For guitarists, the urge to play can strike at any time. However, cranking up your amplifier isn’t always feasible, especially when you need to be mindful of housemates, family, or neighbors. This is where the Best Guitar Headphone Amps come into play, offering a fantastic solution for practicing silently without sacrificing tone. These compact devices deliver impressive amp sounds directly to your ears via headphones, allowing you to practice anytime, anywhere, without disturbing those around you. It’s crucial to use wired headphones with these amps, as Bluetooth headphones introduce latency – a slight delay between playing a note and hearing it – which can be disruptive to your playing experience.
The market is flooded with guitar headphone amps, and unfortunately, not all of them are created equal. Many lower-quality options, especially those found on large online marketplaces, can be disappointing in terms of both sound and build. To help you navigate this landscape, we’ve compiled a curated list of the highest quality guitar headphone amps. Our selection focuses on products from reputable guitar brands known for their tonal excellence and robust construction. We’ve also categorized them by use case to simplify your decision-making process and help you find the best guitar headphone amp for your specific needs.
Our Top Picks: Quick Overview
Here’s a quick look at our top recommendations for the best guitar headphone amps, catering to different needs and budgets:
Best Overall: Fender Mustang Micro Plus – The upgraded version of a classic, offering a wide array of tones, effects, and features for comprehensive silent practice.
Vox amPlug 3 AC30Best Budget: Vox amPlug 3 AC30 – Affordable and analog, delivering the iconic AC30 sound for players on a budget.
Boss Waza-Air headphones for guitar
Best High-End: Boss Waza-Air – A premium, all-in-one headphone and amplifier system with spatial technology for an immersive playing experience.
Best Overall Guitar Headphone Amp
1. Fender Mustang Micro Plus
A Fender Mustang Micro Plus plugged into a Telecaster guitar
(Image credit: Future/Matt McCracken) – Fender Mustang Micro Plus plugged into a Telecaster guitar for silent practice.
The headphone amp for guitar that truly does it all.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 25
- Effects: 25
- Power: Lithium ion battery rechargeable via USB-C
- Battery Life: 4 hours (minimum)
- Flexible Input: Yes
- Connections: Guitar In, Headphone Out, USB-C
Reasons to Buy
- Expansive selection of amp and effects models
- User-friendly and intuitive operation
- Excellent companion app for tone shaping
- Functions as a convenient audio interface
Reasons to Avoid
- Preset switching could be faster
- Can struggle with low-end frequencies at high volumes
At a glance:
✅ Ideal for players seeking a wide sonic palette: With 25 amp models and 25 effects, this headphone amp offers unparalleled tonal versatility. ❌ Not recommended for bass or drop-tuned guitars: Testing revealed potential low-end overload issues with lower tunings at higher volumes.
Fender has truly raised the bar with the Mustang Micro Plus, setting a new standard for guitar headphone amps. This upgraded model builds upon the success of the original Mustang Micro, enhancing virtually every aspect to solidify its position as the best overall guitar headphone amp available today.
Boasting an impressive library of 25 amp models and 25 effects, the Mustang Micro Plus provides a vast sonic playground. From pristine Fender cleans to aggressive high-gain metal tones, it handles diverse genres with ease. The effects are of exceptional quality, offering a wide spectrum of sonic possibilities to suit any playing style.
The inclusion of a dedicated companion app elevates the Mustang Micro Plus significantly. This app allows for deep customization of amp tones, a feature typically found in larger, more expensive modeling amps. A built-in tuner, accessible via the onboard screen, adds practicality for practicing without relying on external devices. Furthermore, its USB-C connectivity enables its use as a convenient audio interface with phones or laptops, making it arguably the most feature-rich headphone amp for guitar on the market.
Read our full Fender Mustang Micro Plus review
Best Budget Guitar Headphone Amp
2. Vox amPlug 3 AC30
A Vox amPlug 3 AC30
(Image credit: Future/Daryl Robertson) – Vox amPlug 3 AC30, a budget-friendly headphone amp for guitar.
