Guitar amp, cont.
I really appreciate your responses.
I looked into the 2030 chip. I couldn't find a circuit specifically for an acoustic guitar.
Firstly, I think I would need a pre-amp in addition. The MOSFET section of the Ruby circuit is the pre-amp.
Secondly, the article in runoffgroove.com that presents the Ruby circuit discusses how to adjust the Gain and Volume controls to generate effects such as "overdrive" and "breakup" (the kid knows what these are, even if I don't). It even suggests some modifications to enhance these effects.
Besides, most of the 2030 circuits (I also read that the LM1875 can be substituted for the TDA2030) require a more complicated power supply.
I noticed that there is a 1W and a 3W version of the 386 chip. But you're right, I don't see the point of an amplifier if the guitar strings themselves are louder than the amp.
If anyone happens accross a relatively simple amplifier circuit, designed specifically for acoustic guitars, preferably with some knobs attached, that is more powerful than Ruby, I'd love to hear about it.
Also, if anyone can suggest some modifications to the Ruby design, which would boost it's output, that would be great.