In most acoustic guitar amplification scenarios, the signal will be sent into a D.I. box and then out to the house sound or recording system. While this method is simple and tried-and-true, you might want to explore the different sounds that acoustic guitar amps provide.
With an acoustic guitar amp, you can expand your sound by adding effects and microphone modeling, as well as being able to amplify your direct signal, a microphone, or even vocals.
Whether you’re busking on the street, doing a set at the coffeeshop around the corner, or wanting to get adventurous in the studio here are some of the best acoustic guitar amps available today.
Best acoustic guitar amp overall: Mesa Boogie Rosette One:Ten
Like most Mesa Boogie amps, this is an absolute monster. It packs 300W into a combo amp with a single 10” speaker. It has two channels, so you can also run vocals through it.
The midrange portion of the EQ section is semi-parametric and each channel has additional high-pass filtering.
It also has onboard reverb and FX loops with control over the send level. The three D.I. outputs open up all kinds of routing and recording options. All of this comes in a package that weighs less than 30lbs.
Runner-up best acoustic guitar amp: Fender Acoustic 100
This isn’t the priciest or sexiest option, but Fender’s Acoustic 100 is sleek and simple. Dual combination inputs accept guitar or microphone cables. There are a ton of great effects included reverbs, delays, and modulation. And a built-in tuner adds convenience.
It’s not small, but the vintage aesthetic is very cool, and at 100W, the single 8” speaker might not produce as much low end as a larger options, but it can fill even the most cavernous concert halls.
Best stereo acoustic guitar amp: AER Domino 3
Stereo guitar amps have a sound all their own. Since most players will use an acoustic amp in solo sets, being able to project a doubled guitar sound naturally makes sense to fill out the soundscape.
There are four inputs and dual independent effects units with 16 presets each. Through the app you can change up sound parameters and save them. Each of the power amps pushing an immense 100 watts into the 8″ twin cone speakers.
It works equally well with magnetic sound hole or piezo pickups. A line out lets you DI to a mixer or interface, there’s an onboard tuner, phantom power, and 3-band EQ for each channel.
It’s not just an acoustic guitar amp, it also functions as a PA system. This all-in-one unit is top of the line, but will be far out of the price range of most players. It retails for $3,500!
But if you have the spend and are looking for a powerful amp/PA hybrid this is a total diamond.
Best mid-priced acoustic guitar amp: BOSS Acoustic Singer Live LT
Each channel of this convenient solution has an individual 3-band EQ, reverb, and rotary selection of effects like chorus, echo, and delay. The cabinet can tilt back for increased projection, and it has direct and USB outputs.
BOSS has figured out how to pack 60W of power into an extremely useful and portable design. If you are in need of an all-in-one gigging solution the Acoustic Singer Live LT should be on your radar.
Best amp/P.A. acoustic guitar amp: Marshall AS50D
This hybrid from Marshall has two channels – one for guitar and one for vocals. Each has independent EQ, chorus, and reverb. The mic channel has phantom power, so you can run condenser microphones into it.
The onboard FX loop and a DI and line outputs make it useful for all types of gigs. RCA inputs let you even run playback through it. For the gigging guitarist this 50W acoustic amp with dual 8″ speakers is a great pairing for smaller shows.
Best acoustic guitar amp for playing live: Acoustic A1000
Sometimes you want to take your acoustic sound to the stage and be able to hang in a dense, full band mix without going direct. Acoustic’s A1000 is the perfect choice.
100W of solid-state power pumps through two 8″ coaxial speakers. Dual combination inputs allows you to use either for line or microphone instruments meaning you can use it for guitars, vocals, even keyboards and digital pianos (watch that low end though!).
Each channel has 3-band EQ with sweepable mids and digital FX. Polish your sounds with delay, chorus, reverb, or flange. And with 20 preset and user patches you have instant recall so you won’t have to dial your sounds in every time.
