The Donner DGA-1 is a portable acoustic amp that gives you a number of good features for literally a fraction of the cost, compared to similarly spec'ed alternatives.

For the price you are getting a 15W combo amp with a 6.5" speaker, that has 2 channels with dedicated inputs for instrument and mic (XLR). Each of the two channels have dedicated volume knobs, making it a good mini-PA system for guitarists who sing.

The guitar channel comes with 3-band EQ for some tone shaping, albeit with limited bass response given its small 6.5" speaker. It also comes with a chorus effect, which you can engage via a button, with a knob that controls modulation speed.

Features

• Two Channel 15W with Mic Input
• Compact Profile 6.5" Speaker
• Built-in Chorus

Specifications

• Power Rating: 15 Watts
• Amplifier Type: Solid State
• Channels: 2
• Master Volume: None
• Inputs: 1/4", XLR
• Outputs: 1/4" (Headphones)
• Controls: Ch1 Volume, Ch2 Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble, Chorus, Chorus Speed
• Speakers: 1 x 6.5"
• Weight: 10 lbs
• Dimensions: 13" x 7" x 10"

Pros

Being the cheapest acoustic amp to make it into this guide, value for money is its obvious edge. For the price, you are getting a 2-channel amp that can handle a mic and an instrument. Some were even surprised that it doesn't look and feel cheap, given its low price. Many are satisfied with how it sounds, which is described as clean and clear. The addition of chorus effect on the instrument channel is also well received by users.

Cons

Given its 15W amp, it won't have much volume. Some users caution this amp is not meant to be driven hard, you may want to look at higher wattage amps if you need one that can go loud.

Overall

If you're looking for a budget-friendly and compact acoustic amp with 2-channel capabilities, then this is for you.

The Fender Acoustic 100 is an acoustic amp that combines great sounds with premium looks.

And it's not just about looking sleek because this amp packs quite the punch at 100W, driving an 8" full-range woofer with "whizzer" cone. This Whizzer cone provides increased high frequency response, much like a tweeter, but without taking as much space.

This amp has 2 channels for handling an acoustic guitar and a microphone simultaneously.

And contrasting its classic furniture like appeal, it features modern enhancements which include Bluetooth connectivity, USB output for direct recording, and built-in digital effects which include different reverb, delay and chorus types.

Features

• Full Range Speaker: 8" Whizzer Cone
• Dual Channel with 3-Band EQ
• Built-in Effects: Chorus, Reverb, Delay, Tape Echo, Vibratone
• USB and Bluetooth Connectivity
• XLR DI Stereo Out
• Plywood shell

Specifications

• Power Rating: 100 Watts
• Amplifier Type: Solid State
• Channels: 2
• Master Volume: Yes
• Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/instrument), 1 x 1/8" (aux)
• Outputs: 2 x XLR (line out), 1 x 1/8" Headphones,
• Controls: Volume, 3-Band EQ, FX Level, FX Select and Phase (Per Channel)
• Speakers: 1 x 8" speaker with whizzer cone
• Weight: 17.6 lbs
• Dimensions: 14" x 18.5" x 9.25"

Pros

Sound quality is the obvious strong suit of this amp, with plenty of kudos from reviewers that use different acoustic guitar types and other acoustic instruments. Many are pleased at how natural sounding the amp is, including Mixdown Mag, which stated in their review: "While it is essentially a digital signal processor, the one thing that I noticed upon plugging in is that it does not reduce the natural colour and charisma of your favourite wooden box." Musicians who sing appreciate how this amp reproduces the sound of their voice. Modern conveniences like built-in effects and Bluetooth also get a lot of positive responses.

Cons

There are some who feel that the actual projection of this amp is not as loud as they expected for a 100W amp. There are also a few who are not too happy with some of the built-in effects.

Overall

The Fender Acoustic 100 is ideal for those who want a good looking and versatile modern acoustic amp.

At publication time this was the Highest Rated Acoustic Amp from $500 to $1000.

Marshall is known as the backline of many rock guitarists, but they are in no way limited to that, as evidenced by the popularity and high ratings of the AS50D, a 50 watt 2-channel amp that serves both as an acoustic amp and a small PA system.

At 50W and with two 8" Celestion speakers, this amp is more than enough for smaller venues. You can still use it in larger venues as your stage monitor, and send either the line out, or preferably the balanced DI signal, directly to your mixer.

The inclusion of phantom power on the XLR mic input means you can use condenser microphones in addition to dynamic mics. It also comes with acoustic guitar friendly effects that include chorus, reverb and anti-feedback controls.

Features

• 2 Channels
• XLR Mic Input w/ Phantom Power
• Feedback Notch Filter
• Line Out & DI Output
• Footswitch Input
• Effects Loop
• Built in Reverb & Chorus

Specifications

• Power Rating: 50 Watts
• Amplifier Type: Solid State
• Channels: 2
• Master Volume: Yes
• Inputs: 2 guitar inputs + XLR & Aux
• Outputs: Line out + Balanced DI
• Controls: Input volume, Master volume, Bass & Treble (both channels), Speed, Depth, Balance, Reverb Level, Anti feedback frequency
• Speakers: 2 x 8" Celestion 25W, 1 x Tweeter
• Weight: 35.3 lbs
• Dimensions: 21.65" x 16.34" x 10.04"

Pros

It's difficult to say which aspect of this amp got the most positive comments in customer reviews because everything from its tone to how well it performs when putting guitar and vocals through it simultaneously, and of course the value for money, are constantly praised in owner reviews. Both steel string and nylon string players love this amp. There are reports of the amp working well in small to medium size venues, as well as in church sanctuaries. It's also worth noting that the AS50D was released back in 2007, but it can still outperform more recent releases.

