The best solid state amp delivers that sweet spot of practicality and performance: consistent tone, clean headroom, and rock-solid reliability without the weight or fragility of a tube rig.
Under $500 - Regular Solid State | Under $500 - Regular Solid State Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
95 | 1400+ | ||||
95 | 1325+ |
Under $500 - Solid State With Amp Modeling | Under $500 - Solid State With Amp Modeling Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
96 | 4625+ | ||||
95 | 1700+ |
$500 to $1500 - Regular Solid State | $500 to $1500 - Regular Solid State Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
96 | 500+ | ||||
96 | 450+ |
$500 to $1500 - Solid State with Amp Modeling | $500 to $1500 - Solid State with Amp Modeling Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
91 | 600+ | ||||
89 | 45+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
I’ve lost count of the times I’ve walked into a rainy Monday rehearsal, plugged in, and heard the exact same tone I dialed in during Saturday night’s gig. That kind of dependability is what keeps me coming back to solid-state gear.
Tube amps will always have their unique feel and undeniable charm, but they’re not always the most practical tools for the job. Solid-state amps, on the other hand, are lighter, more reliable, and won’t eat into your budget with constant upkeep. They’re the workhorses that don’t complain, making them my go-to for both home practice and gigging.
If you want crystal-clear tones that hold up as pedal platforms, solid-state amps excel. Even when cranked, they maintain clarity with minimal natural distortion, though this means they don’t quite have the harmonic “glow” of tubes. Still, many legendary players swear by them. Think BB King with his Lab Series L-5, Andy Summers and Johnny Marr on their Roland JC-120s, Johnny Greenwood with his Fender Eighty-Five, and even Metallica using JC-120s for those glassy cleans.
In this guide, I’ve pulled together my experience and research to help you choose from the best solid state amps available today. Whether you’re after your first reliable gigging amp or upgrading your practice setup, you’ll find detailed breakdowns of each model, including specs, pricing, and links to warranty and support. If you’re hunting for the best solid state guitar amp, or even comparing across the best solid state guitar amps for different styles and budgets, this guide will point you in the right direction.
Best Solid State Amps under $500
Orange amps’ streamlined solid-state amps continue to stand out with excellent reviews. Take the Orange Crush 20, for example. A combo amp that packs 20W of old school transistor tech driven amp section, and an 8″ speaker in its unmistakable Orange casing.
Looks aside, the Crush 20 is celebrated for its top-notch sound, thanks to a solid-state 4-stage preamp. Equipped with an optional footswitch, this compact solid-state amp effortlessly toggles between clean and dirty tones.
The Crush 20 is great for rock and metal. Despite its small size, it can produce a relatively saturated sound that is ideal for rock tones.
Understandably, due to its smaller size, it lacks the typical bass response desired for a metal sound. However, it is surprisingly dynamic for a heavily saturated amp, allowing the notes to shine through.
It also features a 3-band EQ and dedicated knobs for gain and volume on each channel. Plus, the Crush 20 includes Orange’s CabSim circuit, mimicking a 4×12″ cabinet through its line/headphone output.
With its striking appearance and impressive sound quality, this budget-friendly amp is a must-have addition to your setup.
- Power Rating: 20-Watts
- Speaker Size: 8”
- Channels: 2
- Controls: Clean/Dirty Switch, Dirty, Treble, Middle, Bass, Gain, Clean
- Amp Models: None
- Effects: None
- Inputs/Outputs: 1 x 1/4″, 1 x 1/8″ (Aux), 1 x 1/4″ (Headphones)
- Dimensions: 12.8″ x 14.67″ x 7.75″
- Weight: 15.8 lbs
The Orange Crush 35RT is a 35-watt combo amp highly praised by many guitarists. It features a built-in solid-state reverb pan and tuner—hence the “RT” in its name.
Its powerful 4-stage preamp delivers tones that resonate, especially at higher volumes. Highlighting clean and dirty channels, its standout feature is the gritty, dynamic output of the dirty channel.
This amp is housed in Orange’s signature picture frame cabinet, complete with a resonant 10″ speaker. It is equipped with straightforward EQ controls, volume, and gain knobs for tone shaping.
