As much as we guitarists would like it to be, using your amp isn't always the best solution, particularly if you've got a partner, children, or neighbors to think about. So when inspiration strikes late at night or you've got to practice your set for that upcoming gig without disturbing anyone in your home, get yourself one of the best headphone amps for guitar.
These tiny tone generators are capable of delivering scarily lifelike amp tones but all require a pair of headphones in order for you to use them. They'll need to be wired headphones as well because Bluetooth ones will induce latency, meaning you'll hear the note you're playing with a 20-40ms delay. It might not sound like much but trust us, it makes a huge difference.
There are a lot of very poorly manufactured guitar headphone amps out there, particularly on sites like Amazon, so we've put together a list of only the best quality products that will deliver in both tone, and build quality. They've all been picked from well-known guitar brands and sorted by use case to make it easier for you to decide which is best for you.
Our top picks
The original Mustang Micro set the bar for headphone amps for guitar, and the Mustang Micro Plus improves on the original in nearly every single way. A handy screen, more amp and effects models, a companion app, and an onboard tuner make sure the Mustang Micro Plus retains the crown as the best headphone amp for guitar.
Giving you all analog guitar tones at an ultra-low price, the Vox amPlug 3 AC30 is the perfect silent practice companion for guitarists on a budget. Coming around the $/£50 mark, it's superb value yet delivers an uncannily accurate representation of Vox's famous tube amp.
Most of the headphone amps for guitar on this list are pretty cheap, but not so with the Boss Waza-Air, which combines headphones and an amp into one unit. Delivering high-fidelity tones that take advantage of spatial technology, there's nothing else quite like them on the market at the moment.
Best overall
✅ Buy if you want a wide range of sounds and effects: This is one of the most tone-packed headphone amps available today with 25 amps and 25 effects.
❌ Avoid if you're playing bass or drop-tuned guitars: In our tests, we noticed it has a tendency to get overloaded when using low-tuned instruments at higher volumes.
With the new Fender Mustang Micro Plus, the big 'F' has really knocked it out of the park when it comes to headphone amps for guitar. Packing in a huge array of updates it's absolutely cemented its place as the best guitar headphone amp in the world today.
With 25 amp and 25 effects models, you're spoiled for choice with this compact tone generator. Whether it's classic Fender cleans or high-gain metal tones the Mustang Micro Plus can handle them all. The effects deliver superb high-quality sound and there's plenty of choice that will cover a huge array of styles and sounds.
The addition of a companion app takes the Mustang Micro Plus to a whole new level, allowing you to finely tune your amp tones, which you'd expect on a much larger modeling amp. A built-in tuner usable via the screen adds some versatility if you're away from your phone, and its ability to be used as an audio interface with your phone or laptop thanks to the USB-C connection makes it undoubtedly the most fully features headphone amp for guitar on the market.
Read our full Fender Mustang Micro Plus review
Best budget
✅ Buy if you want a brilliant amp tone on a budget: This newly-updated unit helps authentically evoke the tube-like tones of that classic amp.
❌ Avoid if you want a Bluetooth connection for streaming tracks: If you want to play along to tracks from your phone or tablet, your only option is an aux cable.
The Vox amPlug has long been a favorite of players seeking to beam the legendary sound of one of the best Vox amps of all time directly into their ears – and we're happy to report that the new version is even better than the previous iteration that featured in this guide.
The third generation of amPlug still delivers the same all-analog tone we've come to expect from the pint-sized practice companion but in a sleeker format that feels refreshed and rejuvenated. In our glowing review, we praised the headphone amp's authentic tube-like tones, which perfectly evoked the spirit of the '60s amp from which it draws inspiration.
If we had one complaint, it would be that this unit doesn't have built-in Bluetooth or a rechargeable battery like many of its competitors.
Read our full Vox amPlug AC30 review
Best high-end
✅ Buy if you want the best-sounding headphone amp: Smart tech helps deliver unbelievable three-dimensional sound for the most immersive experience outside of using a real amp.
❌ Avoid if you're on a budget: This level of tech doesn't come cheap and makes this by far the priciest option on our list.
The Boss Waza-Air differs from the others on this list in one rather substantial way – the amplifier is built into the headphones! This game-changing practice tool combines state-of-the-art wireless headphones and the amp models and effects that Boss is renowned for. Throw in Bluetooth audio streaming, and you have a pretty hard-to-beat home practice solution.
