Ranking of the best guitar amps for 2020

Playing the guitar is a very common hobby. Many people practice professionally. They are not limited to just playing the guitar. These musicians have to buy special amplification devices. The stores offer a wide range of combo amplifiers, the best of which will be discussed below.

What is a sound amplifier

The device increases the frequency of the sound coming from the electric guitar. It also serves as a speaker. Modern technologies make it possible to make such devices in small sizes (they can be worn on a belt by attaching to a belt). However, such devices sound differently. Professional musicians have several of these high-powered devices. This is because certain songs require optimum sound enhancement.

Types of devices:

They are transistor, tube and combined type. The first option is budgetary. Lamp devices are expensive. Professionals do not recommend buying the cheapest products. It is best to consider the devices of the middle price segment. The reproduction quality of these devices will be at a high level.

Initially, you need to decide for which function the unit is being purchased. A small apparatus is suitable for playing the guitar at home. When performing in concert venues, you will need a powerful device.

How combo amps evolved

Such devices are especially popular with rock guitarists. Every performer dreams of going on stage, turning on the amplifier at full power and hitting the chords so that the audience will take their breath away. But electric guitars aren't just used in rock music. Nowadays it is difficult to see a musician performing with this musical instrument, but without an amplifier.

Sound devices consist of several components:

• preamplifier;
• amplifier;
• speaker (cabinet).

The first two products are usually housed together. A combo amplifier is considered complete when all three of its components are combined in one base. But sometimes manufacturers make devices in which these elements are in two different blocks. The second option is more suitable for large performances. Here speakers are connected to the "head" of the device. There may be several of them.

In the main unit of the device, in addition to the active amplifier, all kinds of optional devices can be located. For example, there are devices that have many additional options. They are mostly bought by rock musicians. The speaker can be one or more.The box with these devices is called the "cabinet".

First appearance

Unbelievably, but true, the first amplifiers appeared before the electric guitar. Such devices were intended for acoustic instruments. This need arises from the growing popularity of Hawaiian music. It was necessary to somehow enhance the sound of the guitars. But the device was required to be small-sized and easy-to-use.

In the thirties of the last century, the first options were made based on electrolytic capacitors. Lamp rectifiers were also involved. All this was used for its intended purpose, to amplify the sound volume of Hawaiian musical instruments.

Further development

Since then, these devices have found their application throughout the globe. And such trends in music as rock'n'roll and blues have ensured the distribution of the device in countries and cities. Everyone remembers the hoarse voice combined with the saxophone. People began to realize that the sound of a simple guitar is very weak and not up to date. Simple six and seven-stringed instruments sounded dull and primitive. Therefore, all kinds of experiments were carried out with the devices. Many tried to improve the device with their own hands (made a hole in the speaker).

When the amplifier is overdriven, it will produce distorted high frequency waves. Including all the options to the maximum, the musicians achieved the sound they needed. This procedure was especially popular in the fifties. After all, the factory settings were insufficient. The devices of those years could only increase the loudness of the high frequency. This, of course, was very small. Due to the low power and primitiveness of electrical circuits, the quality of the devices was at a low level.

Dave Davisa's experiment was an innovative solution to create the coveted "overdrive". All this happened in the 60s. He achieved a unique effect due to the unusual connection of musical accessories. He figured out how to connect the output of one amplifier to the input of another. The result is a design that today is called a preamplifier. In the modern world, it is an indispensable component of any musical device that increases the sound.

Transistors

Manufacturers with well-known world names tried to put their products on stream. The availability of such devices left much to be desired, since their cost was high due to tube amplification.

The situation began to change with the advent of transistors. The device, which has a solid body, converted resistance. It was presented to the world in 1947. The time when "combo" was used is considered to be the 60s of the XX century. This breakthrough in technology has led to significant price reductions for devices and the impetus for their mass production. Each musician now had a choice: to purchase a variant on tubes or combo amplifiers that used transistors. This did not happen quickly.

At first, transistors gradually replaced amplifiers made using tubes. Then they became market leaders, which they were made by eminent craftsmen. One such master was Leo Fender, who founded the Fender company. The demand for combo amplifiers and the development of the musical direction "Rock" equalized the chances. Experienced musicians used tube versions, while those who were just starting out preferred transistorized versions.

Who wins: tube or transistor?

