Getting your hands onto a new electric guitar is sheer excitement.
However, this is just the beginning of the journey to feed your passion for acoustics. The next step is to treat you with a good quality guitar amp to live the real experience.
To arm you with all the essential information, we have lined up some of the top-notch guitar amps.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Guitar Amps
Table of Contents
What is Guitar Amp and What is it Used For?
A guitar amp is an electronic device, used to strengthen the relatively faint electrical signal from an acoustic guitar, electric guitar or bass guitar. This suggests that it can amplify the sound produced by an electric guitar that eventually comes out of one or more loudspeakers.
The amp is composed of a standalone metal or wooden cabinet, which contains the circuits. A guitar amplifier (amp) is capable of modifying the tone of an instrument while increasing or decreasing different frequencies.
The high power combo amp has a powerful 100-watt amplifier and built-in speakers that are loud enough to serve the purpose for bar performances or a nightclub. Moreover, the latest guitar amps come with a 1/4" input jack. It receives the signals from a piezoelectric or electromagnetic pickup.
When it comes to the use of guitar amps, professional and amateur guitarists take advantage of this device in various ways. First, it amplifies the sound to such an extent that it can be heard loud and clear. Secondly, electric guitar players can choose their preferred settings and produce their signature tone.
Also, guitarists can introduce the external effects with the help of their amps to modify their tone before it reaches the amplifier.
What Makes These The Best of the Year?
When buying the best guitar amp, you need to look for specific features that make them stand out. To assist you, we have compiled some of these aspects.
Type of Construction
This is one of the critical features, which can make or break the deal. The construction of a guitar amp involves the thickness of the wood that forms its structure. It plays a vital role while determining sound quality.
Hence, the less thick wood allows the speakers to vibrate loose. This, as a result, helps to achieve a loud sound with the same speaker size. Besides, there is another aspect that improves the sound quality, which relates to the fact that whether a particular amp comes with a closed or open back. A closed-back amp offers a high bass response.
Ideal Configurations
Guitar amps have a wide range of configurations. Combos, for instance, are the self-contained units that contain both the speaker and amplifier. Amps are also available in a separate speaker and head configuration. This set up makes it possible to use an amp head with almost any speaker cabinet.
Overall Output and Speaker Size
If you want fantastic performance, go for the max output and speaker size. However, for practice purposes, you can rely on modeling combo or solid-state units offering low power output.
Comparison of the Best Guitar Amps
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Review of the Best Guitar Amps
In the section below, we are going to throw some light over the best features of the latest guitar amps. Besides, you will also get a chance to know the pros/cons and other essential info about these products.
Best Overall:
Fender Champion 100
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the buyers are satisfied with the sound quality and overall performance of this particular guitar amp. The primary functions perform well and offer reasonably loud sound. People prefer it as the most affordable solid-state amp with essential features. Besides, the limited functions allow the users to pay more attention to their tone.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The reason why it stands out among the rest is simple - sound quality and affordability. It offers perfect sound. The availability of headphone output jacks and auxiliary input make it an ideal option for practice and jam sessions. The ease of use is another aspect that helps to attract buyers.
Who Will Use This Most
Due to the easy to handle knobs and reasonable gadgetry, the Fender Champion 100 is the most viable option for beginners, who are learning to play electric guitar. Also, people with a limited budget to spare may consider it as a reasonable choice.
Bottom Line
The Fender Champion 100 is a powerful 100-watt guitar amp offering the basic controls and functions. The provision of an auxiliary input and 1/8th headphone output jack is undoubtedly a plus. Besides, it also allows for introducing special effects and using variable musical tones. It’s an affordable and highly portable guitar amp capable of providing a reasonable sound quality.
Runner-up:
Fender Mustang LT-25
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
As a whole, people are happy with the performance of this product. According to most of the buyer's reviews, the amp offers all the essential features that they were looking for. The response and sound tone are amazing too. Its simple interface is the most positive and most talked about feature.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The user interface is super-simple, allowing the player to take advantage of all its features. It comes with a collection of 30 presets, which covers a variety of music. The high-quality onboard amp and versatile signal chain allow this amp to produce some unbelievable tones.
Who Will Use This Most
Mustang LT25 is an excellent option for students and beginners. You can use this guitar amp when performing at a small or even medium-sized show. The ease of use is a top consideration for newcomers. Fewer features mean less hassle, making this amp as the best choice for practice.
Bottom Line
To wrap-up the whole review, this product offers excellent build quality with a satisfactory amount of sound. The construction is sturdy, and the controls are simple. A USB output port and connection for outdoor speakers are a plus. It has 30 presets, capable of covering a more extensive range of sound.