Classic valve amp sound in your pocket.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 1
- Effects: 4
- Power: 2 x AAA batteries
- Flexible Input: Yes
- Connections: Guitar In, Aux In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy
- Authentic AC30 amp tone
- Variety of built-in effects
Reasons to Avoid
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- Effect switching can be cumbersome
At a glance:
✅ Perfect for players seeking excellent amp tone on a budget: This updated unit faithfully captures the warm, tube-like sound of the legendary AC30 amplifier. ❌ Not ideal if Bluetooth streaming is essential: Aux cable is the only option for playing along with backing tracks from phones or tablets.
The Vox amPlug has long been a favorite among guitarists wanting to experience the iconic sound of one of the best Vox amps directly through headphones. We’re pleased to report that the latest iteration, the amPlug 3 AC30, surpasses its predecessors in this guide.
This third-generation amPlug retains the beloved all-analog tone that defines the series, now housed in a sleeker, more modern design. Our in-depth review highlighted its remarkably authentic tube-like tones, perfectly capturing the essence of the classic 60s amp it emulates. For guitarists seeking a budget-friendly guitar headphone amp that delivers premium sound, the Vox amPlug 3 AC30 is a top contender.
One minor drawback is the absence of built-in Bluetooth or a rechargeable battery, features found in some competing models. However, for its core function of providing exceptional, portable AC30 tone at an accessible price, the Vox amPlug 3 AC30 is hard to beat.
Read our full Vox amPlug AC30 review
Best High-End Guitar Headphone Amp
3. Boss Waza-Air
A pair of Boss Waza-Air headphones on top of a guitar pedal case
(Image credit: Future) – Boss Waza-Air headphones, a high-end solution for guitarists seeking premium sound.
The all-in-one solution for immersive guitar practice.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 5
- Effects: 50
- Power: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (USB Micro-B)
- Flexible Input: Yes
- Connections: Transmitter in jack (1/4-inch TRS phone type), CHARGE (DC IN 5 V) port (USB Micro-B type)
Reasons to Buy
- Truly exceptional, high-fidelity sounds
- Completely wireless operation
- Access to renowned Boss effects
Reasons to Avoid
- Headphones might feel bulky for some players
At a glance:
✅ The ultimate choice for the best-sounding headphone amp: Advanced technology delivers incredibly realistic, three-dimensional sound for the most immersive practice experience outside of a traditional amplifier. ❌ Not suitable for budget-conscious buyers: The cutting-edge technology comes at a premium, making it the most expensive option on our list.
The Boss Waza-Air stands apart from other guitar headphone amps by integrating the amplifier directly into the headphones. This innovative practice tool combines state-of-the-art wireless headphone technology with Boss’s acclaimed amp modeling and effects. Adding Bluetooth audio streaming further solidifies its position as a top-tier home practice solution. For players seeking the best high-end guitar headphone amp, the Boss Waza-Air delivers an unparalleled experience.
The Waza-Air provides access to five realistic amplifier models and an extensive library of 50 customizable effects via the Boss Tone Studio app. Its spatial technology and integrated gyro sensor create a unique 3D soundscape, adding depth and realism to your practice sessions.
We found the Waza-Air remarkably user-friendly, with intuitive and easily accessible controls. The wireless design eliminates cable clutter, allowing for unrestricted movement while practicing. This freedom is a significant advantage, particularly when tackling complex guitar solos.
Read our full Boss Waza-Air review
Best for Versatility
4. Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly
A Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly rests on top of a guitar
(Image credit: Richard Blenkinsop) – Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly, offering versatile tones for guitar practice.
