As much as guitarists adore the roar of a cranked amplifier, it’s not always practical. Whether you’re burning the midnight oil, sharing walls with neighbors, or simply seeking focused practice, the best Headphone Amp For Guitar is your secret weapon. These ingenious devices deliver stunning amp tones directly to your ears, all while maintaining blissful silence for those around you.
Forget bulky amps and noisy practice sessions. Headphone guitar amps are compact, portable, and incredibly versatile. They’re essential tools for any guitarist wanting to practice anytime, anywhere, without disturbing the peace. It’s important to note that for optimal performance, especially regarding latency, wired headphones are crucial. Bluetooth headphones can introduce a noticeable delay (20-40ms), disrupting your timing and feel.
Navigating the market for a quality guitar headphone amp can be tricky. Many low-grade options flood online marketplaces. That’s why we’ve curated a list of top-tier products from reputable guitar brands, ensuring exceptional tone and robust build quality. Our selection is categorized by use case, simplifying your decision-making process to find the perfect headphone amp for your needs.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
A Fender Mustang Micro Plus
Best Overall: Fender Mustang Micro Plus. The upgraded king of headphone amps, offering a vast sonic palette and enhanced features.
Vox amPlug 3 AC30
Best Budget: Vox amPlug 3 AC30. Analog warmth and classic Vox tone at an unbeatable price point for silent practice.
Boss Waza-Air headphones for guitar
Best High-End: Boss Waza-Air. A revolutionary wireless system delivering immersive spatial sound and premium amp modeling in headphone form.
The Best Headphone Amps for Guitar in Detail
You can rely on GuitarPlayers.net. Our team of expert musicians rigorously tests and compares guitar gear to bring you unbiased and reliable recommendations. Learn more about our testing process.
A Fender Mustang Micro Plus plugged into a Telecaster guitar
1. Fender Mustang Micro Plus: The Ultimate All-Rounder Headphone Amp
The headphone amp for guitar that truly does it all.
Read our in-depth review
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 25
- Effects: 25
- Power: Rechargeable Lithium-ion via USB-C
- Battery Life: 4+ hours
- Input Flexibility: Yes
- Connections: Guitar In, Headphone Out, USB-C
Reasons to Buy:
- Extensive library of amp and effects models
- User-friendly interface and intuitive controls
- Feature-rich companion app for deep tone customization
- Doubles as a convenient USB audio interface
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not ideally suited for bass guitars or heavily drop-tuned guitars at high volumes
- Preset switching could be faster for live-style practice
At a Glance:
✅ Ideal for players seeking sonic versatility: With 25 amp models and 25 effects, this headphone amp offers an unparalleled range of tones. ❌ Less suitable for bassists or low-frequency heavy genres: May experience overload with bass or drop tunings at louder volumes.
Fender has truly raised the bar with the Mustang Micro Plus, solidifying its position as the best headphone amp for guitar for overall performance and features. Building upon the success of the original Mustang Micro, this upgraded version is packed with enhancements that cater to the modern guitarist.
Boasting an impressive selection of 25 amp models and 25 effects, the Mustang Micro Plus provides a sonic playground for any genre. From sparkling Fender cleans to searing high-gain metal, this compact powerhouse delivers. The effects are of exceptional quality, offering a wide spectrum to shape your sound for diverse musical styles.
The inclusion of a dedicated companion app elevates the Mustang Micro Plus to a new level of control. Fine-tune your amp settings, explore deep editing parameters, and craft your signature tones with the app’s intuitive interface – features typically found on full-sized modeling amps. The integrated tuner, accessible directly via the onboard screen, adds practicality for phone-free tuning. Moreover, its USB-C connectivity transforms it into a seamless audio interface for your phone or laptop, making it arguably the most feature-complete headphone amp for guitar currently available.
Dive deeper with our full Fender Mustang Micro Plus review.
