Power and Sound Quality
The primary role of any amplifier is to enhance the volume of your sound. However, a busking amplifier’s job is two-fold. It needs to elevate your music’s volume above the hum of city life while retaining the integrity of your sound, even at high volumes.
The amplifier’s power, measured in watts, impacts how loud the amp can go. You need an amplifier robust enough to cut through ambient noise for busking. Generally, an amp ranging from 15 to 60 watts is adequate for outdoor performances, while lower wattage could work well for intimate settings.
For instance, the AER Compact Mobile2, a powerhouse with 60 watts, can project your music powerfully outdoors. In contrast, lower-wattage amplifiers like the Yamaha THR5A and Blackstar Super Fly could be ideal for quieter or more enclosed environments where you don’t want the sound to overpower the space.
Sound quality is paramount. A superior amplifier will accurately reproduce the nuances of your instrument and vocals, delivering a clean, clear, and faithful sound to your music’s essence. It’s important to select an amplifier known for its sound quality, like the Fishman Mini Charge, recognized for its pure and uncolored sound reproduction, particularly for acoustic instruments.
Portability
As a busker, you’re constantly on the move, and your equipment should be able to keep up. Portability in an amplifier is determined by its weight, size, and ease of transportation.
A lightweight and compact amplifier will be less of a burden when you’re shifting locations. Some amps, like the Roland Cube Street, are designed with buskers in mind, featuring comfortable carry handles and a sturdy design to withstand the rigors of constant movement and outdoor conditions. But remember portability shouldn’t come at the expense of sound quality or power. It’s all about finding the right balance to suit your specific needs.
Battery Life
A critical feature of any busking amplifier is its ability to run on battery power. You can’t always guarantee access to a power outlet while performing on the streets. A reliable amplifier should have a strong battery life to ensure continuous performance. An amplifier lasting between 5 to 12 hours would be ideal depending on your performance duration.
The Behringer MPA40BT-PRO, for instance, is known for its long battery life, allowing you to perform without worrying about the battery draining mid-set. It’s worth considering whether the amplifier has a built-in rechargeable battery or requires disposable batteries, which will impact ongoing costs and convenience.
Durability
Given that busking generally involves performing in various outdoor locations, your amplifier needs to be sturdy and robust, capable of withstanding the challenges of outdoor conditions. It might have to endure varying temperatures, a little rain, or even an accidental knock or two. Therefore, consider an amp’s build quality and durability.
Materials used, construction quality, and even design can affect durability. Look for amps with rugged, road-ready construction and preferably with some level of water resistance. You certainly don’t want an unexpected drizzle to end your performance or, worse, damage your equipment.
Connectivity and Extra Features
Having an amp with modern connectivity options is a boon in this digital age. Features like Bluetooth connectivity can let you stream backing tracks from your smartphone or tablet, creating a fuller sound or providing accompaniment when needed.
The BOSS Katana-Air and Behringer MPA40BT-PRO are excellent examples of amps that support Bluetooth, allowing for versatile performances. Dual channels can be particularly useful if you plan to plug in both an instrument and a microphone simultaneously, as can be done with the Blackstar Super Fly.
Some amplifiers come equipped with built-in effects like reverb and chorus, which can add some extra dimension to your sound. However, ensuring these extras don’t compromise the core aspects of sound quality, power, and portability is essential.
Price and Value for Money
Lastly, the best busking amp for you is one that provides value for your money. Don’t be swayed by cheap amps that might not deliver in terms of sound quality or durability. On the other hand, don’t assume that the most expensive amp will be the best for your needs.
Balance the cost against the amplifier’s features, power, sound quality, and durability. The AER Compact Mobile2, while on the pricier side, justifies its cost with excellent sound quality, a range of features, and a robust design ready to hit the streets.
When selecting the perfect busking amp, a thorough assessment of your requirements, a careful study of available options, and a fair comparison will lead you to your ideal match. And remember, the best amplifier will enhance your sound and connection with your audience, making your performances memorable.
