Did you know the Vintage 16 guitar combo amplifier and the VT16 head version have an internal dummy load? When you want to play your amplifier without a speaker load you need what is called a dummy load. With tube amplifiers you have to load the amplifier (connect speakers) or you may damage the output power tubes. The output power tubes use the output transformer to "transform" the speaker's impedance to correctly load themselves to work properly. If the amp is running and the speakers are not connected the output power tubes are unloaded and the amplifier can become unstable. The dummy load replaces the speaker’s impedance for the output transformer and completes the circuit, so your amplifier is happy and stable. This is great for headphone use and recording where a direct signal is taken from the amp's line output. When you need tube tone in a quiet situation look to the Vintage 16 series.
Also in Guitar / Bass Amplifier Info & Education
Live Bass – Adjusting to Different Venues
Keyboard Amps: Why or Why Not?
Now that quality PA systems are common and creating a stereo image in a live setting isn’t hard at all, there are probably some keyboardists out there who aren’t even aware that such a thing as a keyboard amp exists. Yet, there was once a time when keyboards were mostly treated just like guitars, with a stage amp a necessary part of the keyboard rig.
The question is – is a keyboard amp still necessary?
Here are a few reasons you might want a keyboard amp – and some you may not.
Find Your Sound With Signature Gear
Guitarists are an interesting bunch. Although we strive for individuality in our musicianship, style, and sound, we are shaped by the players and bands who inspire us. As a result, our gear choices lean towards using what our heroes used and, in some cases, purchasing the signature gear of our favorite guitarists. Not only do we buy it to show our love and support but often we believe the signature gear will get us THAT MUCH CLOSER to achieving the tones of our heroes.
Here we’ll give you some tips on getting YOUR sound from signature guitar gear.