The 3 Best Guitar Amps Under $400 (Acoustic, Electric):
| Guitar Amps Under $400 | Reason to Buy |
|---|---|
| Fender Champion 100 – 100-Watt Guitar Amp | High-quality, powerful amp with classic Fender tone, great for gigs and performances |
| Blackstar FLY 3 Battery Powered Guitar Amp | Portable and battery-powered mini amp with a surprisingly big sound, perfect for on-the-go use |
| BOSS Katana 100 MkII 1×12″ 100-watt Combo Guitar Amp | Versatile and affordable amp with a wide range of tones and built-in effects, great for any style |
Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for a high-quality guitar amp that won’t break the bank? Well, look no further! In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the best guitar amps under $400 that offer great value for your money. From compact and portable mini-amps to versatile combo amps, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player looking for a reliable backup amp, keep reading to discover some fantastic options for the best guitar amps under $400 that offer excellent value for your money!
Go here if you’re looking for the best guitar amps overall.
Best Guitar Amps Under $400 (Acoustic, Electric)
1. Fender Champion 100 – 100-Watt Electric Guitar Amp Under $400
- 100-Watt Amplifier
- 2×12″ Speakers
- 16 Amp Voice Presets
- 4 Stompbox Effects
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile amp modeling presets | No built-in effects loop |
| Large speakers for a full sound | No USB recording output |
| Lightweight and easy to transport | Some users find the control panel confusing |
The Fender Champion 100 is a versatile and powerful guitar amplifier that is suitable for a wide range of genres and playing styles. With 100 watts of power and 2×12″ speakers, this amp delivers a full and dynamic sound that can fill a room with ease. The 16 amp voice presets allow you to dial in the perfect tone for your playing, while the 4 stompbox effects add extra character and texture to your sound.
One of the standout features of the Fender Champion 100 is its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 40 pounds, this amp is easy to transport to gigs and rehearsals. The control panel is well laid out and intuitive to use, although some users have reported finding it confusing at first.
Overall, the Fender Champion 100 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and portable guitar amplifier that won’t break the bank. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive amps, it offers excellent value for money and delivers a great sound that will satisfy most guitar players.
2. Blackstar FLY 3 3W Battery Powered Guitar Amp Under $400
- 3-Watt Amplifier
- 3″ Speaker
- Battery Powered
- MP3/Line In for Jamming Along or Listening to Music
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely portable and battery-powered | Not suitable for large gigs or performances |
| MP3/Line input for playing along with music | Limited tonal options |
| Surprisingly good sound quality for its size | Speaker may distort at high volumes |
The Blackstar FLY 3 is a tiny but mighty guitar amplifier that is perfect for practicing at home, jamming with friends, or even busking on the streets. With a compact design and battery-powered operation, this amp is incredibly portable and can be taken anywhere you need to go.
Despite its small size, the Blackstar FLY 3 delivers a surprisingly good sound quality, with a 3″ speaker that produces clear and punchy tones. The MP3/Line input allows you to play along with your favorite tracks, making this amp a great tool for learning new songs and improving your playing.
While the Blackstar FLY 3 may not be suitable for large gigs or performances, it is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a portable and affordable guitar amplifier that can be used in a variety of settings. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the Blackstar FLY 3 is sure to impress with its compact size and great sound.
3. BOSS Katana 100 MkII 1×12″ 100-watt Combo Guitar Amp Under $400
- 100-Watt Amplifier
- 1×12″ Speaker
- 5 Amp Characters, 60+ Effects, and 10 Cab Resonances
- Power Control for Attenuation
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide range of amp models and effects | Some users find the interface confusing |
| Power control for adjusting the output level | Some users report reliability issues |
| Built-in USB interface for recording and editing |
The BOSS Katana 100 MkII is a powerful and versatile guitar amplifier that is packed with features for players of all levels. With 100 watts of power and a 1×12″ speaker, this amp delivers a big and bold sound that is perfect for gigs and rehearsals.
One of the standout features of the BOSS Katana 100 MkII is its wide range of amp models and effects. With 5 amp characters, 60+ effects, and 10 cab resonances, this amp allows you to dial in the perfect tone for any genre or playing style. The power control feature also allows you to adjust the output level to suit any venue, from bedroom practice sessions to outdoor festivals.
The built-in USB interface makes it easy to record and edit your playing, while the intuitive interface allows you to easily navigate through the various amp models and effects. Some users have reported finding the interface confusing, however, so it may take some time to get used to.
While some users have reported reliability issues with the BOSS Katana 100 MkII, overall it is a solid choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile guitar amplifier with a wide range of tonal options and a built-in USB interface for recording and editing.
