The Most Popular Guitar Amp, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the guitar amp you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 9, 2024 06:40
For musicians, selecting the right guitar amplifier is a crucial decision, shaping the tone and quality of their sound. With myriad options available, it can be a daunting task to sift through every possibility to find the one that best suits an individual’s style and needs. By aggregating preferences and experiences, a clearer picture of the most popular and performance-efficient models emerges.
This dynamic list reflects the ongoing input of users who vote for their preferred guitar amps, providing a current snapshot of popular opinion. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this list serves as a valuable resource to guide your choices. Your vote matters here; each contribution helps adjust the rankings, ensuring they remain reflective of the community’s current favorites.
What Is the Most Popular Guitar Amp?
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177votes
Diego at English Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0Known for its warm, clean tone and versatility, the Fender Deluxe Reverb is a favorite among guitarists in a variety of genres.The Fender Deluxe Reverb is a widely popular guitar amplifier known for its exceptional tone and versatility. It is adored by both professional musicians and hobbyists alike, and has become a staple in many music genres. The Deluxe Reverb delivers a rich, warm sound and is recognized for its remarkable reverb and tremolo effects.- Power Output: 22 watts
- Tubes: 2 x 6V6, 4 x 12AX7, 2 x 12AT7
- Speaker: 12-inch Jensen C12K
- Channels: 2 (Normal and Vibrato)
- Controls: Normal Channel: Volume, Treble, Bass; Vibrato Channel: Volume, Treble, Bass, Reverb, Speed, Intensity
Fender Deluxe Reverb in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most reliable guitar amp
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Fender amp
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215votes
Marshall JCM800
Jim MarshallThe Marshall JCM800 is a classic rock amp known for its high gain and powerful sound. It has been used by countless guitarists, including Slash, Angus Young, and Eddie Van Halen.The Marshall JCM800 is a legendary guitar amplifier known for its iconic crunchy and high-gain tones. It is widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential guitar amps in rock music history.- Power Output: 50 or 100 watts
- Channels: 2
- Preamp Tubes: 3x ECC83
- Power Tubes: 4x EL34
- Controls: Presence, Bass, Middle, Treble, Master Volume, and Preamp Volume for each channel
Marshall JCM800 in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Marshall amp
- Position 2 of 10 in Most reliable guitar amp
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326votes
Vox AC30
KorgThe Vox AC30 is a British amp known for its chimey, bright tone. It has been used by bands such as The Beatles and Queen, and remains popular among indie and alternative rock guitarists.The Vox AC30 is a highly acclaimed guitar amplifier known for its rich and iconic tone. It has become one of the most popular and enduring models in the history of guitar amplification.- Power Output: 30 Watts
- Speaker Configuration: 2x12-inch
- Tubes: Preamp: 3x 12AX7, Power amp: 4x EL84, Rectifier: 1x GZ34
- Input Channels: Two (Normal and Top Boost)
- Controls: Volume, Treble, Bass, Reverb, Tremolo Speed, and Tremolo Depth
Vox AC30 in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most reliable guitar amp
- Position 4 of 10 in Most reliable tube amp
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418votes
Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier
Randall SmithThe Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier is a high gain amp known for its aggressive sound. It has been used by metal bands such as Metallica and Slayer, as well as rock bands like Foo Fighters.The Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier is a highly sought-after guitar amplifier known for its iconic sound and versatility. With its signature high gain tones and powerful tube-driven circuitry, the Dual Rectifier has made a significant impact on the modern rock and metal music scenes. It offers a wide range of tones, from clear and pristine cleans to aggressive and heavy distorted sounds, making it a top choice for many professional guitarists.- Power Output: 100 watts
- Tubes: 10 x 6L6 power tubes, 5 x 12AX7 preamp tubes
- Channels: 3 (Clean, Vintage, Modern)
- Rectifier: Tube/Solid-State selectable (Rectifier Tracking)
- Controls: Gain, Treble, Mid, Bass, Presence, Master, Channel Volume
Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most reliable tube amp
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521votes
Orange AD30
Orange AmplifiersThe Orange AD30 is a British amp known for its crunchy, aggressive tone. It has been used by guitarists such as Jimmy Page and Billy Gibbons.The Orange AD30 is a highly regarded guitar amp known for its rich, warm tone and versatile performance capabilities. It is a 30-watt, two-channel amplifier that has gained popularity among both professional musicians and hobbyists alike. The amp's design and build quality make it well-suited for live performances and studio recordings.- Power Output: 30 watts
- Channels: 2
- Preamp Tubes: 4 x ECC83
- Power Tubes: 4 x EL84
- Controls: Volume, Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, Master Volume, Presence
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617votesThe Peavey 5150 (now called the 6505) is a high gain amp known for its powerful sound. It has been used by metal bands such as Pantera and Slipknot.The Peavey 5150 is a high-gain guitar amplifier that has gained legendary status among rock and metal guitarists for its aggressive tone and versatile features. It was originally designed in the early 1990s by Edward Van Halen and Peavey Electronics.