A Vox amPlug 3 AC30
2. Vox amPlug 3 AC30: Classic Vox Tone on a Budget
Classic valve amp sound right in your pocket.
Explore our expert review
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 1
- Effects: 4
- Power: 2 x AAA batteries
- Input Flexibility: Yes
- Connections: Guitar In, Aux In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy:
- Authentic AC30 amp tone capturing the essence of a legendary amplifier
- Offers a useful selection of built-in effects
- Exceptional value for budget-conscious guitarists
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming
- Effect switching can be somewhat cumbersome compared to multi-effect units
At a Glance:
✅ Perfect for players prioritizing authentic amp tone on a budget: This updated unit faithfully recreates the iconic tube-like warmth of the AC30. ❌ Not ideal if Bluetooth streaming is essential: Aux cable is the only option for playing along with external audio.
The Vox amPlug series has long been celebrated by guitarists seeking the iconic sound of the best Vox amps directly in their headphones. The amPlug 3 AC30 continues this legacy, delivering the unmistakable chime and character of the legendary AC30 at an incredibly accessible price. This latest generation builds upon its predecessor, offering enhanced features and refined tone.
The amPlug 3 AC30 retains the beloved all-analog circuitry, ensuring the warm, responsive tone that Vox amPlugs are known for. The design has been refreshed, presenting a sleeker and more modern aesthetic. Our comprehensive review highlighted its remarkable ability to capture the vintage vibe of the 1960s amplifier it emulates, delivering genuinely tube-like tones for silent practice.
While the amPlug 3 AC30 excels in tone, it does omit certain modern features. Bluetooth connectivity and a rechargeable battery are absent, which may be drawbacks for users seeking wireless streaming or rechargeable convenience.
Read our complete Vox amPlug AC30 review for a deeper dive.
A pair of Boss Waza-Air headphones on top of a guitar pedal case
3. Boss Waza-Air: The High-Fidelity Wireless Headphone Amp Experience
The all-in-one solution for premium silent practice.
Explore our expert review
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 5
- Effects: 50
- Power: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (USB Micro-B charging)
- Input Flexibility: Yes (via included transmitter)
- Connections: Transmitter In (1/4″ TRS), CHARGE (DC IN 5 V) port: USB Micro-B
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional, immersive sound quality with spatial technology
- Completely wireless operation for ultimate freedom
- Access to a vast library of renowned Boss effects
Reasons to Avoid:
- The headphone design might feel slightly bulky for some players
- Premium price point compared to other headphone amps
At a Glance:
✅ Best for guitarists demanding the highest sound quality and immersive experience: Smart technology creates a stunning three-dimensional soundscape rivaling a real amplifier setup. ❌ Not the best choice for budget-conscious buyers: Advanced technology comes at a higher price.
The Boss Waza-Air stands apart from other headphone amps on this list due to its innovative design: the amplifier is integrated directly into the headphones. This groundbreaking practice tool combines cutting-edge wireless headphone technology with Boss’s acclaimed amp modeling and effects expertise. Adding Bluetooth audio streaming further solidifies its position as a top-tier home practice solution.
Beyond its wireless convenience, the Waza-Air offers access to five meticulously crafted amplifier models and a staggering 50 customizable effects via the Boss Tone Studio app. Its standout feature is spatial technology, coupled with an integrated gyro sensor, creating a unique and incredibly realistic 3D sound environment that responds to your movement.
User-friendliness is a key aspect of the Waza-Air. The controls are intuitively placed and easily accessible. The absence of guitar cables is a significant advantage, allowing for unrestricted movement and eliminating cable clutter during practice sessions.
Delve into the details with our comprehensive Boss Waza-Air review.
A Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly rests on top of a guitar
4. Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly: Versatile Tones for Every Genre
An exceptionally versatile headphone amp for guitarists across styles.
