Playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp is a topic that has been debated among guitarists for years. Some believe that it is not possible, while others argue that it can be done with the right equipment and settings. In this article, we will explore the question of whether or not you can play an electric guitar on an acoustic amp and provide some insights into how to achieve the best results.
First, it is important to understand the differences between electric and acoustic amps. Electric amps are designed to amplify the sound of an electric guitar, which typically has a solid body and pickups that convert the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. Acoustic amps, on the other hand, are designed to amplify the sound of an acoustic guitar, which has a hollow body and produces sound through the vibration of the strings and the resonance of the body. While the two types of amps may look similar, they are actually quite different in terms of their design and functionality.
Understanding Electric Guitars and Acoustic Amps
Electric guitars and acoustic amps are two different entities that work together to produce sound. Electric guitars use magnetic pickups to convert the strings’ vibrations into an electrical signal. The signal then travels through a cable and into an amplifier. The amplifier then boosts the signal and sends it to a speaker, which produces the sound.
Acoustic amps, on the other hand, are designed to amplify the sound of an acoustic guitar. These amps are different from electric guitar amps because they are designed to produce a more natural sound. The main difference between acoustic and electric amps is that the acoustic amp will generally have a tweeter to extend the higher ranges and give a more hi-fi like quality – similar to a good PA system.
While it is possible to play an electric guitar through an acoustic amp, it is not recommended. Electric guitars are designed to be played through electric guitar amps, which are designed to emphasize midrange and treble frequencies. When an electric guitar is played through an acoustic amp, the sound will be thin and lack the warmth and depth that an electric guitar amp can provide.
It is important to note that there are some acoustic amps that are designed to work with both acoustic and electric guitars. These amps are known as hybrid amps and offer a variety of settings and features that allow you to switch between acoustic and electric guitar modes. However, these amps are not as common as electric guitar amps or acoustic guitar amps.
while it is possible to play an electric guitar through an acoustic amp, it is not recommended. Electric guitars and acoustic amps are designed to work together to produce a specific sound, and using the wrong amp can result in a lackluster performance. If you are serious about playing the electric guitar, it is recommended that you invest in a good quality electric guitar amp.
Sound Characteristics
When it comes to playing an electric guitar on an acoustic amp, there are some important sound characteristics to consider. In this section, we’ll explore the clean and distorted sound, natural and thin sound, volume and loudness, bass, midrange and treble, and frequency response.
Clean and Distorted Sound
One of the main differences between acoustic and electric amps is the way they handle clean and distorted sounds. Electric guitar amps are designed to produce a distorted sound, while acoustic amps are designed to produce a clean sound. When you plug an electric guitar into an acoustic amp, you’ll get a cleaner sound than you would with an electric guitar amp.
Natural and Thin Sound
Acoustic amps are designed to produce a natural sound that is similar to the sound produced by an acoustic guitar. This means that when you plug an electric guitar into an acoustic amp, you’ll get a sound that is more natural than you would with an electric guitar amp. However, acoustic amps are also designed to produce a thinner sound than electric guitar amps.
Volume and Loudness
Acoustic amps are generally not as loud as electric guitar amps. This is because acoustic amps are designed to produce a clean sound at lower volumes, while electric guitar amps are designed to produce a distorted sound at higher volumes. If you need a lot of volume, you may want to consider using an electric guitar amp instead of an acoustic amp.
Bass, Midrange and Treble
Acoustic amps are designed to produce a balanced sound that includes a good mix of bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. This is important because it allows you to hear all of the different frequencies produced by your guitar. When you plug an electric guitar into an acoustic amp, you’ll get a similar balance of frequencies, but the sound may be thinner than it would be with an electric guitar amp.
Frequency Response
Acoustic amps are designed to produce a wide frequency response that includes both high and low frequencies. This is important because it allows you to hear all of the different frequencies produced by your guitar. When you plug an electric guitar into an acoustic amp, you’ll get a similar frequency response, but the sound may be thinner than it would be with an electric guitar amp.
playing an electric guitar on an acoustic amp can produce a clean and natural sound with a balanced mix of bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. However, the sound may be thinner and less loud than it would be with an electric guitar amp.
Technical Aspects
Signal and Gain
When playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp, it’s essential to understand the technical aspects of the signal and gain. The signal is the electrical current that runs from the guitar to the amplifier. The gain is the amount of amplification applied to the signal by the amplifier.
Electric guitars produce a low-level signal that needs to be amplified to be heard. Acoustic amps are designed to amplify the high-frequency signals produced by acoustic guitars. This means that electric guitars may not sound as good when played through an acoustic amp. However, this can be compensated for by adjusting the gain and EQ controls.
EQ Controls
EQ controls are used to adjust the tone of the guitar. Acoustic amps typically have a built-in equalizer that allows you to adjust the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. This can be useful when playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp because it allows you to compensate for the lack of high-frequency response.
Built-In Effects
Many acoustic amps come with built-in effects such as reverb, chorus, and delay. These effects can be useful when playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp. However, it’s important to note that not all effects will sound good with an electric guitar. It’s best to experiment with different effects to find the ones that work best for your sound.
Pickup Types
Pickup types can also affect how an electric guitar sounds when played through an acoustic amp. Magnetic pickups are the most common type of pickup found on electric guitars. They use magnets to convert the string vibrations into an electrical signal. Active pickups are another type of pickup that uses a battery-powered preamp to boost the signal.
When playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp, it’s important to consider the type of pickups you have. Magnetic pickups tend to sound better with acoustic amps than active pickups. However, this can vary depending on the specific pickups and amp you’re using.
playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp is possible, but it requires some adjustments to the gain, EQ, and effects controls. The type of pickups you have can also affect the sound. With some experimentation and adjustments, you can achieve a sound that works for your playing style and preferences.
