Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.
See all posts Rohit MittalBest Budget Guitar Amps: Top 5 Affordable Options for Musicians
Updated on April 24, 2024
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Selecting the right budget guitar amp can be tough. Your music style and performance venues are key factors. Beginners or home players may need smaller amps, while band members or those playing larger venues might need more power. Amp type is also crucial: tube amps deliver warm, rich sound but are more expensive, while solid-state amps are cheaper and reliable but may lack in sound quality. We’ve done the research and testing to identify the best budget guitar amps offering sound quality, affordability, and durability.
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Best Budget Guitar Amps
We know that finding a great guitar amp can be a challenge, especially if you’re on a tight budget. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best budget guitar amps on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, these amps offer fantastic sound quality without breaking the bank. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best budget guitar amps.
Budget Shield 2 ft x2 panel Guitar Amp shield screen for isolation, attenuation and sound reduction: Made in USA : guitar amp acrylic plexiglass plastic cage folding collapsible portable lightweight
Budget Shield 2 ft x2 panel Guitar Amp shield screen for isolation, attenuation and sound reduction: Made in USA : guitar amp acrylic plexiglass plastic cage folding collapsible portable lightweight
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If you're looking for an affordable guitar amp shield that's easy to assemble, the Budget Shield 2 ft x2 panel Guitar Amp shield screen is a great choice.
Pros:
- The Budget Shield is easy to assemble, with simple instructions and a YouTube video link included.
- It's made in the USA with high-quality materials, including full-length 22" semi-transparent dual-durometer flexible hinges.
- The crystal-clear Plexiglas acrylic panels are 1/4" thick and have rounded routered edges, providing excellent sound reduction for smaller guitar combos and cabinets.
Cons:
- The Budget Shield is designed for smaller guitar amps, so if you have a larger amp, you may need to purchase a different size.
- Some users have reported that the hinges can be a bit stiff, making it difficult to fold the shield flat for transportation and storage.
- While the Budget Shield is affordable, it may not have all the features and benefits of higher-end guitar amp shields.
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In our experience, the Budget Shield is a great option for musicians who want an affordable, easy-to-assemble guitar amp shield that provides excellent sound reduction. The full-length hinges and crystal-clear Plexiglas panels are high-quality, and the shield is designed to work well with smaller guitar combos and cabinets. However, if you have a larger amp or need more advanced features, you may want to consider other options.
Budget Shield Guitar Amp Shield Screen
Budget Shield 2 ft tall, 3 panel guitar amp shield screen (2 ft X 4.5ft) for isolation attenuation and sound reduction: Made in USA :guitar amp acrylic plexiglass plastic cage folding collapsible
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly option to reduce noise and isolate your guitar amp, the Budget Shield Guitar Amp Shield Screen might be a good fit for you.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble in under ten minutes with included instructions and YouTube video link
- Made with crystal clear Plexiglas acrylic panels that are 1/4" thick and have rounded routered edges
- Folds flat accordion-style for easy transportation and storage
Cons:
- Only suitable for smaller guitar combos and cabinets due to its size
- Does not come with a guitar amp included
- May not provide as much sound reduction as higher-end options
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We recently had the chance to try out the Budget Shield Guitar Amp Shield Screen, and we were impressed with how easy it was to assemble. The instructions and YouTube video link made the process straightforward, and we were able to have it set up in under ten minutes.
The crystal clear Plexiglas acrylic panels are sturdy and provide a clear view of your amp while reducing noise. The rounded routered edges give it a professional look, and the 1/4″ thickness adds to its durability.
One thing to keep in mind is that the size of the Budget Shield Guitar Amp Shield Screen is best suited for smaller guitar combos and cabinets. If you have a larger amp, you may want to check out their other listings for a bigger option.
Overall, we think the Budget Shield Guitar Amp Shield Screen is a great option for those on a budget who want to reduce noise and isolate their guitar amp. It folds flat for easy transportation and storage, and the crystal clear Plexiglas acrylic panels are durable and professional-looking. Just keep in mind its size limitations and that it does not come with a guitar amp included.
Fender Frontman 10G Guitar Amp
Fender Frontman 10G Guitar Amp, 10 Watts, with 2-Year Warranty, 6 Inch Fender Special Design Speaker, 5.75Dx10.25Wx11H Inches
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly guitar amp that delivers quality sound, the Fender Frontman 10G is a great option.
Pros:
- The 6-inch Fender Special Design speaker produces quality tones and a variety of sounds from blues to metal.
- The closed-back design provides a heavier bass response.
- The 2-year limited warranty ensures that you can rely on this amp for years to come.
Cons:
- The 10-watt output may not be enough for larger performances.
- The limited controls may not be suitable for experienced players.
- The small size may not be ideal for those looking for a larger amp.
