Can You Use A Guitar Amp As A Speaker: All You Need To Know 

Perhaps you’re at a jam session or in a gig, and you only have a guitar amp, but there’s no speaker around. You might have heard that a guitar amp can be used as a speaker. Is that true? The short answer is yes. In fact, some vintage amps, such as the Vox AC30, works like a charm as a speaker. But there are certain things you need to keep in mind. Let’s get to know all the nitty gritty details about ‘can you use a guitar amp as a speaker,’ will it damage the speaker, how to do it safely, and much more. Let’s get started. 

Can You Use A Guitar Amp As A Speaker? 

We know that guitar amplifiers are not made to handle full-range signals; they amplify the signal from the guitar. A guitar amp’s speaker often has a midrange frequency response. As a result, using a guitar amp as a speaker for other audio sources, like a microphone or an electronic keyboard, can produce a distorted or muffled sound. 

So, can you use a guitar amp as a speaker? Yes, but with some restrictions. If you want to use a guitar amp as a speaker, consider using a speaker simulator or load box to ensure that the signal is properly balanced and not overloaded. Moreover, don’t raise the volume too much, as you could potentially damage the speaker. 

Related Post: How To Ground A Guitar Amp

Can You Use A Bass Amp As A Speaker? 

Yes, since a bass amp already has a speaker built-in, you can use it as a speaker. But before doing so, you must realize that a bass amp and a guitar speaker have different designs and technical requirements. Also, you need to understand that the design and technical requirements of a bass amp and a guitar speaker are different. The frequencies of a bass guitar are typically lower than those produced by a regular guitar. Therefore, a bass amp is designed to handle lower bass frequencies and will not produce the same clarity and detail as a speaker in the mid and high frequencies, which we often desire. To sum it up, you can use a bass amp as a speaker for your guitar, but the sound quality won’t be the same as a dedicated speaker.  

How Do I Convert My Guitar Amp To Speakers? 

Converting your guitar amp to speakers might initially seem daunting. Let’s break it down into a relatively straightforward process.  

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools 

To convert your guitar amp into speakers, you’ll need a soldering iron, wire stripper, and screwdriver. Before you start, make sure you have all these tools available. 

Step 2: Remove the Amp’s Speaker 

First, remove the current speaker. You can do this by unscrewing the four bolts that hold it in place. 

Step 3: Connect the New Speaker 

Once you’ve removed the old speaker, it’s time to connect the new one. To do this, you’ll need to solder the wires from the speaker to the terminals on the amp. 

Step 4: Test the New Speaker 

Before you screw up the speaker, test the new speaker to ensure it works correctly. Simply turn on your guitar amp and test the speaker. 

Step 5: Reassemble the Amp 

Once you’ve tested the new speaker and verified that it’s working properly, it’s time to reassemble the amp. Secure the new speaker in place with the four bolts you removed earlier. 

Will Using An Amp As A Speaker Damage It? 

Using an amplifier as a speaker can cause damage to the internal components if the volume is too high. It’s because amplifiers are designed to amplify signals from a guitar, which has a much lower output than other devices like smartphones or laptops. Connecting a high-output device to an amplifier can overload the amplifier’s circuits and cause damage. So, keep the volume at a reasonable level. If you need a louder sound, consider using an external speaker designed for the task. 

Guitar amp Vs Speaker 

Primary Function 

A guitar amp is designed to amplify the signal coming from a guitar, making it louder and adding tonal coloration. On the other hand, a speaker’s primary function is to reproduce the sound being sent to it as accurately as possible. Both play unique roles in producing high-quality sound. 

Construction: 

The construction of these two components is quite different. Amplifiers are made of electronic components like vacuum tubes or solid-state circuits, while speakers are made of mechanical components such as cones and magnets. 

Portability: 

Amplifiers are often smaller and lighter than speakers, which can be easily transported and set up in different locations. Some guitar amps are even battery-powered, which makes them extremely portable and convenient for busking or playing outdoors. In contrast, speakers are generally larger and heavier than guitar amps and relatively more difficult to transport. 

Cost: 

Generally, guitar amplifiers tend to be more expensive than speakers due to their more complex design, functionality, and the number of electronic components they contain. 

Can I Use Amp As Computer Speaker? 

Yes, you can. You’ll need to use an adapter to connect both devices. But the fact is, the sound quality won’t be as good as when using dedicated computer speakers. If you use an amp, consider adding a digital audio interface.  

Can I Plug A Microphone Into A Guitar Amp? 

You can plug a microphone into a guitar amplifier, but it won’t deliver the same sound quality as a dedicated microphone. It’s because guitars and vocals share almost a similar frequency range. The roles of vocal and guitar amps will conflict. 

Can You Use A Guitar Amp As A Speaker: Final Words 

So, can you use a guitar amp as a speaker? The answer is yes, but it’s not always the best option. If you’re in a situation where you must do it, keep the volume levels low and avoid playing any too-hot or distorted signals.