With the best solid state amp, you get the perfect balance of practicality and performance – consistent tone, clean headroom, and reliable operation, without the bulk and fragility of tube amps.
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 |
| 95 | 125+ | |||
| 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
In the amp world, the tone and feel of genuine tube amps are irreplaceable. But they aren’t as practical and efficient as solid-state amps.
Solid-state amps are lighter and more reliable. They require no expensive maintenance and are often cheaper than tube amps. Hence, they are the more practical choice.
If you’re looking for clean tones that are great platforms for pedals, then solid state amps are for you. Even at high volumes, solid state amps tend to have little to no natural distortion. However, this also means they may lack the artifacts that give the warmth and harmonic richness to tube amps.
Many big-name artists are users of solid state guitar amplifiers. Players like BB King (Lab Series Amps L-5), Andy Summers & Johnny Marr (Roland JC-120), Johnny Greenwood (Fender Eighty-Five), Dimebag Darrel (Randall), Metallica (Roland JC-120 for clean tones), and the list goes on.
In this guide, we combined all our research about amps to present you with the best solid-state amps across different price ranges. This shall give you a better idea of which one to choose.
Details for each amplifier and links to useful information like warranty and manufacturer support are provided.
Best Solid State Amps under $500
Orange Crush 20
A compact yet powerful solid state amp that delivers the signature Orange tone in a portable package. With its punchy 20-watt output, intuitive controls, and surprisingly rich overdrive, itโs perfect for practice sessions and small performances.
Long time highest rated solid state amp in this price range.
Pros:
- Great Dynamics even in heavy gain settings.
- Ideal for classic rock-type tones.
- Solid-state 4-stage preamp delivers quality tone.
- Compact, light, and has the iconic Orange enclosure.
- Aux-in and CabSim headphones output.
- Budget-friendly option.
- No footswitch is included.
- Lacks bass for heavier tones.
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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: 8โ
- 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
Orange Crush 35RT
A versatile 35-watt solid state amp that combines classic Orange tone with modern features like built-in reverb and a tuner.
Pros:
- Great-sounding overdrive for rock, blues, and similar styles.
- 4-stage preamp design that results in better OD saturation and response.
- Distinct aesthetics and portable form factor.
- Practice-friendly features include a built-in tuner, aux input, and headphones out.
- Good-sounding reverb.
- Clean is not as good as its Dirt tone.
- Needs to be driven hard to get a good overdrive tone (you can tweak the EQ to improve the sound at lower volumes).
- Limited bass response.
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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 tunerโhence 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: 10โ
- 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
Fender Mustang LT25
With its blend of quality, affordability, and modern features, the Fender Mustang LT25 stands out as a top choice. For the price, it gives you a lot of good tones for practice and small jams.
At publication time, this was the Highest Rated Solid State Guitar Amp with Amp Modeling Under $500
Pros:
- Great-sounding Fender-style cleans.
- Intuitive LED screen.
- Amp models and effects cover a variety of musical styles.
- Good balance of features, intuitive controls, and portability.
- High build quality and modern aesthetics.
- Not great high-gain tones.
- Low projection and bass.
- Not the classic aesthetics of Fender solid state amps (see the Deluxe Reverb below for an example)
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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: 8โ
- 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
Boss Katana-100 Gen 3
The Boss Katana-100 Gen3 is hailed by both beginners and seasoned guitarists alike. Renowned for its tube-like tones, versatility, connectivity options, and intuitive controls.
Pros:
- Beefy tube-like tone perfect for hard rock and metal.
- High-quality built-in effects.
- Excellent connectivity options.
- Built-in power attenuator.
- Boss quality product.
- Learning curve.
- Occasional issues with the software editor.
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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
Fender Tone Master Deluxe Reverb
The Fender Tone Master Deluxe Reverb is a digital amp that flawlessly emulates the iconic sound and feel of its tube counterpart, with the added benefit of being lightweight and maintenance-free.
At publication time, this was the Highest Rated Solid State Guitar Amp $500 to $1500.
Pros:
- Highly rated tube-like tone.
- With power attenuation
- Portable yet loud.
- Great-sounding reverb and tremolo effect.
- 2-button footswitch included.
- Steep price.
- No amp models.
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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.
Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus Amp
The Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship, reliably delivering pristine sound quality and iconic chorus tones. It’s renowned for a good reason.
Pros:
- Captures the “holy grail” of clean stereo chorus tone.
- Consistent, durable, and gig-worthy.
- Easy to use, works well with pedals, and other instruments like synths and keyboards.
- Not many extra features to play with.
- Quite bulky and heavy.