4. Orange Amplifiers Crush 35RT 35W 1×10 Guitar Amp Under $400
- 35-Watt Amplifier
- 1×10″ Speaker
- Reverb and Built-in Chromatic Tuner
- Dual Channel Design
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent build quality and rugged design | Some users find the tone too “brittle” |
| Versatile tonal options with dual channel design | No effects loop for external pedals |
| Built-in reverb and chromatic tuner | Some users find the control layout confusing |
The Orange Amplifiers Crush 35RT is a solid and reliable guitar amplifier that is designed to withstand the rigors of touring and gigging. With 35 watts of power and a 1×10″ speaker, this amp delivers a full and punchy sound that is suitable for a wide range of genres and playing styles.
One of the standout features of the Orange Amplifiers Crush 35RT is its dual channel design, which allows you to switch between clean and dirty tones with ease. The built-in reverb and chromatic tuner are also useful features that can save you time and effort when setting up for a gig or rehearsal.
While some users have reported finding the tone of the Orange Amplifiers Crush 35RT too “brittle”, overall it is a versatile and reliable amplifier that is well-suited for guitarists of all levels. The control layout may take some getting used to, however, so it may be worth spending some time experimenting with the various knobs and switches to find the perfect tone for your playing.
5. Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 – 100 Watt Guitar Amp Under $400
- 100-Watt Amplifier
- 12″ Custom Voiced Speaker
- Variable Instrument Input for Guitar, Bass, and Acoustic
- 400 Presets
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide range of amp models and effects | Some users find the build quality lacking |
| Variable instrument input for guitar, bass, and acoustic | Some users report reliability issues |
| Built-in USB interface for recording and editing | Controls may be overwhelming for beginners |
The Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 is a feature-packed guitar amplifier that is designed to provide a wide range of tonal options for guitarists, bassists, and acoustic players. With 100 watts of power and a 12″ custom-voiced speaker, this amp delivers a big and bold sound that can fill any room or venue.
One of the standout features of the Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 is its variable instrument input, which allows you to switch between guitar, bass, and acoustic modes with ease. This makes it a versatile choice for players who want an amp that can handle multiple instruments.
The Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 also comes with 400 presets, including a wide range of amp models and effects that can be customized to suit your playing style. The built-in USB interface allows you to record and edit your playing, making it easy to capture your ideas and share them with others.
While some users have reported finding the build quality of the Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 lacking, overall it is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and feature-packed guitar amplifier. The controls may be overwhelming for beginners, however, so it may be worth spending some time familiarizing yourself with the various knobs and switches before diving in.
6. Vox VX15 GT 15 Watt Modeling Guitar Amp Under $400
- 15-Watt Amplifier
- 1×8″ Speaker
- 11 Amp Models, 8 Built-in Effects, and 2 User Programs
- USB Output for Recording
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and portable | Some users find the tone too “digital” |
| Wide range of tonal options | Limited headroom at high volumes |
| USB output for recording | Some users report reliability issues |
The Vox VX15 GT is a lightweight and portable guitar amplifier that is perfect for practicing at home or jamming with friends. With 15 watts of power and a 1×8″ speaker, this amp delivers a crisp and clear sound that is suitable for a wide range of genres and playing styles.
One of the standout features of the Vox VX15 GT is its wide range of tonal options, including 11 amp models, 8 built-in effects, and 2 user programs. This allows you to dial in the perfect tone for your playing, whether you’re practicing at home or playing a gig.
The Vox VX15 GT also comes with a USB output for recording, making it easy to capture your playing and share it with others. While some users have reported finding the tone of the Vox VX15 GT too “digital”, overall it is a solid choice for anyone looking for a lightweight and portable guitar amplifier with a wide range of tonal options.
7. Marshall MG50GFX 50 Watt Combo Guitar Amp Under $400
- 50-Watt Amplifier
- 1×12″ Speaker
- 4 Channels, 3-Band EQ, and Digital Effects
- Built-in Reverb
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great sound quality and versatile tonal options | Some users find the build quality lacking |
| Built-in digital effects and reverb | May be too loud for home practice |
| Easy to use controls and intuitive interface | Some users report reliability issues |
The Marshall MG50GFX is a powerful and versatile guitar amplifier that is designed to provide a wide range of tonal options for players of all levels. With 50 watts of power and a 1×12″ speaker, this amp delivers a big and bold sound that is perfect for gigs and rehearsals.
One of the standout features of the Marshall MG50GFX is its built-in digital effects and reverb, which allow you to add extra texture and depth to your playing. The 4 channels and 3-band EQ also make it easy to dial in the perfect tone for your playing style.
