The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Guitar Amps

Table of Contents

Introduction

Your guitar amp is a crucial part of your tone and overall performance. The right amp can inspire you, push your playing to new heights, and truly bring your guitar to life. That’s why choosing the best guitar amp for your needs is so important.

The amp you use affects the sound of your guitar more than any other piece of gear. Even with the same guitar and effects pedals, you can get radically different tones from different amps. From sparkling clean tones to saturated overdrive, the amp has a huge impact.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the main types of guitar amps available today:

Tube amps – Known for their warm, rich sound and great natural overdrive. We’ll recommend the top tube amps across various budgets.
Solid-state amps – More affordable and reliable than tubes, with crisp clean tones. We’ll suggest great solid-state options.
Modeling amps – Packed with digital amp and effects models for versatility. We’ll highlight the leading modeling amps.
Combo amps – Combine the amp and speaker in one unit. We’ll advise on the best all-in-one combo amps.

We’ll also cover key factors in choosing an amp, extra amp features, setting up and maintaining your amp, and much more. Let’s get started!

Tube Amps

Tube amplifiers use vacuum tubes to amplify your guitar’s signal. Inside a tube amp, the weak signal from your guitar interacts with the electrons streaming through heated tubes, causing amplification. This gives tube amps their characteristic warm, rich sound.

The two most common tube amp designs are Class A and Class AB. Class A amps keep their tubes running "hot" at all times for maximum clean headroom. Class AB amps only push the tubes hard when needed, improving efficiency.

Tube amps are known for their responsive, dynamic sound. When you dig in on your guitar, a tube amp reacts and helps produce singing sustain. Tubes also distort in a very musical way when overdriven, creating creamy tube compression.

However, tube amps have downsides too. They tend to be heavier and more fragile than solid-state amps. Tubes eventually wear out and need replacement. Tube amps also require proper ventilation and more maintenance.

Some of the top tube amps on the market right now include:

Fender ’65 Twin Reverb – A vintage-styled 40W 1×12 combo amp with legendary clean tones. Around $1,200 new.
Marshall DSL20CR – This iconic 20W 1×10" combo amp nails British crunch tones. About $700 new.
Orange Rocker 15 Terror – A 15W lunchbox head that delivers massive Orange tone in a tiny package. Around $700.
Vox AC15C1 – The classic British 1×12" combo amp updated. Chimey clean and mid-gain tones. Around $800 new.
Mesa/Boogie Mark V 25 – A versatile 25W 2-channel tube amp head. Ideal for rock and metal. About $1,300.

Solid-State Amps

Solid-state amplifiers take a different approach than tube amps, using transistors instead of vacuum tubes to amplify the guitar signal. This gives them a very different character than tube amps.

The main advantages of solid-state amps are that they tend to be more affordable, lightweight, and reliable than tube amps. You don’t have to worry about replacing tubes or other maintenance issues. Solid-state amps are a great choice for beginners and those on a budget.

However, many guitarists feel that solid-state amps don’t have the same natural warmth and responsiveness as tube amps. The distortion can sound more artificial and harsh at high volumes. But there are ways to coax great tones out of solid-state amps.

Affordable Solid-State Amps

In the budget price range, the Fender Champion series offers versatile amps with built-in effects. The Champion 20 is a great practice amp under $200.

The Vox Pathfinder 10 is another solid choice under $100, with classic Vox tone in a portable package.

Mid-Priced Solid-State Amps

The Boss Katana 50 MkII raises the bar for affordable modeling amps, providing studio-quality tones in a gig-ready 50-watt combo.

The Peavey Bandit 112 is a lightweight solid-state amp with great clean headroom and an affordable price tag.

High-End Solid-State Amps

The Roland JC-40 Jazz Chorus is a staple clean amp, often used by studio pros. It delivers shimmering stereo jazz tones.

The Fender ’65 Princeton Reverb offers boutique solid-state tones in a portable format, great for studio work.

Modeling Amps

Modeling amps take a digital approach to replicating the sounds of classic tube amps. Instead of using vacuum tubes like a traditional guitar amp, modeling amps rely on digital processing and amp modeling technology to simulate different amp tones.

With amp modeling, the goal is to capture the unique tonal characteristics, gain structure, and playing response of iconic guitar amps. This is accomplished using advanced digital modeling algorithms that analyze the circuitry and behavior of tube amps. The modeling technology aims to recreate how the amps break up, compress, and respond to your playing dynamics.

The big benefit of modeling amps is versatility. In one unit, you can access simulations of Fender, Marshall, Vox, Mesa Boogie, and other top guitar amp brands. This allows you to experiment with many different amp sounds without needing separate amps. Most modeling amps also come loaded with effects like reverb, delay, chorus, and more.

