AZMusical is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

best ascoutic guitar amp

Evan Whitaker
  Sep 22, 2023 10:57 AM

While every acoustic guitar player loves their unplugged tone, capturing that tone in an amplified setting without affecting the color or sound can be difficult. This is where high-quality acoustic guitar amplifiers come in handy. This guide will show you how to select the best acoustic guitar amplifiers.


Compare Products

1
  • SCORE
    9.6
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Fender
2
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Fender
3
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Fender
4
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Fender
5
  • SCORE
    9.3
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Aroma
6
  • SCORE
    9.2
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Donner
7
  • SCORE
    9.2
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Fender
8
  • SCORE
    9.0
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    LyxPro
9
  • SCORE
    9.0
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    COOLMUSIC
10
  • SCORE
    8.8
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Roland
11
  • SCORE
    8.6
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Coolmusic
12
  • SCORE
    8.6
    AI Score

    AZMUSICAL use AI score to rate products on our website.

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based on the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact on any manufacturer or sales agent websites.

  • Brand
    Vangoa

Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


Buying guide

Wattage and output
Acoustic guitar amplifiers come in a variety of wattages, ranging from 5 watts to 60 watts and even 100 watts. What you'll use your acoustic guitar amp for and how loud you want your amplified tone to be will determine the wattage. If you're only going to use it to rehearse at home at low volumes, a 5 or 10-watt amp will suffice. However, if you plan to perform in front of an audience, we recommend that you look for speakers with a mid-range output – from 30 to 200 watts – depending on how loud you want your music to be.
Inputs and Channels
The majority of acoustic guitar amplifiers are two-channel, while single-channel and three-channel models are also available. 2 channel amps are perfect since they provide not only a channel for your guitar but also another for plugging in your vocal mic, making it a complete setup if you're a singing guitarist who wants to rehearse their entire show. Look for an AUX input so you can jam to a backing track, as well as a headphone out jack if you want to rehearse alone to a recording at low volumes.
Design and Weight
Most acoustic guitar amplifiers are available in a variety of weights, ranging from 4 pounds to up to 30 pounds. If you plan on traveling with your amp or carrying it to rehearsals regularly, you should choose one that you can comfortably carry without breaking your back.
If you plan to leave your amp in one area and not move it much, a heavier model would be a better choice. Of course, weight can't be considered in isolation; you'll need to strike a balance with the amp's features as well, as amps with more functions will normally weigh a little more.
Controls
While some acoustic amps offer a simple tone knob for EQ adjustment, others include a more complex three-band EQ that lets you modify the lows, mids, and highs to your taste. It all relies on your personal preferences and financial constraints. In the case of a two-channel amp, it's also a good idea to make sure that each channel has its own set of controls.
Effects
Most acoustic guitar amplifiers come with a few built-in effects like reverb and chorus, but some go above and beyond by including flanger, delay, echo, and other effects. Because built-in effects aren't required for a clean, pure acoustic tone, this feature is largely a matter of personal preference.
Price
Acoustic guitar amplifiers are available in a wide range of pricing points, ranging from $60 to $800 for the most basic, low-end models. The cost is largely determined by the features, effects, design, and brand. If you're a novice on a tight budget who wants to practice at home or with your band, a modest acoustic amp for under $100 is a good option.
If you want a more feature-packed amp with strong stereo sound for live performances, the $200 range has some excellent possibilities.
Adding an acoustic guitar amp to your collection is a terrific way to keep the natural beauty of your unplugged acoustic tone while amplifying it for larger audiences without changing it. We hope our guide helped you find the amp that's right for you! The ideal acoustic guitar amp varies from person to person and is determined by your budget, playing style, requirements, and feature choices. So keep your requirements in mind.
Happy jamming!
 


FAQs

What is an acoustic guitar amp, and why do I need one?

An acoustic guitar amp is a specialized amplifier designed to amplify the sound of an acoustic guitar. Unlike electric guitar amps, acoustic guitar amps are specifically tailored to reproduce the natural tones and nuances of an acoustic instrument. They usually feature a flat frequency response and a range of EQ controls to enhance the acoustic sound. Having an acoustic guitar amp is essential for live performances, rehearsals, or recording sessions, as it allows you to project your guitar's sound to a larger audience or capture it in a professional manner.

 

What should I look for when choosing the best acoustic guitar amp?

When selecting the best acoustic guitar amp for your needs, several factors should be considered. First and foremost, pay attention to the amplifier's power and wattage. A higher wattage will provide more volume, which is crucial for larger venues. Secondly, check for an amp with a dedicated acoustic channel or input, as it will offer better tonal control and feedback suppression. Additionally, consider the size and portability of the amp if you plan on traveling or gigging frequently. Finally, look for features such as built-in effects, XLR inputs for microphones, and DI outputs for direct recording or connecting to a sound system.

 

Are there any specific brands known for producing the best acoustic guitar amps?

Several brands are renowned for their excellent acoustic guitar amps. Some popular choices include Fishman, Roland, AER, Marshall, and Fender. These brands have a reputation for producing high-quality amps with exceptional sound reproduction and durability. However, it's important to note that the best acoustic guitar amp for you will ultimately depend on your personal preferences, budget, and intended usage. Therefore, it's always recommended to try out different models and brands to find the one that suits your playing style and sonic requirements.

 

Can I use a regular electric guitar amp for my acoustic guitar?

While it is technically possible to use a regular electric guitar amp for an acoustic guitar, it's not recommended. Electric guitar amps are designed to shape and color the sound of an electric guitar, which may not be ideal for an acoustic instrument. The natural tone and subtleties of an acoustic guitar might get distorted or lost when played through an electric guitar amp. Additionally, acoustic guitar amps often feature specific features, such as anti-feedback controls and EQ settings, which are absent in electric guitar amps. Therefore, it's advisable to invest in a dedicated acoustic guitar amp for the best sound quality and performance.

 

Do I need an acoustic guitar amp if I mainly play at home?

If you primarily play your acoustic guitar at home for personal enjoyment, you might not necessarily need an acoustic guitar amp. In such cases, you can rely on the natural resonance of your guitar and play it without amplification. However, if you plan on practicing with others, recording your playing, or occasionally performing for friends and family, an acoustic guitar amp can significantly enhance your experience. It will allow you to control your sound better, add effects if desired, and provide a richer, more amplified sound that can be enjoyed by everyone in the room.


5
3 ratings