The Best Amp for Les Paul Guitars
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best amp for Les Paul guitars for your budget and situation, along with our Top 5 recommendations!
The Gibson Les Paul is one of the most iconic electric guitars of all time. It was first developed in 1952 by two pioneering guitarists, Ted McCarty and Les Paul. Since then, the classic design has been used by some of the world’s greatest guitarists, from Slash to Jimmy Page. Whether you're a beginner or a professional musician, discovering the ideal amp for your Les Paul can help you get the exact sound you want out of your instrument.
Buyer's Guide for Amps for a Les Paul
When it comes to finding the perfect amp for your Les Paul, there are a few things to consider, such as type of amp and sound, wattage, features, and overall cost.
Type of Amp and Sound
First, decide if you’re looking for a tube amp or solid-state amp. Tube amplifiers (or "valve amps") have a warm sound that many people prefer; while solid-state amps provide more consistent performance and can be easier on your wallet.
For versatility and a classic rock sound, it’s hard to beat the traditional tube amp. Tube amps provide a warm, rich sound with plenty of headroom for overdriven tones.
Many modern tube amplifiers also feature digital components that allow you to save settings and programs for easy recall later on.
Tube amps are known for their dynamic response, allowing them to react more naturally to changes in attack and volume from the player.
If you’re looking for something more modern with improved technology, solid-state amps are ideal. Solid-state amplifiers tend to be more affordable than tubes while still providing ample power and features.
Generally speaking, tube amplifiers tend to give Les Pauls a warmer tone while solid-state amps provide cleaner tones with more consistent performance.
Wattage
In addition to your choice of amp type, it’s important to consider wattage – do you need an amp that will fill up an entire club or something more suited to home recording?
Higher wattage means higher volume capabilities as well as a bigger bottom end for fuller tones when playing with other instruments or in larger venues.
When choosing an amplifier for a Les Paul, aim for at least 50 watts of power if possible.
Features
Remember to think about features like reverb, tremolo and effects loops that can give your sound more depth and texture.
Additionally, it's important to choose an amp that will allow you to customize the sound to your own preferences.
If you’re looking for maximum control over your tone and effects settings, then look no further than modeling amplifiers.
These advanced amps emulate the sounds of many classic vintage amplifiers while also offering settings like reverb and chorus controls built right in.
They generally offer plenty of connectivity options as well, allowing you to plug into external hardware or audio interfaces with ease.
Overall Cost
Like any other piece of music gear, budget of the individual is something that needs to be taken into account. Fortunately there are quality options for different amps that sound good at all price levels.
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits all when it comes to selecting an amplifier for your Les Paul guitar, so we've covered a few of our favorites in this article to get you started in your search.
Boss Katana-50 MkII
Why it Rocks
The Boss Katana-50 MkII guitar combo amplifier is a powerful, versatile. and affordable amp capable of delivering a wide range of tones.
With five unique amp characters, plus newly voiced variations for each, the Katana-50 MkII gives you the ability to craft your own signature sound.
It features five independent effects sections, each with three variations, Dedicated Pedal FX, and with its USB connectivity you can use BOSS Tone Studio software to customize your sound.
The Katana-50 MkII also features Cranked-amp tone and response at low volumes, making it perfect for practice or small gigs without sacrificing the sound of a fully cranked amp.
Its Mic'd cabinet emulation allows you to capture a tone that still sounds great in a recording or direct out to a PA system.
Additionally, it offers five primary amp characters which provide everything from organic vintage tones to modern high-gain sounds, plus a dedicated voice optimized for acoustic-electric guitar.
Finally, its four Tone Slots house over 60 effects that can be used to enhance your performance.
What Else
With all these features combined, the Katana-50 MkII provides an incredible range of tonal options for any guitar player. Whether you're looking for classic clean tones or modern high gain leads, this amp has it all with ease of use and convenience at its heart, and is the best option we've found for those on a budget.
Blackstar Studio 20
Why it Rocks
The Blackstar Studio 20 is a powerful yet portable all-tube 1x12" combo guitar amplifier that offers an impressive range of tones.
With its two footswitchable channels, classic Celestion speaker, and versatile ISF control, this amp offers the perfect combination of boutique-style clean tones and plenty of classic gain for crunchy blues and hard rock.
