Gibson Gear Guide: Tube Amps
| August 7, 2024 |

Video: Tube amp buying advice for beginners

Discover the right amp for every genre, venue, and playing style

In this detailed Gibson Gear Guide video, Dinesh Lekhraj outlines the top three factors to consider when buying a tube amp. What are the best options for different genres? Which amps are versatile enough to handle multiple styles? Whether you need an amp for home practice, studio recording, or live performances at large venues, Dinesh offers the necessary insights from his experience and examination of the tones from a player’s perspective. You’ll hear what he’s talking about.

He says, “It comes down to three things. I’ve done a lot of music retail, and I’ve owned about 30 to 40 different amplifiers. It comes down to the genre of the music you’re playing, and then the second thing is the size. This dictates what your use is: are you going to move it around a lot, or is it going to stay home miked up in the studio?

“The last thing is going to be the wattage—how much power do you need? And not only for volume, but maybe you might be looking for clean headroom, or it’s a pedal platform amp. There are a few different scenarios where these things kind of crisscross as well.”

The video dives into the nuances of head and cab setups versus combo amps, explaining the sound differences and their suitability for various players and their tone-junkie needs. Dinesh will demystify speaker sizes, comparing 10-inch and 12-inch guitar speakers, and explain the impact of open-back versus closed-back speaker cabinets on your sound.

Drawing from his extensive touring and playing experience, Dinesh’s guide is ideal for beginners and seasoned musicians looking to upgrade their gear. This video is your comprehensive resource to ensure you choose the perfect tube amp for your style, genre, and specific needs.

Explore MESA/Boogie® and Gibson Amps and find the one that will elevate your playing to the next level.