Published on this page in the GuitarFella archive — what our editors chose at the time, not a lab test.
Last Updated: Apr-26-2019
We added four new models to this higher-end chart, after removing others such as the Bugera Trirec. The new additions were the gorgeous VOX AC4HW1 and the Blackstar HT Stage 60 Mark II. We also reviewed the ominous Randall EOD88 Head and the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV.
If you are reading this, chances are you’re a serious guitarist – and one who needs a serious guitar amplifier. Whether you’re a regularly gigging performer, a recording artist, or just a living room virtuoso, you have mastered your craft to the point that you require a top-of-the-line amp on which to practice and perform. One that delivers the tone, power and versatility that
a $300 amp just couldn’t deliver.
The good news is that some of the
best amps on the market come in at under $1,000, which – while still a considerable sum of money – isn’t a life changing amount. However, with your cash, you can indeed end up with a life changing amp!
On this page we have compiled a list of the top amplifiers under a grand, including both tube and solid-state amps; heads and combos; units designed for metal and traditional tube amps that pack a classic, vintage sound. Let’s jump right in.
Top 10 Best Guitar Amplifiers Under $1000:
What are the Benefits of Owning a $1,000 Amplifier?
Aside from the bragging rights, the benefits of owning a $1,000 amp are instantly apparent as soon as you plug it in – the power and the tone!
On the subject of power, you will find that 100 watts or more is the norm in this region, which is enough for most gigging professionals. Performances with a 15-watt tube amp (as you may find in the
sub-$500 region) are possible to some extent, but definitely not as professional or flexible as working with 100 watts of pure power.
On top of this raw power, amps in this price range deliver an amazing tone. Most models will be tube amps, which deliver the full-bodied, organic, liquid tone that guitarists crave. You will find some solid-state amps too, which still deliver an excellent sound and are incredibly versatile when it comes to on-board effects, amp modelling and controls.
While high-end premium amps can come in at a much more expensive price, this $1,000 range is where the perfect performance to price ratio is found.
Factoring in Additional Equipment
One thing you may notice is that this price range is dominated by amp heads as opposed to combo amps. Amp heads offer huge power when paired with a decent cab, as well as provide gigging guitarists with a more convenient way to transport their amp.
The deal with amp heads is that they are just heads. Without a cabinet or another external speaker, they are pretty useless for performing. That means you will also have to factor the price of a speaker cab into your total budget.
Of course, some amp heads come with features that allow you to plug them directly into your computer or a mixer, but you’ll still need a speaker if you are gigging.
Many venues will have their own cab or PA system you can plug into, but, if not, you’ll have to buy, store and transport your own speaker cabinet. The other option is opting for a ‘grab and go’ combo amp – which is why we have included several options in our chart. These are ideal if your amp spends more time at home than on the road.
The beauty of most amp manufacturers is that they often tend to release the same amp model as both a combo and as a head, allowing you to buy the version that best suits you.
The Final Word
The models we have featured in this chart are some of the best amplifiers you can find for less than $1,000. Whatever your intended use, there’s more than enough choice in this price range.
However, be extra careful in taking your time to find the right amp for you – a grand is a considerable chunk of cash to spend. Good luck with your hunt for the perfect premium amp!