Acoustic Amp Master Buying Guide
In this guide we look at the latest acoustic amplifiers to help you find the best acoustic amp for your practice and performance needs,. Whether you’re practicing or writing songs at home, performing on stage, or busking on the street, this guide is your shortcut to finding the best acoustic amplifier to support your music.
Acoustic Guitar Amp FAQs:
Can an acoustic combo amp accurately reproduce my acoustic tone?
Yes: acoustic amplifiers are specifically designed to reproduce the full frequency range and dynamics of acoustic instruments. Keep in mind that your guitar’s electronics will play a significant role in the sonic accuracy of your plugged-in acoustic tone.
Can an acoustic amplifier control feedback and prevent it from occurring?
Yes: some acoustic amps feature anti-feedback processing that can dynamically resist feedback before it occurs. Many acoustic amps feature a “phase” switch that can sometimes help reduce feedback, although the effectiveness is based on your position relative to your amplifier.
What kind of speaker configuration do acoustic guitar amplifiers use?
Most acoustic guitar amps feature one “woofer” to reproduce bass and midrange frequencies, in combination with a small “tweeter” to reproduce high frequencies. Some acoustic amplifiers may feature “full range” speakers to reproduce the entire frequency range.
How much power does an acoustic amp need for stage performance? How many watts do I need?
If you need to hear your acoustic amp over a drummer and other instruments, a good rule of thumb is to use an amp with at least 50 watts of power. However, if you plan to plug your amp’s direct output to the sound system, and have access to monitor speakers, you don’t need high wattage to perform. If you’re a solo performer (vocals and guitar), 30-50 watts should be fine for small-format performances like coffee shops.
Will I be able to hear the acoustic amplifier on stage, or will I need a monitor?
The best way to clearly hear your acoustic amp on stage is to use an amplifier stand or tilt-back mechanism to aim the amp at your ears instead of at your feet. Some acoustic amps may feature a speaker pole mounting option that makes it easier to raise the amp for better monitoring.
Can I use an acoustic amplifier for vocals too?
Yes: many acoustic amplifiers feature both instrument and microphone inputs. For maximum sonic control over your sound, look for an acoustic amp with separate dedicated channels for vocals and instruments: this will allow you to process them separately with EQ and effects for a cleaner, more polished sound.
Do I need an acoustic amplifier with a DI/direct output?
An acoustic amp’s DI output allows you to connect directly to a sound system or recording device, eliminating the need put a microphone on the amp. If you’re performing live, you’ll want an acoustic amp with a DI output. For practice and rehearsal, a direct output can be useful for capturing sound ideas directly to a recording device.
Best Acoustic Amps for Home Practice and Recording:
These acoustic amps are ideal for plugging in and enjoying your guitar. Whether you’re looking for basic amplification, something with built-in effects for sonic experimentation, or a full-featured recording amp with USB connectivity, one of these amps is sure to deliver.
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Watts | 10W | 40W | 30W | 15W |
| Speakers | 2 x 5-in | 2 x 6.5-in | 2 x 5-in | 1 x 6-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB Interface | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No | No |
| Tuner | No | No | No | No |
| Weight | 8.9 lbs. | 16.5 lbs. | 16 lbs. | 10.5 lbs. |
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Watts | 30W | 50W | 50W | 40W |
| Speakers | 2 x 3.5-in | 1 x 8-in | 2 x 4-in | 1 x 5.25-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB Interface | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Tuner | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Weight | 9.7 lbs. | 9 lbs. | 12.1 lbs. | 9.1 lbs. |
For basic home practice, practically any acoustic amp will allow you to plug in and play. If you want an acoustic amp that can be used for vocal practice too, look for an acoustic amp with two channels for mic and instruments. An amp with built-in effects and Bluetooth playback can make practice sessions more fun and productive. If you want an easy way to record your music to DAW software, choose an acoustic amp with a built-in USB interface.
Best Acoustic Amps for Busking:
With the right acoustic amplifier you can take to the streets and share your music with the world, or simply entertain a backyard full of friends. We chose these amps specifically for their battery-powered operation that allows you to perform anywhere without needing to plug into a power source.