The unique Infinite Shape Feature (ISF) gives you the ability to dial in a wide variety of American and British amps' high-gain tones.
What Else
The amp also comes with a digital reverb for added ambience and an effects loop for integrating your pedalboard or other effects easily.
All this combined with its 20 watts of power make this amp the perfect choice for any guitarist looking for maximum versatility in a small package.
VOX AC15C1
Why it Rocks
The VOX AC15C1 combo amplifier is an ideal choice for those seeking a powerful, customizable tone.
Its two channels offer a wealth of tonal possibilities, with Normal and Top-Boost modes and individual Volume controls for each.
The Top Boost channel also offers a highly interactive Treble and Bass tone control, allowing musicians to craft their own unique sound.
The Master section further expands the user's capabilities, with a Tone Cut control that operates in the power stage rather than the preamp stage, enabling even greater tonal flexibility.
A Master control works in conjunction with the individual volumes of each channel to ensure just the right degree of classic gain-staging, allowing users to achieve everything from a clean VOX "chimey" sound to a powerful overdrive.
What Else
In addition to its outstanding range of tonal options, the AC15C1 combo amplifier also features classic tremolo effects with adjustable speed and depth controls as well as spring reverb for added ambience.
A footswitch provides convenient switching between channels and there's even a switchable 8/16 ohm output jack for powering an external speaker cabinet if desired.
With such extensive customization capabilities, the AC15C1 is great for players seeking an expertly crafted tone.
Fender Blues Junior IV
Why it Rocks
The Fender Blues Junior IV is a classic tube-driven amplifier that offers the perfect combination of vintage tone and modern technology.
Its modified preamp circuitry provides greater tonal definition and clarity, allowing guitarists to play clean without sacrificing their signature sound.
The included spring reverb adds lush ambience and can be dialed in for any volume setting. Powerful Celestion speakers offer a classic rock ‘n’ roll flavor with a modern edge, while the integrated “Fat” switch boosts the midrange for added thickness when soloing.
What Else
With its sparkling silver grille cloth lightly aged to give it more character, this amp is sure to stand out on stage or in the studio, and its durable steel-reinforced handle makes transport easy, so you can take your sound anywhere.
Whether you want to play blues or anything else, you can't go wrong with the Blues Junior.
Marshall Amps DSL40CR Combo
Why it Rocks
The Marshall Amps DSL40CR Combo is the perfect combination of classic and modern tones, allowing you to dial in the perfect sound for any setting.
This 40-watt combo amp features two channels - Classic Gain and Ultra Gain - with two modes each: Clean/Crunch and OD1/OD2. Each channel offers gain and volume controls, a dedicated resonance control, as well as two separate master controls.
To ensure a truly authentic tone, it comes loaded with the renowned Celestion V-Type speaker.
For added flexibility, the Marshall Amps DSL40CR Combo also includes high and low power settings so you can adjust the output accordingly; this feature combined with its line output allows you to simulate a Marshall 1960 cabinet with Softube's emulation technology.
The refined EQ section gives you incredible tonal control while the bypassable rear-panel series effects loop lets you add additional external effects.
Finally, a 2-way footswitch is included for convenient channel switching and reverb on/off capabilities.
What Else
Thanks to its advanced features and versatile range of tones, the Marshall Amps DSL40CR Combo is an ideal choice for live performance or studio recording.
With its classic look, rugged construction, and excellent sound quality, it's already a favorite amongst guitarists everywhere, and is our overall favorite as well.
FAQ: the Best Amps to Use with Les Paul Guitars
Why are Les Paul guitars so popular in the first place?
These instruments are heralded by many as one of the most iconic and recognizable guitar models in history.
Named after the legendary inventor and musician, Les Paul, these instruments have become widely popular due to their exceptional playability, powerful tone, and classic styling.
The body is usually made from mahogany or alder wood for maximum resonance and sustain. It features a solid carved top with a trapezoid-style inlay pattern that pays homage to the original design.
The neck of the guitar is typically made of mahogany or maple with a slim "C" profile for added comfort.
The fingerboard is traditionally rosewood, with dot inlays, although more modern versions are available with alternatives such as jumbo frets and ebony fingerboards.
