It’s a common question: can I use an acoustic guitar with an electric guitar amp? The short answer is yes—you can plug an acoustic guitar into an electric amp, but the results often aren’t ideal. Electric guitar amps are designed to shape and color electric guitar tones, which can make your acoustic sound boxy, muddy, or artificial. For the best sound, you’ll want an acoustic guitar amp, which is built to reproduce your guitar’s natural resonance with clarity and balance. In this article, we’ll explain the differences, cover what to look for, and review some of the best acoustic amps available today.
Quick Picks
- Fender Acoustasonic 40 – Best Overall budget-friendly acoustic amp (~$300).
- Boss Acoustic Singer Live LT – Best Balanced Choice for performers (~$600).
- Fishman Loudbox Artist – Best Premium pick with professional features (~$700).
Buyer’s Guide
If you’ve ever wondered why acoustic amps exist, here’s what you should know before buying one:
- Sound Reproduction – Acoustic amps are designed to provide a full-range, flat response to capture your guitar’s natural tone, unlike electric amps which color the sound.
- Feedback Control – Acoustic amps often have anti-feedback features to help you play live without unwanted squeals.
- Inputs – Many acoustic amps include multiple channels for plugging in both your guitar and a microphone, making them great for singer-songwriters.
- Built-in Effects – Reverb, chorus, and delay are common in acoustic amps to enhance live performance without heavy processing.
- Portability – Consider wattage and weight depending on whether you’re playing coffeehouses, small venues, or outdoor gigs.
- Price Range – Good acoustic amps start around $300, while professional models can exceed $2,000.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Fender Acoustasonic 40
Who it’s for: Beginners and small-venue performers.
- 40 watts of power with two channels (guitar + mic).
- Simple EQ and built-in chorus effect.
- Compact and lightweight design.
Pros: Affordable, portable, easy to use.
Cons: Limited power for larger gigs.
Verdict: A solid starting point for players moving from electric amps to acoustic amps (~$300).
2. Boss Acoustic Singer Live LT
Who it’s for: Gigging singer-songwriters.
- 60 watts with natural acoustic tone shaping.
- Dual channels for guitar and vocal microphone.
- Built-in reverb and chorus effects.
Pros: Professional sound, flexible features, portable.
Cons: Slightly pricier than entry-level amps.
Verdict: A reliable performer’s amp that balances power, tone, and portability (~$600).
3. Fishman Loudbox Artist
Who it’s for: Professional acoustic performers.
- 120 watts with incredible headroom.
- Dual inputs with full EQ and effects.
- Renowned Fishman clarity and reliability.
Pros: Loud, crystal clear, versatile for live use.
Cons: Larger and heavier than some competitors.
Verdict: A premium amp trusted by pros around the world (~$700).
4. AER Compact 60/4
Who it’s for: Touring professionals.
- 60 watts of pure, high-quality acoustic amplification.
- Compact size with incredible tonal fidelity.
- Industry standard for professional acoustic players.
Pros: Boutique sound, unmatched clarity.
Cons: Expensive (~$1,200).
Verdict: A high-end amp that delivers studio-quality sound on stage.
5. Mesa/Boogie Rosette
Who it’s for: Players who want boutique-level performance.
- 300 watts of power with studio-grade EQ.
- Premium construction and tone shaping.
- Perfect for professional touring musicians.
Pros: High headroom, boutique tone, rugged build.
Cons: Pricey (~$2,000+).
Verdict: A powerhouse amp for serious players.
6. Schertler Jam 400
Who it’s for: Advanced musicians and multi-instrumentalists.
- 250 watts with multiple inputs for guitar, vocals, and more.
- Warm, natural tone with exceptional detail.
- Used by professionals in acoustic ensembles.
Pros: Studio-quality sound, versatile inputs.
Cons: Expensive (~$2,500).
Verdict: One of the most advanced acoustic amps available today.
Comparison Table
| Model | Power | Channels | Approx Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fender Acoustasonic 40 | 40W | 2 | $300 |
| Boss Acoustic Singer LT | 60W | 2 | $600 |
| Fishman Loudbox Artist | 120W | 2 | $700 |
| AER Compact 60/4 | 60W | 2 | $1,200 |
| Mesa/Boogie Rosette | 300W | 2+ | $2,000+ |
| Schertler Jam 400 | 250W | Multiple | $2,500 |
FAQ
- Can I damage my acoustic guitar by using an electric amp? No, it won’t damage your guitar, but the sound may not be as natural or pleasing.
- Why do acoustic amps sound better? They’re designed for full-range reproduction, preserving the natural voice of your guitar.
- Can I use pedals with an acoustic amp? Yes, but most players use light reverb, delay, or chorus rather than heavy distortion.
- Do I need an acoustic amp to play at home? Not necessarily—a small practice amp or even no amp works fine. Acoustic amps shine most in live performance.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
So, can you use an acoustic guitar with an electric guitar amp? Yes, but it’s not ideal. Electric amps color your tone in ways that don’t complement the natural voice of an acoustic guitar. If you want to capture the full beauty of your instrument, an acoustic guitar amp is the way to go.
For beginners, the Fender Acoustasonic 40 is a great affordable option. For working musicians, the Boss Acoustic Singer Live LT or Fishman Loudbox Artist deliver professional quality. And for pros demanding the best, amps like the AER Compact 60 and Schertler Jam 400 set the standard for acoustic amplification.