Best Guitar Amps For Gigging (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best guitar amps for gigging, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, finding the right guitar amp can make all the difference in the sound of your music. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the one that’s right for you. Here are a few factors to consider before making your purchase.
First, think about the size of the venues where you will be playing. A larger venue will require a more powerful amp than a smaller venue. You’ll also want to consider the style of music you play, as different genres may require different types of amps. It’s also important to factor in your budget and any additional features you may need, such as built-in effects or a headphone jack for silent practice.
When searching for the perfect guitar amp for gigging, it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions. Are you primarily looking for a portable amp that’s easy to transport from gig to gig? Do you need an amp that can handle both electric and acoustic guitars? What kind of tone are you looking for in your music? Taking the time to consider these factors can help you narrow down your options and find the amp that’s right for you. With the right tools and mindset, you can take your live performances to the next level and create music that truly rocks.
10 Best Guitar Amps For Gigging
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The product is ideal for electric guitar players who require a versatile, solid state amplifier for both studio and stage use.
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2
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Ideal for amplifying acoustic guitars with reverb, chorus effect, and customizable EQ settings, wirelessly connectable via Bluetooth.
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3
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This product is ideal for practicing electric bass and acoustic guitar with a 40-watt combo amplifier and Spark mobile app.
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4
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Ideal for amplifying acoustic guitar music with a portable, rechargeable, and Bluetooth-enabled speaker that includes reverb and chorus effects.
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5
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This product is ideal for guitar players looking for a high-quality and powerful amplifier for their performances.
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6
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a portable acoustic guitar amplifier with Bluetooth connectivity and effects options.
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7
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Ideal for musicians in need of a small, powerful guitar amplifier with a rich tone and simple controls.
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8
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The product is ideal for amplifying the sound of guitars in various music settings.
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9
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Ideal for guitar players who want a high-quality amplifier with classic vintage tones and modern digital features.
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10
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The product is ideal for guitar players who want an amplifier with various preamp models, effects, and a built-in drum machine.
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1. Studio-Stage Guitar Amp With Custom Controls
Experience the ultimate sound quality with the powerful 40W combo amp designed to turn up your electric guitar like never before. This versatile amplifier comes equipped with custom equalization, passive/active inputs, adjustable drive, digital delay, and multiple output options to cater to all your musical needs. Whether you are performing on stage, recording in the studio, playing at outdoor concerts, practicing at home, or engaging in other musical applications, this amp has got you covered.
Featuring an explosive 8” 40-watt speaker with a 4-ohm impedance, this amp delivers clear treble, booming bass, excellent current resistance, and reliable frequency response for all kinds of demanding instrumentals. The master volume control allows for a wide range of functionality ranging from intimate solo play to thunderous live concert output, making it a perfect choice for all kinds of musicians.
Pitch-perfect equalization is another notable feature of this amp. Built-in equalizer settings help you achieve diverse tonalities for every style of play, including boost (on/off), variable distortion (gain), digital delay (time/repeat), and treble, middle, and bass adjustment (0-10). You can easily turn the knobs for a clean, clear guitar sound or gritty, blown-out playback in overdrive.
In addition to the amp's built-in speaker, this amp offers three unique listening experiences to suit your exact setup. You can enjoy a variety of output options, including a ¼” headphone jack for private listening and a line out port for plugging into larger external speakers, PA systems, mixing consoles and other recording gear. The power cable is included, so you can get started right away.
This highly capable guitar amplifier is super durable and portable, measuring 17” x 8.5” x 13.5” and weighing just 25.37 lbs. for easy travel. It features an integrated ¼” microphone input and adjustable mic volume, so singers and players can plug in together. This makes it great for live gigs, street performances, and more.
2. Reverb 20: The Ultimate Acoustic Amp
This 2-channel amplifier is a versatile option for musicians looking to plug in multiple instruments at once. Whether you're playing guitar or singing into a microphone, this amplifier can handle it all.
Featuring a 3-band EQ with bass, mid, and high balance controls, you can fine-tune your music to fit any style. And with a built-in reverb effect, your sound will be natural and echo-like.
The Bluetooth capabilities of this amplifier make it incredibly convenient and useful. You can connect it wirelessly to your phone, or use the CD/MP3 input or USB plugin for other connection types. The master control, headphone input, and DI output add to the versatility of this amplifier.
