Gibson Labs is presenting a multi-part series that focuses on guitar amplification, including amplifier design and terminology. With Gibson’s long history as an amplifier manufacturer, an insider’s look is provided into how the guitar’s trusted sidekick comes together. At the end of the series, Gibson offers a self-test, and a chance to win a Gibson Les Paul Standard guitar with matching Amplifier.           

In each part of the curriculum, Gibson provides valuable amp information, and helps simplify amp terminology, in order to provide insight on the different means and philosophies inherent to amplifier design.

Curriculum Over View:
Session 1: Clash of the Classes  (July 1st) - What’s the difference between Class A and Class AB? What’s single ended? We answer these questions and more as we break down enigmatic terminology into easily understood concepts.

Session 2: We Really Need to Talk About Junior  (July 15th) - Our voyage on this tour of tone, we look deep into the Gibson GA5 Les Paul Junior amplifier. Built in homage to the original LP Jr. amp of the 1950’s, this little powerhouse is a lesson within itself on vintage craft and simple attention to detail.

Session 3: Gibson Amplification: the History (August 1st) - You might not think of Gibson first when you think of guitar amplification but you probably should. The company that offered the world its first guitar amplifier has an interesting History behind it. It’s a story you’ll want to hear.

Session 4: Critical Paths (August 15th) - The most important part of amplifying your guitar is actually the simplest in theory. Why attention to detail and uncompromised craft still create the best tone.

Session 5: Behind the Scenes: Prototype Peek (September 1st) - An Amp Academy exclusive preview of Gibson and Epiphone’s soon to ship new models. We’ll take you right into the design process, let you hear from our amp experts and share our own philosophies on what an amp should be.

Session 6: Amp Academy Exam and Grand Prize Drawing (September 15th posting, October 1st deadline, October 15th Prize Drawing)