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We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of sound that the Fender Frontman 10G produces. The 6-inch Fender Special Design speaker delivers a wide range of tones, from clean to overdriven, making it suitable for a variety of genres. The closed-back design also adds a heavier bass response, which is great for those looking for a more powerful sound.
While the controls are limited, with only gain, overdrive select switch, volume, treble, and bass knobs, we found them to be intuitive and easy to use. This makes it a great option for beginners who may be overwhelmed by more complex controls. However, experienced players may find the controls to be limiting.
The size of the Fender Frontman 10G is both a pro and a con. While it is small and compact, making it easy to transport and store, it may not be suitable for those looking for a larger amp. The 10-watt output may also not be enough for larger performances, but it is perfect for practicing and small gigs.
Overall, the Fender Frontman 10G is a great budget-friendly option for those looking for a quality guitar amp. Its compact size, quality sound, and easy-to-use controls make it a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Budget Shield 3 ft x3 panel amp shield screen for isolation attenuation and sound reduction
Budget Shield 3 ft x3 panel amp shield screen for isolation attenuation and sound reduction: Made in USA : guitar amp acrylic plexiglass plastic cage folding collapsible portable
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If you are looking for an affordable guitar amp shield that's easy to assemble and transport, then the Budget Shield 3 ft x3 panel amp shield screen is a great choice.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble in under ten minutes
- Semi-transparent dual-durometer flexible hinges
- Crystal clear Plexiglas acrylic panels with rounded routered edges
Cons:
- May not fit larger amp stacks
- May not provide complete sound isolation
- May not be as durable as more expensive options
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We recently tried out the Budget Shield 3 ft x3 panel amp shield screen and were impressed by how easy it was to assemble and transport. The semi-transparent dual-durometer flexible hinges make it easy to fold the panels flat accordion-style for easy transportation and storage.
The crystal clear Plexiglas acrylic panels are 1/4″ thick and have rounded routered edges, which makes them durable and easy to handle. This size works great for 4×12″ cabinets, 4×10″ combos, and other half stacks.
While the Budget Shield 3 ft x3 panel amp shield screen may not fit larger amp stacks, it’s a great option for smaller setups. It may not provide complete sound isolation, but it does help reduce unwanted noise and feedback. Additionally, while it may not be as durable as more expensive options, it’s still a great value for the price.
Overall, we would recommend the Budget Shield 3 ft x3 panel amp shield screen for anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use guitar amp shield.
LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp
LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp, Rechargeable Amplifier Electric Guitar 5W, Clean and Overdrive,Bluetooth Guitar Amp Portable Guitar Amp for Daily Practice,Black
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If you're looking for an affordable guitar amp that's portable and convenient, the LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp is a great option.
Pros:
- With two effect channels, Clean and Distortion, this amp allows you to choose different tones by adjusting "GAIN" and "TONE" to play different styles of music.
- The built-in rechargeable battery can be used for up to 6 hours after each full charge, making it perfect for on-the-go practice sessions.
- The LEKATO 5W Guitar Amp features independent knobs for the volume of AUX IN/Bluetooth and input volume, which makes it easy to use.
Cons:
- The sound quality is not as rich compared to more expensive amps, but it's still good for its price.
- It's not very loud, so it may not be suitable for performances or jamming with a band.
- The bass is not as strong as expected, but it works well with Bluetooth and a guitar.
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In our experience, the LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp is a great option for beginners or anyone who needs a portable and convenient amp for practice. It’s easy to use and has a decent sound quality for its price. The wireless audio function is a nice touch, allowing you to pair it with your phone and enjoy your favorite songs on the fly. Overall, we would recommend this product to anyone looking for a budget-friendly guitar amp that’s easy to carry around.
LyxPro Electric Guitar Amp 20 Watt Amplifier Built in Speaker Headphone Jack and Aux Input Includes Gain Bass Treble Volume and Grind – Black 20 Watt Black
LyxPro Electric Guitar Amp 20 Watt Amplifier Built in Speaker Headphone Jack and Aux Input Includes Gain Bass Treble Volume and Grind - Black
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly amp that delivers great sound quality, the LyxPro Electric Guitar Amp 20 Watt Amplifier is worth considering.
Pros:
- The 20-watt amp provides enough power for practicing and jamming sessions, delivering clear and crisp sound at any volume level.
- The headphone jack and aux input allow you to practice silently without disturbing anyone and play along with your favorite tracks.
- The gain, bass, treble, and volume controls are easy to use, allowing you to adjust the distortion level and tone to your preference.
Cons:
- The amp's compact size may not be ideal for larger venues or performances.
- Some users have reported issues with loose parts or unattached components upon delivery.
- The amp's bass may not be as strong as some users would prefer.
