Best Beginner Amp – Guide By Zager Guitars
Learning to play guitar can be an enriching experience, but choosing the right gear can make all the difference. One of the most essential pieces of equipment for any guitarist is an amplifier, which can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of their playing.
For beginners, navigating the vast array of guitar amplifiers available on the market can be overwhelming. But fear not! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best beginner guitar amps to get you started on your musical journey.
With our guide’s help, you can pick a beginner guitar dealer and find out the best guitar amp model without putting a strain on your pocket.
Boss Katana 50 Mmg
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If you’re in the market for a guitar amplifier that is versatile, powerful and offers a range of effects, then don’t look further than the Boss Katana 50 MKII. This beast of an amp packs 50 watts of power and a custom 12-inch speaker into a compact and portable package, making it a perfect device best beginner guitar amp for both practices at home and traveling along with small gigs.
But the Katana 50 MKII isn’t just a one-trick pony regarding effects. It also offers five distinct amp characters that emulate history’s most iconic tube amplifiers. From the chime and sparkle of the Clean setting to the crunch and sustain of the Lead sound, this great amp has something to offer players of all styles and genres.
Let’s not forget about the Power Control function. This feature allows you to adjust the output wattage to suit your needs, so whether you’re practicing at home or playing at a small venue, you can dial in the perfect volume without sacrificing tone or dynamics.
Price $269.99
Fender Mustang Lmg
The Fender Mustang LT50 is a digital modeling guitar amplifier that perfectly a bass guitar model that blends the classical guitar combo amplifier design and is part of the Mustang LT Series. It has a power output of 50 watts and a 12-inch custom selection speaker making it suitable for practice, recording, and small gigs for beginners.
Price: $249.99
Blackstar Fly 3 Bluetomg
The Blackstar Fly 3 Bluetooth is an extraordinary little amp perfect for guitarists who want a portable, affordable, and versatile option for beginners. Due to its Bluetooth connectivity, it’s easy to stream your favorite songs or backtracks to play, making it excellent for practice or jamming. It also features a 3-watt power output, a custom-designed 3-inch speaker with two channels, and a custom tone control.
Fender Mustang Lmg
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The Fender Mustang LT25 is a perfect compact beginner amp and guitar amp with a wide range of features and excellent sound quality. It has a 25-watt power amp, an 8-inch speaker, and various digital effects and amp models.
The amplifier can be controlled through a user-friendly interface with an LCD screen, making dialing in the perfect sound easy. It is an excellent choice for guitarists of all levels looking for a powerful and flexible new beginner guitar amp for practice, recording, and performance.
Price: $159.99
Vox VX15mg
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Vox VX15 GT is a guitar amplifier that offers a range of classic and modern tones. It is an excellent choice for guitarists who want versatility and power in a compact package. It includes a 15-watt output and USB audio interface for recording and editing, a 1×8″ speaker, various amp models, and built-in effects.
Its lightweight design makes it an excellent option for musicians who need a portable and versatile amp for practicing or gigging.
Price: $162
IK Multimedia iRig Micro
The iRig Micro Amp is a portable guitar amplifier that packs a punch. With 15 watts of power, three analog channels, and four built-in effects, it’s perfect for practice, recording, and performance. It’s also designed to work seamlessly with IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube software, making it a versatile and convenient option for guitarists and bassists on the go.
Price: $300
Blackstar ID Coremg
Robust and adaptable, the Blackstar ID Core 20 guitar amplifier is ideal for use during practice, recording, and live performances. With six amp models, 12 built-in effects, and Blackstar’s Super Wide Stereo technology, it delivers excellent sound quality and a spacious soundstage.
It also includes a USB interface for recording and editing, an MP3/line input for playing with external devices, and a headphone output for private practice. All this makes the Blackstar ID Core 20 an excellent choice for guitarists who want a flexible and portable amplifier.
Price $179.99
Yamaha THR1mg
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The Yamaha THR10II is an excellent portable guitar amplifier that packs a punch. It delivers authentic tube amp sounds and response due to its 15 amp models, 20 built-in effects, and Yamaha’s virtual circuitry modeling technology. It also includes Bluetooth connectivity, a headphone output, and a USB port for recording and editing.
Price $329.99
Vox Valvetronix VTmg
The Vox Valvetronix VT20X is a popular choice among guitarists that can deliver a variety of classic amp sounds. Its Valvetronix technology uses a 12AX7 vacuum tube in the preamps stage to stimulate the characteristics of different tube amps.
At the same time, the built-in effects like reverb and delay offer additional tonal options. It’s a versatile and affordable choice for guitarists looking for great sound and convenience.
Price $239.39
Fender Pro Juniormg
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The Fender Pro Junior IV is a powerful 15-watt all-tube guitar amp that delivers classic Fender tone in a compact and portable package. Its simple control panel and 10-inch Jensen speaker make it a versatile and reliable studio stage-use combo amp option.
