like that would have been nice to have with the the bass and drum lines.

[stevieboy]

One thing to consider here is that Mark says he is new to electric guitar. It's not clear how he already plays guitar. If you play at around intermediate level to above, I'd say get a good tube amp, you just have to decide on size for your needs versus your budget. If you expect to mostly play at home, a silverface champ as suggested by Tim is a great idea, maybe cost you 300 bucks, and you'll use it forever. There's one sitting five feet from me right now. I don't have neighbor issues, but I still plug it into to less loud input #2 as it's plenty loud for home playing.

You can add bells and whistles via external effects as you develop your tastes and needs.

If you're actually pretty much just starting out on guitar, a champ might still be a good idea, but sax4blues might be the one to listen to since he was more recently in your position.

[sax4blues]

Originally Posted by BoB/335

If you keep at it you will grow out of the G-dec and need to spend more money to get what you want. If you sell the G-dec you will take a loss. Something like the Microcube can stay with you the rest of your life.

The G-dec is a training tool and for my learning these features are very important. I started with a 10w peavy+rhythm trainer. I do now have two other tube amps that are gig worthy and used for such. But I don't at all feel my playing would be better today if I would have started with a tone machine over the rhythm trainer.

The logic of a newby having to buy gig ready gear because someday they will want more has never made sense to me. I guess everyone that wants to buy a bicycle should get a Tour De France model? Or everyone that wants to try fishing should buy a $30k bass boat? Or if I think I'd like to try photography at 50 years old I should get a professional set up in case some day I want to be published?

[BoB/335]

Maybe I was misunderstood. My wife often misunderstands me.

Spending $300 on a practice amp for a beginner seems a bit much is all I'm saying. Hey, if he has the bucks, more power to him! A $10 metronome is also a great rhythm trainer as well as the many backing tracks available online. Great that this G-dec has worked out well for so many. I just wouldn't spend the money. And that's just my opinion just like anyone else's.

[teleamp]

I would suggest the GDEC as well, the loop feature will let you record a rhythm track and loop it while you solo along. After you have learned to play better, then you you will have more insight for future amp decision.

MikeY

[ToeCutter66]

Go drop $119 on a VOX Pathfinder 15R. I just got one this week, it changed my life.

[Markocaster]

thanks for all the fantastic advice. I went to Guitar canter last night to look at them , I need to go back and play them some young rock stars were playing death metal on em:) I think I am leaning toward the fender for the drum and backing effects to help with my rythum and timing , and I live in an apartment so noise is an issue :) I am glad we have the internet , what a great reource. thanks to you all for the great advice

[jh45gun]

Good luck in what ever you Get Markocaster, and let us know what you come up with.

[Wildhawk]

Vox AD30VT

$200 out the door at GC.

Long time players like em'. They're inexpensive, very portable and something you won't get bored with or regret purchasing.

[JimiBryant]

look for a used Blues Junior, or even a Pro Junior if you'll mostly play at home. I personally have no experience with those Vox Pathfinder amps,
but for the price those would seem to be hard-to-beat.

I agree: a great amp and a crap guitar are soung to SOUND better than
a good guitar and a crap amp, but you want to have a guitar that's nice
to play at the same time, or you'll just feel like it's an uphill struggle all
the way.. and that's no fun!!

[Markocaster]

I was hunting online and thought this may be a good option a champ or something like that and a RP90 from DigiTech ?? anyone used one? gonna check it out at GCent. I see I have lots to learn I am going to do more looking but thanks for the great tips you have given me alot to consider cheers. Mark

[jh45gun]

Originally Posted by Markocaster

I was hunting online and thought this may be a good option a champ or something like that and a RP90 from DigiTech ?? anyone used one? gonna check it out at GCent. I see I have lots to learn I am going to do more looking but thanks for the great tips you have given me alot to consider cheers. Mark

Mark I know your gonna get different opinions here but I am a long time Picker I have been playing in bands since 69. I have a RP80 and I liked it so much for back up effects since my amps do not have on board Reverb.(1962 Silvertone 1462 and several bass amps one that I use for guitar) That when I got a chance to pick up a couple more RP 50's cheap with a trade of a couple of cheap behringer pedals and a bit of extra cash I did. I llike the RP pedals. Running one of them through a Champ for effects I would think work fine. I plan to do the same when I get my 5E3 built and use my RP50 or 80 for Reverb.

[gpower]

There are a pile of great little inexpensive tube amps on the market right now and they all sound decent. Getting one with good clean tone and putting a multi effects pedal in front of it is definately the best way to get started.