Modeling amps are a great solution for home use and recording since they can output at lower volumes while retaining realistic tone. However, some guitarists feel modeling still can’t 100% capture the magic of tubes. The digital tones may not feel as touch-sensitive or responsive as a real tube amp.

For those on a budget, the Fender Mustang series provides great modeling amps under $500. The Boss Katana series is another affordable favorite for its authentic amp profiles. On the high-end, the Kemper Profiler and Fractal Audio Axe-Fx III are state-of-the-art modeling units used by touring pros. Overall, modeling amps provide unmatched versatility for those who want a variety of studio-quality guitar tones in one amp.

Combo Amps

A combo amp combines the amplifier head and speaker cabinet into a single unit. This makes combo amps a convenient all-in-one solution for most guitarists.

The main benefits of combo amps include:

Portability – Combos are much easier to transport to gigs or band practice compared to separate heads and cabs. Just grab your guitar and amp and you’re ready to go.
Affordability – Combining the head and cab into one unit makes manufacturing combos more cost-effective. This allows brands to offer combo amps at lower price points compared to buying separate components.
Simplicity – With a combo, guitarists don’t need to worry about matching heads and cabs. The manufacturer has already optimized the pairing so you just plug and play.
Compactness – Combo amps take up less space since the head and cab are integrated. This makes them ideal for home use and smaller venues.
Versatility – From low wattage practice amps to high wattage stage amps, combos are available in a wide range of sizes and power outputs.

Recommended Combo Amps

Budget:

Fender Champion 20 – A great affordable option with essential Fender clean tones.
Vox Pathfinder 10 – Vox’s classic jangly sound in a budget-friendly package.
Marshall MG15 – Authentic Marshall crunch in a portable 15-watt combo.

Mid-Range:

Fender Hot Rod Deluxe – The go-to gig-ready 40-watt tube combo amp.
Orange Rocker 15 – British rock tone with built-in reverb and effects loop.
Peavey Classic 30 – A workhorse 30-watt combo with fantastic clean and overdrive tones.

High-End:

Mesa/Boogie Rectifier 2×12 – Iconic Boogie high-gain tones in a versatile 2×12" combo.
PRS Archon 50 – Impressive 50-watt combo with amazing cleans and gain tones.
Victory V40 Duchess – Hand-built 40-watt boutique British valve combo amp.

Combo amps provide an all-in-one amplified guitar solution. Their portability, affordability and simplicity make them a great choice for beginners and pros alike. Brands like Fender, Vox, Marshall and others offer excellent combo amps to suit any budget or playing style.

Choosing an Amp – Key Factors

When shopping for a new guitar amp, there are several key factors to take into consideration to help you find the right amp for your needs and budget:

Budget – Determine how much you can reasonably spend on an amp. Entry-level practice amps start around $100, while pro-level amps can run over $2000. Set a budget that fits your current playing level and future goals.

Music Genres and Tone – The types of music you play will impact the kind of amp tones you need. Hard rock and metal benefit from high-gain amps, while country and blues sound best with cleaner tones. Make sure to choose an amp suited for your musical style.

Wattage and Volume – Higher wattage amps can get louder for live playing, while lower wattage amps may suffice for home use. But wattage isn’t everything, so focus on the volume levels you need. A 40-watt tube amp can be louder than a 100-watt solid-state amp.

Built-in Effects – Many amps now include built-in reverb, delay, chorus and more. Having some basic effects can be useful without needing separate pedals. But prioritize great core amp tones over lots of effects.

Brand Reputation – Stick with well-known amp brands that have a track record of great tone and reliability. Fender, Vox, Marshall, Orange and others have decades of experience making top amps.

Trying Amps In Person – If possible, visit music stores to test different amps with your guitar and playing style. Hearing and feeling amps in person is invaluable when choosing your perfect amp.

Guitar Amp Accessories and Add-Ons

There are several accessories and add-ons that can enhance your guitar amp setup and overall playing experience. Here are some of the most useful to consider:

Amp Covers and Cases

A quality amp cover or case is highly recommended to protect your amplifier when transporting or storing it. Padded amp covers help shield the amp from bumps, dings, and scratches. Hard amp cases offer even more protection and are great for frequent gigging guitarists.

Footswitches

Footswitches allow you to control certain amp functions hands-free, like changing channels, turning effects on/off, or toggling reverb. They are very convenient during live performances. The main options are single-button switches, multi-button switches, and MIDI controller pedals.

Cables and Power Supplies

Invest in a heavy-duty instrument cable from a reputable brand, as this will affect your tone and reliability. Make sure the amp’s power cable is also high-quality and capable of delivering adequate current. Some amps allow you to plug into a higher voltage outlet for increased headroom.