While some users have reported finding the build quality of the Marshall MG50GFX lacking, overall it is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile guitar amplifier with a wide range of tonal options. The controls are easy to use and the interface is intuitive, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
8. Monoprice Stage Right Series SB12 50-watt Tube Guitar Amp Under $400
- 50-Watt Amplifier
- 1×12″ Celestion V30 Speaker
- All Tube Design
- 2 Channels with Footswitch
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great sound quality and versatile tonal options | Some users find the weight and size of the amp inconvenient |
| Built-in reverb and effects loop for external pedals | May be too loud for home practice |
| All tube design for warm and rich tones | Some users report reliability issues |
The Monoprice Stage Right Series SB12 is a powerful and versatile guitar amplifier that is designed to provide warm and rich tube tones for guitarists of all levels. With 50 watts of power and a 1×12″ Celestion V30 speaker, this amp delivers a big and bold sound that is suitable for gigs and rehearsals.
One of the standout features of the Monoprice Stage Right Series SB12 is its all-tube design, which provides warm and rich tones that are prized by many guitarists. The 2 channels with footswitch and built-in reverb and effects loop also allow you to dial in the perfect tone for your playing style.
While some users have reported finding the weight and size of the Monoprice Stage Right Series SB12 inconvenient, overall it is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile guitar amplifier with warm and rich tube tones. The amp may be too loud for home practice, however, so it may be worth investing in a separate attenuator if you plan on using it at home.
9. Yamaha THR10II Wireless Desktop Guitar Amp Under $400
- 20-Watt Amplifier
- 2×3.15″ Speakers
- 15 Guitar Amp Models, 3 Bass Amp Models, and 3 Mic Models
- Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and lightweight design | Limited headroom at high volumes |
| Wide range of amp models and effects | Some users find the Bluetooth connectivity unreliable |
| Wireless Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio | Limited control options compared to larger amps |
The Yamaha THR10II is a compact and lightweight desktop guitar amplifier that is designed for home practice and recording. With 20 watts of power and 2×3.15″ speakers, this amp delivers a clear and detailed sound that is perfect for playing at low to medium volumes.
One of the standout features of the Yamaha THR10II is its wide range of amp models and effects, including 15 guitar amp models, 3 bass amp models, and 3 mic models. This allows you to dial in the perfect tone for your playing, whether you’re practicing at home or recording in the studio.
The wireless Bluetooth connectivity is another useful feature that allows you to stream audio from your phone or computer and play along with your favorite tracks. While some users have reported finding the Bluetooth connectivity unreliable, overall the Yamaha THR10II is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact and feature-packed guitar amplifier for home practice and recording.
10. Donner 10 Watt Electric Guitar Amp Under $400
- 10-Watt Amplifier
- 6.5″ Speaker
- 2 Channels with Clean and Overdrive Modes
- 3-Band EQ
- Check Amazon Pricing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable and easy to use | Limited tonal options |
| Lightweight and portable | May be too quiet for live performances |
| Good sound quality for the price | Some users find the build quality lacking |
The Donner 10 Watt Electric Guitar Amp is an affordable and easy-to-use amplifier that is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a simple and straightforward amplifier. With 10 watts of power and a 6.5″ speaker, this amp delivers a clear and punchy sound that is suitable for practicing at home.
One of the standout features of the Donner 10 Watt Electric Guitar Amp is its simplicity. With only two channels and a 3-band EQ, this amp is easy to use and requires minimal setup. The lightweight and portable design also makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.
While some users have reported finding the build quality of the Donner 10 Watt Electric Guitar Amp lacking, overall it is a good choice for anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use amplifier that delivers decent sound quality for the price. Keep in mind that the tonal options are limited, however, so if you’re looking for a wide range of tonal options, you may want to consider a different amplifier.
Best Guitar Amps Under $400 (Acoustic, Electric): Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best guitar amp under $400 can be a challenge, but we hope our guide has made it easier for you. We’ve highlighted some of the top options available in the market, ranging from mini-amps to versatile combo amps, that offer great value for your money.
When choosing the right guitar amp, it’s essential to consider factors such as your playing style, music genre, and venue size. By doing so, you can find an amp that suits your needs and budget and enhances your musical experience.
In conclusion, we hope our guide has helped you in your quest for the best guitar amp under $400. By finding the right amp, you can take your musical experience to the next level and create the sound you’ve been dreaming of. Happy playing!
Best Guitar Amps Under $400 (Acoustic, Electric): Buying Advice
What is the best amp for a budget?
Some of the best budget guitar amps include the Fender Champion, Boss Katana, and Vox Pathfinder.
How much is a decent guitar amp?
The price of a decent guitar amp can vary greatly depending on the intended use and personal preferences. Generally, a good-quality amp can range from around $100 to $500 or more.
What is considered to be the best guitar amp?
The best guitar amp is subjective and can vary greatly depending on the intended use and personal preferences. Some popular options include the Fender Deluxe Reverb, Marshall JCM800, and Vox AC30.
What is a good guitar amp for an intermediate player?
