G-AMP 20: How To Set Up & Use

Introduction

This guide will walk you through setting up your Rockville G-AMP 20 20W Dual Input Combo Guitar Amplifier and its key features. Whether you're connecting a guitar, adjusting tone controls, using Bluetooth, or recording your sound, this step-by-step guide will help you get started.

What's Included:

• G-AMP 20 20W Guitar Amplifier
• Power Cable

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Connecting Your Guitar to the Amplifier

1. Use a ¼” instrument cable (avoid speaker cables, as they may cause buzzing sounds).
2. Plug one end of the cable into your guitar.
3. Plug the other end into Input 1 on the amplifier.
4. Turn on the amplifier using the power switch.
5. Raise the Gain Knob and the Volume Knob on the amp.
6. Raise the Volume Knob on your guitar.
7. Start playing to hear your guitar through the amplifier.

2. Using the Dual Inputs

• The G-AMP 20 has two input channels, allowing two guitars to be plugged in simultaneously.
• Both guitars will share the same amplifier settings, making it great for jamming or practice sessions.

3. Adjusting Your Sound with EQ Controls

The G-AMP 20 features three EQ knobs to shape your sound:

• Bass Knob: Adjusts low-end frequencies.
  • Raising it increases the bass response.
  • Lowering it reduces bass and emphasizes mid/high frequencies.
• Mid Knob: Controls mid-range frequencies.
  • Raising it brings out a fuller sound.
  • Lowering it removes body from the tone.
• Treble Knob: Adjusts high-end frequencies.
  • Raising it adds brightness and sharpness.
  • Lowering it softens the sound and reduces high frequencies.

4. Switching Between Clean and Overdrive Channels

• The Channel Select Button allows you to switch between two sound modes:
  • Clean Channel (button not pressed): Produces a natural, clear guitar tone.
  • Overdrive Channel (button pressed): Adds distortion, great for rock, metal, and lead solos.

5. Adding Delay Effects

• The Delay Knob adds an echo effect to your guitar.
  • Turning it up increases the intensity and duration of the delay.
  • Lower settings provide subtle echo, while higher settings create pronounced repetitions.

6. Connecting a Bluetooth Device

The G-AMP 20 features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to play along with backing tracks:

1. Press the Bluetooth Button on the amp.
   • The LED indicator labeled BT will begin flashing when ready to pair.
2. On your smartphone or tablet, go to the Bluetooth settings and open the pairing menu / look for available devices.
3. Look for “G-AMP 20” to pair the device wirelessly with your amp.
4. Once paired, control audio streaming and playback volume using your device.
   • Play backing tracks or songs and jam along in real time.

7. Practicing with Headphones

• The G-AMP 20 includes a headphone output for silent practice.
• Plug in your headphones and use the Volume Knob to adjust the sound level.
• The amp's built-in speaker will be muted when headphones are connected.

8. Recording with a Microphone and Audio Interface

You can record your G-AMP 20 amplifier directly into a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) using a microphone and audio interface:

Step 1: Connect Your Audio Interface

1. Plug your audio interface (e.g., Rockville RockU Mini) into your computer.
2. Set the input and output settings of your computer and DAW to use the interface.

Step 2: Connect a Microphone

1. Plug a microphone into the mic input of the interface.
2. Use a condenser microphone for a richer sound (if using a condenser, enable phantom power on the interface).
3. Adjust mic placement:
   • Closer to the amp's center = Brighter sound.
   • Closer to the amp's edge = More bass and warmth.
   • Midway between center and edge = Balanced tone.

Step 3: Set Up Your DAW

1. Create a new track in your DAW.
2. Select Input 1 as the input source.
3. Rename the track (e.g., “Guitar”).
4. Enable record mode and start playing.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Why is my amplifier buzzing?

• Ensure you are using a proper instrument cable, not a speaker cable.
• Keep your guitar away from other electronic devices to avoid interference.
• Check if the amp is properly grounded.

Why is there no sound from the amplifier?

• Ensure the power switch is on.
• Turn up the volume on both the amp and your guitar.
• Check if the Gain Knob is too low.
• Ensure the correct input is used.

Why is Bluetooth not connecting?

• Ensure Bluetooth mode is activated by pressing the Bluetooth button.
• Make sure your device’s Bluetooth is turned on and searching.
• Try resetting Bluetooth on both the amplifier and your device.

Why is my recording too loud or distorted?

• Lower the gain or volume on the amplifier.
• Adjust the mic placement to avoid excessive distortion.
• Use the pad switch on your interface if using a condenser microphone.

Conclusion

The Rockville G-AMP 20 20W Dual Input Combo Guitar Amplifier is a versatile amp for practice, jamming, and recording. With dual inputs, EQ controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and recording capabilities, it’s a great choice for guitarists of all levels.