There are many ways to alter tone. The obvious ways include the use of a different guitar, amp or effects pedal. You can greatly improve your tone by making some basic changes to your equipment, such as changing guitar pickups or using different tubes. These changes require some technical know-how.

The easiest way to change the sound of your amp is to change the speakers. This is simple and you do not need to be technically inclined to do so.

There are many different types of speakers - different sizes, impedances, wattages, and magnet materials. Deciding which speaker to use can be a complex decision. We will try to simplify it for you.

 

The popular guitar amplifier speaker sizes are 6.5”, 8”, 10”, 12” and 15”. Since most of you are replacing speakers that are already in an amplifier, we do not recommend choosing a different size than what your amp is drilled for or already using.

 

It is important that the output impedance of your amplifier matches the equivalent impedance of your speakers. Your amplifier may have an impedance switch on the back allowing you to switch between 4, 8 and 16 ohms. If your amp uses multiple speakers, you will have to wire the speakers for an equivalent load impedance that matches the amplifier's output impedance.

 

The wattage of your speaker is primarily determined by the diameter of the voice coil and the weight of the magnet. Generally a larger voice coil and heavier magnet can handle more power. Your amp set-up is generally most efficient when you match the wattage of your amplifier with the wattage of the speaker. This is ideal, but in some cases you may want a speaker with a higher wattage than the amp. This would lower the overall amp output, but may increase the low frequency response.

Though it is not recommended (due to the potential for speaker malfunction) you can use a lower wattage speaker in a higher wattage amplifier to achieve higher speaker distortion. Keep in mind that the total power handling wattage is the sum of all the speakers.

The three different types of materials used in speaker magnets are Alnico, Ceramic (Ferrite) and Neodymium. Each material has a different effect on the tonal characteristics of the speaker.

 

Alnico, the original magnet material used in speakers, produces a classic tone. Alnico magnets tend to be a bit more expensive due to their cobalt element. These speakers sound warmer and sweeter at lower volumes and many musicians feel they react faster to the player's touch.

 

Ceramic magnets were developed as an inexpensive alternative to Alnico. These speakers have a few advantages: they do not cost as much, are more versatile and create a wide range of tones.