The desktop guitar amp market is growing in popularity, but what exactly is a desktop amp, and, with many companies now creating their own ranges to enter this market, how do you know which one suits you the best? Read on for the full lowdown.
The desktop guitar amp market is growing in popularity, but what exactly is a desktop amp, and, with many companies now creating their own ranges to enter this market, how do you know which one suits you the best? Read on for the full lowdown.
A desktop amplifier is, essentially, any amp small and lightweight enough to comfortably fit on a desk. They are designed for practicality and portability, and, although somewhat of a newcomer in the guitar industry, have gained massive popularity with guitarists. In such a small package, they are able to match great sound. Because of this convenience, desktop amps are now changing the way people practice. Thanks to the improvements in modern technology, we now get great-sounding amp tones with Bluetooth connectivity, coupled with Smart Apps to help us practice better. Additionally, if you want to play late at night without disturbing the neighbours, a desktop amp’s low volume & headphone connectivity might be ideal. They are also great to have around whenever inspiration strikes.
We have pulled together our years of product knowledge & experiences trying out plenty of gear to give you this rundown of the best desktop guitar amps available on the market right now.
Boss have been around since the 1970s and over the years have achieved an enviable reputation for great sound at an affordable price. Their Katana Air series of desktop amplifiers come with wireless / Bluetooth technology and a built-in USB audio interface, meaning that you can easily connect to your laptop/computer for music production. Boss’ own Tone Studio mobile app, for both iOS and Android, is tailor-made for the Katana Air and, with an option to power the amp by battery or via a rechargeable power pack, with a 12-hour runtime, there’s a lot to recommend about these compact, high-performance units.
Browse Boss Katana Guitar & Bass Amps
Yamaha amps have always excelled at producing crisp, dynamic modelling tones to capture the presence of a real tube amp. Their THR-II series of desktop guitar amplifiers replicate those same classic sounds, with the added bonus of Bluetooth technology and USB connectivity. All THR-II units feature 15 guitar amp models, 3 bass amp models, and 3 mic models. The wireless versions come with a built-in rechargeable battery, and all make us of Yamaha’s THR Remote editor/librarian app for both desktop and mobile devices. All in all, these are seriously good amps which provide both ease and versatility.
A relative newcomer on the block, Positive Grid was founded in 2013 with a mission to meld guitar knowhow with modern ‘smart’ technology. Many of their Spark range of units fall into the desktop category. They come equipped with Bluetooth capability, USB connection, and an impressive range of 33 amp models and 43 built-in effects, plus programmable presets and, in some cases, the option to choose between battery or conventional mains power. These are lightweight units built with one eye firmly on the future.
China-based Nux made its industry debut in 2006 and possess a track record of designing reliable and innovative music equipment. Their Mighty range of guitar amplifiers includes a choice of portable desktops with Bluetooth, USB, dedicated app, and wireless capabilities, with surprisingly good tone for the price.
For those looking for a combination of practicality and portability when it comes to guitar amplifiers, deskstop guitar amps aren’t the only option. Here’s a brief rundown of comparable products, their key features, and how they differ from a desktop.
The traditional stage setup for any guitarist consists of two components: an amp (or head) to control tone, and speakers (cab) to give volume. Combo Amps combine the head and cab into one unit, making them more portable and considerably easier to set up. A good option if you’re regularly gigging in smaller venues and have limited storage space available.
Browse Electric Guitar Amp Combos
Mini amplifiers specifically designed to produce the best possible guitar sound through headphones, making them ideal for practicing!
If you’re working digitally via a computer and primarily at home, there’s plenty of virtual amp software available for whichever DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) you favour. Plug-Ins are designed to replicate a particular guitar sound, while Sims generally offer a suite of options. Amp Modellers aim to replicate the sound and behaviour of real amps through sophisticated software. Whichever way round you chose to do it, modern virtual amp software can provide fantastic results, without the need for a bulky setup.
What is a desktop amplifier?
An amplifier specifically designed to take up minimal space in your home / workplace.
What is a desktop amplifier good for?
With their low volume and headphone outputs, they are perfect for practicing in quiet environments.
Can I use a desktop amplifier for gigs?
Technically yes, so long as the venue has its own decent PA (Public Address) system. If you need to rely on your desktop amp’s volume alone, you may struggle.
What is amp modelling?
A piece of digital software which simulates the sound of a physical amp.
Can you practice electric guitar without an amp?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Much of your guitar’s tone is produced via its pickups. When not plugged into an amp, much of that nuance is lost.
We have plenty of blogs which will hopefully any questions you may have, or show you more of the many tonal options available to choose from!
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