Best acoustic guitar amp for recording: Yamaha THR5A
Acoustic modeling isn’t very common when it comes to acoustic amps, which makes this entry from Yamaha all the more unique. It provides a clean modeling amp platform and includes a host of condenser and dynamic microphone simulations. Also included is a host of effects and a tuner.
It’s compact, easy to dial in, and can really push the envelope when it comes to creating new acoustic sounds. It comes with its own editing software, but unfortunately some of the effects are only accessible through it.
Best acoustic guitar amp for $100: Fender Acoustasonic 15
If you are looking for a versatile option that costs next to nothing, this 15W entry from Fender’s Acoustasonic line is a solid choice. It comes with two channels, chorus, headphone out, and 3-band EQ.
If you’re looking to hang in a full band mix it’s probably too under-powered unless you’re micing it. But where it shines is for small gigs, recording sessions, or just practicing at home.
Best acoustic bass guitar amp: Acoustic B100C
Acoustic bass guitars aren’t nearly as popular as their six-string counterparts, but they certainly have their place. And players that use them deserve a solid amp to pair them with.
The ACB100C blasts out 100 watts of volume through a 12″ speaker that accurately reproduces the low end and low midrange where bass guitar lives. Its 4-band EQ features a notch control to get the midrange focus point to taste, and there’s an overdrive circuit with blend control for parallel processing.
As for I/O, there’s an effects loop, XLR direct out with level control and pre/post EQ selection switch, and 1/8″ auxiliary and headphone outputs.
This is an amp for bass players that need a small, reliable, and affordable combo that can be a go-to in a number of situations.
FAQ
What is an acoustic guitar amp, and how is it different from an electric guitar amp?
Unlike electric guitar amps, acoustic amps are designed to fully replicate the sound of the guitar. This means they provide a clean, transparent platform for you to build on and generally don’t introduce any extra “mojo”.
While it’s entirely possible to get a great electric sound by using a nice amp with a guitar made from a countertop, acoustic guitar amps respond very differently in their relationship with the guitar.
Feedback is the worst enemy of an acoustic guitarist, and if you add in an amplifier, things can get out of control quickly. Luckily, many acoustic amps come with ways to combat feedback.
These include phase, filtering, or altogether noise reduction. These features go a long in keeping things under control but remember proper sound techniques are still critical.
Are acoustic guitar amps worth it?
Yes. They generally offer additional features like on-board effects and have a preamp that’s designed to work with acoustic/electric pickups. If you prefer to have your sound coming from an amp on stage instead of going direct and hearing it through monitors they are a great addition to your acoustic guitar setup.
Do you need a special amp for acoustic guitars?
Technically – no. But acoustic guitar amp circuitry is tailor-made to handle the electronic differences between acoustic and electric guitars. They are made to respond to piezo pickups as well as magnetic soundhole pickups.
What size amp do I need for an acoustic guitar?
There is no size requirement. But the same concept applies as it does to electric guitar amps. Higher wattage and larger speakers produce more sound. Consider your needs when shopping around and that will help you narrow down your options.
Can I use a regular guitar amp for an acoustic guitar?
Yes, but acoustic amps are designed specifically to function with acoustic guitars. You won’t do any damage to a regular amp by running an acoustic into it, but the circuitry is different and you probably won’t find the sound you’re looking for. But you can get interesting sounds with this combo, just be cautious of feedback!
Why Use an Acoustic Guitar Amp?
So, what’s the advantage to using an acoustic amp? For starters, it puts control of the sound more in the hands of the player. They are great for smaller gigs where there might be an underpowered sound system – if there is one at all. And if there’s not, you can run a vocal into the amp.
They’re also very convenient and portable for smaller gigs. Beyond that, they really do provide a sound all their own – which you may or may not like.
Do acoustic guitar amps have effects?
Pedals are becoming increasingly popular in the acoustic world, and many acoustic amps now come with onboard effects – or at the very least reverb. These let you expand your tonal options without having to lug around additional gear.