If bright orange isn’t your style, you can opt for the sleek black cabinet. Note this amp lacks a speaker cab output, so you’re quite confined by the amp’s volume capabilities.
It’s not loud enough for gigs with drums, but it can be a great companion for your home practice.
So, if you’re seeking an affordable amp with a robust, rock-friendly tone, the Orange Crush 35RT stands as a dependable choice. It delivers the raw power and clarity synonymous with the Orange brand.
- Power Rating: 35-Watts
- Speaker Size: 10”
- Channels: 2
- Controls: Clean/Dirty Switch, Dirty, Treble, Middle, Bass, Gain, Clean, Reverb, Tuner
- Amp Models: None
- Effects: Reverb
- Inputs/Outputs: 1 x 1/4″, 1 x 1/8″ (Aux), 1 x 1/4″ (Headphones)
- Dimensions: 12.8″ x 14.67″ x 7.75″
- Weight: 15.9 lbs
Best Solid State Amps Under $500 with Amp Modeling
The Fender Mustang LT25 packs Fender’s renowned Mustang amp modeling technology into one device. This affordable combo amp has a compact 1 x 8″ speaker that delivers 25 Watts of power.
It’s a digital solid-state amp with 20 distinct amp models, and 25 effects that are effortlessly blendable and saved across 50 presets.
The LT25 comes with a user-friendly interface designed for beginners. You have a selection of tones, from pristine, clean tones to gritty mid-crunch or searing high gain.
Beyond its tonal versatility, the Mustang LT25 features USB recording and intuitive software control. It has essentials like headphone output for silent practice sessions as well as a built-in tuner.
With its build quality, accessible price, and modern features, the Fender Mustang LT25 stands out as a top choice. If you’re seeking a compact amp that doesn’t compromise on sound or functionality, this amp is for you.
- Power Rating: 25-Watts
- Speaker Size: 8”
- Channels: 1
- Controls: Gain, Volume, Treble, Bass, Master, Preset, Back, Save, Menu, Tap
- Amp Models: 20
- Effects: 25 (Modulation, Reverb, Delay)
- Inputs/Outputs: 1 x 1/4″, 1 x 1/8″ (Aux), 1 x 1/8″ (Headphones)
- Dimensions: 14.5″ x 16.8″ x 11.9″
- Weight: 14.9 lbs
The Boss Katana 100 features expanded amp modeling capabilities. With versatile amp models and a variation switch that further extends the available amp voicings.
An impressive aspect of the Katana 100 is its power attenuation feature. This allows guitarists to dial in cranked tones at lower volumes, from 50W down to just half a watt, ensuring dynamic performance in any setting.
Equipped with a robust 12″ speaker, the Katana 100 amp offers a plethora of built-in digital guitar amp effects. This includes a wide selection of Boss effects that can be layered up to 5 at once.
They also incorporate Boss’ Tube Logic technology, which is improved for the current Katana Gen 3 series. This allows Katana amps to deliver authentic tube-like tones for a rich, responsive sound.
This amp also enables you to fine-tune amp models and effects. With the Boss Tone Studio Editor, you can update this amp to suit your preferences and playing style.
Other improvements introduced in this 3rd iteration include a new “Pushed” amp voicing for “edge of breakup” tones, a contour switch, and the use of USB C.
While mastering all its features may take some time, users appreciate its durability and the genuine tube-like tones it produces.
Its adaptability, volume, and tone settings make the Boss Katana-100 a dependable choice. This versatile amp meets both your creative and practical needs.
- Power: 100W with Power Attenuation (50W, 0.5W)
- Speaker: 1 x 12″
- Amp Modeling: Clean, Crunch, Lead, Brown, Pushed, Acoustic
- Effects: Over 60 Boss Effects
- Input: 1 x 1/4″ (Guitar), 1 x 1/4″ (Power Amp), 1 x 1/8″ (Aux)
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″ (Line), 1 x 1/4″ (Headphones/Rec)
- Weight: 32.68 lbs.
Best Solid State Amps Under $1500
The Fender Tone Master Deluxe Reverb reimagines the classic all-tube Deluxe Reverb amp with a modern solid-state design.
This amp emphasizes simplicity over feature overload. Unlike the feature-rich Fender Mustang series, the Deluxe Reverb is focused on capturing the essence of its tube predecessor.
