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Variacs for my amp! I own an All-Tube (analog power) 100w guitar amp, and have recently been informed of a way to hook up a variac to the amp. By doing this, it allows the player to use the variac a

Variable transformers (variacs) are commonly used with various tube type amplifiers and other tube type devices.  The primary purpose is to bring the voltage up slowly in order to extend the life of the tubes.  Variable transformers have the unique ability to adjust their output voltage without adding any noise or hum to the device that they power.  It may act somewhat as a volume control although it probably depends on the design of the amplifier.

Van Halen has been known to use Variacs to lower the voltage to his amp so that he could increase the volume without distortion.

Variable transformers are rated based on maximum amperage.  If there is a name plate on the device it may list the input amperage.  The variable transformer should be rated at least for the maximum amperage of the amp.  Links to common variable transformers that are used for this purpose are shown below.

5 Amp portable unit

10 Amp portable unit

These units simply plug into the wall and the amplifier can plug in to the receptacle that is provided.  Switch and fuse is also provided.

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