Everyone has different opinions on amps and brands, but many guitar players would recommend a used Fender Hot Rod Deluxe as the best guitar amp for under $500. 

The Fender Hot Rod Deluxe is hard to beat for many reasons. It has an amazing all tube sound, that can also provide a wide range of tones from clean to high gain. The smallest version of the amp, a 1 x 12″ combo, is a 40W all tube amp. This is a very loud 40W amp. that can easily be used for gigs. In fact, I’ve been told many times I am playing louder than I should be 🙂

The amp also comes in a 2 x 12″ and 4 x 10 configuration. The 1 x 12″ is actually the most popular, as weight and portability become an issue. Some folks even choose the Blues Junior over the Hot Rod Deluxe because it is just a little bit smaller.

What If You Don’t Want A Clean Fender Sound?

My next favorite amp would be the Marshall Haze. It’s very similar to the Hot Rod Deluxe, a 40W tube combo, but with a great Marshall tone. This amp does have a little more to offer when it comes to high gain sounds. Both amps are very true to the tone’s their brands are known for.

What About Solid State Amps?

Sure, there are some good new options for solid state amps. Line 6, Roland, and Boss, all have good options at this price. The Boss Katana is a good overall amp that can be had for much less than $500, new or used. The amp is also made in several configurations.

What To Consider When Choosing A Solid State Amp?

While solid state amps have come a long way, they still just can’t match the classic vintage tone of a tube amp. As a long time guitar player, I would be perfectly happy practicing with many of the different solid state amps available today.

However, if this is your first real guitar amp, and you are really looking for a great tone, you could be disappointed with one of these amps if you have not compared these to tube amps. So, please compare these solid state amps to higher quality tube amps before buying one.

Are Tube Amps As Reliable?

Overall, yes. The tubes in a tube amp will last many years, it’s not something that should keep you from buying a tube amp.

In the video below, I am playing a Fender Hendrix Strat through a Fender Hot Rod Deluxe, and then through a Boss Katana.

In this video, I am playing a Fender Players Strat through a Hot Rod Deluxe on both clean and high gain channels.