With a power output of 20 watts, this amplifier has enough power to fit in different situations like live performances, studio recordings, solo performances, and practice sessions. And with an 8-inch woofer and 2-inch tweeter, it delivers a big, full, and natural sound for acoustic guitars and microphones.
This amplifier also comes with reverb and chorus effects to enhance your music. The midsize dimensions of 15 x 14 x 13 inches and weight of 16 pounds make it easy to transport to gigs and performances, without being too much of a burden.
3. Spark Combo Amp With Mobile App Control
The Smart Jam is a revolutionary tool for musicians of all levels. With its ability to learn and adapt to your personal style and feel, the Smart Jam generates authentic bass and drum accompaniments that perfectly complement your playing.
In addition to its Smart Jam feature, the Spark amp grants access to over 10,000 amp-and-FX presets on ToneCloud. These presets are powered by PositiveGrid's BIAS realistic virtual tube amps and effects, making it suitable for use with guitar, acoustic, or bass.
With the Spark app, you can easily import your music from popular streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube. The app then displays real-time guitar chords, making it easier for you to play along with your favorite songs.
The Spark amp boasts a powerhouse 40 Watt combo that includes onboard tone stack controls, effects, tone starter preset programs, a built-in tuner, tap tempo, and more. This allows for a versatile range of sound options to choose from.
One of the most exciting features of the Spark amp is its ability to act as a USB audio interface. This allows you to track your ideas and record your music with ease. The Spark amp comes with PreSonus Studio One Prime recording software, making it the perfect tool for aspiring musicians and professionals alike.
4. Reverb-Boosted Acoustic Amp: Portable And Powerful
Introducing the Portable Acoustic Guitar Amplifier, perfect for musicians of all levels. With its 30 Watt output and 6.5 inch speaker, this amplifier is capable of delivering professional and powerful guitar sound that will exceed all your expectations.
Featuring 2 channels, this amplifier allows you to plug in 2 different instruments simultaneously, including your guitar and microphone. The microphone channel is equipped with a 2-band EQ adjustment and reverb effect, which enables you to modify your voice and create a unique sound.
This amplifier is compatible with most Bluetooth devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, allowing you to play accompaniment music while practicing your guitar or simply enjoying your favorite tunes.
Built-in with a large capacity rechargeable battery, this amplifier requires only 3 hours of charging time and can work for 4-8 hours, without the need for an external power supply. This feature makes it ideal for travel use and allows you to enjoy music anytime and anywhere.
Designed with a delicate wooden shell and compact size, this guitar amplifier is portable and can be easily carried with you using the strap provided. This feature makes it convenient for on-the-go use and is perfect for musicians who are always on the move.
5. Fender George Benson Hot Rod Deluxe 40-Watt 1×12-Inch Combo Guitar Amplifier
Introducing the 40 Watt All Tube Amplifier, a powerful and versatile amplifier that is perfect for musicians and audio enthusiasts. This amplifier boasts a Jensen C12K 100-Watt Speaker, which delivers crystal-clear sound and exceptional performance.
With a range of controls including Presence, Reverb, Master Volume, Middle, Bass, Treble, Drive Select Switch, Drive Volume, and Bright Switch, this amplifier gives you total control over your sound. Whether you're looking for a clean, crisp sound or a more distorted tone, the 40 Watt All Tube Amplifier has you covered.
The amplifier comes complete with a 2-Button Footswitch and Fitted Cover, making it easy to take on the go or store safely when not in use. Additionally, the amplifier is designed with durability in mind, ensuring that it will provide you with reliable performance for years to come.
6. Coolmusic Bluetooth Guitar Amp With Effects And Eq
Introducing the versatile and powerful 6 Channel amplifier, perfect for musicians and performers of all levels. With the ability to plug in up to 6 different instruments such as guitars, piano keyboards, and microphones, this amplifier is a must-have for any music enthusiast.
Equipped with a 3 Band Balance, this amplifier is able to meet the needs of various music styles while the built-in reverb effect ensures natural and echo-like sounds. With 80 watts of power, this amplifier has enough power to fit into different situations including live performances, studio recordings, solo performances, and practice sessions. It gives you more freedom to control your sound and be heard over the other musicians without pushing your amp out of its optimal operating range.