An extremely versatile headphone amp for guitarists of all styles.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 3
- Effects: 9
- Power: 2 x AAA batteries
- Flexible Input: Yes
- Connections: Guitar In, Aux In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy
- Superb amp tones across genres
- Excellent high-gain performance
- Responsive and dynamic feel
Reasons to Avoid
- Not rechargeable; battery powered
- Controls can be a bit fiddly
At a glance:
✅ Recommended for players wanting high gain and beyond: While there are specialized amps for heavier styles, the Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly excels at high gain while also offering a range of other excellent tones. ❌ Not ideal if you require a rechargeable battery: Like some others in this guide, it relies on AAA batteries, adding to long-term running costs.
The Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly shares its fundamental design with the Vox amPlug, as both are based on Korg architecture. Visually and ergonomically, it closely resembles the Vox offering, differing primarily in branding and sonic character.
Similar to the Vox amPlug, it features three rotary controls and a button for power and channel selection. The clean channel delivers surprising warmth and depth for its size, and the addition of effects creates a spacious, 3D sound within your headphones.
It also excels in high-gain scenarios, producing powerful distortion without sounding thin or brittle. Blackstar’s renowned ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) control allows you to seamlessly transition between American and British amp tones, enhancing its versatility. For guitarists needing a versatile guitar headphone amp, the Blackstar amPlug 2 Fly is a strong contender.
Read our full Blackstar amPlug 2 FLY review
Best for Pedal Users
5. Electro Harmonix Headphone Amp
An Electro Harmonix Headphone Amp
(Image credit: Electro Harmonix) – Electro Harmonix Headphone Amp, designed for guitarists who use pedals.
Great for players practicing with their pedalboards.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 1
- Effects: N/A
- Power: 9V battery
- Flexible Input: No
- Connections: Guitar In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy
- Rugged and robust build quality
- Works effectively with both guitar and bass
- Excellent pedal platform
Reasons to Avoid
- Single, basic clean tone
- No built-in effects
At a glance:
✅ Perfect as a silent pedal platform: This amp is intentionally simple, allowing your chosen pedals to shape your tone for silent practice with your effects. ❌ Not recommended for players without pedals: Lacking built-in effects and offering only one sound, pedals are essential to get the most out of this headphone amp.
The Electro Harmonix Headphone Amp embodies the no-frills, functional approach typical of the New York-based pedal manufacturer. Featuring a single knob, an input jack, and a headphone output, it prioritizes simplicity and ease of use.
Coming from a leader in the FX pedal world, it’s no surprise that the EHX headphone amp is designed as an exceptional pedal platform. It provides a clean, neutral base tone that responds beautifully to fuzz pedals, distortion pedals, reverbs, delays, and any other effects you incorporate. For guitarists seeking a guitar headphone amp specifically for use with pedals, this is an ideal choice.
A convenient belt clip adds portability, allowing you to practice while moving around. Unlike some other models, it doesn’t plug directly into your guitar, requiring a standard instrument cable for connection.
Best for Bass Guitar
6. Vox amPlug 3 Bass
A Vox amPlug 3 Bass
(Image credit: Vox) – Vox amPlug 3 Bass, the top headphone amp for bass guitar practice.
The best headphone amp specifically for bass guitarists.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 2
- Effects: 3
- Power: 2x AAA batteries
- Flexible Input: Yes
- Connections: 1 x 1/4″ plug, 1 x 1/8″ TRRS (aux in), 1 x 1/8″ TRS (headphones)
Reasons to Buy
- Specifically designed for bass guitar
- Includes rhythm patterns for practice
- Very user-friendly
Reasons to Avoid
- Not rechargeable; battery powered
- Limited tonal variations
At a glance:
✅ Essential for bass practice: Being purpose-built for bass guitar makes this a standout for honing your basslines at home. ❌ Not suitable for guitar: It is optimized for bass and will not sound optimal with guitars; choose a more versatile or guitar-specific option if you play both.
Given the limited options dedicated to bass guitarists, the Vox amPlug 3 Bass excels in its niche. It’s straightforward and focused, providing bass players with the perfect tool for silent practice, whether at home or on the go. For bassists seeking the best guitar headphone amp tailored to their instrument, this is the clear winner.