It excels at digitally replicating the beloved sonic qualities of Fender’s iconic tube sound. Avoiding multiple amp models and built-in effects. This choice has garnered widespread acclaim among users.
Rated at 100 watts and equipped with a 12″ Jensen N12K neodymium speaker, it matches the sound pressure level of a 22-watt Deluxe tube amp. It does this while offering the flexibility of a built-in power attenuator, which you can dial down to a whisper-quiet 0.2 watt.
Its lightweight construction sets it apart from traditional tube amps. Yet, it retains the dependable versatility that Fender is known for, delivering the sought-after clean tube tone in a solid-state format.
The Fender Tone Master Deluxe Reverb is highly recommended. This is the best combo amp to get if you’re seeking authentic Fender tube sound with modern reliability and portability.
- Power Rating: 100 Watts (22W, 12W, 5W, 1W, 0.5W, 0.2W Selectable)
- Speaker: 1 x 12″ Jensen N12K
- Channels: 2 (Normal/Vibrato)
- Controls: Volume (Ch1), Treble (Ch1), Bass (Ch1), Volume (Ch2), Treble (Ch2), Bass (Ch2), Reverb, Speed, Intensity, Output Power, Cabinet Sim, Balanced Line Out, Ground/Lift
- Amp Models: 1 (Deluxe Reverb)
- Effects: Reverb, Tremolo
- Input: 2 x 1/4″ Normal, 2 x 1/4″ Vibrato
- Output: 1 x XLR (DI out)
- Extras: Power Attenuation, 2-Button Footswitch (Included), Solid Pinewood Cabinet
- Dimensions: 17″ x 24.1″ x 9.28″
- Weight: 23 lbs.
The JC-120 stands as the flagship of the legendary amp series from Roland-Jazz Chorus series, maintaining its popularity since its debut in 1975.
While its premium price tag may give pause, enthusiasts willingly invest in its renowned quality.
This combo amp delivers robust 120-watt through dual 12″ speakers and ensures ample volume for most venue’s demands. Meanwhile, it faithfully reproduces its signature crystal-clear, clean tones.
This pristine, clean sound is what many users gravitate to. However, for added versatility, it includes a dedicated channel with built-in distortion.
Additional features like stereo inputs, independent 3-band EQ per channel, integrated reverb and chorus effects, and dedicated footswitch ports further enhance its functionality.
If you seek a reliable, stage-ready solid-state amplifier renowned for its exceptional clean tones, the Roland JC-120 deserves serious consideration.
- Power Rating: 120 Watts (2 x 60W)
- Speaker: 2 x 12″
- Channels: 2
- Controls: Ch1: Bright Switch, Volume, Treble, Middle, Bass – Ch2: Bright Switch, Volume, Treble, Middle, Bass, Distortion, Reverb, Speed, Depth, Vib/Chorus, Effect Loop Level, Effect Loop Type
- Amp Models: None
- Effects: Stereo Chorus, Spring Reverb, Vibrato, Distortion
- Input: 1 x 1/4″
- Output: 2 x 1/4″ (R/L Lineout)
- Extras: Effects Loop with level and series/parallel switches, Chorus and Vibrato effects, Casters included
- Dimensions: 24.49″ x 29.92″ x 11″
- Weight: 61.73 lbs.
Best Solid State Amps Under $1500 with Amp Moeling
I’ve spent a lot of time with modeling amps over the years, and the Fender Mustang GTX 100 feels like Fender finally nailed what a modern all-in-one amp should be.
It’s got that familiar Mustang DNA, but with way better tone shaping, a cleaner interface, and a Celestion speaker that gives it more body and punch than the older GT models.
The amp packs 100 watts of Class D power, so it’s loud enough for rehearsals and even small gigs, but what really sold me was the amp and effects library. With over 40 amp models and 200 effects, I can go from spanky clean to saturated high gain without feeling like I’m fighting the digital side of things.
The color LCD and updated controls make dialing in tones a breeze, and pairing it with the Fender Tone 3.0 app means I can tweak patches on my phone mid-set.
I also appreciate the Bluetooth audio streaming for quick jam sessions and the Wi-Fi updates, which keep the amp feeling fresh with new features. Add in the GTX-7 footswitch for live use, and it’s clear Fender designed this with gigging in mind.