Best for the Money:
Fender Frontman 10G Electric Guitar Amplifier
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The most noticeable feature of this amp is its affordability. It offers all the necessary effects required by the beginners. The sound is just fantastic, as it’s a 10-watt amp unit. The buyers like the good build-quality and are quite happy about the responsiveness of the controls.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This small amp meets the expectations, as it is capable of producing maximum sound for a room and a little show. The sound is clear and loud, along with perfectly defined bass and treble. The construction is sturdy, and controls are simple to use.
Who Will Use This Most
Since it’s a beginners’ amp, it’s an excellent option for those who need the practice to master their electric guitar skills. It is less expensive, making it a highly feasible choice for students and people with a low budget. Its simple to use interface is great for users with less knowledge about amps.
Bottom Line
The Fender Frontman amp offers a 10 Watt output to produce a good quality sound with its 1-6" fender speaker. It has one channel, and the controls are simple too. The availability of 2-Band EQ, 1/4" Instrument Input, 1/8" Headphone Output Jack, 1/8" Auxiliary Input Jack makes it a good option.
Best Battery Powered Guitar Amp:
VOX MINI3 G2 Battery Powered Modeling Amp
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The buyers are quite happy with the performance of this portable amp, as it lives up to their expectations. The ability to run on batteries is the most loved feature, and people are more inclined towards this product due to its better sound quality.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Vox MINI3 G2 is the next generation of a modeling guitar amp that is portable and also runs on batteries. Its 3-watt combo comes with eleven amp models. It offers a variety of enhanced effects. The innovative and latest Bassilator circuit is capable of delivering a killer low end.
Who Will Use This Most
Since it’s a portable model guitar amp, it can serve as an excellent choice for beginners who like to practice outside. The battery-powered amp can perform up to 10 hours, so you can enjoy playing your guitar anywhere. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, this amp offers the best deal.
Bottom Line
Its dual power option makes this amp highly portable. The 10-hour long battery life is more than sufficient. The controls are responsive and straightforward. Moreover, this versatile amp can support different instruments. The Bassilator circuit manages to produce great sound. AUX input jack and MP3 player connectivity are added perks.
Best Beginner Guitar Amp:
Orange Amps Electric Guitar Power Amplifier
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the people who purchased this mini amp are happy with their overall performance. It delivers good quality sound even with its small speaker. The build quality is something that persuades the buyers to have this particular item.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Orange Crush PiX CR12L is one of the best practice amps. It is affordable and produces excellent sound. The built-in 3-band EQ makes it possible to dial in your tone. The gain controls and overdrive gives the ability to make the required changes.
Who Will Use This Most
Just like any other small and portable amp, this product is also capable of serving those people who are learning electric guitars. Hence, you can say that it’s a practice amp. However, the sound it produces also allows you to perform at small venues — best for those with a tight budget.
Bottom Line
The fantastic looking orange Crush PiX CR12L is built to perform. The small 6” speaker produces enough sound to enjoy your guitar. Moreover, 12-watt power output doesn’t seem too low with this amp. The highest level of portability is another perk.
Best Acoustic Guitar Amp:
Marshall Acoustic Soloist AS50D
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
With its highest build quality and performance, this guitar amp by Marshall is gaining popularity among the buyers. People are more inclined towards the sound it produces and the flexibility to control the tone. It is portable and straightforward to use, making it a perfect under budget guitar amp.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Marshall AS50D is genuinely expressive and produces an impressive sound quality. Its two 8-inch woofers offer a lot of bass volume. The recently designed poly dome tweeter ensures crystal clear sound output. Besides, the availability of the phantom-powered XLR microphone is another great feature.
Who Will Use This Most
This 50-watt amp performs well for practice and performances. Hence, this product is an ideal option for both professionals and beginners. Also, the price tag is on the lower side, allowing people with a tight budget to buy this amp.
Bottom Line
The Marshall AS50D is known for its fantastic sound quality. The two 8 inch woofers play a crucial role in enhancing the level of sound quality. Besides, the built-in condenser microphones and stereo RCA inputs for multiple connectivity options are there to make it a more versatile guitar amp.
Best Small Guitar Amp:
Roland AC-40
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are quite impressed by the salient features of this amp. The design is compact, offering all the controls placed at the easy to access place. People with acoustic guitars don’t get such an amp quite often; hence, they are more inclined towards this option. As a whole, there are no complaints so far, and buyers are enjoying its sound.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This amp offers a bright and vibrant sound. Using this amp is simple - just plug and play. It comes with a pair of 6.5" speakers offering outstanding projection. Moreover, the onboard stereo chorus and reverb sound play a key role in toning the overall feel of your guitar.
Who Will Use This Most
This particular amp is a viable choice for both professionals and beginners. People with less knowledge about amps can also buy this product to improve their guitar skills. It is a highly portable and affordable acoustic guitar amp. This means you can have this fantastic amp without disturbing your budget.
Bottom Line
It’s a great option if you are looking for excellent projection and the natural tone of your acoustic guitar. The 2-channel design with Mic/Line and guitar input is a handy feature. The two 6.5-inch speakers offer fantastic configuration. It also provides onboard DSP and built-in auto anti-feedback features.