The amPlug 3 Bass offers two channels and three effects, providing a focused range of sounds suitable for bass practice. Channel 1 delivers a classic clean bass tone, while Channel 2 adds overdrive for a more driven sound. The three effects – compression, reverb, and delay – enhance practice sessions.
Integrated drum beats and a metronome with tap tempo further enhance practice versatility, eliminating the need for external devices. It offers excellent value and is undoubtedly the best headphone amp for silent bass guitar practice.
Spec Comparison
Here’s a direct comparison of our top picks, highlighting their key features to help you decide which guitar headphone amp best suits your needs:
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 Guitar Headphone Amps to Consider
Best headphone amps for guitar: Valeton Rushead Max
(Image credit: Valeton) – Valeton Rushead Max, a versatile and affordable guitar headphone amp.
7. Valeton Rushead Max
One of the most versatile headphone amps for guitar in its price range.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 3
- Effects: 6
- Power: Lithium Battery (Rechargeable via USB)
- Flexible Input: No
- Connections: Guitar In, Aux In, Headphone Out
Reasons to Buy
- Wide selection of built-in effects
- Simple and intuitive controls
Reasons to Avoid
- Knobs are quite small and can be fiddly
- Non-folding jack design reduces portability
At a glance:
✅ Great for budget-conscious players: If you’re seeking a straightforward, plug-and-play guitar headphone amp that won’t break the bank, the Valeton Rushead Max is an excellent choice. ❌ Not the most compact option: The non-folding jack makes it less pocketable compared to some competitors.
The Valeton Rushead Max comes from a company known for producing quality pedal clones, offering impressive guitar tones at a very affordable price point. Its rechargeable USB battery eliminates the ongoing cost of replacing disposable batteries.
Three front-panel switches provide access to three distinct amp sounds: a classic Fender clean, a Marshall-esque crunch, and high-gain distortion for heavier styles. Combined with tone and gain knobs, this offers considerable tone-shaping flexibility.
Effect-wise, it includes classic Delay and Reverb, ranging from subtle echoes to expansive ambient spaces. Additionally, it features Chorus, Tremolo, and Flanger effects, making the Rushead Max surprisingly versatile for its price.
Best headphone amps for guitar: Vox amPlug3 High Gain
(Image credit: Vox) – Vox amPlug 3 High Gain, designed for high-gain guitar tones.
8. Vox amPlug 3 High Gain
A dedicated practice tool for guitarists who love heavy music.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 2
- Effects: 4
- Bluetooth: No
- Power: AAA batteries
- Audio Interface: No
- Flexible Input: Yes
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent high-gain sound quality
- Great selection of built-in effects for heavy genres
Reasons to Avoid
- No Bluetooth connectivity for streaming
- Not rechargeable via USB
At a glance:
✅ Ideal for metal and hard rock players: If you need crushing high-gain tones for late-night shredding, this is the guitar headphone amp for you. ❌ Not suitable if Bluetooth is required: Bluetooth connectivity is not included in this model.
Yes, another Vox amPlug! This particular model is tailored for guitarists who crave crushing distortion for heavier music genres, perfect for late-night practice sessions focused on high-gain tones.
Like other Vox amPlugs, it features gain, volume, and tone controls, along with nine effects and a line input for jamming along with external devices. With up to 17 hours of battery life, it offers extended practice time.
The sound is precisely as advertised – focused on high-gain tones. It’s modeled after American-style high-gain amplifiers and pairs exceptionally well with humbucker-equipped guitars and lower tunings. Extended-range guitar players will find this an excellent practice companion for heavy styles.
Read our full Vox amPlug3 High Gain review
Best headphone amps for guitar: Sonicake US Classic
(Image credit: Sonicake) – Sonicake US Classic, offering classic tweed amp tones for guitar practice.
