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Choosing the perfect tube amp can drastically enhance the sound and overall playing experience for any guitarist. Small tube amps (or low-wattage tube amps) combine portability with the warm, organic tones that tube amplifiers are renowned for.

With the multitude of low-watt tube amps available on the market, finding the right one can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide is here to simplify that process, spotlighting some of the best small tube amps available.

In this article, you will learn:

• The key features and benefits of each amp so you’ll know whether that specific model is right for you.
• The reasons why these amps stand out in a crowded market.
• Who these amps are best suited for, from traveling musicians to those spending their time in the studio.

Whether you’re a beginner seeking your first small tube amp or a seasoned pro looking for a portable option, one of these guitar amps is likely to suit your needs.

Tube amps are an essential component of any guitar setup. They give off a rich, warm tone that cannot be matched by digital or solid-state amps. Today, we will review the top small tube amps available in 2023.

What are the Best Small Tube Amps in 2023?

1. Fender Blues Junior IV
2. Marshall DSL20CR
3. Fender Pro Junior IV
4. Bugera V5 Infinium
5. Vox AC4
6. Friedman BE-Mini
7. Supro Delta King 12
8. Yamaha THR30II Wireless
9. Orange Rocker 15
10. Blackstar HT-5R

1. Fender Blues Junior IV

Technical Features:

• 15 Watts
• Master, Middle, Bass, Treble controls
• Fat Switch, Volume controls
• Reverb effect
• 1/4″ input
• Celestion speakers

Review:

The Fender Blues Junior IV amp sounds fantastic, offering a rich, versatile tone that suits various genres. It has a modified preamp circuit, providing increased fullness and a spring reverb that offers improved smoothness. Its comfortable handle makes transportation easy for gigging musicians always on the go, and the sparkling silver grille cloth design adds a touch of class.

Verdict:

The Fender Blues Junior IV is an excellent small tube amp that delivers both tone and portability. It’s one of the best tube amps for those who need a reliable and versatile amp.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Gigging musicians
• Bedroom players seeking a compact yet powerful tube amp.

2. Marshall DSL20CR

Technical Features:

• 20-watts
• Power reduction option to 10 watts
• Classic gain channel
• Many controls, including treble, middle, bass, presence, etc.
• 1 x 1/4″ instrument jack
• 1 x 3.5mm jack aux in
• Footswitch
• Digital reverb effect

Review:

The DSL20CR brings the iconic Marshall sound and versatility in a compact format. The two foot-switchable gain channels enable the DSL20CR to deliver a wide variety of tones, from sparkling cleans to the iconic Marshall crunch and beyond. The built-in digital reverb is smooth and sweet, adding an extra layer of depth to your tone.

The 20-watt power output can be dropped down to 10 watts, making it perfect for practice sessions at home without losing any tone quality. Plus, the standby function offers silent recording, making it a great choice for home studio enthusiasts.

Verdict:

The Marshall DSL20CR is an excellent option for guitarists who want the iconic Marshall tone with more control and flexibility. This low-watt tube amp provides an array of tone-shaping options, from clean to heavily distorted, suitable for almost any style of music. The additional features like power reduction and silent recording make it a fantastic choice for both practice and recording purposes.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Musicians looking for an iconic Marshall sound with tonal versatility and control
• Ideal for home practice, gigging, and studio recording

3. Fender Pro Junior IV

Technical Features:

• 15-watt
• Volume and tone controls
• 1 x 1/4″ instrument jack
• One – 10” Jensen® P10R speaker

Review:

The Pro Junior IV is an excellent little amplifier that packs quite a punch. Don’t let its modest size and simplistic control layout fool you — this small power amp can deliver a powerful, clear, and balanced tone that’s perfect for both recording and live performances. It’s the quintessential Fender tube amp sound — warm, rich, and dynamic.

Despite its minimalist design, the Pro Junior IV provides a ton of flexibility, allowing you to shape your tone to suit a variety of genres and playing styles. The amp naturally overdrives as you increase the volume, providing a deliciously crunchy tone that’s perfect for rock and blues. With its 15 watts of power and a single 10” speaker, this amp can easily hold its own in a band situation or on stage, making it the best tube amp for gigging.

Verdict:

If you’re a musician who values simplicity, quality, and a classic tone, then the Fender Pro Junior IV might be the perfect amp for you. It’s a testament to the notion that sometimes less is more — with just volume and tone controls, it lets the guitar and the player’s technique shine through. Its rich, dynamic tone and classic Fender vibe make it a great choice for both studio work and gigging.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Guitarists looking for a simple, compact tube amp that delivers the classic Fender tone.
• Blues and rock musicians
• Those who value simplicity and quality of sound

4. Bugera V5 Infinium

Technical Features:

• Single-channel tube amp
• 5-watts
• Class A
• Tone control EQ

Review:

If you’re chasing that vintage tone, the Bugera V5 Infinium is an amp you’ll want to consider. The harmonically rich tone of the preamp and power tubes, combined with the depth provided by the British-engineered Turbosound speaker, creates a sound that truly brings back the classic era of tube amps.

