Guitar amps are an essential part of any guitarist’s arsenal, providing the power to amplify their sound and make it heard. However, many guitarists also want to add a variety of effects to their sound, which can be a challenge when using a traditional amp. That’s where a guitar amp with built-in effects comes in.
These modeling amps are not tube amps and have a variety of effects built right in, allowing guitarists to easily adjust their sound without the need for additional pedals or equipment. With effects like distortion, reverb, and chorus, these amps offer a wide range of options to create the perfect sound.
When choosing a guitar amp with built-in effects, it’s important to pay attention to the quality of the effects and how easy they are to use. Some modeling amps may offer a wide range of effects, but if they’re difficult to navigate or don’t sound great, they won’t be very useful.
We spent hours researching and testing various guitar amps with built-in effects to find the ones that offer the best combination of quality and usability. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best guitar amps with built-in effects.
Best Guitar Amps with Built-In Effects
We know that finding the perfect guitar amp can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best guitar amps with built-in effects to help you make an informed decision. These modeling amps offer a number of built in effects, from distortion to delay, and are perfect for guitarists of all levels. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best guitar amps with built-in effects.
Marshall MG30GFX Guitar Combo Amplifier
Pros
- The custom 10-inch speaker delivers a great sound.
- The modern digital effects offer a range of classic and modern tones.
- Effects include:Reverb, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, and Delay.
- The emulated headphone output makes silent practice easier than ever.
Cons
- The 30-watt output may not be loud enough for some players.
- The amp is relatively heavy at 23.8 pounds.
- The clean channel could be improved.
I’ve used the MG30 and was impressed with its sound quality and versatility for the price. The custom 10-inch speaker delivers a great sound, whether you’re playing clean or with distortion. The modern digital effects offer a range of classic and modern tones, and the manual and preset channel modes make it easy to find the sound you’re looking for.
One of the standout features of this amp with built in effects is the emulated headphone output. It makes silent practice easier than ever, and the sound quality is surprisingly good. You can practice without disturbing our neighbors, and you’ll appreciate the convenience of being able to plug in headphones and play whenever you want.
While I’m generally happy with the sound quality of the modeling amp, I do have a few minor complaints. The 30-watt output is solid states, so it won’t be loud enough for some players, particularly if you’re playing with a band. The amp is also relatively heavy for as small as it is, weighting in at 23.8 pounds. Finally, while the distortion channels sound great, I feel that the clean channel could be improved.
Overall, the Marshall Amps Guitar Combo Amplifier is a great option for anyone looking for a versatile guitar amp with built-in effects. It’s not perfect, but it offers a lot of value for the price. Plus, its a Marshall. It’s cool. If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile amp that can handle a variety of playing styles, this is definitely worth considering.
Boss Katana 50 MKII
Pros
- Multiple options to connect the amp to various outputs.
- Awesome industry-leading Boss effects built into the amp.
- Multiple amp characters allow for any type of sound from clean to metal.
- Different output settings enable you to switch between home and gigging volume
Cons
- It won’t perfectly nail different amp tones like “Fender cleans” or “Marshall gain.”
- Some users claim you have to dig deep to find the tone you are looking for
The Boss Katana-50 MkII is a feature-rich guitar amplifier that stands out with its ability to connect to a computer, headphones, and recording outputs via USB with mic’d cabinet emulation, making it ideal for recording and silent practice. It offers five Air Feel settings to shape the direct sound and can be customized using BOSS Tone Studio software, which also allows users to download patches created by others.
In addition to its sound quality, the Katana-50 MkII is suitable for gigging musicians, with a power amp input for modellers and profilers and a one-touch reset recall function for quick switching between different amp settings. The amp offers five amp characters (Clean, Crunch, Lead, Brown, and Acoustic) and 60 built-in effects, including distortion, delay, and reverb, which can be easily accessed and customized. It features a Power Control function with three output power settings: 50 watts, 25 watts, and 0.5 watts, making it suitable for various playing environments.
The modeling amp with built in effects provides various tone-shaping options, including a three-band EQ, presence control, and tone setting memories, allowing users to fine-tune their sound. Its intuitive control layout, LED display, and lightweight, durable design make it easy to use and convenient for gigging musicians. The Boss Katana-50 MkII offers excellent value for money, delivering high-quality sound and versatility at an affordable price point, making it a compelling choice for guitarists of all levels.
See our full review of the Boss Katana here.
FLAMMA FA05 Electric Guitar Modeling Amp
Pros
- The seven preamp types based on popular guitar amplifiers offer a versatile range of tones.
- The built-in modulation, delay, and reverb effects with independent tap tempo controls allow for easy customization of your sound.
- The 40 types of drum machine and precision tuner make this amp a convenient all-in-one practice tool.
Cons
- The 5-watt output makes this a practice amp only
- The drum machine’s limited range of usable beats is just good for setting tempo.
- The amp’s small size may sacrifice some sound quality compared to larger models.