9. Sonicake US Classic
Tweed amp sounds without the volume complaints.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Amp Models: 12
- Effects: 12
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Power: Lithium ion battery rechargeable via USB-C
- Audio Interface: Yes
- Flexible Input: Yes
Reasons to Buy
- Rechargeable battery for convenience
- Classic US tweed amp sound
Reasons to Avoid
- Can become noisy at higher volumes
- Non-folding jack design
At a glance:
✅ Recommended if you prefer rechargeable convenience: This amp’s built-in battery provides up to 5 hours of playtime on a single charge. ❌ Not ideal for high-volume players: We observed breakup and noise at higher volume settings.
If you favor the warm, classic tones of tweed-era amplifiers, the Sonicake US Classic is worth considering. It effectively emulates that beloved sound, providing a simple and user-friendly guitar headphone amp for quick practice sessions.
Featuring a built-in rechargeable battery, it offers approximately 5 hours of playtime per charge, sufficient for multiple practice sessions. The Aux In is useful for practicing with backing tracks or a metronome.
It delivers a range of tones from warm cleans to satisfying crunchy overdrive, making it a versatile practice tool for various musical styles. The built-in reverb adds spaciousness to the sound, particularly beneficial for clean tones and lead guitar playing.
FAQs: Choosing the Right Guitar Headphone Amp
Best headphones for guitar amps: Boss Waza Air demonstration
(Image credit: Future) – Demonstrating Boss Waza Air headphones with a guitar amp.
How do I choose the best headphone amp for guitar?
Selecting the best guitar headphone amp involves considerations similar to choosing a full-sized amplifier. If you prefer the clean tones of a Fender amp, you’ll likely want a headphone amp that offers similar sonic characteristics.
Conversely, if you gravitate towards heavier music genres, ensure your chosen headphone amp caters to high-gain tones. Major amp manufacturers like Fender, Blackstar, and Vox offer a diverse range of headphone amps, increasing the likelihood of finding your perfect match. Consider your preferred amp types and musical style when making your decision.
Does the shape of guitar I play influence which headphone amp I can use?
The guitar type can indeed influence headphone amp compatibility due to input jack designs. Some headphone amps may not be ideal for guitars with bottom-mounted input jacks, such as Telecasters and Gibson Les Pauls. Similarly, recessed Strat-style input jacks can also present limitations.
Many newer guitar headphone amps feature flexible input jacks, allowing for optimal positioning with various guitar types. However, some models have fixed jacks, so consider your guitar’s input jack location before purchasing. Flexible input jacks enhance compatibility across different guitar designs.
If effects are important, many electric guitar headphone amps include built-in effects. However, some are designed as pure amplifiers without onboard effects. Common effects like delay and reverb are readily available, but more specialized effects like ring modulation might be less common. Ideally, your practice setup should mirror your main rig, so prioritize headphone amps that offer the effects you need or integrate well with your existing pedals.
Do headphone amps for guitars include batteries?
Some guitar headphone amps conveniently feature rechargeable internal batteries, while others require replaceable batteries. Replaceable batteries add to the overall running cost. If your chosen amp uses disposable batteries, consider investing in rechargeable batteries and a charger. This approach is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly, ensuring you always have charged batteries available. Rechargeable options enhance convenience and reduce long-term expenses.
How We Test Guitar Headphone Amps
At Guitar World, we pride ourselves on our expertise, built upon years of playing and rigorously testing guitar gear. Our team lives and breathes all things guitar, drawing upon extensive knowledge and practical experience from live performances, recording sessions, and rehearsals when evaluating products for our guides.
When selecting what we believe are the best guitar headphone amps currently available, we combine hands-on testing, user reviews, and in-depth discussions with our editorial team to reach a consensus on the top products in each category.
As guitarists ourselves, our primary goal is to help fellow players find the right gear for their needs. We carefully consider factors ranging from budget and features to ease of use and durability to compile lists of what we confidently recommend as the best guitar headphone amps on the market.
Read more about our rating system, our gear selection process, and our detailed testing methodologies.
