14 best combo amps for guitars

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Combo amplifiers or, as the musicians affectionately call them, 'combo' are a special type of equipment that combines an amplifier and a speaker system in a single device. Special combo amplifiers for guitars are designed precisely to extract from the instrument (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, separately bass) everything that it is capable of.

The editors of the magazine present you with an overview of the best combo amplifiers in different price categories on the market in 2020. The review was compiled based on the results of research by our specialists, as well as on the cumulative feedback of the musicians themselves. As part of this review, we looked at models aimed at electric guitars, with rare exceptions. An extended review of combos for acoustic guitars is a separate topic.

Rating of the best combo amplifiers for guitars

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best portable guitar amps	1	Fender Frontman 10G	RUB 6,900
	2	Roland MICRO CUBE GX	RUB 9 885
	3	VOX AC2 RhythmVOX	RUB 6,100
	4	Marshall MG1 5G	RUB 9,900
	5	Orange Crush 35RT	RUB 14,990
Best Budget Guitar Amplifiers	1	Marshall MG10G	RUB 6,278
	2	Behringer AT108	RUB 7,590
	3	Fender champion 20	RUB 13,300
The best mid to high price combo amps for guitars	1	Peavey vypyr vip 3	RUB 24,948
	2	Bugera 333-212-INFINIUM	RUB 45,980
	3	VOX AC30S1	RUB 42,721
	4	Fender blues junior iv	RUB 42,721
The best premium guitar amps	1	Marshall 1962-01 (Bluesbreaker)	RUB 185,000
	2	Fender 65 Twin Reverb	RUB 208,000

The best portable guitar amps

First, let's look at one of the most popular in all respects categories of combo amplifiers – compact portable models. It is an indispensable item for street musicians, for outdoor events, and just for home use if there are problems with free space. We considered not the cheapest, but not the most expensive options, but only those that more or less everyone can afford.

Fender Frontman 10G

Rating: 4.9

The section opens with the most inexpensive combo amplifier among those whose manufacturer does not raise any questions. This is a Fender brand 10G Frontman series transistorized model. The famous American brand, the combo amplifiers themselves are made in China.

It is one of the smallest and lightest 'amps' in its class. Its dimensions are 146x260x279mm, weight is only 3.8kg. The body is made of wood material with a leather finish. The power of the device is 10W, the resistance is 4 ohms. Powered by a network.

Sound configuration – one channel, one 6 “speaker. Built-in simple two-band equalizer. An instrument input (1/4 “- 6.3mm) is used to connect a guitar, as well as two RCA jacks for connecting headphones and additional equipment, such as a drum machine. Built-in tuner is not provided. One-button foot controller compatible. Mechanical control panel preamp, overdrive, high and low frequency gain controls (Treble, Bass).

According to the musicians' comments, the Fender Frontman 10G shows itself as a largely versatile device for playing different styles, including blues and hard rock, even heavy in places. Sounds equally good with guitars with different pickups – singles or humbuckers.

This model is perfect for home rehearsals, as well as for use in conditions of increased mobility. Although the 'combo' needs 220V, its size and weight significantly contribute to convenient transportation.

This is an excellent budget and universal model in all respects, but it is also not without its drawbacks. The musicians are almost unanimous in the opinion that the Fender Frontman 10G is not designed for overload – the overdrive is weak. We will mark this as a disadvantage, but also add the fact that many other musicians do not see this problem.

The manufacturer's warranty for this model is 12 months.

Advantages

• powerful and high quality sound;
• strong shock-resistant body;
• relatively versatile;
• invariability of characteristics after years of use;
• compact and lightweight;
• affordable price.

disadvantages

• weak overdrive.

Roland MICRO CUBE GX

Rating: 4.8

The next guitar combo in the collection of portable models is also from the manufacturer, whose name is familiar to almost everyone who has even the most indirect relation to the musical theme. This is the super compact MICRO CUBE GX modeling combo. It is half the price of the previous one, but it has different tasks.

