Yes, an acoustic-electric guitar can sound different when plugged into a regular guitar amplifier compared to its natural acoustic sound. When you plug an acoustic-electric guitar into an amplifier, the signal from the guitar's pickup is amplified and then reproduced through the amplifier's speakers. This can result in several differences in the sound:
Tone shaping: Guitar amplifiers often have built-in equalizers (EQ) and tone controls that allow you to shape the sound. You can adjust the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies to achieve the desired tonal characteristics. This ability to shape the tone can alter the overall sound of the acoustic-electric guitar.
Amplified characteristics: When amplified, the acoustic-electric guitar may exhibit different tonal qualities and characteristics compared to its natural, unamplified sound. The amplified sound can sometimes have more presence, clarity, or brightness, depending on the specific pickup and amplifier combination.
Feedback: Acoustic-electric guitars are prone to feedback when amplified at high volumes. Feedback occurs when the sound from the amplifier's speakers resonates with the guitar's body and strings, resulting in a sustained, often undesirable, howling sound. Some acoustic-electric guitars and amplifiers have feedback control features to help mitigate this issue.
Effects and processing: When plugged into an amplifier, you have the option to use various effects pedals or signal processors to modify the sound further. This can include adding reverb, delay, chorus, or other effects, which can dramatically alter the overall sound of the guitar.
It's important to note that an acoustic-electric guitar can still be played unplugged, producing its natural acoustic sound, even when it has the capability to be amplified. The decision to use an amplifier depends on personal preference, the desired sound, and the musical context in which the guitar is being played.