Keyboard amplifiers can be an important part of the musical experience. They come in many shapes and sizes, so knowing what features are important will help you find the right amplifier. Knowing whether to get a combo amplifier or amplifier head, the size of speakers, how much power you need and how technical your music is will allow you to purchase a proper amplifier without overspending.
Sound Reproduction
A keyboard amplifier is different than a guitar amplifier due to the range of sounds it is designed to replicate. A keyboard amplifier needs to be able to reproduce sounds from the entire musical spectrum; otherwise, the volume will be inconsistent and the sound quality will suffer. When considering the sound, consider whether to get a combo amplifier, which will include speakers in the unit, or just an amplifier head, which houses just the amplifier and requires speakers. A combo amplifier should include a woofer, tweeter or high-frequency horn and a midrange speaker inside of a bigger cabinet. When purchasing a combo amp, consider the size of the speakers, which generally run from 8 to 18 inches. Ten to 12-inch speakers should be sufficient for most performances. Fifteen to 18-inch speakers are generally limited to bass.
Power
Power is listed as the number of watts the keyboard amplifier can use. The bigger the number, the louder the sounds that can be played without losing quality. More powerful amps are often larger, which can be a pain to carry around. If you prefer a smaller amp to use as a personal monitor, purchase one with a line-out so it can be connected to larger sound equipment when necessary. Also, amplifiers that use tubes are generally louder than solid state amplifiers. For individuals and bands that do not have a complete drum set, 40 watts should be enough. Sixty watt amplifiers are enough to include the drums.
Equalizing
Almost all keyboard amplifiers have EQ built right in to the amplifier, but they differ greatly in the amount of control the keyboard amplifier gives the musician. For a casual player, being able to adjust the bass, treble and midrange might be more than enough. However, this wouldn't cut it for more serious bands. For these musicians, a keyboard amplifier that has a multi-band graphic EQ.
Tags: keyboard amplifier, combo amplifier, amplifier head, just amplifier, right amplifier