First, briefly about the main characteristics. The combo is quite tiny – 24.7×17.2×22.7cm in size, weighs only 2.7kg. The power is also the minimum possible for this kind of device – 3W, but the device can only be powered by AA batteries, which makes it completely autonomous. True, the batteries will need as many as six pieces, but the possibility of power supply via a network adapter is also provided.

The MICRO CUBE series has been the best-selling battery-powered combo in such a narrow segment for 10 years now. Each subsequent generation does not disappoint the audience, but only adds positive feedback.

So, in the MICRO CUBE GX model, while maintaining the same minimum dimensions and impeccable sound as in its predecessors, a lot of new and useful things have been added. These are i-CUBE LINK (audio interface for iOS), MEMORY function (saving personal settings), built-in tuner, massive EXTREME effects, HEAVY OCTAVE. All this adds new possibilities for home rehearsals and recording. The device works correctly with music applications for mobile gadgets.

This model has an expanded set of controls: Gain, Volume, Tone, Master and others; POWER, MEMORY, EFX indicators and others. A free CUBE JAM application has been developed to interact with mobile gadgets on iOS. With it, you can easily play backing tracks, apply COSM effects, record your own guitar parts. After recording a track, you can adjust the volume of the guitar and backing tracks separately and then export it to WAV format with a frequency of 44.1 kHz 16-bit. Functionality CUBE JAM includes useful functions for practicing music, including changing the tempo and key, Center Cancel and more.

The combo amplifier can work from a set of six Alkaline batteries for about 20 hours and from the same set, only nickel-magnesium cells – about 25 hours.

Advantages

• the most compact and lightest;
• world bestseller for 10 years;
• full autonomy (powered by batteries);
• power supply is provided through the adapter;
• built-in tuner;
• correct work with mobile applications;
• eight DSP effects;
• functional mobile application CUBE JAM.

disadvantages

• not everyone has enough lower classes.

VOX AC2 RhythmVOX

Rating: 4.8

And one more super-portable combo, which experts could not ignore – this is another fully autonomous model that runs on batteries, this time of a different brand – VOX.

This is generally a crumb with dimensions of 17x7x12.8cm and weighing only 620g. The power of the device is 2W, the resistance is 4 ohms. Two speakers of 3 inches with an impedance of 8 ohms. Like the previous model, the AC2 RhythmVOX runs on six AA batteries or a 9V AC adapter.

Despite such modest basic characteristics, it is by no means a symbolic device. There is a built-in rhythm machine with a wide selection of patterns, metronome, various effects. You can connect external devices via AUX IN or a standard output – headphones or active acoustics.

AC2 RhythmVOX is designed specifically for the guitar, so you can practice and rehearse in any environment – whether at home or on the bus during the tour. There are three sound modes: clean, crunch and distortion. There are volume, tone and gain controls. There are 9 genres of rhythm patterns with 9 variations for a total of 81 separate patterns; five effects – chorus, reverb and others; the range of tempos is from 40 to 240 beats per minute.

The conclusion to this model is obvious – it is definitely worth the money, and is suitable for both a beginner and an experienced musician 'for all occasions'. But we must clearly realize that this amp can serve precisely as an auxiliary, not the main one.

Advantages

• superportable;
• completely autonomous;
• quality of materials and workmanship;
• wide range of rhythm patterns;
• three sound modes;
• you can connect external devices;
• can also be operated from the network via an adapter.

disadvantages

• no pronounced flaws were found.

Marshall MG1 5G

Rating: 4.7

The third number in the selection of portable combo amplifiers is the popular Marshall combo. Model MG1 5G has worked well for homework and rehearsals, home concerts and intimate performances.

Device dimensions – 375x370x195mm, weight – 7.7kg. Classic case with a striking gold-tone metal front panel. The power of the combo amplifier is 15W. Resistance – 8 ohms. Two channels, one 8 ”speaker. Instrument input 1/4 “jack is provided for connection, one input is standard 3.5 mm AUX. The output is a standard 3.5 mm headphone jack.

The two channels in this model are the standard 'clean' and 'overdrive'. Built-in three-band equalizer. The channels will allow you to go from clean sounds to overdrive, covering a fairly wide range of styles – from uncomplicated pop to overdriven and even distorted metal. A simple but working equalizer will help shape the tone.

