The 20 best headphone guitar amp brands
Blackstar, NUX and JOYO lead our ranking of 20 headphone guitar amp brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Headphone Guitar Amp brands, ranked
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1
Blackstar
Blackstar began in Britain making guitar amplifiers and effects units. Its range covers tube and solid-state combo amps in several wattages, along with digital models such as the Core V4 Stereo combo. The Beam Mini is a portable amp with USB-C and built-in effects for practice and recording.
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
NUX
Starting with guitar effects pedals, NUX has added digital modeling amps to its line. One modeling amp has a built-in expression pedal that switches to wah mode without an external pedal. Another model is an entry-level amp modeler and effects processor, and a low-cost multi-effects pedal is aimed at beginners.
Website: nuxactive.com |Brands like NUX
Popularity 10.0/10
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3
JOYO
JOYO Audio UK was launched back in 2014. They are relatively new to this playground but deeply understand acoustics and sounds. The company is digital music-oriented, so they make high-tech products that are produced with modern technology. JOYO Audio shares the passion for all music and wants to ensure everyone can access quality amplifiers and other music accessories to create music. The company's environment is musically driven, and they continue to set standards for the music industry.
Website: joyoaudio.co.uk |Brands like JOYO
Popularity 8.9/10
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4
Boss
Compact stompbox effects for guitarists, from drive pedals to multi-effects units, make up most of what BOSS sells. BOSS is widely recognised as the first maker of compact guitar effects pedals, and it also produces synth systems and pedalboard solutions. Its apparel line includes hoodies.
Popularity 7.6/10
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5
Traveler
Traveler Guitar has been the industry pioneer in developing and producing full-scale travel guitars. By concentrating on offering top-notch, transportable solutions for traveling artists, this firm has been able to keep its notoriety. Their guitars have traveled the world, from a submarine deep in the Atlantic to the summit of Mount Everest, from their original Pro-Series model to the high-ended EG-1 Custom to the ground-breaking Traveler Acoustic Series.
Popularity 7.1/10
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6
Electro-Harmonix
Electro Harmonix brings edgy and practical instruments to the music world. Established in 1968, the brand has been a reputable supplier of a wide variety of pedals, amplifiers, and tubes to allow professional or amateur guitarists, vocalists, producers, and other musicians to tap into their potential and create art. The brand commits to curating high-performance, high-quality and long-lasting products, including headphones and other gear such as guitar strings and picks, pedal bags, and more.
Website: ehx.com |Brands like Electro-Harmonix
Popularity 6.5/10
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7
Phil Jones Bass
Phil Jones Bass as the name suggests is a brand launched by Phil Jones himself. The founder happens to be a bass enthusiast himself, which is why he wanted to contribute his own innovations to the musical instrument industry. After extensive research, the brand brought out various electric bass guitars, loudspeakers, and others. The employees contribute immensely to the unique innovations of the brand, which has been on the market for the last 45 years.
Popularity 6.5/10
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8
Marshall
Guitar amplifiers with the classic Marshall look range from early amp cabinets to modern models, and sit alongside studio monitor speakers and headphones. The brand's styling and tone are distinctive, appealing to musicians and music lovers. Marshall's amplifiers and audio products cover both stage and studio use.
Website: marshallheadphones.com |Brands like Marshall
Popularity 6.0/10
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9
Ashdown
Ashdown music is a significant manufacturer of instrument amplifiers and other items based in the UK and is passionate about everything music. Their primary focus is on bass amplification and has a collection of products, including practice amps, FX Pedals,...
Website: ashdownmusic.com |Brands like Ashdown
Popularity 5.3/10
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10
Danelectro
Danelectro was established long ago to provide all guitars to musical learners and artists. The company also provides guitar accessories to the customers. If you are looking for a retro guitar or even a modern one, then the chances are...
