For smaller venues, a powerful tube amplifier may not be the choice of preference. You could always use guitar amp emulation, but many guitar players still feel like they’re missing the experience of a real tube amplifier.
That’s where 1-watt amplifiers come in, because they can deliver all the tube amp warmth at a fraction of the volume.
They’re great for practicing and recording at home, especially apartment buildings, because you can still crank the amp at at a much reduced volume.
My personal favorite is the Surprise Sound Rock Block, because it’s highly portable, looks like a pedal, and can be used like one as well.
Surprise Sound Rock Block ($389)
This pedal-sized amp can power a 4 or 16 ohm cabinet. It can also be used as a distortion pedal. Easy access to the tubes makes tube-swapping easy, and is encouraged by the designers.
Blackstar HT-1 ($250)
A combo amp featuring an 8" speaker. It includes one 12AX7 tube in the preamp section, and one 12AU7 power amp tube. It also includes an 8 ohm speaker output for connecting an external cabinet. The MP3/line input can be used for jamming with backing tracks. If you want reverb, you will need the HT-1R.
Marshall DSL1HR ($300)
This mini amp features 2 channels, reverb and an effects loop. Channels include 'Classic Gain' and 'Ultra Gain'. It includes a 16 ohm speaker output, as well as an emulated output for direct recording.
Emery Sound Microbaby ($885)
The Microbaby also allows for quick and easy tube access and changing, which can have a significant effect on the sound of the distortion. It has 3 channels: clean, loose and drive. The 10" cabinet (sold seperately) features an early 60's style speaker, although it can drive any 4 or 16 ohm cabinet.
Bümbox Lead 1 ($400)
This amp delivers a midrange crunch, perfectly suited for cranked sounds at home or in your apartment. The preamp section features two 12AX7 tubes, and can power a 4x12 cabinet effortlessly. The output is 8 ohms, which is also safe for 4 and 16.
Do you use a 1-watt amplifier for gigging? Let us know below in the comments.