Overall, this is an excellent workhorse for homework and rehearsals, as mentioned. It is difficult to identify serious disadvantages in it, and for all those years that the model is in stable demand, there have been no systematic complaints or even intelligible wishes from the musicians. Mostly everyone is happy with everything.

If the capabilities of this model are not enough, you can look after the closest relative – Marshall MG15FX. This is something more serious – 4 separately programmable channels, you can connect a foot switch, two separate effect controls: chorus, flanger, phaser, reverb and more. But MG15FX will cost at least half as much as MG1 5G.

Advantages

• reputable brand;
• good sound;
• conditional coverage of many styles on two channels;
• combination of price, quality and capabilities;
• durability without loss of sound quality over the years;
• built-in equalizer;
• compact size.

disadvantages

• pronounced minuses and systematic complaints from musicians were not revealed.

Orange Crush 35RT

Rating: 4.6

Something particularly interesting will round off the first collection of our review. The Crush 35RT is one of the few real guitar amps from the legendary Orange brand that you can buy for good money. The fact is that, like all the previous ones, it is transistorized. Many marketplaces on the Internet mislead visitors that they say the Crush 35RT is a tube model. In fact, this is not the case.

First, let's go through the main characteristics. This is the heaviest amp in the collection at 11kg, but still fully portable. The natural wood cabinet complements the magic of sound. Dimensions – 44x40x23. Power – 35W. Speaker configuration – 1×10. Available in two color options – orange, traditional for Orange, and classic black.

The speaker size and transistorized 'concept' already indicate predominantly home use. However, this amp cannot be called quiet for sure, so it is also quite suitable for chamber performances. In an apartment, it is better to turn the volume down to a minimum – this will be enough for classes and will not create problems with neighbors.

This model has two standard channels – clean and overloaded with separate regulation of each. You can switch between channels using a switch on the control panel or a foot pedal. For an overloaded channel, the gain control is dedicated. The treble, mid and bass adjustments are common to both channels. There is also a reverb for both channels. There is a loop for receiving effects from the outside – chorus, delay, flanger, tremolo and others.

In this model, everything would be flawless, if not for one obvious strange detail. The fact that the power cable is plugged into the rear jack can still be forgiven, since you can pick up a cable with a curved plug. But exactly in the same place behind is the power switch / switch. This is already at least strange from the point of view of ergonomics, since even portable amplifiers are installed mainly against the wall, and it is extremely inconvenient to reach with your hand to the back wall.

Advantages

• famous brand;
• impeccable quality;
• pure sound (where it is needed);
• large speaker;
• reverb;
• wooden case.

disadvantages

• extremely inconvenient location of the power switch.

Best Budget Guitar Amplifiers

The second selection of devices in the magazine's review of the best combo amplifiers for guitars includes the most inexpensive models from the same famous world manufacturers, but without any reference to portability. Our experts considered options not more expensive than 15 thousand rubles.

Marshall MG10G

Rating: 4.7

The first and most inexpensive guitar combo in this collection is the 'little brother' of the aforementioned Marshall MG1 5G – the MG10G model. The number 10 in the name indicates the power of the amplifier. It is also small and portable, but placed in this group because of its more affordable cost.

The dimensions of the combo are 29.6×17.5×31.4mm, weight – 4.8kg. The appearance is almost identical – the same classic case, the same style of golden front panel, only smaller and lighter than MG1 5G. Body material – wood. The design is sturdy, not afraid of accidental drops.

The power of the device is 10W, the resistance is 8 Ohm, it is powered from the network. Speaker diameter – 6.5 inches. The standard two channels are clean and overload. The controls on the panel include a channel selector, a Contour knob – works for both channels, a separate Volume for the Clean and Overdrive channels, and an additional Overdrive Gain. There is Distortion.

The set of interfaces is modest, but sufficient, and even with 'bonuses'. Instrument input 1/4 “- 6.3 mm jack; standard AUX input 3.5mm minijack. One output to headphones standard 3.5mm minijack. When headphones are connected, the sound from the speaker is automatically muted.