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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
Line 6 Spider V 240 MkII
The Line 6 Spider V 240 MkII is the best-value gigging guitar amp. At just over $500, it comes packed with over 200 amp models, built-in effects, loud amp section, and a full-range speaker system that delivers good sounding tones.
Pros:
- Loud Hi-Fi full-range speaker setup.
- Versatile amp modeling and effects
- Classic speaker mode for traditional amp sounds.
- Can be too complex for some.
- Heavy and bulky.
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
The Spider V 240 MkII is the largest and loudest combo amp in Line 6’s current line of Spider amps. It combines a 240-Watt amp with two 12″ speakers, two tweeters, amp modeling, and effects.
This amp’s digital sound processing power provides a wide variety of tone options with over 100 built-in effects, 78 amp models, 24 cab simulations, and 4 mic models.
Line 6 also added two HF drivers along with its 12″ woofers to expand the higher frequencies. However, some guitarists have not reacted positively to this feature.
In response, Line 6 added a way to switch off the HF drivers, cab, and mic modeling in the MkII version to give it a more traditional amp tone. Other features include an onboard tuner, metronome, looper, and drum loops.
The Spider V 240 MkII offers exceptional features and tone versatility, making it a great all-in-one stage amp for those looking to simplify their rig.
- Power Rating: 240 Watts
- Speaker: 2 x 12″ Woofer, 2 x Tweeter
- Channels: 1
- Controls: Drive, 3-Band EQ, Volume, Comp, Fx1, Fx2, Fx3, Reverb, Master, Preset, Ground/Lift, Buttons: Amp, FX, Loop, Play, Edit, Tap Tempo, Home
- Amp Models: 78 x Amps, 24 x Cabs, 4 x Mics
- Effects: 101 Digital Effects (Up to 8 Simultaneous)
- Input: 1 x 1/4″, 1 x 1/8″ (Aux in)
- Output: 1 x 1/4″ (Headphones/Line), 2 x XLR (R/LMono)
- Extras: Classic Speaker Mode (Turns off Cab modeling and Tweeter), Built-in Tuner, Metronome, Looper, and Drum Loops
- Dimensions: 21.69″ x 26.8″ x 10.6″
- Weight: 42.9 lbs.
Boss Nextone Artist
The Boss Nextone Artist offers premium tone shaping, tube-like dynamics, and modern versatility in a lightweight, gig-ready amp. Itโs an excellent choice for players who want pro-level sound without the hassle of vacuum tubes.
Pros:
- authentic tube-like tone, dynamics, and response.
- Customizable Amp Voicings.
- Versatile Power Control.
- Excellent Clean and Drive Tones.
- Limited Amp Modeling and effects
- Pricey for a solid state amp
- Longer learning curve.
Weโre reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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 ampโs circuit characteristicsโsuch as EL84 or 6L6 voicingsโthrough 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, itโs a top choice if you want flexibility without compromise.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Solid State Amps
Power Rating and Volume
Having an amp with just the right power rating for your use is important. You don’t want a loud practice amp, nor do you want a quiet stage amp. Thankfully, there are now power amps with built-in power attenuation, which allows big and loud amps to go down to bedroom levels while still getting good cranked tones.
Most of the time, tube amps are louder than solid state amps, given the same power rating. The main reason is that tube amps can be driven harder and handle clipping better, while solid state amps can’t. When solid state amps are heavily cranked, hard clipping occurs, which sounds like aggressive non-musical distortion. Tube amplifiers โsoft clip,โ which is a bit more musical sounding.
There are also other factors that can influence volume, chief among them being the efficiency of the speakers. The majority of components in an amplifier play a part in changing the tone and volume you get. With that being said, as a rule, solid state amplifiers are generally going to be quieter than their tube counterparts. This quieter sound can be attributed to new electrolytic capacitors that are better at filtering out electrical noise.
Just keep in mind that the best solid state guitar amps are built with high quality components, so the difference in volume between a high-end solid state amplifier and a high-end tube amplifier isn’t going to be overly dramatic. For gigging in medium- to large-scale venues, you’re going to want to make sure you have at least 100 watts on hand. This will give you plenty of headroom during a gig, so you won’t have to push your solid state guitar amp to breaking point.
Tone
Because the technology of a solid state amplifier is more affordable, most cheaper amps are solid state. Because of this, solid state technology has gotten a reputation for sounding bad because it is generally used in cheaper amplifiers. However, given the prevalence of solid state amplifiers in a variety of different musicians’ rigs, they obviously can’t sound bad all the time.
