If you're a blues guitarist searching for the perfect small tube amp, you know the importance of having the right gear to achieve that classic, soulful tone. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which amp is right for you. That's why we've put together this guide to help you find the best small tube amp for blues.
When looking for a small tube amp for blues, there are a few key points to keep in mind. First, consider the power output. Blues tones are often achieved with a lower wattage, so a 5-15 watt amp should suffice. Next, think about the speaker size. A 10-inch speaker is a popular choice for blues, as it provides a balanced sound. Third, consider the type of tubes used in the amp. EL84 tubes are a great choice for blues, as they provide a warm, responsive tone. Fourth, look for an amp with a simple control panel, as this will allow you to focus on your playing rather than fiddling with knobs. Finally, consider the portability of the amp. A small, lightweight amp will be easier to take to gigs or practice sessions.
In summary, when searching for the best small tube amp for blues, consider the power output, speaker size, tube type, control panel simplicity, and portability. With these factors in mind, you'll be sure to find an amp that will help you achieve the perfect blues tone.
10 Best Small Tube Amp For Blues
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1. Fender Blues Junior Guitar Amplifier, Lacquered Tweed
The Fender Blues Junior Guitar Amplifier in Lacquered Tweed is a classic and reliable option for any musician seeking warm tube tones. It features EL84 power tubes and 12ax7 pre-amp tubes, which provide a rich and nuanced sound that is sure to please even the most discerning listener.
One of the standout features of this amplifier is its foot switchable "FAT" option, which adds thicker tones and subtle overdrive to your playing. This allows for a greater range of expression and dynamics, making it an ideal choice for guitarists who want to explore different sounds and styles.
In addition to its powerful tube-driven sound, the Fender Blues Junior also features an onboard spring reverb that provides a large echo effect. This reverb is perfect for adding depth and atmosphere to your playing, whether you're performing live or recording in the studio.
The Lacquered Tweed cabinet of this amplifier is both stylish and durable, ensuring that it will last for years to come. The cabinet is designed to withstand the rigors of touring and gigging, making it an excellent choice for musicians who need a reliable and versatile amplifier.
Finally, the Fender Blues Junior is equipped with a Jensen P12N speaker, which provides warm and articulate tones that are perfect for blues, jazz, and rock music. This speaker is renowned for its clarity and richness, and it is sure to satisfy even the most demanding guitarists.
Overall, the Fender Blues Junior Guitar Amplifier in Lacquered Tweed is a top-of-the-line option for anyone who wants to achieve classic tube-driven tones. With its powerful sound, versatile features, and durable construction, it is sure to become a staple in any musician's collection.
2. Roland Blues Cube Hot Combo Amp, 30w, 12" Speaker, Vintage Blond.
The Roland BC-HOT-VB Blues Cube Hot Guitar Combo Amplifier is a performance-ready, compact 30-watt guitar amplifier that delivers authentic tube tone and touch response. Featuring Roland's comprehensive tube Logic design, this amplifier reproduces the interactive tonal behaviors of famous fine-tuned vintage tube amps, including preamp and output tube saturation characteristics, power supply compression, and much more.
The Blues Cube Hot Guitar Combo Amplifier is equipped with a master volume, three-band EQ, and onboard reverb, allowing guitarists to customize their sound to suit their preferences. Additionally, the amplifier features a foot switchable boost for natural crunch and tone for bright presence.
In terms of aesthetics, the Blues Cube Hot Guitar Combo Amplifier boasts a stylish, modern look with a vintage vibe. The vintage blond finish and silver grille cloth give it a classic appearance that will look great on any stage.
Despite its compact size, this amplifier packs a punch. Its efficient, lightweight design provides easy portability without sacrificing tone quality. Whether you're practicing at home or performing on stage, the Blues Cube Hot Guitar Combo Amplifier delivers authentic tube tone and touch response that will satisfy even the most discerning guitarists.
In summary, the Roland BC-HOT-VB Blues Cube Hot Guitar Combo Amplifier is a high-quality amplifier that provides guitarists with the authentic tube tone and touch response they crave. With its comprehensive tube Logic design and foot switchable boost, this amplifier is a versatile and powerful tool for any guitarist. Its stylish, modern look with a vintage vibe makes it a great addition to any collection, while its efficient, lightweight design ensures easy portability without sacrificing tone quality.