In general, this is an extremely laconic base-level model. Well suited for beginners for whom large functionality will be more harmful than useful. Here the volume is far from being the most impressive, there is no timbre block, not too much gain margin. But the fact that there are line in and out for external devices adds to the model's advantages – there are budget options that don't even have that.

Advantages

• quality materials;
• flawless assembly;
• good sounding;
• linear input and output;
• nice golden metal front;
• affordable price.

disadvantages

• minimal functionality and range of sound possibilities.

Behringer AT108

Rating: 4.6

The second item in our selection of the best inexpensive combo amplifiers for guitars according to the version, we will make a small exception and consider a good and relatively inexpensive amp focused on an acoustic instrument. This is the AT108 from Behringer.

Behringer AT108 is a transistor amplifier with case dimensions 322x357x162mm and a relatively low weight – 5.6kg. The design is classic with a beautiful finish, natural wood is present in the materials. The power of the device is 15W, the built-in speaker with a diameter of 8 inches is BUGERA with a double conical resonator. Two standard channels. Permissible load – 20W, resistance – 8 Ohm.

There are separate channels for instrument and microphone connections: an XLR microphone jack and a ”TS instrument jack. The input signal level is adjusted separately. Additionally, you can connect an external player via the ¼-inch TRS stereo input and add audio to the instrument and mic signal. Simple correction of the sum signal is possible using the built-in three-band equalizer. You can output sound to a mixer, headphones or external speakers through the TRS stereo output. When the output is activated, the signal to the built-in speaker is muted.

For all its modest pricing, the Behringer AT108 does its best to 'sound' like a premium combo amp. The developers have even introduced the VTC (Virtual Tube Circuitry) technology into this model, which is aimed at high-quality imitation of the special tone of sound that is given precisely by expensive tube amplifiers. This is especially important for acoustic parts.

All controls and jacks are located on the front panel – it is assumed that performances with an acoustic guitar are most often performed alone without a sound engineer and often even without additional complex devices, at most a microphone.

In conclusion, we note that the Behringer AT108 is the youngest model in the series. The combo attracts with its simplicity and reliability combined with extraordinary sensitivity. This is the best option for performing in front of an audience of several dozen people. When you connect a mixer, the possibilities, of course, expand significantly.

Advantages

• 'tube' sound thanks to Virtual Tube Circuitry technology;
• well thought out interface configuration;
• speaker BUGERA with double conical resonator;
• beautiful and expensive appearance;
• 3 years official warranty.

disadvantages

• no noticeable flaws were found.

Fender champion 20

Rating: 4.5

The third and final position in the mini-compilation of the best combo amplifiers for guitars is another model from the Fender brand. And this is a more serious combo than the above-described Frontman 10G.

The Fender Champion 20 is the youngest in the Champion series, a solid-state modeling combo. The number 20 indicates the power – 20W. Case dimensions – 19x35x32.5cm, weight – 5.4kg. Resistance – 8 ohms. One built-in 8-inch speaker. Like Frontman 10G, there is one channel. The entire series is characterized by versatility, and this also applies to the most affordable and simple in functionality 20-watt 'champion'.

The following controls are present in this model: Volume, Voice, Treble, Bass, Gain, FX Level, FX Select, TAP. The bad news is that the controls are strictly manual – this also applies to turning effects on and off. So if we are talking about a performance, and not a home workout, then it will be difficult without an assistant.

From the interfaces we have here: two inputs – instrumental 1/4 “- 6.3mm and one input 1/8”; one standard headphone output 1/8 “- 3.5mm. Built-in three-band equalizer will allow you to bring the total sound to perfection. There is no built-in tuner. There is a whole range of effects: Reverb, Delay / Echo, Chorus, Tremolo, Vibratone and others.

This model is quite versatile, but still more suitable for those who are at the beginning of the path of mastering the electric guitar and the first attempts at concert performances on a chamber scale. For these purposes, the device is quite simple to use, it combines a relatively affordable price and high quality, in general it teaches a beginner musician from the first steps to really worthwhile equipment.