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We recently had the chance to try out the LyxPro Electric Guitar Amp 20 Watt Amplifier, and we were impressed with its performance. The amp delivers clear and crisp sound at any volume level, making it perfect for practicing and jamming sessions. The gain, bass, treble, and volume controls are easy to use, allowing you to adjust the distortion level and tone to your preference. The compact, lightweight, and durable design with secure rubber corner edges make it a reliable practice companion for years to come.
One of the standout features of this amp is the headphone jack and aux input, which allows you to practice silently without disturbing anyone, and play along with your favorite tracks, making it a versatile and essential tool for any musician. The amp is also designed to provide a wide range of sounds, making it suitable for any playing style.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly guitar amp that delivers exceptional sound quality and versatility, the LyxPro Electric Guitar Amp 20 Watt Amplifier is an excellent choice.
JOYO Mini Electric Guitar Amp
JOYO Mini Electric Guitar Amp 5W Rechargeable Guitar Amplifier Portable Bluetooth Practice Amp with 4 Effects, Black (JA-05G)
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly guitar amp that you can take with you wherever you go, the JOYO Mini Electric Guitar Amp is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- Good compatibility - Suitable for all kinds of electric guitars with 6.35mm plug, and can also be used for electronic wind instruments and more.
- Compact and portable, plug and play - Plug in this mini guitar amp and use it anytime, anywhere, helping you get rid of the trouble of using cords.
- Built-in 4 effects to meet your practice needs - With clean, distortion, overdrive and reverb effects, all switched through the EFFEGT button.
Cons:
- Connectivity issues with some guitar models - The plug isn't long enough for recessed jacks on some guitar models, which can be frustrating.
- Sound quality could be better - While the JOYO Mini Electric Guitar Amp is great for practice, it may not be powerful enough for live performances or recording.
- Battery life could be longer - The rechargeable battery lasts for about 5 hours, which may not be enough for longer practice sessions or performances.
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We were impressed with the JOYO Mini Electric Guitar Amp’s compatibility with various types of instruments, including electronic wind instruments. Its compact size and portability make it easy to use anywhere, without the need for cords. The built-in effects are also a plus, allowing for versatile practice sessions.
However, the sound quality may not be as good as a full-sized amp, and the volume may not be loud enough for live performances. Additionally, the rechargeable battery life is only about 5 hours, so it may not be suitable for extended use without recharging.
Overall, if you are looking for an affordable, portable, and rechargeable guitar amp for practice sessions, the JOYO Mini Electric Guitar Amp is a solid choice.
CXLWZ Electric Guitar Amp 20 Watt Amplifier Portable Amp with Headphone Input Gain Powe Including Professional Noise Reduction Cable （Black）
CXLWZ Electric Guitar Amp 20 Watt Amplifier Portable Amp with Headphone Input Gain Powe Including Professional Noise Reduction Cable （Black）
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly electric guitar amplifier that's portable and easy to use, the CXLWZ Electric Guitar Amp is a solid option.
Pros:
- The built-in instrument input jack makes it easy to connect your electric guitar, while the AUX audio input interface lets you play music from your phone or MP3 player.
- The gain, bass, treble, and volume control knobs are easy to use and allow you to adjust distortion levels and tones to your liking.
- Weighing only 6.2 pounds and equipped with a handy carrying handle, this amplifier is perfect for travel and on-the-go performances.
Cons:
- This amplifier doesn't get very loud, so it may not be the best choice if you need to play in a large space or with a band.
- The sound quality is not the best, and there is no overdrive to speak of.
- The CXLWZ Electric Guitar Amp may not be the most durable option on the market.
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The CXLWZ Electric Guitar Amp is incredibly easy to use. The built-in instrument input jack is used to connect the electric guitar, while the AUX audio input interface is used to play music on your phone or MP3 player, allowing you to play with your favorite tracks. The phone headphone output jack also allows for silent practice when you don’t want to disturb others.
The gain, bass, treble, and volume control knobs are easy to use and allow you to adjust distortion levels and tones to your liking, ensuring you get the sound you want, when you need it. The compact, lightweight, and durable design makes it a reliable practice companion for years to come, and with a handy carrying handle and weighing only 6.2 pounds, it’s perfect for travel and on-the-go, making it perfect for live performances, street performances, and more.
While the sound quality may not be on par with higher-end amplifiers, it’s definitely a great option for beginners or those on a tight budget. It also lacks built-in effects or presets, which may be a downside for some musicians. However, if you’re looking for a simple and affordable amplifier that gets the job done, the CXLWZ Electric Guitar Amp is definitely worth considering.
