With diverse tones often necessitating the use of multiple amps and pedals, versatility is essential for the modern gigging guitarist. However, all of this can be costly, confusing, and time-consuming! Here are our recommendations for the most versatile budget guitar amplifiers on the market right now…
Marshall Code 50
This is a good place to look for the most versatile guitar amplifiers on the market. It also features one of the industry’s biggest names, Marshall. This 50-watt amp is a strong contender because it can use five digital effects at once.
In addition, there are 100 adjustable presets, 14 preamp models, 24 professional effects, and a built-in tuner. To fine-tune your tone, use the 8 loudspeaker modes and the Marshall Gateway App. A truly versatile offering, ideal for practise or performance!
Fender Mustang GTX100
Fender’s Mustang GTX100 amp models include traditional Fender-style sounds as well as many other classic tones. The X2 XLR outputs make it simple to connect to a house PA or recording interface; an excellent choice for home or live use. We have an entire section on our website dedicated to the Fender Mustang Amp, especially the Fender Mustang I that uses the Fender Fuse software to run. If you are a Fender Mustang I user, you can download Fender FUSE application for Free from our website.
The Fender Mustang Amp includes the following Features:
- 40 Amp Models
- Gain, treble, bass, mid, master, and reverb are all adjustable.
- Celestion G12FSD 12-inch 100-watt speaker
- Effects path send/return via 6.3mm stereo jack
Harley Benton HB-200MFX
If you want to experiment with different sounds, the HB-200MFX is a great option. There are commendable qualities on offer despite the modest 20-watts and single 8-inch speaker.
You get 5 amp voicings as well as 4 fully programmable presets to save four of your favourite tones. Digital effects such as phaser, reverb, and delay are also available, with adjustable parameters.
With a Bluetooth audio receiver, this amp is ideal for practising, and at 6.5kg, why not take it on the bus or train to your first few gigs?
Blackstar ID Core 100
Blackstar has always done things a little differently than the other major brand amplifier manufacturers, and the ID Core 100 is no exception. The ID Core 100 is the only true stereo modelling combo amplifier on this list. You can enjoy wide, stereo effects thanks to two 50-watt speakers connected to a 100-watt stereo power amplifier.
When it comes to effects, you get an integrated looper and 12 digital effects, as well as 6 Blackstar voiced amp models. There’s a line out with speaker emulation, a stereo FX loop, and an AUX in for recording or connecting to a PA system. This is truly a jack of all trades amplifier!
Boss Katana 100 MKII
Since 2016, the Boss Katana line has provided us with incredible amps. The heart of this 100 MKII rendition of Boss’ legendary Katana series is versatility. The power amplifier output can be set to 0.5, 50, or 100 watts when equipped with a 12-inch custom speaker. Consider it as a quiet mode for neighbours and a rocking out mode for live performances.
In addition, you have control over 5 amp types and 5 different digital effects, as well as access to the Boss Tone Studio, which gives you access to over 60 extra effects. For good reason, the Boss Katana has become a “go-to” in the budget amp segment; it sounds great, it’s highly portable, and it covers a lot of musical ground.