Guitar Amplifiers - F.A.Q.

How much power and how big of a speaker do I want in a guitar amplifier?

For a practice amp, 10 watts of power and an 8" speaker is plenty. For performance, having at least 60 watts and one 12" speaker is a good place to start. More power and more speakers gives you more volume.  All amps sounds different, so take a little time and find the one that fits your needs. .....Our Qualified Store Associates can help.

What is the difference between a solid state amp and a vacuum tube amp?

Guitar amps were originally manufactured with vacuum tubes in the 1940's. These amps have the tone most guitar players prefer, but can be a little more expensive to buy and maintain. The vacuum tubes do wear out and need to be replaced periodically. Solid state guitar amps were introduced in the late 1960's and have a different tone than tube amps. These amps require less maintenance than tube amps, and can be more affordable to purchase. Check out the differences at one of our stores.

What is distortion?

This is a breaking up of sound that can have many different colors of tone, and be found in all types of music from Jazz, to Heavy Metal, to Country. There are 3 main sounds known as "distortion"-Fuzz, Over-Drive, and Distortion. Each with it's own destinctive tone characteristic. These sounds can be achieved with distortion pedals or built-in distortion on guitar amps. Come hear the differences at one of our locations. 

What is channel switching?

Many amps have different "channels". These channels can range from Clean tones, to Distorted  tones, to Multi-Effects such as Delay, Echo, and/or Reverb. Having the ability to switch between these tones or channels  makes it easy to create very destinct sounds that can set a player apart from any other. Our locations can help find that destinct sound with you. 

What is modeling?

No more hauling around 4 or 5 different amps to get that desired tone. Modeling amps try to immulate the sounds of many brands of amps and their tonal characteristics. This makes it great to achieve several different amp sounds from one amp.  Come to a location and hear how to lighten your load.

Instrument Rental/Purchase - F.A.Q.

Is it less expensive to rent or buy an instrument outright?

This depends on whether your child stays in band. If your child stays in band, buying an instrument outright would be the least expensive option. You would pay more upfront, but you would avoid the future lease fees that would occur on a rental plan. One benefit of renting is if your child does not continue in band, then you are only responsible for the money spent during the rental period. Tarpley Music has an outstanding rental/purchase plan that allows for return of an instrument at any time. (Of course, if you pay through the entire rental term you will then own the instrument.) See our rental/purchase plan for more details.

Will the instrument I buy hold value?

If you buy a quality name-brand instrument, it will always have some value as long as it is in good condition. If you decide to sell it, there are students joining band every year who will be looking for an instrument to purchase. Some music stores and pawn shops also purchase or trade instruments. Remember, stores will look to buy any used instrument at wholesale, because they have to then resell and warranty the quality of the instrument.

If I rent, can I exchange instruments?

Yes. At Tarpley Music, you can exchange your instrument any time during the first six months for another instrument of equal or greater value and not lose the principal you have already paid as long as you are current on your account.

Is a service and maintenance policy necessary?

While this is your option, we believe it is a beneficial precaution for beginners. There are many small moving parts in most musical instruments. In the hands of a beginner, unintentional damage can occur which could result in costly repairs. Everyday use of the instrument and normal wear and tear can also necessitate some minor adjustments from time to time. No manufacturer, at any level, has made a band instrument that doesn’t need maintenance and eventual repair during its useful life.

Instrument Usage - F.A.Q.

Should I buy an electric guitar or an acoustic guitar?

That depends on the style of music you will enjoy playing. An acoustic guitar can be played anywhere without an amplifier, but a greater variety of sounds can be produced from an electric guitar and amp. Come see which you prefer at one of our locations.

Why are some guitars more expensive than others?

Greater care is taken in selecting the materials used and in the construction of guitars with a higher price tag. Nicer guitars are generally easier to play, stay tuned better, and have a higher quality of sound. Our Qualified Sales Assoctiates can help choose a guitar that fits your budget and musical needs.

How do I know I am getting a good guitar?

PLAYING GUITAR SHOULD BE FUN-so, make sure the guitar you purchase will be one you'll want to play for a long time! Always play a guitar (or have someone play it for you) before buying it. It should be easy to tune, have a straight neck, fit your body, and not be difficult to play. Always avoid guitars with cracks, and bad seams.  

How do I take care of my guitar?

Keep it out of temperature extremes. Avoid putting it in the trunk of your car, etc. Guitars are made from wood so high humidity and dry conditions can make wood shift and move. All acoustic guitars should be kept in the case with a humidifier when you're not playing it (Especially in dry conditions). Need a Case or Humidifier---Tarpley Music has those too!

How often should I change the strings on my guitar?

The more often you play, the more often you should change strings. Some professionals change thiers every day, and some people go for weeks before they change them. Some brands of strings have a longer life span than others. We have many brands and can help find the right one for you.

What kind of microphone should I buy for my band?

For most live situations you will want a directional dynamic mic. These mics are generally rugged and less prone to feedback. The better quality dynamic mics are more durable and have less handling noise than mics of lesser quality. It's a good idea to listen to some mics before making a decision on which one to get. Our microphone trained associates can help.

What kind of microphone(s) should I get for my place of worship

Any directional condenser mic is good for the pastor be it a lapel or headset mic. A directional dynamic mic is good if the pastor prefers a hand-held mic. A directional condenser mic is a good choice for the pulpit or lectern. Solo vocalists or group singers should use a directional dynamic mic. Condenser mics are the best choice for choirs and acoustic instruments. You will want to listen to the mics or get the recommendation of our Professional PA Installation Division before you make your decision.

What is the difference between a mixer and a powered mixer?

A mixer requires a power amp between it and the speakers to achieve sound. A powered mixer has the power amp built into it. Most powered mixers also have built in effects (i.e., reverb, chorus and/or digtal delay) and graphic equalizer(s).

Should I get a regular mixer or a powered mixer?

That depends. With a regular mixer you can upgrade it with one that is one of better quality or has more channels and keep the power amp, or you can upgrade your power amp and keep the mixer.  A powered mixer, has everything in one box, hooking up the system is much easier. Our Qualified Sales Associates can help you choose the best fit for your situation.

What is the difference between high impedence and low impedence microphones?

The cord on a high impedence mic can be no longer than 30 feet; longer than 30 feet can tend to have R.F. noise and poor signal. The cable on a high impedence mic has a 1/4" connector on the end opposite the mic. The cord on a low impedence mic can have a length of 250 yards or more with little signal degredation. The cable for a low impedence mic will have XLR (three pin) connectors on each end. Most higher quality mics will be low impedence.

How many speakers can I hook up to my power amp or powered mixer?

Each power amp is different. However, most modern power amps will handle a four ohm load while the more quality power amps will handle a two ohm load. The ohm load on an amp is determined by the ohm rating of the speakers you are using. Divide the number of speakers you will be using into the ohm rating of one of the speakers to get the ohm load that the power amp will detect. Example: hooking up two eight ohm speakers will achieve a four ohm load.

Can I come out of my power amp's speaker output into the input of another power amp for more power?

NO!! This can and will damage both units. The inputs of a power amp are designed to accept "line level" signals only. If you want more power you will need to get a more powerful power amplifier. Our Sound Division can help you make correct connections.