Price $649.99
Blackstar HT-1R Mmg
Popular guitar amplifier, the Blackstar HT 1R MKII offers premium tube sound in a small, pocket-friendly form. The HT 1R MKII is ideal for small gigs, recording, and practice sessions in the privacy of one’s home thanks to its 1-watt all-tube power amp and 8-inch speaker.
Blackstar’s ground-breaking ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) control on the amp enables you to tune in to many tonal options, from traditional British to contemporary American. Additionally, it has a USB audio output and built-in reverb, making it simple to record directly into your computer.
The Blackstar HT 1R MKII is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a low price for a premium tube tone, whether a novice or a pro.
Price $351.99
Orange Crushmg
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While it’s arguable that Marshall and Fender are more well-known, many guitarists turn to British amp Orange for their high-gain requirements. An Orange produces a gain or distortion, a unique sound. The sound of an Orange at full speed is impressively thick, with a ton of midrange girth and a scratchy high end.
All that experience and information is condensed into the Orange Crush 20, a 20W solid-state amplifier that is user-friendly for beginners and ideal for any budding metal performer. The lack of any form of effects is true, but considering how tonally tuned it is, that is a minor price to pay.
Price: $149.00
Fender Mustang LTmg
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The Fender Mustang LT40S is a versatile, feature-packed amplifier suitable for various playing styles and applications. It has a built-in chromatic tuner and a footswitch input to control multiple amplifier functions. It is important to note that it is a modeling amp that utilizes digital signal processing technology, which makes it a perfect fit for beginners!
Price 199.99
Blackstar ID CORE 10mg
The Blackstar ID Core 10 V3 is a great practice amp and an excellent first amp and option for beginner guitarists who want to develop their skills. This guitar amplifier is designed to provide authentic tube amp tones and effects that can enhance your guitar-playing experience.
With its six Blackstar voices and twelve built-in effects, the ID Core 10 V3 allows for experimentation with various sounds and styles. Its 10-watt output and single 6.5-inch speaker make it ideal for home practice sessions, small gigs, and jam sessions.
It is an excellent option for beginners and experienced guitar players alike. Its compact size, affordable price, and tube amp route make it attractive for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile practice amp.
(Price is not different on different websites)
Marshall Originmg
The Marshall Origin 5C is a compact, all-tube guitar amplifier combining vintage design and modern features. This 5-watt amplifier is ideal for home practice and recording but can also hold its own in small gigs and rehearsals.
One of the most notable features of the Origin 5C is its Tilt control, which allows you to shift the midrange response of the amplifier from a classic, vintage tone to a modern, more aggressive sound. This makes the amp suitable for various music styles and playing techniques.
Overall, the Marshall Origin 5C is a great choice for guitarists who want a classic tube amp sound in a compact and affordable package. Whether you are a serious beginner guitarist or an experienced player, this amplifier will inspire you and enhance your guitar-playing experience.
Marshall Codemg
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The Marshall Code 25 is a digital modeling guitar amplifier with various built-in effects, advanced editing tools, and vintage and contemporary amp tones. It is a flexible, portable practice amp for beginning and advanced players.
Code 25 produces a powerful and clean sound ideal for home practice, small performances, and rehearsals with 25 watts of power and a 10-inch speaker. The amp’s easy control panel or the Marshall Gateway app makes it simple to access and modify the amp’s selection of vintage Marshall amp models and other amp and effect models.
Price $349.99
Line 6 Catalystmg
The Line 6 Catalyst comes from some of the finest modeling amplifiers. It’s superior amp modeling and studio-caliber effects make it the ideal starting point for guitarists just starting.
There is a very even distribution of amp models here, ranging from pristine tones that are crystal clear to high-volume metal mayhem. In between are some power amps and some fantastic boutique amp imitations, and the hard rock enthusiast will love the crunch setting.
Price $299.99
How To Pick The Best Guitar Amp as a Beginner
Selecting the right guitar amplifier as a beginner can be overwhelming, but with a few key factors in mind, you can find an amplifier that suits your needs and budget. Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind which can help you pick out the best guitar amp as a beginner.
Type of Music
Different types of amplifiers are needed for various musical genres. For instance, you could need an amplifier that creates a high-gain distortion sound to perform metal or hard rock. You might prefer a warmer, more transparent tone if you enjoy jazz or blues. Ensure that the amplifier you select is appropriate for the genre of music you intend to play.
Determine Your Budget
Amplifiers can range from a few hundred to a thousand dollars, so keeping your budget in mind is essential. Setting and adhering to a budget is crucial for beginners. You may purchase an amplifier of decent quality for a fair price but don’t skimp on it to save money.
Choose the Right Size
Amplifiers come in different sizes, ranging from small practice amps to large stages. Amps small practice amp for A beginner guinea amp is usually sufficient, allowing you to practice without disturbing others. Larger amps are better suited for playing gigs and performing in front of audiences.
Check the Power Rating
The power rating of an amplifier determines how loud it can get. For practice at home, a lower-wattage amplifier will suffice. You’ll need a higher-wattage amplifier to play with a band or perform in larger venues.