Best Guitar Amp Under $200::
Fender Champion 40
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who bought this amp have no complaints whatsoever. It performs quite well, especially when compared to the 20-watt amp launched by the fender. Besides, the build quality is also satisfactory, making it a reliable option for the buyers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The sound quality and affordability of this amp are two of the most established reasons for its selection. Moreover, the availability of auxiliary input and headphone output jack adds more versatility to the amp.
Who Will Use This Most
The knobs are easy to handle and offer better options to tone the sound, making it a suitable choice for the learners. Furthermore, if you have a limited amount of money to spare, buying this amp won’t disturb your budget.
Bottom Line
This is a powerful 40-watt guitar amp, which offers loud and clear sound with its easy to handle controls and functions. Besides, availability of 1/8th headphone output jack and auxiliary input also makes it a versatile amp.
Best Guitar Amp Under $500:
Peavey Vypyr VIP 2
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
When it comes to the views of recent buyers, this amp has been well-received by its audience. The build quality and fantastic sound are two of the major plus points of the amp. All the controls are responsive and help to tone up the sound.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This revolutionary product comes from the house of Peavey, which is a renowned name in its field. It utilizes the innovative and latest technology to offer the best sound experience to its users. The powerful 32-bit processors and Transtube circuitry ensure the best possible sound.
Who Will Use This Most
The target audience for this product is both professional guitarists and beginners. Besides, its price tag is not too heavy for most of the students and amateurs. Since it’s a portable amp, people going out on tours can also take this item.
Bottom Line
One can state that this particular amp is the best possible option when you have a limited budget, and you don’t want to compromise over the sound quality. This 40-watt amp produces enough sound that is sufficient to create a strong vibe.
Best Small Tube Guitar Amp:
Monoprice 611705
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who have bought this item are satisfied with its performance. It works as advertised, which enhances the level of reliability over this product. The overall use of technology is impressive, allowing users to take advantage of its latest features.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This amp is durable and versatile, offering separate controls for volume and tone. The harmonic distortion and increased dynamic range produce a good quality sound. Besides, its simple controls are responsive too.
Who Will Use This Most
Being small in size and a well-performing amp, this product tends to be an excellent option for beginners. The highest level of portability allows you to take this amp with you when going out for practice with your friends. The price is also reasonable, allowing the low budget buyers to grab it.
Bottom Line
This particular amp comes with a 12AX7 pre-amp tube (industry standard). It powers up the 6V6GT tube for outstanding sound and rich distortion. The controls are simple and minimalistic, capable of keeping the tone pure. Furthermore, the Celestion super 8 speakers add magic to the sound produced.
Types of Guitar Amps
Depending on the type of performance you want to achieve with a guitar amp, there are different types of these devices available on the market. Here are some to consider.
Combo Amp
Combos possess all the strength and power that you need to make an astounding impression. It delivers enough sonic firepower to vibrate an open arena or a giant auditorium. A combo is an all-in-one unit. The cabinet and head are typically heavier and are separate.
Solid-State Amps
If you are on a budget, the solid-state amp would be the most suitable one. Being the most famous amp, most of the performers prefer this device for its fantastic tone, such as the distorted sound. These amps are inexpensive, reliable, light, and consistent.
Tube Amps
Talking about the tube amps, these consist of large glass cylinders or vacuum tubes, which glow orange as you use them. The sound produced by this kind of amp is simply unbelievable. It appears that the amp is performing with you. However, these amps are expensive and are heavy too.
Hybrid Amps
This type of guitar amp is a perfect combo of both solid-state circuitry and tube. It works in a way where the pre-amp creates initial sound by using a tube, and the amp takes its power through solid-state circuitry.
Perks of Getting a New Guitar Amp
Getting your hands on a new guitar amp is beneficial in many ways. There are two persuasive reasons to buy a new guitar. The first one relates to the tonal advantages, and the other one is the ability to experience enhanced playability.
To get into some unbeatable reasons for upgrading your guitar amp, take a look at these perks.
Latest Hardware
Getting the newest hardware and everything pre-installed is one of the primary reasons why you should opt for a new guitar amp. With an upgraded version, you would have the freedom to have better tuning stability.
Highly Responsive Tonewoods
Tonewoods turns out to be the decisive factor when you are looking for the best sonic feel and overall resonance. Hence, go for an amp that comes with thin wood. It would help you to get the most promising sound that you have been striving for.
Makes You a Better Player
A top-quality guitar amp allows you to play at your best. For instance, the latest valve amp or solid-state tends to respond perfectly. Besides improving your experience, it will also assist you while creating the right tone out of your guitar.
Conclusion
A guitar amp is an innovative and high-performance device that not only makes the sound of your guitar louder but also fine-tunes it with reference to your needs. With the availability of a wide range of guitar amps, you can improve your playing ability and sound quality.