Speaker Cabinets

Adding an external speaker cabinet along with your combo amp allows you to get bigger sound and more stage volume. Make sure the cabinet’s impedance matches your amp’s output impedance to avoid damage. Popular options are 1×12 and 2×12 guitar cabinets.

Attenuators and Load Boxes

These devices let you crank your amp for natural tube overdrive at lower volumes, maintaining tone while reducing noise. Attenuators sit between the amp and cabinet, while load boxes route your amp’s output to headphones/recording gear. They’re a must for home use.

Setting Up and Dialing In Your Amp

Properly setting up your guitar amp is crucial for getting the best tone and performance. From placement to gain staging, how you configure your amp will dramatically impact the quality of your sound.

Placement Tips

Where you place your amp in a room can significantly affect your tone. Here are some tips:

Face the amp straight towards you when playing live or recording. This gives you the full, unobstructed sound.
Angle the amp upwards so the sound projects towards your ears when playing.
Place the amp on a sturdy stand or table to minimize vibrations.
Allow space behind the amp for sound to reflect off walls. Corner placement boosts bass.
For a tighter sound, position the amp further from walls to reduce reverberation.

Gain Staging and EQ

Proper gain staging and EQ are essential for dialing in your perfect tone. Here’s how to get it right:

Set gain/drive low at first, then increase to desired distortion level. This minimizes noise.
Reduce bass and treble settings, then bring them up gradually as needed. Cutting too much bass can sound thin. Excessive treble can be harsh.
Boost mids to cut through a mix. Scooping mids results in a hollow, indistinct tone.
Use the amp’s EQ sparingly. Let your guitar and playing dynamics shape the sound.

Using the Effects Loop

Inserting pedals and effects into the effects loop (between the preamp and power amp stages) allows you to shape only your "wet" signal. This prevents altering the natural tone from your amp’s preamp.

Getting Great Tones

It takes experimentation to find your ultimate amp tones. Try these tips:

Use the volume, gain and EQ controls to explore tones at different settings.
Swap out preamp tubes to change tonal characteristics.
Place an EQ or boost pedal in the effects loop for additional tonal shaping.
Use an overdrive or distortion pedal into the front-end for colored distortion.

Playing at Low Volumes

Here are some ways to get great tube amp tone at lower volumes:

Use an attenuator to reduce the speaker output. This allows cranking the amp without excessive volume.
Place the amp in a separate room and mic it up.
Opt for a low-wattage amp that achieves power tube saturation at lower volumes.
Use a load box to capture the amp’s tone for recording or headphones while limiting speaker output.

Maintaining Your Guitar Amp

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your guitar amp sounds its best and enjoys a long life. Here are some tips for keeping your amp in peak condition:

Cleaning and Dusting

Dust, dirt, and debris can find its way into an amp cabinet and cause issues. Give your amp a periodic cleaning by wiping down the exterior with a dry microfiber cloth. Use compressed air to blow out any dust that’s accumulated in the chassis. Be gentle around tube sockets and wiring.

Tube Replacement

Power tubes in a tube amp need to be replaced periodically as they wear out. Preamp tubes last longer. Watch for signs like increased microphonics, noise, and lack of power. Consult your amp’s manual for step-by-step tube replacement guidance. Match new tubes correctly and bias if needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Crackling, humming, and buzzing can indicate problems like bad tubes, dirty pots and jacks, or loose wiring. Popping or blowing fuses may signal bigger issues. Check tubes first, then cables, and try basic cleaning. If issues persist, take your amp to a qualified tech.

When to Service Your Amp

Every 1-2 years, it’s a good idea to get your tube amp fully serviced by an experienced amp tech. They’ll thoroughly clean, check tubes, replace components, test safety, and make any needed repairs. Solid-state amps need less frequent servicing but still benefit from an occasional check-up.

Conclusion

Choosing the right guitar amp to match your playing style, genres, and budget can be an exciting journey filled with discovery. After reading this guide, you should now have a solid understanding of the main amp types available and what distinguishes them.

Tube amps like Fender and Marshall are known for their warm, rich tones and natural overdrive, while solid-state amps from brands like Roland and Yamaha offer reliability, affordability and lightweight portability. For maximum versatility, amp modeling technology allows you to digitally emulate a wide range of classic amps and effects. Combo amps provide an all-in-one solution by combining the amp and speaker together.

Make sure to factor in your budget, volume needs, desired features and more when deciding on an amp. While technical specs are important, never underestimate the value of simply plugging into an amp and letting your ears be the judge. Finding an amp that inspires you to play and practice more is one of the best investments any guitarist can make.

The world of guitar amplifiers is vast, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment. Rent or borrow amps when possible before buying. It often takes trying out many different amps to find your ideal match. We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below – what’s been your favorite guitar amp so far and why? Let’s keep the discussion going!