How can you tell? (different distortion types)

[korovamilkdud]

So we know of at least three different types of distortion.

1. Power amp
2. Preamp
3. Speaker


Question is...how would you characterize the sound of each kind of breakup? Can you tell the difference between speaker breakup and power stage breakup?

My understanding of Preamp and Poweramp is that Poweramp (at least in tubies) is more dynamic and warm. Many dislike preamp distortion and regard it as buzzy and mushy.

 

[Guitarist]

Re: How can you tell? (different distortion types)

Yeah...I don't know anything about telling when a speaker starts to break up, but your understanding of preamp and poweramp distortion is spot on.

 

[the guy who invented fire]

Re: How can you tell? (different distortion types)

-power amp crunch is smooth and fat
-preamp crunch is thin and buzzy and often much more agressive that power amp crunch
-speaker break up is real ratty sounding unless it is mixed with one of the above types of crunch.

 

[ErikH]

Re: How can you tell? (different distortion types)

power amp crunch - AC/DC
pre-amp crunch - most 80's hair metal bands
speaker break-up - Neil Young (Hey Hey My My) - although I think Neil's were actually ripped.

 

[PFDarkside]

Re: How can you tell? (different distortion types)

How about tube preamp vs. SS preamp and likewise, pedals and amps?

 

[mnbaseball91]

Re: How can you tell? (different distortion types)

tube poweramp - warm, thick, smooth, and just insanely cool
solid state poweramp - thin, harsh, and raspy
preamp - square sounding (as in the shape of the waves), sometimes buzzy
speaker - gritty

 

[ParaGuitarMedic]

Re: How can you tell? (different distortion types)

power amp crunch - AC/DC
pre-amp crunch - most 80's hair metal bands
speaker break-up - Neil Young (Hey Hey My My) - although I think Neil's were actually ripped.

Here! Here!
Well said!

 

[Closed Eye]

Re: How can you tell? (different distortion types)

tube poweramp - warm, thick, smooth, and just insanely cool
solid state poweramp - thin, harsh, and raspy

You sure aren't biased.