Website: danelectro.com |Brands like Danelectro
Popularity 4.6/10
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11
Peavey
Peavey began making pantyhose and tights, and its women's hosiery comes in sheer, light support and high gloss styles. Some pieces are high gloss tights with reinforced crotches and double-stitched seams. The hosiery is described as made in the USA.
Website: peavey.com |Brands like Peavey
Popularity 3.8/10
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12
Nady
Nady Systems is a leading manufacturer of professional and consumer audio products. It's no surprise that Nady's wireless microphone systems are utilized by prominent entertainers, educators, and institutions worldwide, with over 45 years of expertise and a worldwide reputation for...
Website: nady.com |Brands like Nady
Popularity 3.8/10
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13
Washburn
Washburn builds acoustic, electric and bass guitars along with guitar cases. The American company's guitars range from entry-level instruments to higher-end models built in its own factories.
Website: washburn.com |Brands like Washburn
Popularity 3.8/10
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14
Austin
Austin Air prioritizes your health with its clinically-proven air purifying systems to filter out harmful pollutants from your home or office. Their products run according to CDC, EPA, and WHO norms that prescribe the use of activated carbon, outperforming most...
Popularity 2.7/10
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15
Ashton
Celebrating the most important day of your life can be exhausting. You need someone you can trust with this responsibility, and that's where Ashton Events come in, a company that designs and executes events. They take care of everything with...
Popularity 2.7/10
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16
First Act
First Act Music offers superior musical instruments for children of all ages. They specialize in teaching your child to play musical instruments that are elegantly made and simple to use. It is their pleasure to assist you in nurturing your...
Website: firstact.com |Brands like First Act
Popularity 2.7/10
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17
SX
SX makes electric guitars, bass guitars and guitar packs. Its standard series includes several models, and the brand creates custom handmade guitars to a buyer's specifications. The guitars are valued for their sound quality, suiting both beginners and experienced players.
Website: sx-guitar.com |Brands like SX
Popularity 2.7/10
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18
Laney
Laney's guitar and bass amplifiers, including combo amps and stand-alone heads, date back to its first amplifier in 1966. Guitar effects pedals sit in the lineup too, so players can assemble a complete rig from one maker. Amps and pedals...
Website: laney.co.uk |Brands like Laney
Popularity 2.7/10
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19
Nobels
Play with your music with sound amplifying products from Nobels. Founded in 1985, the company has gained a wealth of experience in the distribution of sound amplifiers and this makes it a renowned brand in the industry. By adding natural...
Website: nobels.de |Brands like Nobels
Popularity 2.7/10
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20
Rockman
ProSound Music is a trustworthy brand committed to its passion for guitars. Initially set up as a second-hand guitar and strings store, the brand soon expanded into the reputable and expansive store we see before us. Established in 1974, the...
Website: rockman.fr |Brands like Rockman
Popularity 2.7/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NUX | nuxactive.com | /nuxactive | nux | – | NUXactive |
| JOYO | joyoaudio.co.uk | /JOYOAudioUK | joyoaudiouk | @joyoaudiouk | – |
| Electro-Harmonix | ehx.com | – | – | – | – |
| Marshall | marshallheadphones.com | /marshallheadphones | marshallheadphones | – | – |
| Ashdown | ashdownmusic.com | /AshdownBassAmps | ashdownamps | @ashdownmusic | AshdownBassAmps |
| Danelectro | danelectro.com | /danelectro.official | danelectro_official | @Danelectrousa | Danelectro Official |
Headphone Guitar Amp Buying Guide
The world of guitar amps is vast and varied, with options to suit every player's needs. One of the most versatile and convenient options is a headphone guitar amp, which allows you to practice and play without disturbing your neighbors or roommates. If you're in the market for a headphone guitar amp, there are a few key features to consider.
1. Sound Quality
The most important aspect of any headphone guitar amp is the sound quality. After all, what good is an amp if it doesn't produce a great sound? Look for an amp with a high-quality digital signal processing (DSP) system, as this will allow for realistic simulations of different amp models and effects. Some brands, such as Line 6 and Boss, are particularly well-known for their excellent DSP systems.
