[Explained] Do Amps Come With Cables?

Most guitar and keyboard players need to connect their instruments to an amplifier to boost sound quality and volume. Amplifiers are essential components of many audio systems, but they usually do not come with the cables necessary to connect them to other equipment.

This comprehensive article will examine this question in detail.

Purpose of Amplifiers

An amplifier lives up to its name by amplifying weak audio signals to boost their volume and power. Common types of amplifiers include instrument amplifiers for guitars, bass amps for bass guitars, keyboard amplifiers, home stereo receivers, car amplifiers, DJ mixers with built-in amplifiers, and more. 

These devices all serve the key purpose of taking low-level signals and increasing their strength to drive speakers and produce louder sounds.

Role of Cables

Cables form the physical pathways for carrying audio signals between different components. Instrument cables take the signals from electric guitars, basses, and keyboards to their amplifiers. 

Without cables acting as conduits for these crucial signals, audio gear cannot communicate and function together seamlessly.

Reasons Cables May or May Not Be Included

There are several key reasons why cables may or may not be packed with amplifiers:

• Cost considerations: Providing cables cut into profits from selling amplifiers alone
• Intended market: Beginner musician packages often include cables for quick setup while pro gear leaves cabling up to the user
• Amp type and functionality: Practice instrument amps aimed at students may bundle cables more often than professional power amps
• Brand philosophy: Some companies view cables as essential components to include

Advantages of Purchasing Amp Cables Separately

There are some advantages of purchasing Amp cables separately:

• Flexibility and Choice: Purchasing amp cables separately allows musicians to choose the specific type and length of cable that best suits their needs. This flexibility is especially important for musicians who perform in various settings, as different venues may require cables of varying lengths.
• Upgrade Potential: Separate cable purchases provide the opportunity to upgrade the quality of cables over time. As musicians progress in their skills and experience, they may opt for higher-quality cables that can deliver better sound performance and durability.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While amp cables may add to the initial cost of an amplifier setup, purchasing them separately can be more cost-effective in the long run. Musicians can find affordable cables that meet their needs without paying for a potentially overpriced cable included with the amp.

Electric Guitar & Bass Amplifiers

Electric guitar amps do not usually come with instrument cables, allowing players to select their own preferred cable type. However, guitar amplifier starter bundles designed for novice players frequently contain cables to connect the amp straight to the guitar. 

The same generally holds true for bass amp packs created for beginners – they integrate cables for fast setup so new bassists can start playing their instrument through the amp right away.

Keyboard Amplifiers

Like electric guitar and bass amps, most keyboard amplifiers do not come with the instrument cables used for connecting keyboards. Keyboard players typically want to use their own specialized keyboard cables to link their instruments to amplifiers. 

Home Audio Receivers & Amplifiers

Contrasting with amplifiers used for individual musical instruments, home theater receivers and stereo receivers meant for consumer home entertainment frequently do package audio cables. 

Home receivers often include RCA stereo audio cables, composite video cables, or HDMI cables to enable the setup of surround sound systems for TVs without buying separate cables. However, speaker cables generally must be acquired separately.

In-Car Amplifiers & Wiring Kits

Car amplifiers used to power subwoofers and additional speakers in-vehicle audio systems have specialized needs for cables to integrate properly with 12-volt electrical systems. 

Aftermarket car amps do not include cabling, instead relying on separate vehicle-specific wiring kits tailored for installing amplifiers. Customized power wiring and RCA signal cable kits allow car amps to connect to car stereos and speakers while safely drawing current from vehicle electrical systems.

Professional Audio Power Amplifiers

Heavy-duty power amps created for professional live sound reinforcement and recording studio applications almost never come outfitted with cables. 

Brands designing high-caliber pro audio gear expect that working musicians, engineers, and sound companies will apply power amplifiers using their specialized existing inventories of audio signal snakes, XLR mic cables, Speakon speaker cables, and patch bay wiring appropriate for their needs.

Essential Cables for Electric Instruments

Some essential Cables for Electric Instruments are as follows: 

1. ¼-inch Instrument Cable: This is the most common type of cable used for electric guitars, basses, and other stringed instruments. It features a ¼-inch jack on both ends and is typically shielded to reduce noise interference.
2. Speaker Cables: These cables connect amplifiers to speakers, carrying the amplified signal from the amp to the speakers for sound reproduction. Speaker cables are typically thicker and more robust than instrument cables to handle the higher power output.
3. XLR Cables: These cables are used for connecting microphones to mixers or preamps. They feature a three-pin XLR connector on one end and a ¼-inch jack on the other. XLR cables are balanced, providing better noise rejection and signal integrity compared to unbalanced cables.

Factors You Need to Consider Before Buying Amp Cables

Amp cables are widely available at music stores, online retailers, and even electronics stores. When selecting cables, consider the following factors:

1. Quality: Opt for cables from reputable brands known for their quality and durability.
2. Length: Choose cables that are the appropriate length for your specific needs. Too short cables can be restrictive, while excessively long cables can be cumbersome and prone to tangles.
3. Connector Type: Ensure that the connectors on the cables match the jacks on your instruments, amplifiers, and speakers.
4. Budget: Amp cables range in price from affordable options to high-end audiophile cables. Set a budget and choose cables that fit your financial constraints.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

1. Is it possible to repair a damaged amp cable?

Answer: In some cases, you may be able to repair a damaged amp cable by replacing the damaged connector or splicing the wires together. However, it is often more cost-effective and time-efficient to simply replace the entire cable.

2. What is the best way to store my amp cables?

Answer: The best way to store your amp cables is to wrap them loosely around a cable tie or spool. Avoid coiling them tightly, as this can damage the internal wires. You should also store your cables in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

3. How often should I replace my amp cables?

Answer: The lifespan of an amp cable depends on the quality of the cable and how often it is used. Generally speaking, you should replace your amp cables every few years, especially if you use them regularly and expose them to harsh conditions.

To Conclude

Cables complete the connection between audio components so amplifiers can receive signals to boost. Although amplifiers prioritize amplification, cables play an equally vital role in transmitting signals crucial for quality sound.

Careful cable selection ensures amplifiers perform at their finest.