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Watts | 100W | 60W | 10W |
| Speakers | 2 x 5-in | 1 x 6.5-in | 2 x 6.5-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB Interface | Yes | No | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | No |
| Weight | 15.7 lbs. | 21.2 lbs. | 9.8 lbs. |
| Power | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | AA Batteries |
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Watts | 10W | 10W | 5W |
| Speakers | 2 x 5-in | 2 x 2-in | 1 x 2-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB Interface | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 8.9 lbs. | 3.3 lbs. | 0.8 lbs. |
| Power | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
If you want to take your acoustic music on the go, one of these battery-powered acoustic amps is your best choice. Most feature a built-in rechargeable battery, although some may use AA batteries instead. for maximum mobility, you can choose a small acoustic amp with strap pins so you can wear it. If you want to perform with backing tracks, choose an acoustic amp with Bluetooth to stream audio from your phone.
Best Acoustic Amps for Stage Performance:
You want enough wattage to hear yourself in a band setting, and flexible routing with direct outputs for maximum control over your sound. These amplifiers offer the functionality you need for stage performance and the accurate acoustic amplification your music deserves.
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Watts | 200W | 120W | 100W | 100W |
| Speakers | 1 x 8-in, 1 x 6.5-in | 1 x 8-in | 1 x 8-in | 1 x 8-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Feedback Suppression | No | Yes | — | No |
| FX Loop | No | Yes | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 22 lbs. | 25.3 lbs. | 17.6 lbs. | 15 lbs. |
| Feedback Control | — | — | No | — |
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Watts | 120W | 60W | 60W | 30W |
| Speakers | 1 x 8-in | 1 x 6.5-in | 1 x 6.5-in | 2 x 5-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Feedback Suppression | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| FX Loop | No | No | No | No |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No | No |
| Weight | 31.9 lbs. | 23.2 lbs. | 16.9 lbs. | 16 lbs. |
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Watts | 180W | 120W | 60W | 50W |
| Speakers | 1 x 8-in, 1 x 5-in | 1 x 8-in | 1 x 6.5-in | 1 x 8-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Feedback Suppression | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| FX Loop | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Weight | 29.4 lbs. | 25.5 lbs. | 21 lbs. | 9 lbs. |
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
| Watts | 150W | 250W | 100W | 150W |
| Speakers | 1 x 10-in | 1 x 8-in | 1 x 10-in | 2 x 6.5-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Feedback Suppression | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| FX Loop | No | Yes | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Weight | 26.5 lbs. | 21.7 lbs. | 29.3 lbs. | — |
Higher-wattage acoustic amplifiers allow you to hold up against drums and other instruments without distorting your natural acoustic tone. If you plan to go direct to a sound system and use floor monitors, DI outputs become more of a priority than wattage. Built-in effects and footswitch functionality can streamline your performances and reduce your need for extra gear. Bluetooth connectivity is helpful for playing along to backing tracks, and for playing a music playlist during set breaks.
Best Acoustic Amps for Content Creators:
Performing for an audience can be as easy and immediate as turning on a livestream. These acoustic amps feature streaming connectivity (either with a TRRS port or USB with loopback) to deliver superior acoustic tone straight to your fans.
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Watts | 30W | 60W | 10W |
| Speakers | 2 x 5-in | 1 x 6.5-in | 2 x 5-in |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB Interface | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No |
| Streaming | TRRS | USB | USB |
| Weight | 16 lbs. | 23.2 lbs. | 8.9 lbs. |
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 1 | 1 | — |
| Watts | 30W | 50W | — |
| Speakers | 2 x 3.5-in | 2 x 4-in | — |
| Built-in Effects | Yes | Yes | — |
| USB Interface | Yes | Yes | — |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | — |
| Streaming | USB | USB | — |
| Weight | — | 12.1 lbs. | — |
If you want to connect a vocal mic as well as your acoustic guitar, choose an acoustic amp with two channels for maximum sonic control. Most of these amps support streaming via USB connectivity with loopback support, but some may feature a TRRS port instead. For content creation, wattage doesn’t matter as much unless you’re also performing for an IRL audience: in that case choose a higher-wattage acoustic amp (50W or higher) with streaming support.
Check out our Acoustic Amp Quick Picks for in-depth analysis of top acoustic amplifiers!
