When you buy a recording tube amp, there are a few things you will need to consider. For one, what wattage do you want your amp to handle? There is generally a scale that is used in measuring the power ratings of audio equipment. The highest wattage you can get your amplifier to handle is 100 watts. This will ensure that whatever you play will have enough power to keep a person's attention.
Another thing that you will need to think about when buying a recording tube amp is the design of its circuitry. Many tube amps are equipped with several switches and levels for getting the level for different sounds. This can be an advantage or a disadvantage depending on how you use the equipment. Those who use their high gain 12ax7 equipment for effects may find this a great advantage over those who just want to play simple music.
Those who do not use their equipment often, but just want to listen to it once in awhile, will be happy with a tape recorder. Tape recorders will be the cheapest of all recording tube amps, but they will also be the easiest to use. All you will need is a small tape player and some tape. However, if you want to mix tracks on your tape, then you will need to purchase a microprocessor that will allow you to do so.
Many top of the line recording tube amps will also have a built in sound board. This gives you the opportunity to plug in other gear into your recording session. If you like, you can even connect your computer up to your amplifier. This gives you all the benefits of a rack unit, without having to purchase a separate sound board. This can easily save you enough money that you can buy another guitar or keyboard.
Some diy guitar tube amp will come with a built in USB for quick and easy recording. These are great for home or studio use. However, if you need to share the sound with others, then you will need a virtual recording interface that will allow you to connect your computer to your recording tube amp, or your keyboard to your amp. You can then transfer your tracks with anyone you need to with ease.
There are many recording equipment options out there. In order to get the best sound, you will need to experiment with all of them. However, if you need a solid recording device that will last you many years, then it is worth spending the extra money for. Whether you choose an overhead speaker system, a microphone, or a tube amp, there will always be a model out there that will give you the quality sound you want for your next recording.
Here is a post with a general information about this topic, check it out: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12AX7.