- Power: 120 watts
- Channels: 2
- Preamp Tubes: 5 x 12AX7
- Power Tubes: 4 x 6L6GC
- Controls: Preamp gain, post-gain, low, mid, high EQ, presence, resonance
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710votesThe Fender Blues Jr. is a small, affordable amp known for its classic Fender tone. It has been used by guitarists in a variety of genres, from blues to rock to country.The Fender Blues Jr. is a popular guitar amplifier that delivers classic Fender tube tone in a compact and versatile package. It is known for its warm, rich sound and responsive dynamics, making it a favorite choice among guitarists of various genres.
- Type: Combo amplifier
- Wattage: 15 watts
- Speaker: 12-inch Special Design Eminence speaker
- Tubes: Three 12AX7 preamp tubes, two EL84 power tubes
- Channels: 1 (with switchable Fat boost)
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83votes
Line 6 Spider V
Line 6The Line 6 Spider V is a modeling amp that allows guitarists to recreate a variety of classic amp sounds. It is popular among beginner and intermediate guitarists.The Line 6 Spider V is a popular guitar amp known for its versatility and digital modeling capabilities. It is designed to provide guitarists with a wide range of tones and effects to suit various musical styles and genres. The amp offers a combination of classic and modern amp simulations, as well as a vast library of customizable presets. With its user-friendly interface and built-in wireless connectivity, the Spider V is an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals alike.- Power Output: 20W, 30W, 60W, 120W options
- Number of Amp Models: Over 200
- Number of Effects: Over 100
- Speaker Configuration: 1x8", 1x10", 1x12", or 2x12" options
- Integrated Wireless Receiver: Yes
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97votes
Blackstar HT-5
Blackstar AmplificationThe Blackstar HT-5 is a small, high gain amp known for its versatility. It has been used by guitarists in a variety of genres, from metal to blues to rock.The Blackstar HT-5 is a highly regarded and popular guitar amplifier known for its versatility and professional-grade performance. It is designed and manufactured by Blackstar Amplification, an acclaimed British company specializing in guitar amplifiers.- Power Output: 5 Watts
- Tube Configuration: 1 x ECC83 (preamp), 1 x 12BH7 (power amp)
- Channels: 2 (Clean, Overdrive)
- Speaker: 1 x 10" Blackbird 50 Custom-designed
- Controls: Clean Volume, Clean Tone, Overdrive Gain, Overdrive Volume, ISF, Reverb, Master Volume
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107votes
Boss Katana
BossThe Boss Katana is a modeling amp known for its versatility and affordability. It has been used by guitarists in a variety of genres, from jazz to metal.The Boss Katana is a highly regarded guitar amplifier known for its versatile tones and high-quality sound. It has gained popularity among guitar players due to its affordable price, user-friendly interface, and wide range of built-in effects and amp models.- Power Output: 50W or 100W
- Speaker: Custom 12-inch Speaker
- Amp Models: 5 unique amp characters
- Effect Types: Over 60 effects
- Controls: Gain, Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble, Presence, Master, etc.
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Ranking factors for popular guitar amp
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Sound qualityThe overall tonal quality and range of the amp is crucial. Different amps cater to different genres and playing styles, so it's essential to find an amp that produces the desired sound and matches the type of music you play.
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Power outputThe wattage of an amp determines its headroom and overall volume capabilities. Depending on your needs, whether for home practice or live performances, choose an amp with an appropriate power output.
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Build quality and reliabilityA well-built and durable amp can withstand the rigors of regular use and transport. Look for an amp with a sturdy construction and a reputable brand behind it.
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Features and versatilityExtra features such as built-in effects, multiple channels, and EQ controls can add versatility to your tone-shaping options. Consider your specific needs and look for an amp that offers the desired features.
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Portability and sizeDepending on your requirements for transportation and performance space, choose an amp that is lightweight and compact or powerful and imposing.
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PriceFind an amp that fits your budget without compromising on the essential features. It's essential to strike a balance between affordability and quality.
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User reviews and professional recommendationsRead reviews from other players and expert guides to ensure you're getting a popular amp with a history of satisfaction.
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Compatibility with accessoriesSome amps might require specific footswitches, cables, or other accessories, which can add to the overall cost and must be taken into account.
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Tube or solid-stateTube amps are generally warmer and more responsive, while solid-state amps offer a more consistent and maintenance-free performance. Decide which type works best for your sound preferences and maintenance willingness.
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Brand reputationSome brands are known for their high-quality and reliable amps. Research and consider choosing a popular brand to ensure good performance and long-term satisfaction.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular guitar amp. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or amplifier is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1495 views
- 197 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each amplifier once every 24 hours. The rank of each amplifier is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular guitar amp
When it comes to playing the guitar, the amplifier is just as important as the instrument itself. Not only does the amp amplify the sound, but it also adds its own unique tone and character. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to determine which guitar amp is the most popular.
Some of the top brands in the industry include Fender, Marshall, and Vox. Fender is known for its clean and bright tones, while Marshall is famous for its heavy distortion for rock and metal music. Vox, on the other hand, has a distinct British sound that is popular among indie and alternative musicians.
There are also different types of guitar amps, such as tube amps, solid-state amps, and modeling amps. Each type offers its own unique sound and features.
Ultimately, the most popular guitar amp will depend on the individual musician's preferences and style. However, by exploring different brands and types of amps, guitar players can find the perfect sound to match their playing style.
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