Top Bass Guitar Amplifiers - The Elite From All Classes And Segments

Last Updated: November 19, 2019 In our recent refresh of this bass amp chart, we decided to add two new models to replace the one amp we removed (the Markbass Blackline Little Mark 250). The new additions were the interesting Trace Elliot ELF 200 mini head, along with the portable Blackstar Fly 3 Bass combo amp.

When it comes to the differences between bass and guitars, there are many – from strings and pickups to tones and techniques. Of course, this also means bass amplifiers are a bit different from their electric guitar counterparts. However – similarly to guitar amps – bass amps come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and flavors, and it is wise to know what you want before you take the plunge. To make things easier and to help you find the best match for your own setup, we have created a chart of what we consider to be the top bass guitar amplifiers on the market right now. We’ve searched all categories and have included stacks, combos and heads, as well as both budget and premium models. Let’s get started.

Top 9 Best Bass Guitar Amps - The Rundown

Choosing Between a Bass Head or Combo

What do you go for? Head or combo? The general rule of thumb when it comes to choosing between a head or a combo is to go for an amp head if you are planning on gigging regularly. These tend to offer the most power for your money, as well as the flexibility to choose your favorite cabinet to plug into. An added bonus is that many venues will already have a cabinet, meaning you only need to take the head along – compare this to lugging around a big bass combo and you have a much better option for on the road. However, combo amps have their advantages and will be the prime choice for beginners and intermediate players. Unless you are regularly performing to a large audience, you won’t need the power most big bass heads offer. Having the head and speaker in one box is also incredibly convenient, while combos tend to work out a lot cheaper than heads. In fact, you can buy a great bass combo for under $300. Plus, you don’t need to factor in the cost of buying a separate cabinet. So, combos will be the smart choice for many bassists.

How Much Power Is Enough?

As we’ve discussed, buying a bass amp with the right amount of power for your playing is key. Too much, and you’ll never turn it up past one when playing at home. Too little, and your audience will never hear you. Generally, bass amps need more power than guitar amps. If you are practicing at home, around 10 to 40 watts will be sufficient. However, if you are performing on stage, anything from 500 watts to 1,000 watts will give you the volume you need for playing along with a drum kit and electric guitars. How much power you end up with will ultimately depend on your exact situation, who you are playing with, and where you are playing. Just keep it in mind when making your decision.

The Final Word

The bass amps we have highlighted in the chart above should give you a taste of what’s out there and what’s worth your cash. Of course, there are many more on the market to choose from, but these offer a good snapshot of what’s popular at the moment. So, get out there and read some reviews, watch some videos, and try some out. Good luck with your hunt for the perfect bass amp!