Best Tube Amps

Electric Guitar Combo Amps With Tube Technology

The original guitar amplifiers were created using vacuum tubes to amplify the signal. These tubes worked by heating up the electrons and deliver a sound that many people believe is unmatched by the digital equivalents being created using solid-state technology today.
Although the sound from a tube amplifier is preferred by some, owning a tube amplifier comes with additional maintenance as the tubes will need replacing. They are also harder to produce today and generally more expensive than their digital counterparts.


Vox Valvetronix VT20

Power: 20 Watts
Speaker: 1×8″
Amplifier Type: 12AX7 vacuum tube
Dimensions: 16.6 x 8.7 x 14.8 inches
Weight: 19.4 pounds

The Vox Valvetronix VT20 is a beautiful, well-made amp with great sound and plenty of software features. It’s perfect for home use and smaller venues.


Fender Hot Rod Deluxe III

Power: 40 watts
Speaker: 1×12″
Amplifier Type: 2x12AX7 Dual Triodes
Dimensions: 26 x 12.5 x 22 inches
Weight: 57 pounds
The Fender Hot Rod Deluxe III is legendary for it’s warm, clean tones and tight overdrive.


Bugera BC15

Power: 15 Watts
Speaker: 1×8″
Amplifier Type: 12AX7 Tube
Dimensions: 12.7 x 6.4 x 14.1 inches
Weight: 13.2 pounds

The Bugera BC15is a compact 15 watt, 2-channel, 12AX7 tube amp with a vintage look.


Peavey 6505+

Power: 60 Watts
Speaker: 1×12″
Amplifier Type: Tube
Dimensions: 28.8 x 13.2 x 14 inches
Weight: 56.9 pounds
The Peavey 6505+ features 2 x 6L6GC power amp tubes and 5 x 12AX7 preamp tubes.  It is a powerful amp with lots of nice inputs and effects.

Tube sound will always be the preferred sound for some of us, but solid state amps also have their own benefits.
Check out our picks for Best Solid-state Combo Amps if you’re looking for solid state options.

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