Another feature that can impact the sound quality is the headphones you use. Make sure you're using a high-quality pair of headphones that can reproduce a wide frequency range and provide good isolation from external noise.
2. Portability
If you plan to use your headphone guitar amp for practicing on the go, portability is an important factor to consider. Look for amps that are lightweight and easy to transport, with a compact design that won't take up too much space in your bag. Some headphone amps are even small enough to fit in your pocket!
3. Power Output
The power output of a headphone guitar amp will determine how loud you can play without disturbing others. Keep in mind that even a lower-powered amp can be plenty loud through headphones, so don't feel like you need to go for the highest wattage available. However, if you plan to use the amp for recording or playing through a speaker cabinet, higher wattage might be desirable.
4. Amp Models and Effects
One of the biggest advantages of using a headphone guitar amp is the ability to simulate different amp models and effects without needing a large and expensive collection of gear. Look for an amp that offers a variety of amp models, such as classic British and American tube amps, as well as a range of effects like distortion, reverb, and delay. Some amps even offer more unusual effects like pitch shifting and synth simulation.
Keep in mind that while amp modeling can be a great way to experiment with different sounds, it won't necessarily sound exactly like the real thing. However, many players find that modeling can provide a useful starting point for crafting their own unique sound.
5. Connectivity
If you plan to use your headphone guitar amp for recording or playing through a speaker cabinet, connectivity is an important factor to consider. Look for amps with inputs and outputs that match your setup - for example, if you plan to use the amp with a computer, make sure it has a USB or MIDI port. If you plan to use the amp with a speaker cabinet, make sure it has a speaker output jack and is rated for the impedance of your cabinet.
6. Additional Features
Some headphone guitar amps offer additional features that can enhance your practice or performance experience. For example, some amps have built-in drum tracks, metronomes, or loopers that allow you to practice playing in time or create complex arrangements. Other amps come with software that allows you to edit and save your custom amp models and effects settings.
7. Price
The price of a headphone guitar amp can vary widely, from under $50 for low-powered models to over $500 for high-end units. Determine your budget and look for an amp that fits your needs within that price range.
Examples of Headphone Guitar Amps
- Boss Katana-Air
- Line 6 Pocket POD
- VOX amPlug
- Yamaha THR5
- Fender Mustang GT 40
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose a headphone guitar amp. By considering factors like sound quality, portability, power output, amp models and effects, connectivity, additional features, and price, you can narrow down your choices and find an amp that suits your needs and budget.
Solid-State vs. Tube Amps
One consideration when shopping for a headphone guitar amp is whether to go for a solid-state or tube amp. Solid-state amps use transistors instead of vacuum tubes to amplify the signal, and tend to be more affordable, durable, and portable. They also tend to produce a clean, crisp sound that works well for genres like jazz and funk.
Tube amps, on the other hand, use vacuum tubes to produce a warmer, more organic sound that's well-suited for genres like blues, rock, and metal. They can produce a richer tone with more harmonic complexity, but are often heavier and more expensive than solid-state amps. However, some headphone guitar amps use digital modeling technology to simulate the sound of tube amps, so you can still get that classic tone without the added weight and cost.
The Importance of Practice
While a headphone guitar amp can be a useful tool for practicing and exploring new sounds, it's important to remember that no piece of gear can replace diligent practice and a good ear. As you experiment with different amp models and effects, pay attention to how they're affecting your playing and how you can use them to enhance your musical expression. Above all, enjoy the process of learning and discovering new sounds!
Conclusion
A headphone guitar amp can be a useful addition to any guitarist's setup, allowing for quiet practice and easy experimentation with different amp models and effects. By considering factors like sound quality, portability, power output, and additional features, you can find an amp that suits your needs and budget. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, a headphone guitar amp can help you to take your playing to the next level.