The heart of any Les Paul guitar is its pickups - two single-coil humbuckers that provide a wide range of sonic possibilities including jangly clean sound all the way up to screaming lead lines. With its three-way toggle switch, separate volume and tone knobs for each pickup, players can tailor their sound precisely to fit any style or genre.
Gibson’s signature 'Tune-O-Matic' bridge system allows for precise intonation while also providing improved sustain and stability when compared to traditional stopbar bridges.
Add in many available premium features such as figured tops, binding on the neck and headstock, gold plated hardware, custom pickguards and more, there has never been an instrument so customizable yet timelessly stylish as a Les Paul guitar.
Are Fender Amps good for my Epiphone Les Paul Custom?
Yes, they make some excellent amps that work well with any type of electric guitar – including Epiphone models like the Custom.
From budget-friendly modeling amplifiers like the Mustang GT series to classic tube models like tweed combos or blackface Deluxe Reverbs, there is something for every taste and budget, and a Fender amp can be an excellent choice.
Can I use my acoustic guitar with an amplifier?
Yes! While acoustics don't require amplification in order to be heard (unlike electrics), using an amplifier can add clarity and fullness to their sound – especially when playing live gigs or recording in studio environments with other instruments such as drums or keyboards.
Just make sure to choose an amp specifically designed for acoustics in order to get the best results.
Is a Marshall Amp suitable for hard rock?
Marshall is renowned among hard rockers thanks to its signature crunchy tones which have been popularized by countless legendary artists over the years including Jimi Hendrix, Angus Young, and Pete Townshend, among others.
If you’re looking for higher gain sounds suitable for harder rock and metal styles, a Marshall amp could be just what you're looking for.
Which pickups are better - PAF style pickups vs Humbuckers?
Both types of pickups have their own unique advantages so it really boils down to personal preference (although humbuckers typically offer more punchy mid range tones).
PAF style pickups are great if you're looking for more vintage sounds, whereas humbuckers are ideal if modern tones are what you're after (e.g riffs from classic heavy metal albums).
Are there any specific features that are better suited to a Les Paul?
Yes - certain features like mid-range boost circuits and overdrive channels can be especially beneficial when playing one of these instruments.
Additionally, the presence of a master knob can make it easier to manage your overall sound level on stage or in the studio.
Does wattage matter when selecting an amp compatible with my Les Paul?
Wattage is one of several important considerations when choosing an amp; higher wattage amps offer more headroom but can be pricier than lower wattage models while still providing plenty of loudness capability depending on your needs (50 watts being enough power to drive most live applications).
Are vintage tube amplifiers better suited than modern ones?
A vintage tube amp can certainly produce great results when used alongside a Les Paul; however, a modern tube amp provided similar levels of quality output without incurring the sometimes significant maintenance costs associated with vintage models – so ultimately it will depend on your personal preference and budget constraints.
Can I get good results by using digital modeling amplifiers instead of traditional tubes?
Digital modeling amplifiers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility – they can simulate different types of tube amplifiers as well as other effects pedals found in traditional rigs all at once without needing extra hardware such as power supplies or foot switches – so if you’re looking for convenience or just starting out then digital modeling could be worth considering too.
What type of speaker should I use if playing mostly heavy rock styles?
For heavier rock styles on a Les Paul amp setup it’s recommended that you use speakers which possess strong low-end frequencies such as those manufactured by Celestion or Eminence – these will emphasize mid-range punch while maintaining clarity across all frequencies within the mix even at high volumes levels making them ideal choices both onstage and in recording situations.
Is there anything else I should keep in mind when choosing an amp suitable for my Les Paul?
It’s important to consider how much control you want over your sound: some amps feature basic tonal controls whereas others offer advanced equalization settings – decide what kind of flexibility suits you best before committing to purchase– likewise think about how much headroom (max gain) you require and whether or not effects pedals built into your amp would be beneficial to your setup.
Summary
Hopefully this article has given you some guidance to finding the ideal amp for your purposes - just to recap, here are our favorites:
Best Budget Option: Boss Katana-50 MkII
Best for Versatility: Blackstar Studio 20
Best for Tone-Shaping: VOX AC15C1
Best for Blues: Fender Blues Junior IV
Best Overall: Marshall Amps DSL40CR Combo
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