Practical Considerations
Practice and Studio Use
When it comes to using an electric guitar on an acoustic amp, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind. One of the main things to consider is the intended use of the amp. If you’re using the amp for practice or in a studio setting, an acoustic amp can be a great choice for amplifying your electric guitar.
Acoustic amps are designed to reproduce the natural sound of acoustic instruments, which means they typically have a clean, clear sound with a lot of headroom. This can make them a great choice for electric guitarists who want a clean, uncolored sound that can be shaped with pedals or other effects.
Using Any Amp
While acoustic amps are a great choice for practice and studio use, they may not always be the best option for live performances. If you’re playing in a band or performing in a larger venue, you may need an amp with more power and a more aggressive sound.
Fortunately, you can use any amp with an electric guitar, including an acoustic amp. However, keep in mind that the amp may not be optimized for electric guitar use, which means you may need to experiment with different settings to get the sound you’re looking for.
Unplugged and Hi-Fi
Finally, it’s worth noting that you can also play an electric guitar without an amp at all. This is known as playing “unplugged,” and it can be a great way to practice or play in a quiet setting.
If you want to amplify your unplugged electric guitar, you can also connect it to a hi-fi system or other audio equipment. This can be a great way to get a clean, natural sound that’s perfect for recording or playing in a small setting.
whether you’re using an acoustic amp, any amp, or playing unplugged, there are many ways to get great sound from an electric guitar. By considering your intended use and experimenting with different settings and equipment, you can find the perfect sound for your needs.
Advanced Topics
Hybrid and Voicing
When playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp, you may want to consider using a hybrid or voicing approach. This means using both electric and acoustic guitar playing techniques to create a unique sound. For example, you can use fingerpicking and strumming techniques to create a more organic sound, while also incorporating electric guitar techniques such as palm muting and bending to add more depth and texture to your sound.
Pedal Effects and Fidelity
Using pedal effects with an electric guitar on an acoustic amp can greatly enhance your sound. However, it is important to keep in mind that not all pedal effects may sound good on an acoustic amp. Some pedal effects may sound too harsh or distorted, while others may not produce the desired effect. It is important to experiment with different pedal effects to find the ones that work best for your sound.
Additionally, it is important to consider the fidelity of your sound when using pedal effects with an acoustic amp. Some effects may cause your sound to lose clarity and definition, while others may enhance it. It is important to find a balance between adding effects and maintaining a clear, defined sound.
Acoustic Guitar Simulator
If you want to achieve a more authentic acoustic guitar sound with an electric guitar on an acoustic amp, you may want to consider using an acoustic guitar simulator. These simulators use digital signal processing to mimic the sound of an acoustic guitar, and can be a great way to achieve a more natural sound without having to purchase an actual acoustic guitar.
when playing an electric guitar on an acoustic amp, it is important to experiment with different techniques and effects to find the ones that work best for your sound. By using a combination of hybrid playing techniques, pedal effects, and acoustic guitar simulators, you can achieve a unique and authentic sound that is all your own.
Specific Products
Fender Acoustasonic
The Fender Acoustasonic is a popular choice for those looking to play electric guitar on an acoustic amp. This amp is specifically designed for acoustic guitars, but it also has a setting for electric guitars. The Acoustasonic has a range of tone controls, including a three-band EQ and a built-in reverb, which allows for a wide variety of sounds.
One of the great features of the Fender Acoustasonic is its feedback elimination system. This system helps to prevent unwanted feedback, which can be a common problem when playing an electric guitar through an acoustic amp. The Acoustasonic also has a range of different inputs, including an XLR input for a microphone, making it a versatile option for live performances.
Expensive and High-End Options
While the Fender Acoustasonic is a great option for those on a budget, there are also more expensive and high-end options available for those who want the best possible sound quality. These amps often have more advanced features and higher-quality components, which can result in a more authentic and natural sound.
One such option is the Bose L1 Model II System with B2 Bass Module. This system is designed for both acoustic and electric guitars and features a range of advanced tone controls and effects. It also has a unique sound dispersion system, which helps to ensure that the sound is evenly distributed throughout the room.
Another high-end option is the Fishman Loudbox Performer. This amp is designed specifically for acoustic guitars, but it can also be used for electric guitars. It has a range of advanced tone controls and effects, including a built-in reverb and chorus. It also has a range of different inputs, including an XLR input for a microphone, making it a versatile option for live performances.
there are a range of different options available for those looking to play electric guitar on an acoustic amp. Whether you are on a budget or looking for the best possible sound quality, there is an amp out there that will meet your needs.
Conclusion
it is possible to play an electric guitar through an acoustic amp. However, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, using overdrive or distortion pedals with an electric guitar on an acoustic amp can be problematic due to the differences in sound frequencies. Secondly, while it is possible to plug an acoustic guitar into an electric guitar amp, the sound may not be optimal due to the amp’s emphasis on midrange and treble frequencies.
It is important to note that acoustic and electric amps are designed for different purposes and have different features. Acoustic amps are designed to reproduce the natural sound of an acoustic guitar, while electric amps are designed to produce a distorted or overdriven sound.
Ultimately, the choice between an acoustic or electric amp depends on personal preference, playing style, and the desired sound. It is recommended to experiment with different amps and settings to find the best sound for your playing style and instrument.
while it is possible to play an electric guitar on an acoustic amp, it may not produce the desired sound and may be limited in terms of effects and pedals. It is important to consider the differences between acoustic and electric amps and experiment with different options to find the best sound for your playing style.