Cons

The second channel is a bit of a mess as it awkwardly combines the second Mic input with the RCA auxiliary input using a single volume control. Some users have had issues with not being able to make the aux loud enough compared to the other inputs. Also note that this amp is a bit on the heavy side.

Overall

With its big brand backing, impressive specs, and great overall feedback, the Marshall AS50D is well worth checking out.

The Loudbox Artist BT has 120 Watts of power along with a 1 x 8" woofer and 1 x 1" tweeter, which add up to give this amp more than enough volume for most medium sized venues.

And this iteration improves on its predecessor by adding Bluetooth streaming functionality, while retaining Fishman's signature crisp and clear tones.

Much like most acoustic amps, it follows a 2-channel format, the main difference being the addition of a 24V phantom power, which allows it to work with condenser microphones. This feature expands your miking options and allows for improved miking of various acoustic instruments.

Finally, the Loudbox Artist BT comes packed with various effects, including different types of reverb and delay, along with chorus and flanger.

Features

• Full Range Speaker: 8" Woofer and 1" Tweeter
• Dual Channel with 3-Band EQ, Anti-Feedback, Phase
• Built-in Effects: Chorus, Reverb, Delay, Flanger
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• 24-volt Phantom Power for Condenser Mics
• XLR DI Out and Effects Loop

Specifications

• Power Rating: 120 Watts
• Amplifier Type: Solid State
• Channels: 2
• Master Volume: Yes
• Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/instrument), 1 x 1/4" (aux), 1 x 1/8" (aux)
• Outputs: 1 x XLR (mix DI out), 2 x XLR (pre-EQ DI out)
• Controls: Gain, Low, Mid, High, Anti-Feedback, Effect Level, Effect, Pad, Phase, Effect B - Per Channel. Master, Effect A Type, Effect B Type, Time, Depth, Aux Level, 24V Phantom, Bluetooth Pairing, Tweeter, Mute
• Speakers: 1 x 8" woofer, 1 x 1" soft dome tweeter
• Weight: 25.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 13.5" x 15.5" x 11.5"

Pros

Most of the high ratings that this amp receives are from gigging musicians, from guitarists, to singer songwriters, and even duos. And most, if not all of them, agree that the Loudbox Artist BT sounds really good for both vocals and acoustic-electric guitars. The ability to use condenser mics is also appreciated, especially for those who already have a condenser mic in their tool kit. It also surprises many users with its output volume, which can get really loud.

Cons

Speaking of being loud, some users caution that setting the amp too loud is not a good idea, as it can reduce the clarity of the sound and even worry some that it may damage the amp itself when cranked for too long. There are some who aren't impressed with included effects.

Overall

This gives you Fishman quality acoustic amplification at 120W, with the ability to power condenser mics.

AER is well known among acoustic guitar instrumentalists for its combination of portability and good quality tone, they also have virtuosos like Tommy Emmanuel to thank for their popularity.

The Compact 60/4 is one of their best seller acoustic amps, featuring a 2-channel 60 Watt amplifier with built-in effects and DI output.

The effects section has 3 knobs which lets you control pan, level, and select rotary switch that lets you choose from 2 different reverb types, delay and chorus.

At the back you'll see its myriad of input and output options, including a stage friendly DI output and an Aux input with level control.

Features

• 2 Channel
• Compact Cabinet with 8" Speaker
• Color switch (Cuts off Mid Range and Boosts Highs)
• Built-in Reverb, Delay, Chorus
• Multiple Input and Output options

Specifications

• Power Rating: 60 Watts
• Amplifier Type: Solid State
• Channels: 2
• Master Volume: Yes
• Inputs: x 1/4" Guitar Input, 1 x Combo XLR Mic/Line, 1 x 1/8" Aux In
• Outputs: 1 x 1/4" Headphones, 1 x 1/4" Line Out, 2 x 1/4" Send/Return, 1 x 1/4" Tuner, 1 x 1/4" Footswitch, 1 x XLR DI Out
• Controls: Per Channel (Gain), Effects (Pan, Select, Level), 3-Band EQ CH1, High/Low Switch CH1, Color Button CH1, 2-Band EQ CH2, Line/Mic Button CH2
• Speakers: 8”
• Weight: 15.6 lbs
• Dimensions:10.2” x 12.8” x 9.25”

Pros

Having a good sounding amp in a small package is every guitarist's dream, and based on reviews - this is exactly what the AER Compact 60/4 delivers. Matt Blackett of Acoustic Guitar Magazine agrees with what most reviewers say, describing his experience, he said: "I plugged in every acoustic-electric I could get my hands on, cranked up the amp, and was very impressed with the results. The Compact 60 is indeed compact and lightweight, but it sounds much bigger than it looks." Even those who rate the amp slightly lower are impressed with its projection given its compact size. Some users describe the sound as high fidelity, and it especially brings out the sound of high-end acoustics. Owners report it working well with various acoustics from Taylor, Gibson, Martin, Collings and more.

Cons

Lack of anti-feedback control is mentioned by a few users. There are also some who feel that the price is a bit too steep, especially when compared to cheaper amps with higher power ratings. Some wish for modern features like built-in rechargeable battery, USB and Bluetooth connectivity.

Overall

If you're looking for a premium sounding portable amp that even pros rely on, and you have the resources to invest, then check out the AER Compact 60/4.