Read our expert review
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 3
- Effects: 9
- Power: 2 x AAA batteries
- Input Flexibility: Yes
- Connections: Guitar In, Aux In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent amp tones spanning clean, crunch, and high-gain
- Exceptional performance in high-gain scenarios
- Touch-sensitive response and dynamic feel
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not rechargeable; requires AAA battery replacements
- Controls can be a bit small and fiddly for some users
At a Glance:
✅ Ideal for players who need versatility and excellent high-gain tones: Handles heavier styles exceptionally well, alongside a range of other great tones. ❌ Not suitable for users wanting rechargeable convenience: Relies on AAA batteries, adding to long-term running costs.
The Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly shares its foundational architecture with the Vox amPlug, a design originating from Korg. Visually and ergonomically, it closely resembles the Vox amPlug, distinguished primarily by branding.
Like the Vox amPlug, the Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly features three rotary controls and a channel selection/power button. The clean channel offers surprising warmth and depth for its compact size. Engaging the effects adds a spacious, three-dimensional quality to the headphone soundscape.
Notably, the Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly excels in high-gain territory, delivering powerful distortion without sounding thin or artificial. Blackstar’s signature ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) control allows users to seamlessly transition between American and British amp voicings, further enhancing its tonal versatility.
Explore the full capabilities in our Blackstar amPlug 2 FLY review.
An Electro Harmonix Headphone Amp
5. Electro Harmonix Headphone Amp: The Pedalboard-Friendly Silent Practice Solution
Great for guitarists who practice with their pedalboards.
[Our Expert Review:]()
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 1
- Effects: N/A
- Power: 9V battery
- Input Flexibility: No
- Connections: Guitar In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy:
- Robust, tank-like build quality for durability
- Suitable for both guitar and bass
- Designed to integrate seamlessly with pedalboards
Reasons to Avoid:
- Offers only a single clean tone, lacking amp models or built-in effects
- Requires external pedals to shape your sound
At a Glance:
✅ Best for players who rely on pedals for their tone: Provides a clean, neutral platform to showcase your pedalboard’s sounds in silent practice. ❌ Not ideal for users without pedals: Lacks onboard effects and tonal variety, requiring external stompboxes for sound shaping.
Electro Harmonix, a renowned name in guitar effects pedals, presents a minimalist and practical headphone amp. With a single knob, an input, and a headphone output, the EHX Headphone Amp prioritizes simplicity and directness.
True to Electro Harmonix’s pedigree in FX pedals, this headphone amp is engineered to be an exceptional pedal platform. It delivers a pristine clean tone, serving as a blank canvas for your fuzz pedals, distortion pedals, reverbs, delays, and any other effects you incorporate.
A practical belt clip adds portability for practicing on the move. Unlike some plug-in style headphone amps, the EHX Headphone Amp requires a standard guitar cable for connection.
A Vox amPlug 3 Bass
6. Vox amPlug 3 Bass: The Bassist’s Silent Practice Companion
The best headphone amp specifically designed for bass guitar players.
[Our Expert Review:]()
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 2
- Effects: 3
- Power: 2x AAA batteries
- Input Flexibility: Yes
- Connections: 1 x 1/4″ plug, 1 x 1/8″ TRRS (aux in), 1 x 1/8″ TRS (headphones)
Reasons to Buy:
- One of the few headphone amps tailored for bass guitar
- Includes integrated drum beats for rhythmic practice
- Extremely user-friendly and straightforward operation
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not rechargeable; requires AAA batteries
- Limited tonal options compared to guitar-focused models
At a Glance:
✅ Essential for bassists needing silent practice: Specifically designed for bass guitar, making it a standout choice for honing basslines at home. ❌ Not versatile for guitarists: Optimized for bass frequencies and may not sound optimal with standard guitars.
Given the scarcity of headphone amps designed specifically for bass guitar, the Vox amPlug 3 Bass stands out as a valuable tool for bassists. It prioritizes simplicity and functionality, providing essential features for silent bass practice at home or on the go.