Notably, the Infinium Tube Life Multiplier technology is a welcome feature that not only gives you more control over your tone but also prolongs the life of your tubes significantly. It’s also handy to have a built-in power attenuator, allowing you to maintain your tone at lower volumes, which is great for home practice or smaller venues.

Verdict:

The Bugera V5 Infinium is one of the best small tube amps for those seeking a small, vintage-sounding model. With its reasonable price point, rich tone, and user-friendly features, it provides good value for money and is certainly worth considering.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Those seeking a vintage tube sound in a compact, affordable package
• Home use, small gigs, and recording vintage-inspired music

5. Vox AC4

Technical Features:

• 4W RMS output power
• 1 x 12″ Celestion VX12 speaker
• Input jack
• External speaker jack
• Gain, treble, bass, volume controls

Review:

The Vox AC4 brings a legendary British tone to your fingertips in a compact package that’s perfect for home or studio use. The amp is driven by two 12AX7 preamp tubes and one EL84 power tube, delivering a warm and crunchy tone with plenty of character.

One of the standout features of this low-wattage tube amp is its simplicity. It comes with straightforward controls for gain, treble, bass, and volume, allowing you to easily sculpt your tone. The Celestion VX12 custom speaker adds to the overall tone of the amp, delivering a warm, clear sound that stays true to the Vox tradition.

Whether you’re practicing at home, recording in the studio, or playing a small gig, the AC4’s iconic Top Boost tone and portable design make it a reliable choice for any guitarist.

Verdict:

The Vox AC4 is a no-brainer for anyone looking for classic British tones in a compact and affordable package. It delivers the legendary Vox Top Boost tone that has powered countless hits over the years and is a great choice for home practice, studio recording, or small gigs.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Guitarists who want to capture the iconic Vox sound in a more portable and affordable package
• Practicing, recording, or performing in smaller venues

6. Friedman BE-Mini

Technical Features:

• Signature British-voiced harmonics, grind, and punch
• Compact and lightweight design
• Familiar control layout with gain, volume, and presence
• Cut and tight switches
• High-quality series effects loop for time-based effects
• 24V universal-voltage power-supply

Review:

The Friedman BE-Mini does not disappoint. It lives up to the Friedman name, offering that signature British-voiced tone we’ve come to love. Despite its compact size, it can easily handle everything from clean tones to heavy grind and punch. With its straightforward controls and high-quality series effects loop, this is one of the best tube amps to prove that good things indeed come in small packages.

Verdict:

This is the best tube amp for those looking for portability without compromising on tone quality.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Guitarists who are frequently on the go or have limited space but still want the classic British tones of larger Friedman models

7. Supro Delta King 12

Technical Features:

• 15-watt power amp
• 1 x 12″ Supro DK12 speaker
• 6L6-loaded Class A power section
• Master volume control, FET-driven boost, and Pigtronix FAT high-gain mode
• 3-band EQ
• Custom-made analog spring reverb
• Line output for recording

Review:

The Supro Delta King 12 captures the essence of the brand’s vintage aesthetics and pairs it with impressive modern features. It offers a truly immersive playing experience, from its warm, organic tones to its built-in analog spring reverb. The addition of a FET-driven boost and the Pigtronix FAT high-gain mode only serves to enhance its already compelling offering.

Verdict:

This is a great low-watt tube amp for those who want to experience vintage vibes with the convenience of modern features. It’s like a time machine with a forward gear.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Players who love vintage tones and want modern features
• Those who need a reliable amp for small gigs or recording

8. Yamaha THR30II Wireless

Technical Features:

• 30-watt modeling combo
• Wide range of amp models and effects
• Bluetooth support for audio playback
• Built-in wireless receiver compatible with optional Line 6 Relay G10T transmitter
• Built-in rechargeable battery
• Hi-Fi audio playback with Extended Stereo Technology
• USB connectivity
• 1/4″ line outputs

Review:

The Yamaha THR30II Wireless proves that technology and tone can indeed coexist beautifully. Its wide array of amp models and effects, coupled with its wireless capabilities and high-quality audio playback, make it an excellent choice for those in need of a versatile solution. Whether you’re practicing at home, recording in the studio, or performing live, this low-watt tube amp has got you covered.

