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Ribbon microphones are available in two formats, active and passive microphones, and to make the right purchase, you need to understand the benefits of both types. 

• Passive Ribbon Mics: The passive mics have a simple construction consisting of a ribbon, two magnets, and a transformer. They produce a warm natural sound but have a low output. That’s why you need a high-gain and high-impedance preamp to bring out the peak performance of a passive mic. However, passive mics can be used with high and low impedance amps to change the coloration and tonality of the microphone.

• Active Ribbon Mics: Active mics are almost identical to passive mics, but they are an upgraded version. An active mic has electronics powered by phantom power that offers consistent impedance and a better signal-to-noise ratio when you use different amps. The colorations and sound changes depend only on the type of amp you choose. 

As you can see, both these microphones are quite similar. While some artists like passive microphones due to the unique variations and color it produces when using low impedance amps, while some prefer active microphones due to the consistency it offers. Active mics’ consistency allows the user to use different amps without having to worry about the gain level and frequency response of the mic. 

So, which one would suit you the best? Active or Passive Microphone?

The answer to this depends on your understanding and preferences of amplifiers. If you want the flexibility of choosing any amp without losing consistency, an active ribbon mic would be the right choice, and if you like the unique coloration and different frequency response when using low impedance amps, a passive ribbon mic is the best option for you. 

Nowadays, several types of microphones are available in the markets, and they all have distinct features. So before you go ahead purchase a mic, you must make sure that the model you’ve chosen fits your requirements. Here’s how you can find out,

• Kids or Adults: If you are buying a mic for kids, it is better not to buy a professional mic. You can choose one of the fancy karaoke models that are fun to use. On the other hand, if you need it for adults, you can get more serious models that offer superior quality and versatility.

• Purpose and Usage: Do I need a mic just to have some karaoke fun with friends, or do I need it for serious recording? Am I going to use it only at home, or will I use it for stage performances? These are the questions that you need to ask yourself before you choose a mic. For example, if you just need a simple mic for fun singing, you can buy wireless or Bluetooth versions that allow you to move around when you sing. For recording, you can get a mic that has high SPL handling and better audio response. 

All the amps we’ve mentioned above are quite well-rounded with their features and quality. However, depending on your requirements, some amps may suit you while others may not. Let’s take a look at what you must check before making the purchase.

• The Brand: When it comes to musical instruments, you must always choose a reputed brand like the ones mentioned in this list. Low-quality equipment will not last long, and you’ll lose money.

• The Power: Manufacturers make different amps to suit different requirements. So, if you need an amplifier for live concerts and outdoor performances, you must choose a powerful amplifier that’s above 100-Watts. On the other hand, if you plan to use the amplifier for practice or small stage and church gigs, you can go for moderately powerful models.

• The Specs: Finally, you must make sure that you choose a model with all the required specifications. So, check out the features like size, design, equalizer options, connectivity, etc., before you make your purchase. 

Guitar necks come in several different sizes and shapes, and to find the right type that suits you the best, you need to look at the following important specs before making the purchase.

• Neck profile: The neck profile is the shape of the backside of the guitar neck. If you have small hands, it is better to choose more smooth shapes like the C-shape, oval or soft V-shape.

• Radius: The radius is the measurement of the curvature of the neck profile. The larger the radius, the flatter will be the profile. If you have small hands, flatter guitar necks will offer you better comfort and reach.

• Frets: Frets are the thin wire strips placed at precise intervals on the fingerboard. If you like your fingers to touch the fretboard while playing, you can go for medium jumbo and narrow-tall types. On the jumbo frets, your finger will not actually touch the fingerboard while playing. 

1. The neck of the guitar – While buying a resonator guitar, look for the type of neck you desire. Usually, resonator guitar comes in square or round-neck style. The square neck is suitable for lap style, while the round neck is apt for the conventional type. Further, the square neck patterned resonator guitar spots a little higher string setting. Therefore, select a neck style that befits your music needs and playing technique.

2. Type of Resonator – Resonator comes in 3 forms- the tri-cone, biscuit, and Dobro style. Tricone, as the name suggests, consists of three metal cones designed to deliver a very loud sound. Biscuit form has a single cone, while the Dobro-styled one flaunts the inverted spider bridge pattern.

3. Material of the body- Guitars available in the market today is either made of wood or metal. Generally, maple, spruce, or mahogany wood guitars are available, with each one having its distinct style. On the other hand, metal guitars such as brass levy a vintage feel in their notes. Pick one that suits the tonality needs of your music.

4. Price of the guitar- Lastly, look for the price of the guitar. Again, a range of costs is available. So, select which is pocket-friendly and power-packed at the same time. 

So, that’s our analysis of 5 of the best guitar solid-state amps available online. All of them have their own pros and cons, and to understand which one would suit you better, you must know how to make the right purchase. Here are a few tips to help you.

• The Brand Matters: Yes, when it comes to music equipment, you must always go with the most trusted brands and avoid buying cheap products made by fake brands.

• Portability Would Help: Choosing a portable and lightweight amplifier would be of great help, especially when you need to transport it from gig to gig.

• Output Quality: Like the models shown above, solid state amps offer different levels of output. You can choose a low output small speaker amp if you only need it for small programs and home practices, while for outdoor uses, it is better to go for powerful 60W and 100W amps.

• Affordability: Finally, you need to see whether you are getting all the features you need at a reasonable price. 

Finding the best acoustic guitar in budget may feel overwhelming, but if you check for the right details, you can easily pick one. Here are some things to check while shopping for acoustic guitars.

a. Start with the body style of the guitar. Smaller guitars are good to learn and are ideal for practice, but you may have to compromise on the sound. Determine what works best for your skill level.

b. Selected acoustic guitars may come with preamplifiers but consider these choices only if you can afford to spend a tad more. Another thing to think of is the neck of the guitar – Find out if you are comfortable with a 14-fret or 12-fret guitar.

c. Material. This is one of the key factors that will determine your guitar’s sound, and in that context, the top is most important. Since we are talking of budget choices, spruce is almost the standard. Options like rosewood will add to the price.

d. The cost of an acoustic guitar also depends on where it has been made. All guitars that have been made in the US tend to be more expensive. The material and work behind the product are more important.

e. Coming to the brand, it may not be a super important factor, but some of the best acoustic guitars come from known brands.

Your choice of an acoustic guitar should also depend on your skills. If you are someone who is trying an acoustic guitar for the first time, consider going for a smaller-sized guitar that will offer you better control on the fretboard.