The amPlug 3 Bass offers two channels and three effects, providing a focused set of tones suitable for bass practice. Channel 1 delivers a classic clean bass tone, while Channel 2 adds overdrive for more aggressive bass sounds. The built-in effects include compression, reverb, and delay, adding depth and dimension to your bass practice.
A valuable addition is the inclusion of drum beats and a metronome with tap tempo. This enables rhythmic practice and groove development without needing external devices. The Vox amPlug 3 Bass is a highly practical and cost-effective solution for bassists seeking silent practice capabilities.
Spec Comparison: Headphone Amps for Guitar
To help you easily compare features and narrow down your choice, here’s a side-by-side comparison of our top picks:
(Swipe to scroll horizontally)
| Model | Amps | Effects | Rechargeable? | Flex Input? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fender Mustang Micro Plus | 25 | 25 | Yes | Yes |
| Vox amPlug 3 AC30 | 1 | 4 | No | Yes |
| Boss Waza-Air | 5 | 50 | Yes | Yes |
| Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly | 3 | 9 | No | Yes |
| EHX Headphone Amp | 1 | N/A | No | No |
| Vox amPlug 3 Bass | 2 | 3 | No | Yes |
Other Headphone Amps for Guitar to Consider
Best headphone amps for guitar: Valeton Rushead Max
7. Valeton Rushead Max: High Value, Versatile Sounds
One of the most versatile headphone amps for guitar in its price range.
[Our Expert Review:]()
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 3
- Effects: 6
- Power: Rechargeable Lithium Battery (USB)
- Input Flexibility: No
- Connections: Guitar In, Aux In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent selection of built-in effects
- Simple and intuitive controls
Reasons to Avoid:
- Control knobs are relatively small
- Non-folding jack design may be less compact for storage
At a Glance:
✅ Great for budget-conscious players seeking versatile features: Offers plug-and-play simplicity without breaking the bank. ❌ Less portable than some competitors: Non-folding jack makes it slightly less pocket-friendly.
Valeton, known for its affordable and well-regarded pedal clones, brings its value-driven approach to the headphone amp market with the Rushead Max. This headphone amp delivers a range of guitar tones and effects at a very competitive price. Rechargeable via USB, it eliminates the need for disposable batteries.
The Rushead Max features three amp voicings: Fender clean, Marshall-style crunch, and high-gain distortion. Combined with tone and gain controls, it offers a good degree of tonal shaping.
It includes a comprehensive set of effects, including Delay and Reverb, ranging from subtle ambience to expansive spatial effects. Chorus, tremolo, and flanger effects further enhance its versatility.
Best headphone amps for guitar: Vox amPlug3 High Gain
8. Vox amPlug 3 High Gain: For the High-Gain Enthusiast
A dedicated practice tool for guitarists who crave heavy tones.
Read our full review
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 2
- Effects: 4
- Bluetooth: No
- Power: AAA batteries
- Audio Interface: No
- Flexible Input: Yes
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional high-gain amp tones for metal and hard rock
- Useful selection of built-in effects
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks Bluetooth connectivity
- Not USB rechargeable
At a Glance:
✅ Perfect for metal and hard rock players: Specifically designed for high-gain tones, ideal for late-night shredding sessions. ❌ Not suitable if Bluetooth is needed: Does not include Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming.
Another strong offering in the Vox amPlug series, the amPlug 3 High Gain caters specifically to guitarists who favor heavier music genres. It excels at delivering crushing distortion tones for metal, hard rock, and related styles, making it perfect for silent, high-volume practice of heavy riffs and solos.
Following the familiar amPlug design, it features gain, volume, and tone controls, along with a selection of nine effects. It also includes a line input for jamming along with external audio sources. Battery life is generous, offering up to 17 hours of playtime.
The amPlug 3 High Gain is voiced for American-style high-gain amps and pairs exceptionally well with humbucker-equipped guitars and lower tunings, making it a valuable tool for extended-range guitarists.