There is no unequivocal answer to this question, as well as to other similar questions. Both types of devices are good in certain situations. The situation is well illustrated by an example. For playing music at home, the young guitarist had a desire to buy an amplifier. It is unlikely that he will need a unit on lamps. Purchasing the transistor version saves money. The device will be more convenient to use and more suitable for a beginner. When it comes to recording from electric guitars in the studio, here tube devices give other variations in sound and are most preferred.The same goes for the purity of the sound.

What should guitarists who are not newbies do, but also do not work in the studio as professional musicians? Which way to make your choice? Only the musician himself can answer this question. To make this answer easier to substantiate, and the musician to make a choice in the direction of a tube amplifier or a transistor device, you can voice all the strengths and weaknesses of these devices.
Comparative analysis of devices based on lamps and transistors

Price

It has long been known that tube amplifiers are more expensive, although they are the progenitors. Their descendants on transistors today are even cheaper compared to tube ones due to the demand for the latter from serious musicians working in studios and the studio representatives themselves. They are more interested in how high-quality the sound is, and only then the cost of the equipment. Transistor devices are more affordable, but the quality of their sound, if inferior, is not much.

Sound character

On the one hand, this parameter can be considered conditional, but the opinion of the users of devices suggests that it matters. Musicians believe that transistor devices have a harsher sound than tube amplifiers. "Comics" are called soft, warm or rich sounding.

Depreciation of devices and maintainability

In this characteristic, not everything is clear. Fixtures on lamps are easier to repair. But they are fragile, therefore they fail more often. The service life of the lamp is approximately 1 year, which also becomes the reason for the repair. Devices with transistors are more difficult to repair, but it is also required less often.

Popularity

Amplifiers that use transistors are in great demand. They are cheaper and all beginners start with them. With lamp devices, the situation is the opposite.

Dimensions

Devices in which lamps are used are heavier and have large dimensions in their design. Their descendants have different weights, there are devices that you can carry with you, and some people will not even be able to lift them.

High sound volume

The victory goes to devices on tubes, as they give a slight deviation in sound at maximum volume. For transistor devices, the sound does not change for the better. Sometimes it is even unpleasant to listen to him.

Low sound volume

Here the victory belongs to transistor devices. At low volume, the tube "amp" sounds worse.
There is a lot of disagreement between amateurs of tube and transistor devices. But there are a couple of other types of amplifiers worth mentioning. We are talking about digital and hybrid amplifiers.

Hybrid amplifier

Its creators clearly had no desire to be involved in a dispute between the two types of amplifiers. They took the best from both types. Specific devices are not ordinary, but they did not live up to expectations. This affected the models who became the firstborn. In the future, the developers took into account all the shortcomings and eliminated.
The hybrid combo amplifier has a tube preamp and a transistor main amplifier. So the creators managed to combine warm, soft and clear sound with a decrease in cost thanks to the introduction of transistors. The sound can hardly be fully compared with tube amplifiers, but the cost of the device is not as low as that of transistor amplifiers.

Digital amplifiers

It is a product of modern digital technologies. With the help of a digital system, the developers made emulation of the tube design. To some extent, the sound of such devices did not look natural. But modern digital amplifiers have a rich set of sounds and are suitable for experimenters and those who like to look for new things in music. This is the main advantage of digital amplifiers. But even the most advanced models do not reach the tube sound.

What is the end result? Those who are just starting their journey as a guitarist will be interested in transistor amplifiers.And for experienced musicians and recording studios, devices using lamps are suitable.

TOP 6 Best Guitar Amplifiers for 2020

The everlasting debate about the quality of amplifiers is the basis for our ranking of the 6 Best Guitar Instruments for 2020.

Roland AC-33

Used with acoustic guitars. A unique specimen (the first in the world) powered by batteries. Has a high power thanks to a pair of speakers, while having a small footprint. The setup has built-in channels for connecting a guitar and a microphone, there is a feedback suppression and a looper. Minus compositions are connected from the outside.

Roland amps are widely popular among aspiring musicians and hobbyists. Of course, there are no perfect models, and this product has its positive and negative sides. The former include mobility and high power with small dimensions. The minus stems from the dimensions - the small dimensions of the case and the speaker do not allow for a high-quality bass.

• small size, and, as a result, mobility;
• there are channels for input and output of sound (microphone and headphones);
• not the highest price;
• good power indicator - 30 watts;
• there is a looper for 40 s;
• it is possible to work both stationary and from batteries.

• poor quality bass;
• a small number of settings for effects;
• the overall sound is not very clear, especially the voice.