I know some people just don’t like imports and Flamma doesn’t have the big name. But the value you get is excellent. I was impressed by the FA05’s range of features for such a compact amp. The seven preamp types offer a good variety of tones, and the built-in effects are easy to use and sound good. The drum machine is a nice bonus, but has limited use. The amp’s small size makes it convenient for practice settings, but like any compact amp, it won’t sound as good as the bigger amps with built-in effects with bigger speakers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable guitar amp with built-in effects, the FLAMMA FA05 is really cool.
Positive Grid Spark 40-Watt Combo Practice Guitar Amplifier Electric Bass and Acoustic Guitar Amp with Spark Mobile App Black
Pros
- Smart Jam feature generates authentic bass and drums to accompany you
- Access to 10,000+ amp-and-FX presets on ToneCloud. More than you will ever need.
- Import music from Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube, and Spark’s smart app will auto-display the guitar chords in real time
Cons
- Humming noise when the guitar is plugged in
- App can be glitchy at times
- Some users may prefer a more traditional amp design
The Smart Jam feature is a standout feature of this modeling amp, allowing guitarists to easily create full-sounding tracks with authentic bass and drums. The access to 10,000+ amp-and-FX presets on ToneCloud is also a huge plus, giving users endless options for customizing their sound. Importing music from popular streaming services and having the guitar chords displayed in real-time is a unique and convenient feature.
However, some users have reported a humming noise when the guitar is plugged in, which can be a bit distracting. Additionally, the app can be glitchy at times, which may cause frustration for some users. Finally, some guitarists may prefer a more traditional amp design. Sometimes you can be overwhelmed with too many options.
Overall, the Positive Grid Spark 40-Watt Combo Practice Guitar Amplifier is a great option for guitarists who want a ton of built-in effects and smart app integration.
LyxPro 40 Watt Electric Guitar Amp with Built-in Effect
Pros
- The powerful 40W combo amp delivers huge sound for every setting, making it perfect for stage performance, studio recording, outdoor concerts, home practice, and other musical applications.
- The explosive 8” 40-watt speaker delivers clear treble, booming bass, excellent current resistance, and reliable frequency response for all kinds of demanding instrumentals.
- The built-in equalizer settings help you achieve diverse tonalities for every style of play, including boost (on/off), variable distortion (gain), digital delay (time/repeat), and treble, middle, and bass adjustment.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the modeling amp arrived damaged or stopped working within the first month of use.
- The design of the amp might not be to everyone’s liking, as it has a simple and basic appearance.
I found the LyxPro 40 Watt Electric Guitar Amplifier to be a highly capable guitar amplifier that is super durable and portable, making it perfect for taking the show on the road. The amp measures 17” x 8.5” x 13.5”, which is a reasonable size for a guitar amp, and it comes with an integrated ¼” microphone input and adjustable mic volume so singers and players can plug in together, making it great for live gigs, street performances, and more.
The amp also features three unique listening experiences, in addition to the built-in speaker. You can enjoy a variety of output options to suit your exact setup, including a ¼” headphone jack for private listening and line out port for plugging into larger external speakers, PA systems, mixing consoles, and other recording gear. The power cable is included, which is always a plus.
Overall, we would recommend the LyxPro 40 Watt Electric Guitar Amplifier to anyone looking for a powerful guitar amp with built-in effects that can deliver huge sound for every setting. The amp has its downsides, but its pros outweigh them, making it a great investment for any musician looking to take their guitar playing to the next level.
Line 6 Spider V 60 MKII 60-Watt Combo Amp
Pros
- Classic Speaker mode for organic sound and feel.
- Artist, Iconic Song, and classic amp presets.
- 200+ amps, cabs, and effects.
Cons
- The built-in wireless receiver only works with Line 6 Relay transmitters.
- The design may not appeal to everyone.
TheLine 6 Spider V 60 MKII’s Classic Speaker mode provides an organic sound and feel. The modeling amp also comes with a wide range of presets, including vintage amp presets voiced by a renowned tube-amp maker, and Artist and Iconic Song collections. With over 200 amps, cabs, and effects, you can easily find your favorite shred, chime, clean, saturated, chunky, or metal tones.
The tuner, metronome, jam-along drum loops, and 60-second looper are useful features for practice sessions. The Spider V Remote editor app allows you to dive into deeper parameters and sculpt custom sounds that could only come from your brain.
However, the built-in wireless receiver only works with Line 6 Relay transmitters, so you may need to purchase additional equipment if you want to go wireless.
Overall, if you’re looking for a practice amp with built-in effects that provides a wide range of tones and features, the Line 6 Spider V 60 MKII is definitely worth considering.
Peavey VYPYR® X2 Guitar Modeling Amp
Pros
- Bluetooth wireless remote control and audio streaming in
- 36 on-board amp models including 6 acoustic and 6 bass amp models
- 26 total on-board amp accessible effects
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the amp not working out of the box
- The Bluetooth connection can be a bit finicky at times
I’ve played the Peavey VYPYR® X2 quite a bit and like this amp. Seems like you can find different VYPRY amps commonly in pawn shops or on Reverb. The Bluetooth remote control and audio streaming in features are incredibly convenient, and the ability to switch between electric, bass, and acoustic guitar on the same amplifier is a game-changer.