Verdict:

The Yamaha THR30II is a high-quality, modern, and versatile amplifier that brings a wealth of features to the table. It’s perfect for the guitarist who needs flexibility without compromising on tone.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Guitarists who want to harness the power of technology for an all-in-one, versatile solution that sounds great no matter the context

9. Orange Rocker 15

Technical Features:

• Twin channel design with “Headroom/Bedroom” attenuator switch
• 15W tube amplifier, switchable down to 7W, 1W, or 0.5W
• ‘Natural’ and ‘Dirty’ channels with gain, master volume, and three-band EQ
• Effects loop for integrating your pedalboard and other effects

Review:

The Orange Rocker 15 is a testament to Orange’s prowess in delivering great tone in a small package. The “Headroom/Bedroom” attenuator switch is a game-changer, allowing the amp to perform admirably both on stage and in more intimate settings. Both the ‘Natural’ and ‘Dirty’ channels have their own charm, allowing for a wide spectrum of tonal possibilities.

Verdict:

The Orange Rocker 15 is a small package that carries a big punch. It’s a perfect low-watt tube amp for guitarists who need a versatile solution that can adapt to various playing environments.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Players who need a reliable, versatile, and compact amp that doesn’t compromise on tonal quality and power.

10. Blackstar HT-5R

Technical Features:

• 5-watt
• 1 x 12″ guitar combo amplifier
• Power reduction circuit to 0.5 watts for quiet practice
• Speaker-emulated output for recording
• Digital reverb
• Effects loop for easy integration

Review:

The Blackstar HT-5R is an impressive small tube amp that does not compromise on sound. It offers a robust tone and a variety of features that make it a versatile choice for any guitarist. The Infinite Shape Feature (ISF) is a standout, allowing for a range of tone shaping from American to British high-gain tones, giving you a variety of sounds at your fingertips. It also features an effects loop so you can easily integrate your pedalboard.

Verdict:

The Blackstar HT-5R is a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a compact, versatile amp with a big sound. It’s ideal for home practice, recording, or small gigs.

This Tube Amp is Perfect For:

• Guitarists who need a compact, versatile, and powerful amplifier that is capable of a variety of tones, from clean to high-gain

Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Small Tube Amp

When choosing the best small tube amp for your acoustic or electric guitar, several considerations come into play. We’ve already shown you today’s best deals, and now we’ll delve deep into expert-level topics to help you make the best decision for your amplifier needs.

Understand Tube Amplification

Tube amplification, also known as valve amplification, is a type of audio amplification technology that makes use of vacuum tubes to increase the power or amplitude of a signal. This technology was widely used in the early to mid-20th century before the advent of solid-state technology, which uses semiconductor devices instead of vacuum tubes.

In the context of guitar amplifiers, tube amplifiers are renowned for their unique tonal characteristics. They are often described as producing a “warm,” “rich,” or “natural” sound, which is in part due to the harmonic distortion that tubes naturally produce.

Tube amplifiers also have a high output impedance, which can interact with the speaker and produce a more complex, desirable tone. The response of tube amplifiers can be more linear and more musical than that of solid-state designs, especially when pushed to their limits.

Wattage and Volume

Contrary to some beliefs, wattage does not directly translate to volume. Instead, it refers to the amp’s headroom – the point at which it begins to break up and distort. Low-watt tube amps can be surprisingly loud, but they will start distorting sooner than a higher-wattage amp.

Tone

In the context of guitar playing, tone refers to the overall sound quality that a guitar or amplifier produces. This includes elements such as timbre, sustain, and the level of distortion. The tone of a tube amplifier is influenced by many factors, including the type of tubes used, the circuit design, and the quality of the components.

Different brands and models of tube amplifiers will produce different tones. For example, a vintage Marshall amplifier might be known for its aggressive, overdriven tone that’s perfect for rock and roll. On the other hand, a Fender tube amplifier might be known for its clean, bright tone that’s ideal for blues or country music. Want more overdrive? Consider the best overdrive pedals.

When choosing a tube amplifier, it’s important to consider what type of tone you’re after. Listen to sound samples, read reviews, and, if possible, try the amplifier in person to see if it fits your desired sound.

EQ Controls and Extra Features

EQ controls on a tube amplifier allow you to shape the tone to your liking. Most tube amplifiers will have at least three EQ controls: bass, mid, and treble. Some models might have additional controls for presence (which typically affects the high frequencies) or resonance (which typically affects the low frequencies).

Extra features can greatly enhance the functionality and versatility of a tube amplifier. For example, some amps come with built-in reverb, which can add depth and space to your sound. Others might have an effects loop, which allows you to insert effects after the preamp stage but before the power amp stage, preserving the tone of your effects even when the amp is driven hard.

Other useful features might include an output power selector, which allows you to reduce the amp’s output power for quieter playing situations, or a built-in attenuator, which lets you achieve power tube distortion at lower volumes.