It still doesn’t quite replace the feel of a good tube amp, but for an all-around workhorse, it’s hard to beat.
- Power: 100W
- Speaker: 1 x 12″ Celestion G12P-80
- Amp Modeling: 40 Amp Models
- Effects: Variations of Overdrive, Fuzz, Delay, Modulation, Pitch Shift
- Input: 1 x 1/4″ (Instrument), 1 x 1/8″ (Aux in)
- Outputs: 2 x XLR (Line Out)
- Connectivity: USB, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- Weight: 22 lbs.
The Boss Nextone Artist redefines what a solid state amp can offer, making it one of the best solid state amps in its price range.
With 80 watts of power and Tube Logic technology, it delivers the dynamic response and feel of a tube amp without the bulk and maintenance. You can even tweak the amp’s circuit characteristics—such as EL84 or 6L6 voicings—through its Nextone Editor software, giving you unparalleled control over your tone.
This amp is designed for professional players who demand versatility and premium sound in a rugged, stage-ready combo.
What makes the Nextone Artist stand out is its user-focused design. The onboard EQ and effects loop let you shape your sound further, while the variable power control makes it just as suitable for bedroom practice as it is for live performances.
With a lightweight build and premium tonal options, it’s a top choice if you want flexibility without compromise.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Solid State Amps
Power Rating and Volume
Getting the right power rating for your needs is crucial. I’ve had practice amps that were way too loud for my room and gigging amps that ran out of headroom on stage. Many modern amps now include power attenuation, letting you bring a big rig down to bedroom levels while still enjoying those cranked tones.
Tube amps tend to sound louder than solid state at the same rating because tubes can be pushed harder and clip more musically, while solid state clipping tends to be harsher. Speaker efficiency and component quality also affect volume. High‑end solid state guitar amps close the gap, so differences aren’t dramatic anymore. For medium to large gigs, I’d go with at least 100 watts to keep clean headroom without straining the amp.
Tone
Because solid state tech is more affordable, many entry‑level amps use it, which gave them an undeserved reputation for poor tone. In reality, plenty of pros rely on them.
If you compared two identical amps, one solid state and one tube, the solid state would feel quicker and more articulate, while the tube would offer warmer overtones and a more organic character. Tube amps generally handle distortion better, but if most of your gain comes from pedals, a solid state amp can sound just as good. I often run my favorite overdrive pedal into a solid state rig for tight, focused tones.
Speaker Size
Speaker size shapes an amp’s voice. Smaller speakers (6–10″) lean bright and clear, bigger ones (15″) emphasize low‑end, and the classic 12″ strikes a balanced tone. Keep in mind that everything in the amp, not just the speaker, contributes to the overall frequency response.
Do Built‑In Effects Matter?
If you want a wide palette of effects, look at modeling amps. Otherwise, a good onboard reverb is usually enough. Many solid state amps include distortion, but it’s rarely a standout feature; most players eventually add a dedicated distortion or overdrive pedal.
Modeling amps shine in versatility, but if you only need one core tone, you may not get much value out of the extra effects and amp sims.
Tube Amp vs Solid State Amp
I appreciate solid state amps for their reliability, easy upkeep, and budget‑friendliness, which keeps the tube buzz debate alive. They also sound good at lower volumes, while tube amps often need to be pushed hard to reach their sweet spot.
Tube amps offer warm, organic tones, but solid state amps can deliver cleaner, more defined sounds that pair well with pedal-heavy rigs. I like to think of it like a sandwich: a little “sauce” adds character, but too many flavors blur together. If your tone comes from a complex pedalboard, a solid state amp can keep things tight. If you prefer minimalist setups, a tube amp might give you that extra warmth.
Many big names trust solid state amps, from James Hetfield to Dimebag Darrell and Ty Tabor. Hybrid amps, which mix solid state circuitry with tube stages, offer another option, but that’s a deeper topic for another day.
Best Solid State Amp Selection Methodology
The first Edition was published in 2017. The current edition was published in 2025.