Explore more in our detailed Vox amPlug3 High Gain review.
Best headphone amps for guitar: Sonicake US Classic
9. Sonicake US Classic: Tweed Tone in Your Headphones
Classic American tweed amp sounds without the volume complaints.
[Our Expert Review:]()
Specifications:
- Amp Models: 12
- Effects: 12
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Power: Rechargeable Lithium-ion via USB-C
- Audio Interface: Yes
- Flexible Input: Yes
Reasons to Buy:
- Authentic American tweed amp tones
- Rechargeable battery for convenience
- Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming
Reasons to Avoid:
- Can become noisy at higher volume levels
- Non-folding jack design
At a Glance:
✅ Ideal for players who love classic tweed amp tones and rechargeable convenience: Built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 5 hours of playtime. ❌ Not ideal for high-volume users: May exhibit noise at higher gain settings.
If you’re drawn to the warm, vintage tones of tweed amplifiers, the Sonicake US Classic is a compelling headphone amp option. It effectively emulates the sought-after sound of classic tweed amps, offering ease of use and portability for practice.
Featuring a built-in rechargeable battery, the Sonicake US Classic provides approximately 5 hours of playtime per charge. The Aux In allows for practicing with backing tracks or metronome.
It delivers a range of tones from warm cleans to crunchy overdrive, making it versatile for various musical styles. Built-in reverb adds ambience and depth, enhancing both clean and lead guitar tones.
FAQs: Choosing the Right Headphone Amp for Guitar
Best headphones for guitar amps: Boss Waza Air demonstration
How do I choose the best headphone amp for guitar for my needs?
Selecting the best headphone amp for guitar involves considerations similar to choosing a regular amplifier. Your preferred amp tones play a crucial role. If you favor the clean, articulate sound of a Fender amp, seek a headphone amp that emulates that character.
Conversely, if you prefer high-gain tones for heavier genres, prioritize headphone amps designed for those styles. Major amp manufacturers like Fender, Blackstar, and Vox offer diverse headphone amp options catering to various tonal preferences.
Does my guitar type affect headphone amp compatibility?
Guitar type can influence headphone amp compatibility, primarily due to input jack placement. Some headphone amps with fixed input jacks may not be ideal for guitars with bottom-mounted jacks, such as Telecasters and Gibson Les Pauls. Similarly, recessed jacks like those on Strat-style guitars can also pose compatibility issues.
Modern headphone amps often feature flexible input jacks, allowing for adjustment to accommodate different guitar body styles. However, it’s essential to verify compatibility before purchasing, especially if your guitar has a less common jack placement.
If effects are important, prioritize headphone amps that include built-in effects. While classic delay and reverb are common, more specialized effects like ring modulation may be less readily available in headphone amp format. Consider whether the built-in effects meet your needs or if you prefer a headphone amp that integrates well with your existing effects pedals.
Do headphone amps for guitar come with batteries included?
Some headphone amps in this guide offer the convenience of rechargeable internal batteries, while others require replaceable batteries. Replaceable batteries add to the long-term running cost. For battery-powered models, rechargeable batteries and a charger are a cost-effective and environmentally conscious alternative to disposable batteries.
How We Test Headphone Amps for Guitar at GuitarPlayers.net
At guitarplayers.net, our team comprises experienced guitarists and product testers with extensive knowledge of guitar gear. We combine our hands-on experience with user feedback and in-depth discussions to provide comprehensive and reliable reviews.
Our selection process for the best headphone amps for guitar involves rigorous testing, evaluating factors like tone quality, features, user-friendliness, build quality, and value. We consider various playing styles and genres to ensure our recommendations cater to a wide range of guitarists.
Our primary goal is to help guitarists find the right gear for their needs and budget. We meticulously assess each headphone amp, considering factors from tonal versatility to practical features, to compile lists of top recommendations in various categories.
Read more about our rating system, gear selection process, and detailed testing methodology.