Advantages

• the highest quality materials and workmanship;
• high-quality sound;
• set of effects;
• linear input and output;
• simplicity and ease of learning;
• high-quality branded speaker;

disadvantages

• single channel;
• only manual control.

The best mid to high price combo amps for guitars

The third part of our review already raises the bar for the cost of combo amplifiers up to 80 thousand rubles and combines the conditional middle and high class of devices of this type. Here we will already see not only transistor, but also high-quality tube models. The form factor can also be portable.

Peavey vypyr vip 3

Rating: 5.0

The Vypyr VIP 3 modeling combo amp for electric guitar from Peavey opens the category for the cheapest in its class. This model, although inexpensive in this context, is still a flagship within the Vypyr VIP series from Peavey. The device is versatile and could be used successfully for both an acoustic instrument and a bass guitar.

Actually, the entire series was presented at the NAMM exhibition as the world's first instrumental combo amplifiers with variable gain – this is the main and defining characteristic of the device. Now let's briefly go through the rest of the key points. The diameter of the proprietary speaker is 12 inches. Power – 100W (adjustable from 1 to 100W). Built-in chromatic tuner. Dimensions – 52.7×54.6×29.2cm, weight – 13.3 kg. The front panel houses a small monochrome LCD display for selecting presets, effects and more.

The Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 is a solid-state combo amplifier, but can simulate tube-like sound thanks to the integrated patented TransTube® technology. More than 400 presets, 26 effects, Tap Tempo function are included in the device firmware.

As already mentioned, the Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 supports a variety of amp modes, thus covering the specificity of different instruments. So, there is a whole set of preset modes for different instrument options: 7-, 8- and 12-string guitar, acoustic, sitar, electric cello, resophonic and bass guitar. There are also many modeling options.

The combo has a built-in looper that is controlled by Peavey's original Sanpera I or Sanpera II pedalboards. When using them, it is possible to turn on simultaneously up to five effects.

In this case, we have the following interfaces: universal input Aux / MP3 / CD; high quality headphone output; USB output for recording Midi, etc. Actually, the versatility of the device is determined not least by the presence of the innovative Variable Instrument Input interface.

With all the described richness of functionality, the management of Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 is quite intuitive and easy to master in the shortest possible time.

The package includes a combo amplifier, a 220V power cord, documentation, a sticker with Peavey symbols, a disc with software – the ReValver virtual guitar processor version 4 and the Reaper sequencer.

Advantages

• flagship of the series;
• The world's first universal variable-gain amp;
• rich set of hundreds of presets, effects, presets;
• using up to five effects at the same time;
• innovative technologies;
• imitation of tube sound;
• power 100W;
• LCD screen;
• many necessary interfaces;
• intuitive controls.

disadvantages

• if there are, then small ones and are lost against the background of advantages.

Bugera 333-212-INFINIUM

Rating: 4.9

And now we come to the 'same' tube sound. The fact that the 333-212-INFINIUM from Bugera is a tube can be guessed even from afar, already at its cost. It is far from being a record, but it differs from the above almost twice. And there is even a certain irony in this, since this model is essentially a clone of the Peavey 6505 amplifier, but at the same time it is cheaper than the original. Here's a tricky recursion.

So, here we are dealing with a hand-made three-channel amplifier. Its dimensions are 24.9×68.7×24.6cm, weight – 21.5kg. Two speakers, 12 inches in diameter. Amplifier power – 120W. Four 6L6 tubes for the power amp and four 12AX7s for the preamp. Three channels – Clean, Crunch, Lead and three pentode / triode modes.

Each channel has its own separate 3-band equalizer. General control is carried out by means of damper switches – High, Medium, Low. The Clean channel section has Crunch and Bright toggle buttons. The master section has an adjustable reverb. An effects loop is provided. You can connect a four-pedal footswitch (supplied).

The word INFINIUM in the name of the product is not for beauty. It implies the use of the technology of the same name in this model, according to which the state of each output lamp is continuously monitored with adjustment and adjustment 'on the fly'. All this significantly increases the life of the lamps, which are very expensive.