Test it Out
Before purchasing an amplifier, try it out in person if possible. Play your guitar through the amp and listen to how it sounds. Ensure the controls are easy to use and the amplifier is reliable.
Is Connectivity Important In a Guitar Amp?
You may think an amplifier’s job is to amplify your guitar sound, but connectivity is essential in today’s digital age. One of the basic connectivity options is connecting to a computer or smartphone. This allows you to easily record your playing and experiment with different sounds while sharing your music with others. But that’s not all; many modern amps also offer Bluetooth connectivity making it easy to connect to your phone or tablet and stream music or backing tracks. This can be a great way to practice your favorite songs or collaborate with other musicians.
Another essential feature to look for is the ability to connect external effects pedals. Effects pedals can add a whole new dimension to your guitar sound, allowing you to create a range of tones and textures. With an effects loop, you can easily connect your favorite pedals and experiment with combinations to create the perfect sound for your playing style.
Although connectivity is essential, it’s not the only factor to consider when looking for an amp. You’ll also want to consider the inputs and outputs available on the amplifier. For example, some amps have multiple inputs, allowing you to connect various guitars or other instruments. Others may have a headphone jack, which helps practice silently.
With excellent guitar amp and suitable connectivity options, you can unlock a whole new world of possibilities for your music. So, don’t be afraid to explore your options and find an amp that offers the connectivity features that are most important to you.
How Loud Does a Beginner Guitar Amp Need To Be?
The most bought-up question by both new and old guitarists is how loud their guitar amplifier needs to be.
First, any guitarist needs to know why the loudness of their guitar amps matters! You want an amp loud enough to cut through the sound of your guitar strings but not so loud that it disrupts your neighbors or causes permanent hearing damage. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where you can hear yourself play without driving everyone else insane.
If you’re practicing at home, 10-20 watts is usually enough. These are perfect for honing your skills and experimenting with different sounds. Plus, they’re compact and easy to move, making it easier to practice on the go.
If you plan on taking your music to the stage, you’ll need a larger amp with a power output of 30 to 50 watts or more, depending on the venue’s size and the music style you play. This is where things can get tricky, as larger amps can be heavier and more difficult to transport. No one said being a rockstar was easy!
Of course, the loudness of your amplifier isn’t the only factor to consider. You’ll also want to consider the tone, distortion, and other effects your amp can produce. Ultimately, trying a few outs is the best way to find your ideal amp.
Tube Amps
Most musicians agree that tube amps have the most incredible sound and are the most conventional form of the amp. When pushed, they will naturally enter an organic overdrive and respond well to your playing. They also offer an excellent, rich tone. They are frequently heavy, loud, and expensive, though. Nevertheless, certain tube amps are made to be utilized by all levels of players, even beginners. Look for something around 5W or below if you want to go the tube amp way; anything higher may be unnecessary.
About Us
Zager Guitars is a family-owned third-generation guitar builder building guitars in Lincoln, Nebraska, since 1902. It has been rated in the top 5% of all guitar brands. It has been featured in Time Magazine, Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, FOX, and many national and international news media.
Many players have tried our guitars over the last 50 years because of muscle and joint pain, MS, arthritis, nerve damage, fibromyalgia, carpel tunnel, shoulder and back pain, broken fingers, and missing fingers. Our string heights are lower, allowing you to come down on the strings from a more perpendicular angle, so you no longer have to reach over other strings muting them out.
One thing that’s very different about our guitars is the spacing between the strings side to side is slightly wider, which creates more room for your fingers, so when you’re forming chords, you’re not accidentally leaning on strings that you don’t want, creating buzzes and rattles.
What does Danny Zager Recommend?
When it comes to amplifiers, Dennis Zager recommends using the following two amplifiers for your acoustic-electric guitars.
Fishman Loudbomgx
The Fishman Loudbox series combo amps pairs well with our guitars due to their tonal quality. It has 120 watts of ultra-clean, bi-amplified acoustic power to deliver all the tonal qualities that have made Fishman Loudbox amps the standard for great acoustic guitar sound.
Fishman Loudbox Mimgni
Fishman Loudbox mini packs 60 watts of clean acoustic power and has two channels featuring Fishman’s preamp and tone control designs.
FAQs
Should a Beginner Buy an Amp?
When you first start playing guitar, a simple amplifier will suffice. A tiny amp is ideal for musicians traveling for whatever reason, either on the road or in a concert venue.
How Much Should a Beginner Spend On an Amp?
Beginners generally get the best performance from their rigs by spending $100-150 on amplifiers and $250-300 on guitars. If the tone studio amplifier requires more volume, the amplifier should upgrade. If you want an individual tone, the guitar can be purchased at a higher cost.
How Many Watts Is a Good Amp For Beginners?
About 20-20 watts amp is a good option, to begin with, if you’re a beginner!
What Guitar Amp Should I Start On?
Musicians usually choose medium-sized amps for rehearsals with a band or show at smaller venues. 50W and 12″ speakers are provided. A larger amp starts with a 100 watts / 24-inch speaker.