A good guitar amp for an intermediate player can vary depending on the intended use and personal preferences. Some popular options include the Fender Blues Junior, Marshall DSL40CR, and Vox AC15.
Are cheap guitar amps worth it?
Cheap guitar amps can be worth it for beginners or those on a tight budget, but they may not provide the best sound quality or longevity compared to higher-end amps.
Why are orange amps so popular?
Orange amps are popular for their unique tone and distinctive appearance. They are often associated with classic rock and heavy metal music.
What is the lifespan of a guitar amp?
The lifespan of a guitar amp can vary greatly depending on usage and maintenance. Generally, a well-maintained amp can last for many years.
What is a good size guitar amp for home use?
A good size guitar amp for home use can vary depending on the intended use and personal preferences. Generally, a 10-20 watt amp can be sufficient for practicing and recording at home.
How many watts is a good guitar amplifier?
The number of watts needed for a good guitar amplifier can vary depending on the intended use and venue size. Generally, a 30-50 watt amp can be suitable for most gigging situations.
Did Led Zeppelin use Orange amps?
Led Zeppelin did not typically use Orange amps, but they did occasionally use them in the studio.
Is Orange or Marshall better?
The choice between Orange and Marshall amps is subjective and can depend on personal preferences and the intended use. Both brands have their own unique tones and characteristics.
What Orange amps does Jimmy Page use?
Jimmy Page has used a variety of Orange amps throughout his career, including the Orange AD30, OR50, and Rockerverb.
Why do old guitar amps sound better?
Old guitar amps can sound better due to factors such as vintage components, hand-wired circuits, and unique tonal characteristics that have become highly sought after.
Should I put more money on an amp or guitar?
The decision to put more money on an amp or guitar depends on personal preferences and the current setup. Generally, it’s important to have a balanced and compatible setup, but a good-quality amp can often have a greater impact on overall sound and tone.
Should I buy a guitar or amp first?
The decision to buy a guitar or amp first depends on personal preferences and the current setup. Generally, it’s important to have a balanced and compatible setup, but it may be more beneficial to have a good-quality amp before upgrading the guitar.
Does Guitar Center buy amps from you?
Guitar Center may buy used amps from individuals, but this can vary depending on the specific store and current inventory needs.
Do guitar amps sound better with age?
Guitar amps can potentially sound better with age due to factors such as vintage components and natural wear and tear. However, this can depend on the specific amp and its condition.
Can a bad amp damage a guitar?
A bad amp can potentially damage a guitar if it produces excessive volume or distortion that can harm the pickups or other components. It’s important to use caution when using any amplifier and to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Do I need a 100W guitar amp?
The need for a 100W guitar amp depends on the intended use and venue size. In most cases, a 100W amp can be excessive and not necessary for typical gigging situations.
How much louder is 100 watts than 50?
In terms of volume, 100 watts is only slightly louder than 50 watts. The difference in perceived volume is around 3 decibels, which is barely noticeable.
Can you gig with a 50 watt solid state amp?
Yes, a 50 watt solid state amp can be suitable for gigging depending on the intended use and venue size.
Does more watts mean louder guitar amp?
Generally, more watts can mean a louder guitar amp, but it’s important to consider other factors such as the speaker efficiency and overall design.
Why are guitar amps so expensive now?
Guitar amps can be expensive due to factors such as the cost of high-quality components, research and development, and marketing and distribution.
Why do guitarists have so many amps?
Guitarists may have multiple amps for different purposes, such as recording, gigging, and practicing. They may also have different amps for different genres or tones.
How many guitar amps should you have?
The number of guitar amps to have depends on personal preferences and the intended use. Generally, having one or two versatile amps can be sufficient for most situations.
Are expensive guitar amps worth it?
Expensive guitar amps can be worth it for those who prioritize high-quality sound and features. However, it’s important to consider personal needs and budget before making a purchase.
What is most important for guitar tone?
The most important factors for guitar tone include the guitar itself, the amp, and the player’s technique and style.
How do I choose an amp?
When choosing an amp, it’s important to consider factors such as the intended use, venue size, and personal preferences for tone and features. It’s also important to try out different amps before making a purchase.
Is it bad to leave guitar amp on for long time?
Leaving a guitar amp on for a long time can potentially cause damage or wear to the components, and can also increase the risk of fire or other hazards. It’s generally recommended to turn off the amp when not in use.
Are tube amps better than solid-state?
Tube amps and solid-state amps have their own unique characteristics and can be better for different purposes and genres. Tube amps are often preferred for their warm and natural tone, while solid-state amps can provide more reliability and versatility.
Why do tube guitar amps sound better?
Tube guitar amps can sound better due to the natural compression and saturation that occurs when overdriving the tubes, which can produce a warm and dynamic tone that is often preferred in certain genres.
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