Which amp should you choose for an acoustic guitar?

Amplifying an acoustic guitar is not something you can do with just any amp. An electric guitar amp colours the sound in an unsuitable way, with overly pronounced mids and a lack of clarity in the treble. To reproduce the natural tone of an acoustic guitar faithfully, there are dedicated amps. Here is how to choose well.

Why a dedicated amp for acoustic guitar?

An acoustic guitar produces a very wide sound spectrum: deep bass, detailed mids and crystalline highs. An acoustic amp is designed to reproduce this whole spectrum in a balanced way, without compression or saturation. It generally has a microphone input in addition to the instrument input, which lets you sing at the same time, a real asset for singer-songwriters.

For playing at home or in an intimate setting

A compact 10 to 20 watt amp is enough for practising at home or accompanying a few friends. The Carlsbro Sherwood 10 offers 10 watts in a light, portable format, with an instrument input and an auxiliary input for playing along to a backing track. The Carlsbro Sherwood 20 goes up to 20 watts and adds a chorus control, ideal for enriching the acoustic sound.

For the stage and live gigs

As soon as you play in front of an audience, you need more power and projection. The Richwood RPF-65 Amplifier is designed for the stage: 65 watts, two channels (instrument + microphone) and built-in effects (reverb, chorus). Its compact size makes it easy to carry while still covering a small to medium-sized venue.

And for electric guitar?

If you also play electric guitar, the needs are different: an electric guitar amp is designed to colour the sound and produce overdrive. Models such as the Laney LG 35W offer a warm, versatile sound for rock and blues. For bigger power requirements, the Laney LX 120W covers large stages with ease.

How to choose the right power

The rule is simple: 10-20 watts for home and small rehearsals, 30-65 watts for gigs in venues, and 100 watts and more for large stages. Also bear in mind that a good acoustic amp with a microphone input can replace a small PA system for small duo gigs. For personal advice, contact us. Discover our complete selection of guitar amplifiers.