Conclusion: this Chinese device is popular because of its mobility and convenience, while having a rather big power. This is one of the most famous devices with a microphone channel.

Line 6 Spider IV 15

Next on the list is a compact, but quite powerful home unit with its own processor. This is a worthy representative of this type of equipment. There are many effects.
There are also 4 modules that support simulated guitar combos that switch with one click. Such an amplifier can be used as a speaker by connecting a player.

• many variations of sound;
• the ability to simultaneously turn on 6 effects;
• mobility and ease of movement;
• the price is not affordable.

• the sound is not perfect;
• the TRS connector has no extra. amplification, in connection with which the reproduction of music from an external device will be insufficiently amplified, therefore it is better to use it for its intended purpose, amplifying the guitar;
• the tuner is not very accurate.

Conclusion: This instrument is popular among both novice musicians and those who like to play with sound. The characteristics are not the worst, but full use only as a guitar amp does not give it above the ninth place in the top.

Marshall MG15GFX

The 4-channel transistor version for guitar produces a 15-watt tone with reverb. There is a setting for special effects for sound. As with the previous positions in the list, the device generates powerful sound in a small size. Convenient switching between sounds, there is a choice of 5 special effects.

The main quality of this amp is its versatility, that is, it reproduces all styles of music equally well and cleanly. For lovers of night rehearsals or owners of apartments with poor soundproofing, there is a headphone jack. A good choice for young, developing performers who need a loud amp. The brand is time-tested and reliable.

• the presence of five lamps;
• high quality Clean;
• compactness and mobility;
• large range of sound.

• high voltage (110 volts);
• this point follows from the first - to lower the voltage, you need to buy a transformer.

Conclusion: the efforts of this brand still exist in considerable numbers, therefore, if loud sound is important to you, then such a device is clearly to your taste. You just need to make an effort to find it on the counter.

Fender Champion 100

A multifunctional amp suitable for all game pieces, a rather primitive-to-use amp for electric guitars, suitable for young music lovers and professional guitarists.The device with two-channel mode is equipped with a pair of 12 sound emitters, produces a great sound when set at any volume.

Thanks to additional effects, it is possible to achieve the desired sound, according to the musical style - from classical jazz to hard rock. There is an additional connector for simultaneous operation with a media player. The headphone output allows you to improve your gaming experience with little or no noise, without causing any discomfort to those around you.

• compact;
• great sound;
• high quality build.

• low-power;
• high price.

Conclusion: A worthy replacement for Orange in terms of mobile devices of the highest quality.

Vox VX50 - AG

A fairly compact option for an acoustic musical instrument. It includes a modern Nutube vacuum tube. With an even and rich sound that covers all tones. There is also a microphone jack, which greatly simplifies sounding at live music events.

Low frequency reproduction is very deep and rich in sound. With the help of high-quality effects and an independent equalizer, the sound is formed in detail. Experienced musicians prefer a combo amplifier due to its warm tone and light weight. The only downside is a slight hiss, but it's too weak to ruin the game.

• Incredible echo, especially of rock compositions;
• Good user reviews, as well as recommendations from media personalities;
• Excellent quality and great power.

• absent.

Conclusion: Many are wondering why the model is not in the first place in the ranking? Wouldn't buying it be a mistake? The answer to such questions will be a trial period and time. Manufacturers are constantly improving in the invention of new developing technologies, and such types tend to improve. Buying VOX will not be a wrong decision, but you need to remember that there are more advanced equipment.

Fender Fender Twin Reverb

Suitable for all styles of guitar playing, a simple and easy-to-use instrument for an electric musical device, perfectly suited for beginners, professionals and hobbyists. A two-channel, two-speaker device that sounds great regardless of the volume setting.

Equipped with additional features that allow you to get the right acoustics for a variety of music styles from classical to rock. There is an additional input for simultaneous work with a media player. A headphone output will help you play without loud noise and interference.

high power (85 watts (RMS);
wonderful clean sound;
famous among other brands;
equipped with special tilt legs.

• expensive price;
• suitable for concerts, less often for work within the studio.

Conclusion: An excellent device for those who value the cost. Famous performers enjoy using the Fender Twin Reverb when performing live.

Combo amplifiers, various in description and characteristics, are perfectly combined with acoustic guitars and electric guitars. There are many variations in retail chains, you can get confused when you see a huge selection, so it is best to purchase models of famous brands.