3. Joyo Bluejay Bantamp – 20w Hybrid Tube Guitar Amp Head W/ Bluetooth.
The JOYO Bluejay (Blues-Junior) BanTamp Series Mini Amp Head 20 Watt Preamp 2 Channel Hybrid Tube Guitar Amplifier with Bluetooth is a perfect companion for those who love Blues and Jazz. This compact and portable 20 Watt tube head can deliver warm clean tones that are reminiscent of classic California amps, and rich overdrive tones that make you want to play pentatonic licks all day long.
The Bluejay is equipped with a "Normal" channel that can take pedals really well, making it flexible and a great little companion for many situations where your "big" head is just not sensible. The amp operates with a single 12AX7 tube in the preamp and uses a solid state power amp. The FX loop enables you to put your time-based effects (or Phasers, Flangers, and Choruses) behind the drive section and keep the effects sharp and prevent them from being too muddy.
The icing on the cake is the Bluetooth connectivity, which is great for practicing with PlayAlongs or learning songs. The amp is small, but loud, and its 20 Watts can be quite a handful. If you want to practice quietly, use the built-in headphone out with speaker emulation.
JOYO's Bluejay is a versatile amp that is perfect for those who love the warm tones of Blues and Jazz. Its compact size makes it easy to take with you wherever you go, and its Bluetooth connectivity allows you to practice with PlayAlongs or learn new songs. The amp's single 12AX7 tube in the preamp produces warm clean tones and rich overdrive tones that will inspire you to play all day long.
The Bluejay's "Normal" channel is perfect for taking pedals, making it a great companion for a variety of situations where a larger amp head is not practical. The amp's FX loop ensures that your time-based effects remain sharp and prevent them from becoming too muddy. The built-in headphone out with speaker emulation allows you to practice quietly without disturbing others.
In summary, the JOYO Bluejay (Blues-Junior) BanTamp Series Mini Amp Head is a compact and portable 20 Watt tube head that produces warm clean tones and rich overdrive tones, perfect for those who love Blues and Jazz. Its Bluetooth connectivity, FX loop, and built-in headphone out with speaker emulation make it a versatile amp that is perfect for practicing and learning new songs.
4. Vintage El34 Vacuum Tube Pinout Heartbeat Tube Amp T-Shirt
The Vintage EL34 Vacuum Tube Pinout Heartbeat Tube Amp T-Shirt is a perfect fit for audiophile musicians and electronics enthusiasts who appreciate the warm sound of classic analog tube amplifiers. This t-shirt features a vintage retro style vacuum tube design that showcases the pinout of the famous EL34 tube with a graph that illustrates an amplified heartbeat.
The EL34 tube is a popular vacuum tube used in many classic tube amplifiers. It is known for its rich, warm sound and is often used in guitar and bass amplifiers. The pinout of the EL34 tube is a crucial component of its design, and this t-shirt is an excellent tribute to this iconic tube.
The design of this t-shirt is both stylish and unique. The vintage retro style is perfect for those who appreciate classic analog audio technology. The graph that shows an amplified heartbeat is a clever addition that adds a touch of personality to the design. The EL34 tube's pinout is displayed prominently in the center of the t-shirt, making it a perfect conversation starter for anyone who loves tube amplifiers.
The Vintage EL34 Vacuum Tube Pinout Heartbeat Tube Amp T-Shirt is made from lightweight, high-quality materials that ensure maximum comfort. The classic fit and double-needle sleeve and bottom hem make this t-shirt durable and long-lasting. It is available in a range of sizes, making it suitable for anyone who wants to show their love for tube amplifiers.
In conclusion, the Vintage EL34 Vacuum Tube Pinout Heartbeat Tube Amp T-Shirt is an excellent choice for anyone who loves classic analog audio technology. It is a unique and stylish t-shirt that showcases the pinout of the famous EL34 tube. The lightweight and comfortable materials ensure maximum comfort, making it suitable for everyday wear. Whether you are an audiophile musician, electronics enthusiast, or simply a fan of tube amplifiers, this t-shirt is sure to impress.
5. Fender Frontman 10g Electric Guitar Amplifier – Midnight Blue
The Fender Frontman 10G Electric Guitar Amplifier in Midnight Blue is the perfect choice for guitarists who want a compact and portable amp that delivers exceptional sound quality. This 10-watt amp packs a punch with its 6" Fender Special Design speaker that produces a dynamic and clear sound.