One of the standout features of the VYPYR® X2 is the 36 amp models, 26 effects, and 10 instrument models. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from when dialing in your sound. And with the ability to run up to 5 effects simultaneously, you can really get creative with your tone.
Of course, no product is perfect, and the VYPYR® X2 is no exception. Some users have reported issues with the modeling amp not working out of the box, so be sure to test it as soon as you receive it. And while the Bluetooth connection is convenient, it can be a bit finicky at times.
Overall, we think the Peavey VYPYR® X2 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a guitar amp with built-in effects. With its wide range of amp models and effects, Bluetooth remote control, and variable instrument input, it’s a versatile and powerful tool for any musician.
Fender Mustang LT25 Guitar Amplifier
Pros
- The 30 presets offer a wide range of electric guitar tones, making it easy to experiment and find your sound.
- The simple user interface with a 1.8″ color display makes it easy to navigate and customize your sound.
- It has a classic look and feel.
Cons
- Some of the presets may not be useful depending on your preferred style of music.
- The onboard effects are not be as good as high-quality standalone pedals.
I’ve tried out the Fender Mustang LT25 Guitar Amplifier and came away impressed with its ease of use and range of tones. The 30 presets cover a wide range of styles, from clean to distorted, and can be easily customized to your liking. The color display makes it easy to navigate and tweak your settings, even for beginners.
Some of the presets may not be useful for certain types of music. However, for a practice amp, it offers a great range of tones and effects.
Overall, I would recommend the Fender Mustang LT25 for anyone looking for a modeling amp with a classic look and feel. Like Marshall, the Fender name is well known and many people enjoy this brand. While it may not be suitable for larger performances, it offers a great range of tones and effects for home use.
MOOER Electric Guitar Practice Amp
Pros
- The amp features 9 high-quality digital amp models based on popular guitar amplifiers, providing a range of tones to suit different playing styles and genres.
- With tap tempo for each effect, the modulation, delay, and reverb effects can be easily synced to your playing.
- The ability to store and recall up to 9 presets makes it easy to switch between different sounds during a performance or practice session.
Cons
- While the 6.5-inch custom speaker delivers decent sound quality, it may not be loud enough for larger gigs or venues.
- The DC18V 2000mA centre pin negative power supply is not included, so you’ll need to purchase it separately.
- The AUX IN and headphone output jacks are both 3.5mm, which may not be compatible with all devices or headphones.
This digital amp model sounds great and the effects add a lot of depth and character to your playing. The ability to save and recall presets is a real time-saver, allowing you to focus on your performance rather than tweaking settings. While the amp may not be powerful enough for larger gigs, it’s perfect for practice sessions, recording, and smaller performances. Overall, I like the MOOER Electric Guitar Practice Amp for guitarists looking for a compact and feature-packed modeling amp.
In terms of specifications, the amp measures 6.81″D x 11.42″W x 10.04″H and weighs 8.13 pounds. It comes in Hornet Black color and is designed for use with electric guitars and basses. The amp features a 3-band equalizer for fine-tuning your tone, as well as a highly sensitive precision tuner for accurate tuning. It also includes wireless Bluetooth connectivity and an AUX IN jack for connecting external devices. If you’re looking for a versatile and portable guitar amp with built-in effects, the MOOER Electric Guitar Practice Amp is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for a guitar amp with built-in effects, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product that suits your needs. In this section, we will discuss the key features that you should look for when purchasing a guitar amp with built-in effects.
Power and Size
The first thing to consider is the power and size of the amp. The power of the amp is measured in watts, and it determines the volume and projection of the sound. The size of the amp will also determine how portable it is. If you plan on using the modeling amp for gigs, you may want to consider a larger amp with higher wattage. These amps are usually not as powerful as a typical tube amp, but fine for small gigs. However, if you are looking for a practice amp, a smaller amp with lower wattage may be more suitable.
Effects
The built-in effects are the main reason why you are looking for a guitar amp with built-in effects. Therefore, it is important to consider the types of effects that the amp offers. Some common effects include distortion, reverb, delay, and chorus. You should also consider the number of effects available and how easy it is to switch between them.
Connectivity
Another important factor to consider is the connectivity of the amp. You should consider whether the amp has inputs for other instruments or devices, such as microphones or MP3 players. You should also consider whether the amp has a headphone jack for practicing in silence.
Controls
Lastly, you should consider the controls of the amp. The controls should be easy to use and allow you to adjust the sound to your liking. You should also consider whether the amp has a footswitch for controlling the effects.
In conclusion, when purchasing a guitar amp with built-in effects, you should consider the power and size, effects, connectivity, and controls of the amp. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you get the best product that suits your needs.