Imagine a situation where you had two amplifiers that were essentially the same, with one being a solid state amplifier and one being a tube (obviously, this isn’t really possible, so it’s just hypothetical). The main difference you’d experience in this situation is that the solid state would have a quicker response. Notes would feel like they were literally leaping out of your amp. The tone you’d get would also be very articulate and clear. A tube amp wouldn’t have quite as much immediacy in its attack, but the notes would have a higher representation of overtones and a more organic flavor. This would, of course, be at the expense of some articulation.
Tube amps also tend to handle distortion better, this is a generally accepted fact. But this is also more of a generality than a hard-and-fast rule. If you’re using a number of pedals to get your distortion, odds are you’re going to get just as good of a tone out of a high-end solid state amplifier that you’d get from a tube amp.
Speaker Size
Speaker size is a metric you can use to get an idea of the response an amp is going to have in different frequency ranges. A smaller speaker (6โ10โ) is going to have a clearer voice that emphasizes treble frequencies, while a larger speaker (15โ) is going to be more bass-heavy. Most amps are in the middle at 12โ, because a 12โ speaker is generally considered to have a pleasing response across the board.
However, the size of a speaker isn’t the sole factor that determines the frequency response of an amplifier. Frequency response, just like overtones and volume, is influenced by every component in your amp.
Do Built-In Effects Matter?
If you want an amp with a lot of built-in effects, you’re going to want to go with a modeling amplifier. Otherwise, all you really need is reverb. Most solid state amps like the Fender Champion don’t have the best distortion/overdrive circuits built in (with high-end solid state amplifiers being the exception), so they’re not really a must-have. However, many solid state amps do come with distortion. The distortion you get from these amps generally isn’t going to knock your socks off, but it will be serviceable enough until you get a distortion or overdrive pedal.
And while modeling amps may be cool, they’re not really going to be necessary for many musicians. Their main appeal is their versatility, so if you only really need one core sound, you’re not going to stand to benefit overly much from the different effects and amp sims a modeling amp has on hand.
Tube Amp vs Solid State Amp
The main selling point of a solid state amplifier is that it’s more reliable and easier to maintain than a tube amp. They are also generally more affordable, which is a big factor in the solid state vs tube amp debate. You can also play them at a quieter volume while retaining a good tone. Tube amplifiers, due to the nature of how preamps and power amps function, generally need a larger amount of power (which produces more volume) in order to sound their best. And they can have tube buzz. But tube amps’ main advantage is their organic and warm tone. This is why many go for a tube amp, when they want a good sounding amp.
The security of having a reliable amp is definitely a plus, but something important for musicians to consider is that solid state amps can actually sound very good in their own right. If you use a lot of pedals, the complex overtones and frequency response of a tube amp have the potential to make your tone muddy and unfocused. This isn’t a guarantee by any means, but it is a possibility.
Think of your tone like a sandwich. You have your bread, meat, cheese, and leafy greens. In this metaphor, your frequency response is like different sauces. A presence of overtones that works toward your desired tone is like putting a bit of mayo and/or mustard on your sandwich. Too many overtones for a given situation is like throwing on mustard, mayo, ketchup, soy sauce, and vinegar. All of those things are good on their own, but when combined, they result in an unfocused mess.
So if your tone is derived through a complex signal chain of pedals, then you’re better off with a solid state amp. But if you’re into minimalist setups, then you’re going to get more from tube amps.
While many tone aficionados prefer tube amps, there are big name guitarists who have used solid state amps, including James Hetfield, Dimebag Darrell, Ty Tabor, and more.
We’ll reserve the more nuanced discussions surrounding the tube amp vs solid state amps topic for another article. It should be mentioned that hybrid amps are available, where solid state components are matched with preamp tubes or power amp tubes.
Best Solid State Amp Selection Methodology
The first Edition was published in 2017.
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
Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Tube Amp for Guitarists
Best Guitar Amp Under 300 Standouts: Combo & Amp Heads 2025
Best Guitar Amp under 500 โ Solid-State and Tube Amps
Ultimate Guide to Best Bass Combo Amp for Gigging & Practice
Best Keyboard Amp For Practice and Gigs
Best Acoustic Guitar Amp Guide – All Budgets
Comments:
18 responses
-
-
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.
-
-
You missed so many amps on this list that itโs 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 revisitedโฆ?
-
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.
-
-
Publication of our April 2022 Edition resulted in the following amps coming off the recommended list above:
-
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
-
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.
-
-
We have removed the following amp from the recommended list above due to it being discontinued: Orange Crush CR120C.
-
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:
-
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.
Thanks -
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:
-
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!
-
-
-
The Quilter amps look nice but at the moment they still seem to fall into the ’boutique’ category and as such there’s not really enough feedback from buyers for us to get a reliable ranking on them. In this list we were focusing on widely available and well known amps.
-
-
-
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).
-
More Guitar Amps
Disclosure
Leave a Reply