The Frontman 10G features gain, volume, treble, and bass controls that allow guitarists to fine-tune their sound to their liking. The overdrive switch adds distortion to the tone for a more aggressive sound. This versatile amp is suitable for a wide range of genres, from blues and rock to metal and punk.
The Frontman 10G also features an auxiliary input and headphone output jacks, allowing guitarists to play along with their favorite songs or practice quietly without disturbing others. The closed-back construction of the amp enhances the sound quality and ensures that the sound is directed towards the audience.
This amp is perfect for beginners who are just starting their musical journey and experienced guitarists who want a reliable and portable amp for practice or small gigs. The midnight blue color adds a touch of elegance to the overall design of the amp.
In conclusion, the Fender Frontman 10G Electric Guitar Amplifier in Midnight Blue is a compact and versatile amp that delivers exceptional sound quality. With its easy-to-use controls, auxiliary input, and headphone output jacks, this amp is suitable for guitarists of all levels. The closed-back construction and 6" Fender Special Design speaker ensure that the sound is directed towards the audience, making it ideal for small gigs and practice sessions.
6. Vintage Analog-Audio Vacuum Tube Guitar Bass Tube Amp T-Shirt
Introducing the Vintage Analog-Audio Vacuum Tube Guitar Bass Tube Amp T-Shirt, a must-have for any audiophile musician or electronics enthusiast. This t-shirt is designed for those who appreciate the warm sound of classic tube amps when playing or listening to music. The vintage retro style vacuum tube design features one of the most famous valves used in analog guitar and Hi-Fi amplifiers.
Crafted from lightweight materials, this t-shirt promises a comfortable fit that is perfect for everyday wear. The classic fit ensures that it looks great on anyone, while the double-needle sleeve and bottom hem provide extra durability. Whether you're out for a casual stroll, attending a concert or simply lounging at home, this t-shirt will undoubtedly become a staple in your wardrobe.
The design of this t-shirt is sure to resonate with any audiophile musician who plays the guitar or bass. It celebrates the vintage analog audio technology of tube amplifiers that continues to be revered by musicians and electronics enthusiasts alike. The design is a nod to the classic vacuum tube amplifiers that have been used for decades in the music industry, delivering a warm and authentic sound that cannot be replicated by modern digital technology.
This t-shirt is a great gift idea for any musician, music lover, or electronics enthusiast. It is not only a stylish addition to any wardrobe, but it also celebrates the rich history of analog technology and its continued relevance in the modern world. The Vintage Analog-Audio Vacuum Tube Guitar Bass Tube Amp T-Shirt is a timeless piece that is sure to be cherished for years to come.
7. Willsenton R-35i Tube Amplifier Headphone Amp With Basic Meter (Dark Blue)
The Willsenton R-35I EL34 x4 Tube Amplifier Headphone Amp with Bluetooth Basic Meter (Dark Blue Without Bluetooth) is a pure hand-made, point-to-point welded amplifier that provides exceptional sound quality. The device comes with a basic meter, protective cover cage, and remote control for added convenience.
One of the key features of this amplifier is its high power Z11 iron core Japanese EI type power transformer, which ensures that the device can handle even the most demanding audio applications. This transformer is designed to provide high efficiency, low noise, and excellent reliability.
The Willsenton R-35I EL34 x4 Tube Amplifier Headphone Amp with Bluetooth Basic Meter (Dark Blue Without Bluetooth) is also equipped with four EL34 vacuum tubes, which provide rich, warm, and natural sound. These tubes are known for their excellent distortion characteristics, making them ideal for guitar amplifiers and other musical applications.
In addition to its exceptional sound quality, the Willsenton R-35I EL34 x4 Tube Amplifier Headphone Amp with Bluetooth Basic Meter (Dark Blue Without Bluetooth) is also designed for convenience and ease of use. The device comes with a protective cover cage, which helps to prevent damage from accidental bumps and drops.
The basic meter on the device provides essential information about the amplifier's performance, including the output power and tube bias. This information can be used to adjust the amplifier's settings and ensure that it is delivering optimal performance.
