About preamps and ampheads

[zanshin777]

Does a preamp really require to get great sound ? What is the difference between a preamp and amphead ? Which one does have more natural sound ?
Does all professional common famous guitarist use preamps ? Can I use a preamp or amphead with a comboamp ?

 

[PFDarkside]

Re: About preamps and ampheads

Think of it this way, you need a preamp, poweramp and speaker to amplify your guitar.
Preamp = only a preamp, it does the majority of the tone shaping, most stand alone preamps contain midi switching and many channel/patches.
Amp Head = Preamp + Poweramp
Combo = Preamp + Poweramp + Speaker

With a Head, you need a speaker cab. With a standalone preamp you need a separate poweramp and speaker cabinet. You can use a preamp into an amphead, but it's not necessary and you may not get the best tone out of it.