This amplifier also offers a variety of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, phone input, CD/MP3 input, and USB plugin. It is convenient and useful with its master control, headphone input, and DI output. The Bluetooth feature allows for wireless connection, providing you with even more options to connect your device.
The amplifier is also rechargeable, providing up to 6-8 hours of playtime depending on the volume level after only 5 hours of charge time. It can also be connected directly to electricity for continuous use.
The microphone interface is designed with 48V phantom power, compatible with condenser microphones and dynamic microphones. This amplifier is perfect for vocalists and musicians who require a high-quality microphone input.
7. Orange Amps, 1 Electric Guitar Power Amplifier, Black (Micro Dark)
The 20Watt hybrid power of this product offers a powerful sound that is perfect for any music enthusiast. It features one 12AX7 preamp tube that enhances the overall quality of the sound produced. The product's controls include Gain, shape, and volume, providing users with the flexibility to customize their sound as per their preferences.
With an impedance of 8 16 ohms, this product is compatible with a wide range of devices, making it highly versatile. Additionally, the headphone out option with CabSim circuit enables users to connect their headphones to the device and enjoy music without causing any disturbance to others.
This product is designed for easy portability and features a carrying handle that makes it simple to move around. It is perfect for musicians who are always on the go and need a reliable and high-quality sound system.
8. Blackstar Debut, 2 Guitar Combo Amplifier, Black (Debut50rblk)
The 50 Watt, 2-channel combo is a versatile and powerful amplifier that is perfect for musicians of all levels. With its patented ISF Tone Control, this amplifier allows for a range of tonal options that can be customized to suit any style of music.
In addition to its impressive tone-shaping capabilities, the 2-channel combo also features a Line In for jamming along to your favorite tracks or simply listening to music. This feature is perfect for musicians who want to practice their playing skills while also enjoying their favorite songs.
Another notable feature of this amplifier is the Speaker emulated Line Out, which allows for ‘silent’ practice or recording. This feature is ideal for musicians who want to practice their playing skills without disturbing others, or record their music without having to worry about background noise.
For those who want to add a touch of reverb to their sound, the 2-channel combo offers both Plate and Hall Reverb options. These options allow for greater flexibility in achieving the perfect sound, whether you're in the studio or on stage.
9. Fender Tone Master Twin Reverb Guitar Amplifier, Black
The digital age has revolutionized how we experience music, and the Twin Reverb Amplifier is no exception. This amplifier is a masterful work of digital processing, designed to faithfully model the circuitry and 22-watt power output of the original Twin Reverb Amplifier. The result is a sound that is indistinguishable from the real thing.
To achieve the headroom and dynamic range of a real vintage Deluxe tube amp, the Twin Reverb Amplifier uses a high-performance 100-watt digital power amp. This ensures that the sound produced is of the highest quality, with crisp, clear tones that are full of character and depth.
The Jensen N-12K neodymium speaker is a key feature of this amplifier, providing an exceptional level of clarity and depth. This speaker is designed to deliver a smooth, balanced sound that is perfect for both lead and rhythm playing.
The resonant pine cabinet is another key feature of the Twin Reverb Amplifier. This cabinet is designed to provide a warm, natural sound that is rich and full-bodied. It is also lightweight, making it easy to transport to gigs and rehearsals.
The front panel features of the Twin Reverb Amplifier give guitarists a playing experience identical to the tube version. This includes controls for volume, treble, bass, and reverb, as well as a bright switch and a standby switch. These controls allow guitarists to fine-tune their sound to their exact preferences, ensuring that they get the perfect tone every time they play.
10. Flamma Fa05 Guitar Amp With Bluetooth & Effects.
The product being reviewed is a versatile guitar effects pedal featuring 7 preamp types inspired by popular guitar amplifiers. With Clean1, Clean2, Overdrive 1, Overdrive 2, Crunch, Lead, and Rhythm, players will be able to achieve a wide range of tones suitable for different genres of music.
This guitar effects pedal also boasts built-in Modulation, Delay, and Reverb, as well as Chorus effects with independent tap tempo controls. These features provide musicians with the ability to customize their sound and create unique effects to enhance their music.