Among other things, INFINIUM technology saves you the trouble of manually adjusting the output stage and allows you to quickly and easily replace the lamp. Moreover, it is allowed to replace one type of lamp with another, including the simultaneous use of lamps of different types – an ideal solution for different force majeure cases. Indicators for output lamps are displayed on the panel, which immediately show the problems.

This model is associated with some overestimated expectations, which are expressed in the rare remarks of especially picky musicians, they say, the sound 'could be better'. But all this can be regarded as pure subjectivity, and it is difficult to make really substantiated serious claims to this model.

Advantages

• lamp;
• INFINIUM technology for lamp control and monitoring;
• high-quality sound;
• three channels;
• separate equalizer for each channel;
• relatively low price for a tube combo amplifier.

disadvantages

• individual complaints from musicians that they 'expected the best sound'.

VOX AC30S1

Rating: 4.8

The third number in this part of the review is an even more expensive tube solution. This is without exaggeration a legend, or rather, another embodiment of the immortal VOX AC30 series, which served as a faithful assistant to musicians back in the middle of the last century. Many of these musicians have become legends themselves.

First, about the technical characteristics. This is a fairly large combo with dimensions of 65.8×26.5x 26.5cm and a weight of 24.5kg. But a handle is attached to the top of it, which formally makes it portable. Power – 30W. One channel and one 12 '' Celestion VX12 speaker. Hall and reverb effects are provided. Built-in two-band equalizer for Bass and Treble. Four EL84 tubes and two 12AX7 preamps. There is an effects loop and digital reverb simulating the classic Spring Reverb.

The single-channel Vox AC30S1 concept is based on the unique circuitry of its legendary predecessor, the Top Boost AC30. It is characterized by a wide range of tonalities from clean to deep and juicy overdrive. The built-in digital reverb delivers studio-quality assurance. The role of the effects loop and the send / return connector is also important here, through which it is convenient to connect effects from the outside and output the signal to an external cabinet.

This model does not really shine with functionality, but the main thing in it is still not a conventional 'quantity', but still quality. Here we see the real professional level.

However, with all the outstanding qualities of this combo amplifier, buyers still note a somewhat overpriced, which, if it matches the quality, does not correspond to the functionality. There is a clear overpayment for the name.

Advantages

• lamp;
• flawless sound;
• direct heir to the legendary model of the 60s;
• Built-in studio quality digital reverb
• effects loop and send / return connector with cabinet output;
• portable.

disadvantages

• not the most favorable combination of price and functionality.

Fender blues junior iv

Rating: 4.8

The premium Blues Junior IV model from the already familiar Fender brand rounds off the expanded selection of the best combo amplifiers for guitars. This model is a representative of a whole series of combo amplifiers, adapted to specific styles. We are considering the blues option as an example, and there are different modifications in the range, including even 'Tweed'.

This is also a tube amp, made in a portable form factor. The dimensions – 25x46x41cm and the weight – only 14.1kg help him to be portable. There is one channel, one speaker – Celestion A-Type with a diameter of 12 inches. Power adjustable from 15 to 25W. There is a built-in 3-band equalizer for Treble, Middle and Bass tones. Controls include function switches and knobs Reverb, Master, Volume. Three 12AX7 tubes and two EL84 tubes. One-button footswitch included.

The Fender Blues Junior IV is actually an updated version of the Blues Junior portable tube combo amplifier, which has long been beloved by musicians, which has gone through three reincarnations before. The 4th version features a softened spring reverb sound, an improved preamp circuit and an updated design.

By the way, the design issue in this version is important, because in the previous one 'something went wrong', and the musicians were very disappointed with the external 'cheapness'. Here we see a panel with an improved texture, stylish knobs in ivory tone, the carrying handle is reinforced with steel inserts, the grille has received a silver coating with a slightly aged effect.

Improvements have affected, of course, not only and not so much the design. So, thanks to the high-quality modernization of the preamplifier circuit, the combo sounded clearer and cleaner, and at the same time richer. Engineers have changed the characteristics of the spring reverb to smooth the sound at any intensity of the effect.

