Baroni AFK150 review

From the cult Foxgear pedal brand comes Baroni’s latest innovation: a micro head that could just be the most portable tube amp out there

Baroni AFK150 head
(Image: © Future / Phil Barker)

Guitar World Verdict

Compared to the competition, we think the AFK150 is really good value for money. Aimed at serious amateurs and pro players, it’s a great choice if you’re looking to build a super-portable rig for local gigs or touring.

Pros

  • +

    Compact, very portable.

  • +

    Warm USA-inspired clean channel.

  • +

    Brit-inspired vintage overdrive channel.

  • +

    Low noise levels for recording

  • +

    Plenty of power for live.

Cons

  • -

    No mains on/off switch or externally replaceable fuse (we’d recommend using a switchable power strip).

  • -

    Second footswitch to bypass effects loop would have been welcome.

You can trust Guitar World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing guitar products so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Italy’s contribution to the guitar universe is bigger than many people realise, with many famous brands including Eko, Binson and Meazzi, from Sicily, playing pivotal roles in the development of some of the biggest names in rock and pop. 

Today, Italy’s guitar amp and pedal scene continues to flourish. Here, we’re looking at the new AFK150 compact pedalboard head from Ugo Baroni, a well-known amp and pedal designer from northern Italy, currently producing a range of Chinese-manufactured pedals under the Foxgear Distribution umbrella brand, which also includes Gurus – another well-known Italian amp and pedal builder.

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Nick Guppy

Nick Guppy was Guitarist magazine's amp guru for over 20 years. He built his first valve amplifier at the age of 12 and bought, sold and restored many more, with a particular interest in Vox, Selmer, Orange and tweed-era Fenders, alongside Riveras and Mark Series Boogies. When wielding a guitar instead of soldering iron, he enjoyed a diverse musical career playing all over the UK, including occasional stints with theatre groups, orchestras and big bands as well as power trios and tributes. He passed away suddenly in April 2024, leaving a legacy of amplifier wisdom behind him.