Keep in mind that while these extra features can be very useful, they also add complexity to the amp and can potentially affect the tone. It’s always a balance between versatility and simplicity, especially when using things like guitar pedals.

Portability

The weight and size of the amp matter, especially if you plan to travel with it. Some small tube amps, like the Friedman BE-Mini or Yamaha THR30II Wireless, offer exceptional portability without compromising on sound.

Speaker Configuration

Tube amps come in various configurations, including combos (with the amplifier and speaker in one unit) or heads (requiring an external speaker). Your choice depends on your needs – combos offer convenience, while heads provide more flexibility in pairing with different speakers.

Budget

When it comes to purchasing a small tube amp, your budget is an important factor that will largely determine what models and brands you can afford.

Entry-Level Budget (Under $300): At this price point, you’re looking at the most basic tube amplifiers. They may not have as many features or produce as refined a tone as more expensive models, but they’re a good starting point if you’re new to tube amps. Examples in this range might include smaller combo amps from brands such as Bugera and Monoprice. These amps will typically offer basic tone-shaping controls (bass, middle, treble), a single channel, and power outputs of around 5 watts.

Intermediate Budget ($300 – $800): Once you cross the $300 threshold, you start seeing tube amps with more features and better overall build and sound quality. These amps might include additional features such as reverb, effects loops, or multiple channels for different gain stages. You’ll also start seeing more recognizable brands in this price range, such as VOX and Fender.

Professional Budget ($800 and above): If you’re willing to spend $800 or more on a small tube amp, you’re entering professional territory. These amps are typically built with high-quality components, offer a range of professional features, and are capable of producing top-tier tones. Some of these amplifiers might be hand-wired, which some believe results in a purer signal path and a more organic tone. Brands in this category include Mesa Boogie, Friedman, and boutique builders like Dr. Z and Two-Rock.

Remember, while budget is important, it’s also crucial to choose an amplifier that fits your specific needs in terms of tone and features. For instance, a professional guitarist might be perfectly content with an intermediate-level amp if it has the right tonal character they’re after.

Best Small Tube Amps: Frequently Asked Questions

Are small tube amps worth it?

Absolutely. Some of the best small tube amps deliver the classic warmth and dynamic response that tube amps are known for but in a more compact and portable package. They are perfect for practice, recording, and even small venue performances. Their versatility, combined with the characteristic tone quality of tube amplification, makes them a worthwhile investment for any guitarist.

Is a 15-watt tube amp enough to gig with?

Yes, a 15-watt tube amp can be enough for gigging in certain situations. They are particularly effective in smaller venues, for intimate gigs, or when mic’d up through a PA system. Amps like the Supro Delta King 12 or the Orange Rocker 15 featured in our list of best small tube amps demonstrate that these compact devices can pack a punch and deliver exceptional sound.

Do tube amps sound bad at low volumes?

Not necessarily. While it’s true that tube amps generally reveal their true character and tone at higher volumes, many modern tube amps, especially smaller ones, are designed with master volume controls that allow you to drive the amp’s gain while keeping the overall volume low. This means you can achieve a great tube sound without having to shake the walls. Some of the best small tube amps, like the Friedman BE-Mini and Blackstar HT-5R, are designed to provide excellent tones even at low volumes.

What is the best tube guitar amp for low volume?

Several contenders can claim the title of the best tube guitar amp for low volume. The Friedman BE-Mini is known for delivering its signature sound at manageable volumes, making it an excellent choice. Similarly, the Blackstar HT-5R, with its power reduction feature, allows players to achieve high-gain tones at bedroom-friendly levels. The Yamaha THR30II Wireless is another standout, providing a broad range of tube amp tones and effects, all controllable at low volumes.

Conclusion

The world of tube amplifiers is filled with an exciting array of options for guitarists of all levels, genres, and budgets. Choosing the best small tube amp for you ultimately boils down to your personal preferences, musical style, and budget. Remember, the most expensive amp isn’t always the best. The perfect amp is the one that sounds best to your ears and feels right in your hands.

We’ve dissected and analyzed ten remarkable small tube amps in this review, each with its own unique qualities and features. From the power-packed punch of the Friedman BE-Mini to the lush tonal colorings of the Blackstar HT-5R, there’s an amplifier here that’s bound to resonate with your musical soul.

As you consider your options, remember to revisit our buyer’s guide for a comprehensive understanding of tube amplification, tonal characteristics, EQ controls, extra features, and budgeting.

Whether you’re playing at home, recording in the studio, or gigging in small venues, these small tube amps can deliver exceptional tone and performance. So pick up your guitar, plug into one of these mighty machines, and let the sweet sound of tubes power your music.

So, consider your options carefully, keep our buyer’s guide in mind, and happy playing! With the right chair, every practice or performance can be a more comfortable, enjoyable experience.