How Much is a Guitar Amp? (All Prices Covered)

Table of content:

1. What is a guitar amplifier?
2. How do guitar amplifiers work?
3. What are the different types of guitar amplifiers?
4. How much does a guitar amplifier cost?
5. FAQs

What is a guitar amplifier?

A guitar amplifier is a device that takes the signal from a guitar and amplifies it so it can be heard through a loudspeaker. Guitar amplifiers come in various sizes, from small, portable amplifiers to large, powerful rigs. Most guitar amplifiers have multiple volume controls and rules for tone and distortion. Some also have effects built in, such as reverb or delay.

Guitar amplifiers are essential equipment for any guitarist, whether they are playing live or in the studio. A good amplifier can make a big difference in the sound of a guitar and can help a player to achieve the tone they are seeking.

How do guitar amplifiers work?

Guitar amplifiers are one of the essential pieces of equipment for electric guitarists. But how do they work?

At its most basic, a guitar amplifier takes the signal from an electric guitar and makes it louder. But there’s a lot more to it than that. Guitar amps also shape the guitar’s sound, giving it its unique tone.

Amplifiers have several parts that all work together to create the final sound. The first part is the preamp, which amplifies the signal from the guitar. The second part is the power amp, which takes the preamp’s signal and amplifies it further. Finally, the speaker takes the power amp’s signal and turns it into sound waves we can hear.

What are the different types of guitar amplifiers?

A guitar amplifier is a device that takes the signal from a guitar and increases its volume and tone. Amplifiers are essential for electric guitars, as they allow the instrument to be heard over a band or other instruments. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and can be used for a variety of different purposes. 

There are three main types of guitar amplifiers: tube, solid-state, and digital. 

• Tube amplifiers are the most popular type, as they offer a warm, natural sound. 
• Solid-state amplifiers are more affordable and are less likely to overheat, but they don’t provide the same sound quality as tube amplifiers. 
• Digital amplifiers are the most advanced type and offer a wide range of features and good quality options. 

How much does a guitar amplifier cost?

Guitar amplifiers for beginners cost between $50 and $200, and those for experts can cost hundreds of dollars. Tube amplifiers cost between $500 and $3000, while high-quality solid-state amplifiers cost between $100 and $1000. High-wattage amps (more than 75W) sometimes surpass $500 in price.

A combo amplifier is an excellent option for beginners, although intermediate and experienced players might be interested in a stack amp. Combo amps are less expensive than stack amps, while stack amps let you mix different cabinet and head unit combinations to create unique sounds.

Electric Guitar Amplifiers 

• Beginner Combo Amps: typically range in price from $40 to $200. Lower-wattage amps made by less commonly known companies often cost less than $100. Amps made by well-known brands or with power in the 15-30W range typically cost between $100 and $200. All amps in this price range are solid-state.
• Mid-Range Combo Amps: Mid-range combo amps that cost between $250 to $750 are likely either solid-state amps with a minimum of 30W or low-wattage tube amps. You might have to spend more money if you desire a high-wattage tube amp.
• High-End Combo Amps: Professional-grade combo amplifiers typically cost $1000-2000. Amps that are this expensive will be all tube (valve) or have gigging capabilities with very high wattage. Amplifiers from established manufacturers could cost up to $3000.

Stack Amps

Stack amplifiers are usually more costly than combo amplifiers because they are made of a separate head and cabinet assembly. Head units start at $200, whereas cabinets begin at around $100, making stack amplifiers cost a minimum of $300. However, premium amplifiers might cost a few thousand dollars.

Mini Amps

Mini, or micro, guitar amplifiers are frequently used for in-home or on-the-go practice. Because they often have little power, they are significantly quieter than ordinary amplifiers.

Mini guitar amplifiers typically range in price from $40 to $150. The wattage mainly determines the price, but the brand and type of amp also influences it. Miniature versions of well-known amplifiers are often significantly more expensive.

FAQs

How much should someone new to the hobby spend on an amplifier?

Short answer:

Beginners usually get the most out of their equipment if they spend around $100-150 on an amplifier and $250-300 on a guitar. You should invest in a better amplifier if you want more volume.

What is the cost of a small amplifier?

Beginner amps that are 5-20 watts cost $70-$200, while amplifiers that are 120 watts cost $1000.

What are the benefits of using a small amplifier? 

The main benefit is that they are not too loud to be played in small spaces like at home or in a studio. A compact guitar amplifier may produce a better tone than a larger one. This is because lower-watt amps require less power, so you can avoid overloading the tubes inside them. Another advantage is that they are more affordable.

Are more expensive amplifiers necessarily better? 

The speakers on a more expensive amplifier are often of higher quality. Generally, the speakers on more costly amplifiers are louder and have a better range. This allows you to hear the mids and bass better when playing.

If you are considering which guitar amp you should buy, we recommend mini amp that is light, portable and reasonable for your budget.