Additionally, this pedal offers a Bluetooth connection and stereo headphone output, making it easy to connect to other devices and practice silently. The inclusion of precision tuner and 40 types of drum machine further add to the versatility of this product, allowing players to create a complete musical experience with just one device.
The guitar pedal supports both DC 9V power supply and AA battery*6 (not included), making it convenient to power and use in a variety of settings. With its one-year guarantee, customers can trust in the quality and durability of this product.
Best Guitar Amps For Gigging FAQs
Can a combo amp be sufficient for gigging, or do I need a separate head and cabinet?
A combo amp can definitely be sufficient for gigging, but it depends on the size of the venue and the style of music being played. For smaller clubs and coffee shops, a combo amp with enough wattage and a good speaker can provide plenty of volume and tone. However, for larger venues or heavier music styles, a separate head and cabinet may be necessary to achieve the desired volume and tone.
One advantage of a combo amp is that it's a self-contained unit that's easy to transport and set up. A separate head and cabinet can be bulkier and more cumbersome to move around. On the other hand, a separate head and cabinet can provide more flexibility in terms of tone shaping and the ability to mix and match different components for a unique sound.
Ultimately, the choice between a combo amp and a separate head and cabinet comes down to personal preference, budget, and the specific needs of the gig. It's always a good idea to test out different options and see what works best for your playing style and performance needs.
How do I choose the right guitar amp for gigging?
Choosing the right guitar amp for gigging can be a daunting task. There are a few factors that should be taken into consideration to ensure you get the best sound possible. Firstly, you need to decide on the type of amp you want, either a tube amp or a solid-state amp. Tube amps are generally considered to have a warmer and more natural tone, while solid-state amps are more reliable and durable.
The next factor to consider is the power of the amp. The power of the amp should be determined by the size of the venue you will be playing in and the style of music you will be playing. A 15-watt amp is suitable for small venues, while a 50-watt amp is better for larger venues.
The number of channels the amp has is also an important consideration. If you need to switch between clean and distorted tones, then a two-channel amp would be ideal. A three-channel amp would give you even more flexibility.
Finally, you should consider the size and weight of the amp. A smaller and lighter amp is easier to transport, but it may not have the power you need for larger gigs.
In summary, when choosing a guitar amp for gigging, consider the type of amp, the power, the number of channels, and the size and weight.
How important is the sound quality of the guitar amp when gigging?
The sound quality of the guitar amp is incredibly important when gigging. A good guitar amp can make the difference between a mediocre performance and a great one. The sound quality of the amp can affect the tone, clarity, and overall sound of the guitar. A high-quality amp can bring out the best in the guitar and make it sound full, rich, and powerful. On the other hand, a poor quality amp can create a thin, weak, or distorted sound that can be unpleasant to listen to. When gigging, it is essential to have an amp that can deliver a consistent and high-quality sound that will cut through the mix and enhance the performance. It is worth investing in a good quality amp that suits your playing style and tone preferences to ensure that you are able to deliver a great performance every time.
Should I go for a tube or solid-state guitar amp for gigging?
Choosing between tube or solid-state guitar amps for gigging depends on a few factors. Both types of amps have their advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Tube amps are known for their warm, organic sound and are often preferred by guitarists who play blues, rock, and metal. They tend to have a more dynamic response, which means they respond to your playing with more sensitivity. However, they can be heavier and more fragile than solid-state amps, which can be a consideration if you're traveling frequently.
Solid-state amps, on the other hand, are more reliable and durable than tube amps. They are often preferred by guitarists who play jazz, funk, and pop music, as they tend to have a cleaner, more transparent sound. They are also generally lighter and easier to transport than tube amps.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of amp is right for you is to try them both out and see which one you prefer. You can also consider factors such as your playing style, the type of music you play, and your budget when making your decision.
What are the key features to look for in a guitar amp for gigging?
When looking for a guitar amp that is suitable for gigging, there are several key features that you should consider. Firstly, the amp should have enough power to ensure that your guitar can be heard over the rest of the band. Typically, a 30-50 watt amp is sufficient for most gigs, but if you are playing larger venues, you may need to opt for a higher wattage.
