Converting an Acoustic Amplifier to a Regular Amp: A Practical Guide

Many aspiring musicians struggle with the distinction and compatibility between acoustic and electric amplifiers. While acoustic amplifiers are typically designed to suit the specific needs of acoustic guitars, converting them to suit electric guitar usage can significantly enhance the playing experience. This article offers practical guidance and techniques to achieve this conversion.

The Differences Between Acoustic and Regular Amps

The primary differences between acoustic and regular (electric guitar) amplifiers lie in their EQ settings and design purposes. Acoustic amplifiers are often biased towards treble with some bass, aiming to capture the bright and lively characteristic of acoustic guitars. In contrast, electric guitar amplifiers usually feature a midrange push and sometimes reduced treble and bass, tailored for the sound of an electric guitar.

Adjusting EQ Settings for a More Musical Tone

If you want to use an acoustic amplifier as an electric amp, the first step is to adjust its EQ (Equalization) settings. You can try tweaking the midrange and bass to achieve a warmer and more complex tone. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Turn Down Treble: Most acoustic amplifiers have strong treble settings. Reducing this can help create a more balanced sound suitable for electric guitars. Boost Mids: Increase the midrange to give your electric guitar more body and definition. Adjust Bass: Depending on the type of electric guitar and style you're playing, you might need to boost or slightly reduce the bass. Disconnect the Tweeter: If you find the sound is still too harsh, you can disconnect the tweeter (the small speaker) to tame the treble further.

Bypassing the Built-In Speaker Using Pedals

Another approach is to bypass the built-in speakers of the acoustic amplifier entirely. This can be achieved by disconnecting the tweeter and connecting a pedal-to-amp setup.

Disconnect the Tweeter: This step involves unplugging the tweeter from the amplifier to minimize treble. Plug Into a Modeling Pedal: Connect a guitar to a modeling pedal, which will allow for more flexibility in shaping the sound. Use this pedal to feed the signal to a separate 10-inch speaker cabinet. Use a 30w Solid State Guitar Amp/Pedal: Depending on your needs, connect the modeling pedal to a 30-watt solid-state guitar amplifier or pedal. This setup should provide a rich, complex sound.

Alternative Solutions: Multi-Effects Pedals

For a more general solution, consider using a multi-effects pedal. These devices offer a vast array of tones and effects, making them suitable for a wide range of playing styles. Here’s how you can use them:

Plug Your Guitar In: Connect your electric guitar to the multi-effects pedal. Adjust Presets: Many multi-effects pedals come with various preset sounds. Adjust these to find a tone that suits your needs. Program Custom Sounds: Most modern multi-effects pedals allow you to save and program your own custom sounds. This can be a bit complex but is highly rewarding.

Caution: Safety in High Volume Settings

While these methods can be effective, it’s important to practice caution. Be mindful of the volume and the type of sound you’re producing. Highly distorted sounds at high volumes can potentially damage the speakers in an acoustic amplifier. Always prioritize sound quality over volume and protect your equipment.

In conclusion, converting an acoustic amplifier to a regular amp can open up new avenues for musical experimentation. By adjusting EQ settings, bypassing built-in speakers, or using multi-effects pedals, you can achieve a sound that suits your electric guitar.