Finally, the Willsenton R-35I EL34 x4 Tube Amplifier Headphone Amp with Bluetooth Basic Meter (Dark Blue Without Bluetooth) also comes with a remote control, which allows users to adjust the amplifier's settings from a distance. This feature is especially useful for musicians who need to make quick adjustments during performances.
Overall, the Willsenton R-35I EL34 x4 Tube Amplifier Headphone Amp with Bluetooth Basic Meter (Dark Blue Without Bluetooth) is an exceptional amplifier that delivers high-quality sound and convenient features. Whether you are a musician, audiophile, or just someone who appreciates great sound, this amplifier is sure to impress.
Best Small Tube Amp For Blues FAQs
Are there any affordable small tube amps that are good for playing blues music?
Yes, there are several affordable small tube amps that are good for playing blues music. Some popular options include the Fender Blues Junior, Vox AC10, and the Blackstar HT-5R. These amplifiers offer classic tube tone and are ideal for blues enthusiasts who want to achieve a warm, vintage sound without breaking the bank. The Fender Blues Junior, for example, features a 15-watt power output and a 12-inch speaker, making it a great choice for small gigs and practice sessions. The Vox AC10, on the other hand, has a slightly higher power output of 10 watts and a unique tube-driven tremolo effect that adds depth and character to your playing. The Blackstar HT-5R is a versatile amp that can handle a wide range of genres, including blues, thanks to its three-channel design and built-in digital reverb. Overall, there are plenty of affordable small tube amps that are perfect for blues players on a budget.
How does the sound quality of small tube amps compare to larger amps for blues music?
The sound quality of small tube amps and larger amps for blues music can vary depending on various factors such as the make, model, and quality of the amplifier. Generally, small tube amps are known for their warm and punchy sound characteristics, which are suitable for blues music. They tend to have a more compressed and distorted tone at lower volumes, making them ideal for recording and home practice.
On the other hand, larger amps tend to have a higher wattage, which provides more headroom and a louder sound output. They tend to produce a more dynamic and articulate tone, making them suitable for live performances and larger venues. However, they can be too loud for home practice and may not provide the same level of warmth and character as smaller tube amps.
Overall, both small and larger tube amps can provide excellent sound quality for blues music, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific application.
What are some user reviews or recommendations for the best small tube amps for blues?
According to user reviews and recommendations, some of the best small tube amps for blues include the Fender Blues Junior, Vox AC4C1-BL, and Marshall DSL5C. The Fender Blues Junior is a popular choice for its warm and rich tone, while the Vox AC4C1-BL offers a classic British sound with its EL84 power tube. The Marshall DSL5C is another great option, offering a versatile range of tones and a convenient size for home practice or small gigs. Other notable mentions include the Orange Tiny Terror and the Blackstar HT-5R. Ultimately, the best small tube amp for blues will depend on personal preference and playing style, so it's important to try out different options before making a purchase.
What are the top small tube amps for blues guitar players?
Blues guitar players have a wide range of small tube amps to choose from. Here are some of the top options:
1. Fender Blues Junior: This is a popular choice for blues players due to its classic Fender tone and portability.
2. Vox AC10: The AC10 is a versatile amp that can handle both clean and distorted tones, making it a great option for blues players.
3. Marshall Origin 5: This amp provides a classic Marshall sound in a compact package, making it a great option for blues players who want a bit of crunch.
4. Blackstar HT-5R: The HT-5R is a versatile amp that can handle a wide range of tones, from clean to overdriven, making it a great option for blues players.
5. Supro Blues King 8: This small amp has a vintage sound that is perfect for blues players who want a classic tone.
Overall, the top small tube amps for blues guitar players include amps from Fender, Vox, Marshall, Blackstar, and Supro. These amps provide the classic blues tone that many players are looking for, while also being portable and easy to use.
What features should I look for in a small tube amp for blues music?
When looking for a small tube amp for blues music, there are several key features to consider. First and foremost, you want an amp that has a warm and responsive tone. Look for an amp with a lower wattage (around 5-15 watts) as these amps tend to produce a more natural and dynamic sound. Additionally, you may want an amp with a clean channel that can easily be overdriven with pedals or by increasing the volume. A reverb feature can also be useful in adding depth and dimension to your sound. Finally, consider the size and portability of the amp, as a smaller and more lightweight option may be preferable for gigs and travel. Overall, the key is to find an amp that allows you to achieve the classic blues guitar sound that you're after.