Not only does the Waza-Air give you access to five realistic amplifier models as well as 50 customizable effects via the Boss Tone Studio app, but it also boasts spatial technology and an integrated gyro sensor that delivers a unique 3D soundscape.
We found the Waza-Air to be incredibly easy to use, with the buttons being accessible and intuitive. An obvious plus for this stellar headphone amp is the lack of cables. The wireless nature means you won’t get tangled up when you are trying to nail that tricky new solo.
Read our full Boss Waza-Air review
Best for versatility
✅ Buy if you want high gain... and more: There's a dedicated headphone amp for heavier styles elsewhere in this guide, but this Blackstar amp does high gain very well, in addition to a host of other great tones.
❌ Avoid if you want a rechargeable battery: Like others in this guide, you'll need to fuel your amp with AAA batteries, so you'll need to factor that into the running cost.
Blackstar’s amPlug Fly is built on the same architecture as the Vox amPlug, which is actually designed by Korg (stay with us here). So when you initially pick it up it looks and feels exactly the same as Vox’s offering, just with different branding.
Like the Vox amPlug, there are three rotary controls and a button for switching on/off and selecting your channel. On the clean setting, there’s a surprising warmth and depth of tone considering its diminutive dimensions. Add some of the effects and you get a very 3D sound filling your headphones.
It also handles higher gain settings very well, with a powerful distortion that doesn’t sound tinny in the slightest. Blackstar’s famed ISF control gives you the power to switch from an American amp tone to a British one.
Read our full Blackstar amPlug 2 FLY review
Best for pedal users
✅ Buy if you want a silent pedal platform: This amp is deliberately simple to let your pedals of choice do the talking, letting you practice with your pedals.
❌ Avoid if you don't have any pedals: There are no built-in effects and only one sound, so you need stompboxes to really bring this headphone amp to life.
Electro Harmonix’s headphone amp for guitar is a typically no-nonsense offering from the New York-based guitar pedal giant. Featuring just one knob, an input and a headphone out, it lets you get straight down to business with minimal fuss.
Coming from a behemoth of the FX pedal world, it’s no surprise to discover that the EHX headphone amp is designed to be a great pedal platform, offering a fantastic base clean tone that takes fuzzes, distortions, reverbs, delays, and anything else you can throw at it.
It features a handy belt clip should you want to go for a wander whilst noodling your favorite riffs or practicing scales. Unlike some others on this list, it doesn’t plug straight into your guitar, so you’ll need an additional cable to get up and running.
Best for bass
✅ Buy if you want to practice your bass: Being specifically designed for bass guitarists makes this a standout for honing your grooves at home.
❌ Avoid if you don't play bass: This one doesn't sound great with anything other than a bass guitar, so get something more versatile or specific unless you're only playing bass guitar with it.
With so few options dedicated to bass guitar players, it's hard to knock the Vox amPlug 3 Bass for what it does. It's simple and to the point, but if you need to practice your bass guitar silently or on the go, it's undoubtedly the best option out there right now.
There are two channels and three effects built into the amPlug 3 Bass, so you don't get a huge selection of sounds, but what is there is absolutely fine for home practice. Channel 1 gives you a classic clean tone, while channel 2 offers some grind by adding driven tones into the mix. The three effects include compression, reverb, delay, and chorus so you can spice your practice up too.
Included drum beats allow you to practice with a groove, and there's a metronome only option with tap tempo for setting your speed. It's a super option to have all in one, and save you having to connect an additional device for jamming. It's great value for money, and absolutely the best option for practicing bass guitar silently.
Spec comparison
Here you can do a direct comparison of each of our top picks using their key features. This will help you narrow down what the right solution is for you if you're struggling to decide between certain models:
| 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 |
Also consider
✅ Buy if you have a small budget: If you want a no frills, plug and play headphone amp that doesn't cost the earth, the Valeton is the ideal choice.
❌ Avoid if you wat a compact amp: There's no folding jack so it's not so easy to stow in a gigbag pocket.
The Valeton Rushead Max comes from a company that makes lots of famous pedal clones, meaning you’re getting great guitar tones for a very low price. It’s rechargeable via USB, so no repeat buying of batteries is necessary here.
Three switches on the front face of the Rushead Max give you three amp sounds, with a classic Fender clean sound, Marshall-type crunch, and high gain distortion for getting heavy. Combining these settings with tone and gain knobs gives you plenty of scope for sculpting.