Another important feature to consider is the size and portability of the amp. You want an amp that is easy to transport to and from gigs, so it should be compact and lightweight. However, the amp should also be sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of gigging, so look for one with a durable construction.
In terms of sound, look for an amp with a versatile range of tones and effects, including distortion, reverb, and chorus. This will enable you to create a range of sounds to suit different songs and styles.
Finally, consider the connectivity options of the amp. It should have inputs for your guitar and any other instruments or pedals you may be using, as well as output options for connecting to a PA system or recording equipment. Overall, a good gigging amp should be powerful, portable, versatile, durable, and well-connected.
What are the top guitar amps recommended for gigging purposes?
There are several guitar amps that are highly recommended for gigging purposes, depending on your budget and specific needs. One popular option is the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe, which is known for its clean and powerful sound and is often used by professional musicians. Another great choice is the Marshall DSL40C, which offers a range of different tones and is versatile enough to work well for a variety of musical styles.
For those on a tighter budget, the Boss Katana 100 is a solid choice that offers a lot of features for its price point. It has a range of different effects and is known for its reliability. Another budget-friendly option is the Peavey Bandit 112, which is durable and easy to use, making it a great choice for beginner or intermediate guitarists.
Ultimately, the best guitar amp for gigging will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors like tone, power, and portability when making your decision.
What is a reasonable budget for a good guitar amp for gigging?
The budget for a good guitar amp for gigging can vary depending on various factors such as the type of music you play, the size of the venue you perform in, and your personal preferences. However, on average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $300 to $1000 for a reliable and high-quality guitar amp that can handle live performances.
For small to medium-sized venues, a 40-50 watt combo amp should suffice, and you can find a good one for around $300-$500. If you play in larger venues or need more power and versatility, you may want to consider a head and speaker cabinet setup, which can range from $500-$1000.
It's important to keep in mind that investing in a good guitar amp can make a significant impact on your sound quality and performance. Therefore, it's worth considering spending a little extra to ensure you have a reliable and high-quality amp that can handle your gigging needs.
What is the weight and portability of the best guitar amps for gigging?
The weight and portability of guitar amps for gigging can vary depending on the type and size of the amp. Generally speaking, the best guitar amps for gigging are relatively lightweight and portable, as they need to be easily transported from venue to venue.
For example, some popular options for gigging amps include combo amps, which combine a speaker and amplifier in one unit, and are often smaller and lighter than separate speaker and amplifier units. Additionally, many modern guitar amps feature lightweight materials and compact designs to make them easier to carry and transport.
When looking for the best guitar amp for gigging, it's important to consider not only the weight and portability, but also the sound quality, power output, and other features that will help you achieve the sound you're looking for on stage. Ultimately, the best guitar amp for gigging will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a musician.
What size amp is suitable for gigging in small venues versus large stages?
The size of the amp suitable for gigging in small venues versus large stages depends on various factors such as the type of music, the number of performers, the acoustics of the venue, and the preferences of the musicians. For small venues, an amp with a power output of around 15-30 watts is usually sufficient to produce a loud enough sound without overpowering the space. However, for larger stages, where the sound needs to travel further, a higher power output of 50-100 watts or more may be necessary to produce a clear and powerful sound. Additionally, for larger stages, a speaker cabinet with a larger number of speakers or a higher wattage rating may be required to ensure that the sound is evenly distributed and can fill the space. Ultimately, the best way to determine the suitable size of an amp for gigging is to evaluate the specific requirements of the performance and the venue and choose an amp that can meet those needs.
Which brands make the best guitar amps for gigging?
There are several brands that make the best guitar amps for gigging, but the best one depends on your specific needs. Some of the most popular brands include Fender, Marshall, Mesa Boogie, and Vox. Fender amps are known for their clean tones and are great for country, blues, and rock music. Marshall amps are known for their overdrive and distortion sounds and are great for heavier genres like metal and hard rock. Mesa Boogie amps offer a wide range of tones and are great for players who want versatility. Vox amps are known for their unique British tone and are great for classic rock and indie music. Other popular brands include Orange, Peavey, and Blackstar. It's important to consider factors like your playing style, the type of music you play, and the size of the venue you'll be performing in when choosing the best guitar amp for gigging.
