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Last updated: 4 Feb 2022
Enjoy Premium Music with the Best Combo Amps
Every instrumentalist on the planet understands the need for high-quality equipment. Even the best guitarist in the world would benefit from the enhanced sound production of an amplifier. When shopping for this type of equipment, it may be difficult to determine the best product on the spot. You may feel the need to test out a piece of equipment yourself to know if it works for your style and preference. If you are planning to purchase a combo amp, we've curated a list of the best combo amps in 2022.
The Best Combo Amp Models of 2022 in Detail
1
Fender Combo Amp
– Best Budget Combo Amp
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THE SCOOP
Any guitarist on a budget can enjoy good music with the Fender Combo Amp. This equipment comes with two channels that make it easy to play around and come up with unique sounds. Its selectable amp voicing combines perfectly with the onboard effects to produce perfectly synced rhythms. And with its 40-watt speaker, there’s no way your sound will come out wrong.
Thankfully, it weighs only 19 pounds, which makes it easy to transport.
Pros
- Comes with multiple onboard effects that help you produce mind-blowing sounds
- Affordable
- Included footswitch input for better control
- Selectable amp voicing allows you to explore multiple sound options
Cons
- Doesn’t support computer connectivity
2
Boss Katana Combo Amp
– Most Versatile
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THE SCOOP
You probably won’t find a combo amp with more diverse features than the Boss Katana combo amp. This equipment comes with 5 distinct amp voicings and is fitted with a 50-watt speaker so you can explore multiple different sounds.
If you also like to perform or record in a quiet environment, this amp is perfect for you. It comes with a cab-emulated output that allows you to achieve a perfect amp tone at lower volume levels. Another excellent feature you’ll enjoy with this combo amp is storage as it can store multiple effects profiles and recall them quickly. This combo amp also sports up to two footswitches so your hands can stay on the guitar.
Pros
- Perfect for building unique rhythms from scratch
- Ideal for recording and performing in silent areas
- Offers you access to five distinct amp characters
Cons
- Incompatible with the GA-FC footswitch
3
Marshall Combo Amp
– Best for club gigs
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THE SCOOP
If you want a lightweight combo amp that you can comfortably carry and enjoy on the road, you should consider the Marshall combo amp. The equipment comes with over 100 presets that you can enjoy when traveling and can also help you create melodic sounds on the stage and in the studio.
You can control its 50-watt speaker through USB or Bluetooth and can play around with its 24 digital effects. This combo amp also features an auxiliary input and a headphone output so you can enjoy the full sound experience.
Pros
- Offers multiple effects and models to help you create melodic rhythms
- Allows you to enjoy music silently with its auxiliary input and headphone output
- Can easily travel and enjoy quick connectivity on the fly
Cons
- Only has one channel instead of the standard two
4
Bugera Infinium Combo Amp
– Most Durable
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THE SCOOP
If you want a combo amp that will stand the test of time and allow you to create soul-filling music, the Bugera Infinium combo amp is just right for you. Unlike most combo amps, this equipment features three 12AX7 preamp tubes and one pair of EL84 power tubes. These tubes also come with a unique tube life multiplier technology that allows you to produce reliable and consistent tones over a long period. And even though this speaker only generates 22 watts of sound energy, it’ll still let you deliver great sounds.
Pros
- Tubes produce high-quality tones and can stay durable over a long period
- 3 band EQ of this combo amp allows you to play around with your sound
- Has 2 channels and comes with a footswitch
Cons
- Total power of the amp is 22 watts, which is pretty low judging by professional standards
Buying Guide: Combo Amps
Every guitarist knows that music sounds better when you play with a combo amp, so if you’ve decided to get one, good for you. Our team is motivated to help you, and what better way to do that than highlighting some of the best combo amps available Sweetwater? However, we also understand that combo amps are complex pieces of musical equipment and you may need more information to help you make the best buying decision. That’s why we have compiled this guide to help answer pressing questions and highlight the elements that make the best combo amps.
What is a combo amp?
A combo amp is a unique piece of equipment that combines a speaker, preamplifier, and power amplifier in a single cabinet, which is usually mobile. Most of the operational control is done directly and you can use it for multiple purposes. It mostly serves guitarists and other instrumentalists.
What are the factors to consider when getting a combo amp?
Amp Wattage
The most important factor you have to consider when getting a combo amp is its power. Power is measured in watts and it will determine the capacity of your combo amp. If you want to use your amp for gigs and shows, get one with at least 50 watts of power. However, if your amp will only be doing studio work, you can always go for models with lower watts.
Design
Combo amps can come in tube designs, solid-state designs, or digital designs. The tube technology is considered the standard because it delivers a high-quality tone for a long period. Digital combo amps usually require a lot of maintenance even though they are more affordable.
Size
The size of your amp matters if you want to use it for gigs and shows. You would need to carry it around and it needs to be portable enough for mobility. In fact, the best combo amps have roller tires for easy movement.
Extra features
Most combo amps come with extra features and some of them include Bluetooth/USB connectivity, auxiliary input, headphone output, footswitch, and so on. You can opt for a combo amp with the extra features you like best.
Tips for using a combo amp
Keep your equipment cool
The last thing you want is a scorching combo amp. Overheating can quickly damage the integrity of your equipment and then, you’d have to spend a good amount of money to fix it. To avoid this, always use your amp in a cool, well-ventilated area.
Get a flight case for your amp
Your combo amp should not be naked. If it is exposed all the time, dust and other debris could settle on it and slowly damage it after some time. However, if it is housed in a compact flight case, you would not have to worry about external damage.
Keep your amp away from moisture
Moisture can destroy a piece of high-quality equipment in seconds. So keep water and other drinkables away from your combo amp. You should also avoid storing it in moist or damp areas.
Combo Amp FAQ
Q: Are combo amps good for live gigs?
A: Yes. Models with 12-inch speakers are especially great because they are loud enough for live shows.
Q: Are tube amps difficult to maintain?
A: No. Tube amps are not difficult to maintain, but they are more fragile than solid-state amps. They generally have a lifetime of 3,000 to 5,000 hours. Just be sure to store them properly and handle them with care during that period.
Q: Is a 10-watt amp good?
A: Yes. A 10-watt combo amp is especially good for beginners who use it for personal practice and playing on a small stage. If you are a professional facing a large audience, you should definitely use something higher than a 10-watt amp.
Q: How much does a combo amp cost?
A: Combo amps come in different specifications, which gives them a diverse range of prices. But generally, they cost between fifty dollars to seven hundred dollars.