Effects-wise we’ve got classic Delay and Reverb settings that go from simple slap-back to vast, celestial sound spaces. Alongside this, you can dial in some warm chorus sounds, tremolo, and a flanger, making the Rushead Max extremely flexible.
✅ Buy if you're a metalhead: This amp has a very clear use case, so if you want to shred through the night, this is for you.
❌ Avoid if you need Bluetooth: Unfortunately, this device doesn't include Bluetooth connectivity.
Yep, it’s another Vox amPlug! This particular model is designed for players who want crushing distortion sounds for heavier styles, and it's great for those late-night chugging sessions.
As with all the Vox amPlug series, the construction is the same, with your gain, volume, and tone controls, nine effects, plus a line out for jamming along with your preferred device. With up to 17 hours of playing time, it’s got plenty of juice to keep you going.
The sound is what you’d expect from the name – crushing high gain sounds abound here. It’s modeled on American-style high gain amps and it pairs great with humbucker-equipped guitars and dropped tunings. If you’re an extended-range guitar player you’ll love this as a practice tool.
Read our full Vox amPlug3 High Gain review
✅ Buy if you want a rechargeable battery: This amp's built-in battery will deliver up to 5 hours of playtime.
❌ Avoid if you want to crank it: We found it broke up once we hit higher volumes.
If you prefer your amp sounds of the Tweed-covered variety, then the Sonicake US Classic is the one for you. Emulating that much-loved tone very well, this headphone amp for guitar offers simple usability to get you up and playing quickly.
Featuring a built-in rechargeable battery, you can get around 5 hours of playtime on a single charge, more than enough to last you a few practice sessions over a week. The Aux In is great for practicing with recordings or a metronome.
It goes from warm clean tones all the way to deliciously crunchy overdrive, making it a versatile practice tool for a variety of styles. The built-in reverb allows you to add some space to your sound, great for a clean sound and lead guitar licks.
FAQs
How do I choose the best headphone amp for guitar?
Much like choosing a regular guitar amp, picking out the best headphone amp for guitar requires many of the same considerations. Chances are if you enjoy the sound of a clean Fender amp, then you’ll want something similar in your headphone amp.
Likewise, if you’re the sort of player that likes the heavier end of the scale, you’ll need to factor this into your decision and pick something that caters to dirty tones. There are plenty of offerings from major amp manufacturers like Fender, Blackstar and Vox, so you’re sure to find your perfect match.
Does the shape of guitar I play influence which headphone amp I can use?
The type of guitar that you have plays a factor too because of the way a lot of headphone amp input jacks are designed. There are some that may not suit guitars with inputs on the bottom of the body, like the Telecaster and Gibson Les Paul for example. Likewise, a Strat-style input jack can have limitations too because of the way the socket's recessed into the body, so be certain you think about that before purchasing. A lot of the newer headphone amps for guitar have a flexible input jack, allowing you to find the perfect position for any kind of guitar, but others do not – so bear that in mind.
If effects are a must-have, then you’ll find plenty of headphone amps for electric guitar that include these, just bear in mind that some are designed to be pure amplifiers so may not have effects included. Classic delay and reverb type effects are fairly easy to come by here, but if you’re after something more esoteric like ring modulation, you might not find what you’re looking for here. It will really help if your practice tools mirror your full-size rig, so ensure that your headphone amp of choice has the effects you need, or integrates well with your existing effects selection.
Do headphone amps for guitars include batteries?
Some of the headphone amps in this guide conveniently feature rechargeable internal batteries, however others may require replacement batteries when the old non-rechargeable ones run out. Naturally this adds an extra overall cost to the price of running your amp. In this instance we would recommend purchasing a set of rechargeable batteries and a suitable charger to ensure you always have fully juiced spares to hand. You'll also be helping the environment by not throwing away non-rechargeable batteries on a regular basis.
How we test
Here at Guitar World, we are experts in our field, with many years of playing and product testing between us. We live and breathe everything guitar related, and we draw on this knowledge and experience of using products in live, recording and rehearsal scenarios when selecting the products for our guides.
When choosing what we believe to be the best headphone amps for guitar available right now, we combine our hands-on experience, user reviews and testimonies and engage in lengthy discussions with our editorial colleagues to reach a consensus about the top products in any given category.
First and foremost, we are guitarists, and we want other players to find the right product for them. So we take into careful consideration everything from budget to feature set, ease of use and durability to come up with a list of what we can safely say are the best headphone amps for guitar on the market right now.
Read more about our rating system, how we choose the gear we feature, and exactly how we test each product.
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