Gearank

If you’re looking for a compact practice amp, it really is hard to beat the Roland Micro Cube GX.

This amp comes loaded with a model for every situation, and weighs in at just six pounds.

This small and lightweight amp features a 2W amplifier section that drives a 5" speaker, so don't expect it to be loud, but it does have enough volume for solo practice.

And since it can run on batteries, you can use it virtually anywhere, making it a great mobile amplifier for guitarists who are always on the go.

It also helps that it comes packed with DSP features which include 8 COSM amp models, and 8 COSM effects, which allow for a wide variety tones.

It also comes with modulation effects (though to get different distortion profiles you will have to switch between amp voicings).

The controls on the amp are as follows: amp type, effect, delay/reverb, tuner, gain, volume, tone, and master volume.

The modulation effects on the amp and its clean channels are surprisingly good for its price.

The Roland Micro Cube GX comes with an AUX-In, headphone line-out, and an emulated line-out for recording.

Specifications:

• Power Rating: 3-Watts
• Speaker Size: 5”
• Models: Acoustic, Jazz Chorus, Black Face Fender, Vox AC, Marshall, Mesa Boogie, Mic, Extreme
• Effects: Distortion, Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Tremolo, Octave, Delay, Reverb
• Controls: Gain, Volume, Tone, EFX, Delay/Reverb, Master Volume
• Input/Output: AUX-In, Headphone/Line-Out
• Extras: N/A
• Weight: 6lbs

Pros
The most common positive comment are from users are who are surprised at how loud this amp can be, given its size. Coming in close second are good remarks about the quality of its built in effects, especially its modulation effects. There are also plenty of kudos that point to the Roland Micro Cube GX' reliability and longevity. Paul White from Sound On Sound said, "For busking, garden jams or open mic nights, the MicroCube GX delivers the goods in style".

Cons
Unfortunately, the tone of the Micro Cube GX does suffer from the amp’s size. At just 5” the speaker is a bit too small to produce a tone with much depth. This may or may not be a deal breaker, depending on whether tone or portability is more important to you. Roland's 'Cube Jam' iOS app felt unintuitive for many users and has a low rating on the app store, however this is only an add-on and not required for the amp's general operation.

Overall
If you're looking for a long term practice amplifier with good enough flexibility in the sub $200 price range, then this is highly recommended. Get the Roland Micro Cube GX if you're looking for a portable companion for your electric or acoustic-electric guitar.

Unfortunately this has been discontinued, so for alternatives see our guides to Guitar Amps Under $200 and Battery Powered Guitar Amps.