Advantages

• high-quality Celestion speaker;
• crisp and clear sound;
• a number of improvements over the previous version;
• updated design;
• footswitch included.

disadvantages

• there are no fundamental flaws.

The best premium guitar amps

The final category in the magazine's review of the best combo amplifiers for guitars is a mini-selection of three very expensive devices starting at $ 2,000. This is already a technique for the pros, and if there are some limitations in the functionality, let it not mislead anyone. Premium technology differs from the usual 'medium' in that it uses materials of a higher class and quality. So with comparable functionality, the price difference between a mid-range and premium combo will be striking.

Marshall 1962-01 (Bluesbreaker)

Rating: 5.0

First, let's take a look at an interesting and highly iconic combo amplifier from Marshall. This is not a very common model, if not completely unusual. The name Bluesbreaker is the second, and its device received after and as a result of this model (its previous releases) used by none other than Eric Clapton himself as part of the Bluesbreaker group. It was back in 1966, but the combo is not outdated, but has become an immortal classic.

Let's consider briefly the main technical points. This is a 30W tube combo amplifier with a semi-open, straight cabinet type. The maximum cabinet load is up to 50W. Installed two speakers Celestion T1221 Greenback with a diameter of 12 inches each. Resistance – 8 ohms.

This model has two standard channels – clean and overload. Thanks to this configuration, the combo is suitable for high-quality transfer of various styles – from very light pop music to very progressive rock. The power here is not a record, but it is enough not only for home rehearsals or chamber performances, but even for a not too large concert hall.

A few more words about, if not the most important, then the most interesting – lamps. This model uses two ECC83 tubes in the preamplifier, one the same or two more 5881 tubes on the power supply.

From the interfaces here we see four instrument inputs, for different instruments, depending on the signal height. The effects section is represented by an analog tremolo.

The effect loop is not provided here. This could be regarded simply as a feature, not a disadvantage, but musicians are often unhappy with this circumstance.

Advantages

• lamp;
• impeccable quality of materials;
• legend model;
• clear sound;
• 4 instrumental entrances;

disadvantages

• no effect loop.

Fender 65 Twin Reverb

Rating: 4.9

Now let's take a look at a striking model from Fender. This is really something special with all the outward modesty and inconspicuousness. This amp has been rewarded in reviews with such epithets as 'the purest tube sound of all time', 'the icon of time-tested guitar sound' and the like. However, the price of about 3.5 thousand US dollars, as it were, forces him to at least not be mediocre.

What do we see here? Dimensions – 67.31×50.8×26.67cm, weight – 29kg. Classic design. Fully tube original circuitry. Power – 85W. There are two Jensen branded speakers with a diameter of 12 inches each. There are two channels. Tube vibrato and also tube mechanical spring reverb. Supplied with a 2-button footswitch.

Here it is worth adding a few explanations from the professionals to complete the picture. The first clean channel has two outputs, and the sensitivity on each of them is different – high and low. At the first stages of model development, it was planned to connect guitars with single coil pickups to the first input, and with humbuckers to the second. In fact, both types are connected to the first input.

It is absolutely not worth connecting two instruments at once, as an overload of the power supply may occur and an expensive amplifier will simply burn out. At least lamps, and maybe also a transformer.

The second channel is almost identical to the first, only it contains one more effect – the tube Vibrato, which is activated via a footswitch. Two additional knobs change the depth and speed of the effect, thereby directly affecting the final sound.

A few more words about the speakers. It uses Jensen speakers, which have earned a place on the musical and instrumental Olympus for quite some time. This is one of the most important elements of the Fender '65 Twin Reverb's sound character. But real audiophiles will say that when buying a new combo, the speakers can “sand” for some time at high frequencies, after which they are developed and give the very sound for which they are appreciated.

Advantages

• lamp;
• impeccable quality;
• a pair of Jensen branded speakers;
• “guitar sound icon”;
• functionality;
• professional level;
• 2-button footswitch included.

disadvantages

• exorbitant price.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.