Best small guitar amps are a must-have for any guitarist who wants to practice or record without disturbing others. They’re also great for small gigs or rehearsals. But with so many different models on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.
When choosing a small guitar amp, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, consider the size and weight of the amp. You’ll want to choose an amp that’s small enough to be portable, but powerful enough to handle your playing style. Second, think about the features you want. Some amps have built-in effects, while others have more basic controls. Choose an amp that has the features you need, but don’t pay for features you don’t. Third, consider your budget. Small guitar amps can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping, and stick to it.
Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. Here are a few of the best small guitar amps on the market:
- Fender Champion 20
- Vox AC4C1
- Marshall DSL5CR
- Blackstar HT-5R
- Orange Crush 20RT
1. Size and weight
When choosing a small guitar amp, size and weight are important considerations, especially if you’ll be transporting your amp frequently. A smaller, lighter amp will be easier to carry around, but it may not be as powerful as a larger, heavier amp. Conversely, a larger, heavier amp will be more powerful, but it may be more difficult to transport.
The best small guitar amp for you will depend on your individual needs and playing style. If you need a portable amp that you can easily take with you to gigs or rehearsals, then a smaller, lighter amp is a good option. If you need a more powerful amp for playing at home or in a larger venue, then a larger, heavier amp may be a better choice.
Here are some examples of small guitar amps with different size and weight specifications:
- Fender Champion 20: This amp weighs 16.5 pounds and measures 16.5 x 10.2 x 8.3 inches.
- Vox AC4C1: This amp weighs 12 pounds and measures 16.1 x 9.8 x 7.9 inches.
- Marshall DSL5CR: This amp weighs 22 pounds and measures 19.7 x 17.7 x 9.4 inches.
As you can see, there is a significant difference in size and weight between these three amps. The Fender Champion 20 is the smallest and lightest amp, while the Marshall DSL5CR is the largest and heaviest amp. When choosing an amp, it is important to consider your individual needs and playing style to determine which size and weight is right for you.
2. Features
When choosing a small guitar amp, the features are just as important as the size and weight. The features you need will depend on your playing style and preferences. Here are a few of the most important features to consider:
- Number of channels: Most small guitar amps have one or two channels. A single-channel amp is simpler and easier to use, while a two-channel amp gives you more tonal options.
- EQ controls: The EQ controls allow you to shape the sound of your amp. Most amps have at least a three-band EQ (bass, mid, treble), but some amps have more extensive EQ controls.
- Effects: Many small guitar amps have built-in effects, such as reverb, delay, and chorus. These effects can add depth and dimension to your sound.
- Headphone jack: A headphone jack allows you to practice in silence. This is a great feature for late-night practice sessions or if you live in an apartment.
By considering the features you need, you can choose a small guitar amp that is perfect for your playing style and preferences.
3. Budget
When it comes to choosing the best small guitar amp, budget is an important consideration. The price of a small guitar amp can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. The price will vary depending on the brand, features, and quality of the amp. Therefore, it is important to set a budget before you start shopping. This will help you narrow down your choices and find an amp that fits your needs and financial constraints.
- Entry-level amps: These amps are typically the most affordable option. They are perfect for beginners or casual players who don’t need a lot of features. Entry-level amps typically have a single channel and basic EQ controls.
- Mid-range amps: These amps offer more features than entry-level amps, but they are still relatively affordable. They are a good option for players who want a versatile amp that can handle a variety of playing styles. Mid-range amps typically have two channels and more extensive EQ controls.
- High-end amps: These amps are the most expensive option, but they offer the best sound quality and features. They are perfect for professional players who need a versatile amp that can handle any playing style. High-end amps typically have multiple channels, extensive EQ controls, and built-in effects.
Ultimately, the best small guitar amp for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. By considering the facets mentioned above, you can make an informed decision and choose an amp that is perfect for you.
FAQs about Best Small Guitar Amps
Here are some frequently asked questions about the best small guitar amps, along with their respective answers:
Question 1: What are the benefits of using a small guitar amp?
Small guitar amps are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport to gigs or rehearsals. In addition, they are often more affordable than larger amps, making them a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
Question 2: What should I look for when choosing a small guitar amp?
When choosing a small guitar amp, you should consider the following factors: size and weight, features, and budget. Size and weight are important considerations if you’ll be transporting your amp frequently. Features are also important to consider, as some amps have built-in effects, while others have more basic controls. Finally, you should set a budget before you start shopping to ensure that you find an amp that fits your needs and financial constraints.
Question 3: What are some of the best small guitar amps on the market?
Some of the best small guitar amps on the market include the Fender Champion 20, Vox AC4C1, and Marshall DSL5CR.
Question 4: How much do small guitar amps typically cost?
The price of a small guitar amp can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. The price will vary depending on the brand, features, and quality of the amp.
Question 5: Are small guitar amps suitable for beginners?
Yes, small guitar amps are a great option for beginners. They are affordable, easy to use, and can provide a great sound for practice or small gigs.
Question 6: Can small guitar amps be used for recording?
Yes, small guitar amps can be used for recording. However, it is important to use a microphone to capture the sound of the amp, as the built-in speakers may not be powerful enough to provide a high-quality recording.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best small guitar amp for your needs.
Transition to the next article section:
Tips for Choosing the Best Small Guitar Amp
Choosing the best small guitar amp can be a daunting task, but by following these tips, you can make an informed decision and choose an amp that is perfect for your needs.
Tip 1: Consider the size and weight of the amp.
If you’ll be transporting your amp frequently, you’ll want to choose an amp that is small and light enough to be portable. However, if you need a more powerful amp for playing at home or in a larger venue, then a larger, heavier amp may be a better choice.
Tip 2: Think about the features you need.
Some amps have built-in effects, while others have more basic controls. Choose an amp that has the features you need, but don’t pay for features you don’t.
Tip 3: Set a budget before you start shopping.
Small guitar amps can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping, and stick to it.
Tip 4: Read reviews from other guitarists.
Once you’ve considered your needs and budget, read reviews from other guitarists to get their opinions on different small guitar amps. This can help you narrow down your choices and choose an amp that is right for you.
Tip 5: Try out different amps before you buy one.
The best way to choose a small guitar amp is to try out different amps before you buy one. This will allow you to compare the sound and features of different amps and make an informed decision.
By following these tips, you can choose the best small guitar amp for your needs and playing style.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Best Small Guitar Amps
In this article, we have explored the various aspects of choosing and utilizing the best small guitar amps. We have discussed the importance of considering factors such as size, weight, features, and budget when making a purchase. By understanding these factors, guitarists can make informed decisions and select an amp that meets their specific needs and playing style.
Ultimately, the best small guitar amp is the one that provides the desired sound, portability, and functionality for the individual guitarist. Whether for practice, recording, or small-scale performances, these amps offer a convenient and effective solution for guitarists seeking quality amplification without sacrificing portability.