Solid state amplifiers comprise a broad segment of the guitar world when considering the many available variations. So we limited our scope to solid state combo amps that can be readily bought from major US music gear retailers with a maximum price of $1,500. This means that amp heads like the Sunn Beta Lead, Boss Katana Head, Henriksen The Bud head, and more are not included.
Even with filters in place, we still ended up with 45 viable solid state combo amps. For each of these candidate amps, we analyzed relevant ratings, reviews, and forum discussions, summing up to over 45,000 rating sources. The Gearank Algorithm did the rest, giving us rating scores out of 100 that represent actual market sentiment, which we then used to narrow down the list to just the cream of the crop.
For this edition, we added links to useful information like warranty information, manufacturer support, and online reviews. Finally, we divided the list by price and segregated those with multiple amp models and those with more classic single- or two-channel amp voicings. For more information about our methods, see How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Contributors
Mason Hoberg: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Compiled using photographs of the Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus, Fender Mustang LT25, Fender Tone Master Deluxe Reverb, and Orange Crush 35RT.
The videos have been embedded in accordance with YouTube’s Terms of Service.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials, or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.
More The Best Solid State Amp in 2025 Related Posts
Comments:
18 responses
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You don’t mention ZT Lunchbox amps…high quality, great design, and sound good.
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They are good amps and we have recommended older models in the past. I’ve published our rating for the current model, the ZT Lunchbox Reverb LBR1 so you can see that it doesn’t yet have high enough ratings to make it onto our recommended list.
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You missed so many amps on this list that it’s crazy? Quilter has a couple that are under your 1500 threshold and sounds amazing , Hughes and Kettner have the Black Spirit 200w which is absolute crushing. There are too many more to mention but this article needs to be revisited…?
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Thanks for those suggestions.
We actually considered the Quilter Mach range and they only just missed out on making the cut, but their ranking has been improving and if we were to redo the selection today there’s a chance Quilter would make the cut – see their ratings here.
The Black Spirit on the other hand isn’t eligible because it’s an amp head and we’re only including combo amps in this guide.
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Publication of our April 2022 Edition resulted in the following amps coming off the recommended list above:
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Would love to see the new Electro Harmonix Dirt Road Special added to this list. I bought one in 2020 and it’s yet to disappoint
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It is on our short-list for recommendation in this guide, but it didn’t have high enough ratings to be included in the current edition – you can see our rating for it here.
I had a quick look at the rating sources and it appears reviews have been getting more favorable over time so maybe it will make it onto one of our recommended lists in the future.
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We have removed the following amp from the recommended list above due to it being discontinued: Orange Crush CR120C.
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Publication of our July 2021 Edition resulted in the following amps coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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Our August 2020 update resulted in the following amps coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
Acoustic Lead Guitar Series G20
Boss Katana-50 MkI
Fender Champion 20
Fender Champion 100
Fender Mustang I v2 -
What happened to GALLIEN KRUEGER guitar amps? Latest I found they only continue making bass amps. Until the mid 90s I remember some big name guitar players using them mostly in rock bands. I believe they were pretty good high end solid state amps if I’m not wrong.
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As a result of this month’s update of this guide the following amps were removed from the recommended list above, but you can still read our analysis of them:
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I played a solid state throughout the 90s & I would have sworn bye it, (was a recording professional at this time)anyway two heads no 3 actually I still believe have Somme of the tightest most focused high gain I’ve ever had the pleasure to play. (Mind u I play through a Herbert or uberschaller now a days)give AMPEG VH 140c a try or the ss 150, both SS & both will thump your chest like a sledgehammer! & finally PEAVY supreme 160 all 3 imho are legit, if u listened to death metal in 90s I won’t say the 2 bands names only album names & u can get an ear full of ampeg from both, pierced from within & system’s of the animal.ampeg WERE about $1300 then but, the PEAVY& the amps noooo joke man, . $500! Try em!
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No Quilter?
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Seriously. The Quilter amps are great.
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No Katana?
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Back in May when we published this guide the Boss Katana amps were very close to being included but their ratings were just a fraction low – but not by much.
Out of personal curiosity I decided to update their Gearank scores and publish them in the Music Gear Database.
The result was that if we were to update this guide today, then the Katana-100 would have a strong chance of being included, but the Katana-50 would probably just miss out again (I have not published updated Gearank scores for the rest of the contenders).
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