Gearank

NB: This has been superseded by the Fishman Loudbox Artist BT.

Like its bigger sibling Loudbox Performer, the 120-Watt 2-Channel Loudbox Artist is bi-amplified with completely independent channels.

Actually, you can get it to work as a 3-channel amp by using the Aux input in the back as explained in the video below.

The main differences between this and the Loudbox Performer are the power rating and having a 2-way speaker system instead of 3-way.

The Decemberists' bassist Nate Query is one of the notable artists that use a Loudbox Artist amp, for his upright bass.

Features

• 2 Channels
• Independent effects loop for each channel
• Independent feedback controls for each channel
• 120 watts
• Bi-amplified
• Built-in effects including Reverb, Chorus, Flanger, Delay, Echo, and Slap Echo
• Balanced XLR D.I. outputs on each channel and main mix
• 24V phantom power

Specifications

• Power Rating: 120 Watts
• Amplifier Type: Solid State
• Channels: 2
• Master Volume: Yes
• Inputs: Both channels- 1/4”/XLR combo with 10 dB pad; Rear panel stereo 1/4" & 1/8" AUX ins, 1 x 1/4" footswitch
• Outputs: 1 x 1/4" headphone jack, 2 x channel XLR DI out, 1 x mix XLR DI out
• Controls: 2 x Gain, Low, Mid, High, Anti-Feedback, Phase switch, Effects selector; Effects levels and controls, AUX level and Master Volume
• Speakers: 8” woofer and 1” tweeter
• Weight: 25.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 13.5” x 15.5” x 11.5”

Pros

Just like the Loudbox Performer, many customer reviewers say this is the best acoustic guitar amp they've owned - a common citation was that this is the most 'natural' sounding amp they've had. Many owners say this is loud enough for mid-sized venues without having to use the DI outs to a PA. The sound was applauded with respect to both guitar and vocals.

Gayla Drake, in her Premier Guitar review gave the following verdict, "For a small-to-medium room where people shut up and listen, the Loudbox Artist is fantastic amp. As a DI out to a house sound system it works spectacularly as well, because it’s a great stage monitor. If you love portability, can use a little extra power and useful built-in effects, and like the versatility the Loudbox Artist is a great place to start your amp search—it’s good enough that it might just end there too". You can watch her video review below.

Cons

The only consistent negative, which was reported by a small number of people, is that the coating on the outside of the amp damages easily and eventually begins to peel off - something to watch out for if you're buying one second hand.

Overall

With its consistently high ratings and reviews, the Fishman Loudbox Artist was an easy recommendation, but it has now been replaced by the Fishman Loudbox Artist BT which we now recommend instead.