YOVDA Mini Guitar Amplifier
Guitar Headphone Amp,YOVDA Mini Guitar Amplifier Rechargeable Pocket Guitar Amp with Big Speaker and Clean & Distortion Effect Setting Clean Chorus Overdrive Distortion and Wah (JA-01)
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If you're looking for an affordable and portable guitar amp, the YOVDA Mini Guitar Amplifier might be worth considering.
Pros:
- The compact size makes it easy to take on the go and use in small gigs.
- The high fidelity and distortion effects provide a clear and realistic sound with a full low frequency and good high frequency extension.
- The built-in headphone audio output allows for private practice.
Cons:
- The package comes with a non-rechargeable 9V battery, so if you want to use it by charging, you need to purchase a rechargeable 9V battery separately and a 9V battery charger.
- The 3-inch subwoofer can produce distortion sound.
- It only has a 3W output power, which might not be enough for larger performances.
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We recently had the chance to try out the YOVDA Mini Guitar Amplifier and were impressed with its compact size and portability. It’s easy to hang on your waist and take with you anywhere you want to play. The high fidelity and distortion effects provide a clear and realistic sound with a full low frequency and good high frequency extension, which brings a dynamic shock effect. The independent knob control for guitar volume and tone makes it more convenient to play.
One of the standout features of this amp is the built-in headphone audio output. It supports headphone/MP3 output, which means you can connect it to your MP3 player and have headphone answering function at the same time, making it perfect for private practice.
However, it’s worth noting that the package comes with a non-rechargeable 9V battery, so if you want to use it by charging, you need to purchase a rechargeable 9V battery separately and a 9V battery charger. Additionally, the 3-inch subwoofer can produce distortion sound, which might not be ideal for some users. Finally, with only 3W output power, it might not be enough for larger performances.
Overall, the YOVDA Mini Guitar Amplifier is a good option for those looking for an affordable and portable guitar amp. It’s perfect for practicing and small gigs, and the built-in headphone audio output is a nice touch. However, if you’re looking for something with more power or a rechargeable battery, you might want to consider other options.
LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp
LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp, Electric Guitar Amp 10W, Clean, Distortion, Gain Control, Bluetooth Rechargeable Guitar Amp Portable for Travel, Indoor Practice
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If you're looking for a budget guitar amp that's compact and portable, the LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp might be a good choice for you.
Pros:
- The compact size of this guitar amp makes it easy to transport.
- With a rechargeable battery, you don't need to worry about replacing batteries.
- The wireless audio function allows you to play along to music from your phone.
Cons:
- The lack of a headphone output jack might be a dealbreaker for some.
- The sound quality might not be as good as larger, more expensive amps.
- The toggle switch is poorly chosen and can be easily damaged.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp and were impressed with its portability and versatility. The compact size of the amp makes it easy to take with you wherever you go, whether you’re traveling or just practicing at home.
One of the standout features of this guitar amp is the rechargeable battery. You won’t need to worry about buying and replacing batteries, which can be a hassle. Instead, you can simply charge the amp and use it for up to 4 hours.
We also appreciated the wireless audio function, which allows you to play along to music from your phone. This is a great feature for practicing or jamming with friends.
However, there are a few downsides to this amp. The lack of a headphone output jack might be a dealbreaker for some, as it means you can’t practice quietly without disturbing others. Additionally, the sound quality might not be as good as larger, more expensive amps.
Finally, the toggle switch is poorly chosen and can be easily damaged. We found that it protrudes too far and can be easily bumped or knocked during transport.
Overall, we think the LEKATO Mini Guitar Amp is a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget guitar amp that’s portable and versatile. However, if you’re looking for a higher quality sound or need a headphone output jack, you might want to consider a different option.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best budget guitar amp, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend taking the following factors into account before making a purchase:
Power
The power of an amp is measured in watts, and it determines how loud the amp can get. For home practice, a lower wattage amp (around 10-20 watts) should suffice. However, if you plan on playing in a band or performing live, you may want to consider a higher wattage amp (30-50 watts or more).
Size and Portability
Consider the size and weight of the amp, especially if you plan on transporting it frequently. Smaller amps are more portable, but they may not have the same power or sound quality as larger amps.
Tone and Sound Quality
The tone and sound quality of an amp are crucial factors to consider. Look for an amp that can produce a range of tones and has good sound clarity. Some amps come with built-in effects like reverb, delay, and distortion, which can be useful for creating different sounds.
Connectivity
Make sure the amp has the necessary inputs and outputs for your needs. For example, if you plan on using pedals, you’ll need an amp with an effects loop. If you want to play along with music, you’ll need an amp with an auxiliary input.
Price
Finally, consider your budget. There are plenty of great budget guitar amps available on the market, but you’ll need to find the right balance between price and quality. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare different models before making a decision.
By taking these factors into consideration, you’ll be able to find the best budget guitar amp for your needs.
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Rohit Mittal
Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.