Technology marches on, but tube (“valve,” for our pals across the pond) amps have never really ceded the spotlight. Is it that many guitarists are “traditionalists” – old-fashioned romantics unable to evolve? Sure, maybe. Or do tube amps truly have a sound, feel, and vibe that’s just unbeatable by innovation? Yeah, that, too! There can be more than one correct answer to a question!
And what about combo amplifiers? Those humble, diminutive (relatively. Have you tried to carry a vintage 2×12 combo any distance lately?) units used to be relegated to the realm of beginner’s bedrooms and tiny coffeehouses. With today’s advanced PA systems and sophisticated sound reinforcement, however, why on earth would anyone lug around a full- or even half-stack (aside from the fact that, yes, they do look undeniably cool)?
We talked with reps from four of the biggest names in tube combo amps to find out about the evergreen appeal of these powerhouses that truly “punch above their weight.”
For your brand, what’s currently the top-selling tube combo guitar amp model?
John Bingham: Currently, the Hot Cat is the best-selling Bad Cat combo amp.
Anoush Saboktakin: AC15C1 followed closely by AC10C1 (literally by just one less unit for the whole year!).
Paul Stevens: In 2024 the single biggest selling tube combo was the HT-5R MKIII, which is a 1×12, 2-channel, 5-watt combo. This was closely followed by the HT-1R MKIII and HT-20R MKIII from the same range (1 watt and 20 watts, respectively).
Jason Stillwell: For over 30 years it’s been the modern-classic Blues Jr, which is a 15W 1×12 combo, which provides extremely pedalboard-friendly Fender cleans and smooth overdrive tones. These convenient and lightweight amps are known for their great tones and are perfect platforms for driving with pedalboards. An all-around great first tube amp for beginners and pros alike.
With all the modelling, solid state, and other, more “modern” amplifier options out there, how do you explain the enduring appeal of tube amps?
JS: Digital modelling has come such a long way, particularly in the last 10-15 years. They are convenient, flexible and provide many modern features, but there’s a reason that tube amps are the original reference and benchmark that digital amps are still trying to mimic. They may not always be as tonally flexible or have the latest modern features, but they have “that sound.” For some players, there’s just no replacing the warmth and touch-sensitivity that tube amps offer.
AS: The enduring appeal of tube amps really comes down to the way they feel, sound, and connect us to the music we love. For all the advances in modelling and solid-state technology, there’s just something special about plugging into a tube amp that’s hard to explain but easy to feel.
It’s All About the Tone: Tube amps have this natural warmth and richness that makes the sound feel alive. When you play through one, it’s not just about hearing the notes – it’s about feeling them. The way they respond to your touch, how they compress and saturate when you push them – it’s like the amp becomes an extension of you. That kind of dynamic response is hard to match with anything else. And then there’s the overdrive. When you crank a tube amp, the distortion doesn’t just get louder – it gets smoother, thicker, and more musical. It’s that perfect mix of grit and clarity that’s been the backbone of so many classic guitar tones.
The Emotional Connection: There’s also this intangible magic to tube amps. Think about all the records we grew up loving – Hendrix, Clapton, Page, SRV. Those iconic tones were born from tube amps. Playing through one feels like tapping into that history. It’s not just gear – it’s a piece of the story of rock, blues, and beyond.
They’re Built to Last: Another thing I love about tube amps is how they’re made to stand the test of time. Sure, tubes need replacing now and then, but they’re easy to service, and a good tube amp can last decades. Compare that to some of the digital gear out there – it’s like choosing a vintage watch over a smartwatch. One has character, the other feels disposable.
The Challenge of Perfection: Don’t get me wrong, modelling amps and solid-state options are amazing tools. They’re practical, versatile, and some of them sound incredible. But no matter how advanced they get, there’s always this elusive “feel” that they struggle to nail. It’s not just the tone – it’s how a tube amp reacts to your playing. That’s what keeps players coming back.
At the end of the day, it’s not about one being better than the other – it’s about what inspires you to play. For a lot of us, tube amps just hit that sweet spot between tone, feel, and nostalgia. There’s a reason they’ve stuck around this long, and I don’t think they’re going anywhere anytime soon.
PS: I think it’s basically about sonic authenticity and the visceral feelings they generate. I have long had the following theory… We can make “technical” better and more consistent violins now, compared to a couple of hundred years ago, for example with carbon fibre and CNC processes. But, a 300-year-old Stradivarius is still the desired instrument to play the music from those times. Applying this to electric guitar, the tones that defined this relatively new instrument were largely produced by the amplifier technology that was available in its formative years; the 1950s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. Although we can make “technically” better amplifiers with modern technology, the tube tone generating sections that are still loved are using the technology from those earlier days.
JB: While tube amps can be approximated and replicated relatively well, nothing captures the room-filling, visceral appeal of real tube amp tone. You can get great sound and feel from a modeler through your studio monitors, but it doesn’t translate in a room with a band playing loud. The envelope of warm punchy tone just doesn’t fill the room the same.
What about combo models, specifically, is connecting with end-users?
PS: Regarding the continued popularity of specifically combos, I believe that is due to simplification, consistency and portability – basically a “plug and play,” all-in-one solution that requires minimal external cables and is the same each time.
JB: The combo is convenient and easy. It’s the ability to carry your entire rig into the room with one hand. Combo amps have been a mainstay since the first amplifiers brought forward by Leo Fender. It’s a classic staple of guitar playing. While the mammoth wall of heads and cabs is ridiculously cool, the combo stays practical and convenient. Combos also have a sound all their own!
AS: Combo amps are practical, approachable, and often packed with personality. Whether it’s tube-driven or a modern digital design, there’s something about a combo that just feels right for so many situations.
Convenience: The first thing that comes to mind is how convenient they are. Everything you need – the amp and the speaker – is in one box. It’s plug-and-play at its best. You don’t have to think about matching heads and cabs or carrying a ton of gear to rehearsal or a gig. It lets you focus on what really matters: playing.
It’s Personal: With a combo amp, you’re not just playing through it – you’re playing with it. It is an extension of your instrument. the whole thing, the amp and the speaker and the box itself. There’s this direct connection between you and your tone. It’s almost like having your own little sound companion, one that’s designed to be right there with you in the moment, filling the room without overwhelming it.
Legendary Tones, Compact Packages: Some of the most iconic amps ever made are combos – think Fender Deluxe Reverb, Vox AC30, or the Marshall Bluesbreaker. These amps prove you don’t need a massive rig to get world-class sound. They’re portable enough to take anywhere but still have the depth and richness to hold their own on stage or in the studio. It’s that perfect balance of practicality and tone.
Versatility for Real Life: Modern combos take things even further. Whether it’s a killer tube amp or a digital modelling amp, they’re often loaded with features: built-in effects, multiple channels, and even direct-outs for recording or going straight to a PA. They’re designed to handle everything from quiet practice at home to full-band gigs, and that kind of versatility makes them feel like a Swiss Army knife for guitar players.
A Player’s Companion: Maybe the biggest thing is how personal they feel. For a lot of players, a combo amp is the first “real” amp they own, and that connection stays with them. Whether it’s a little practice amp or a 40-watt workhorse, it’s not just gear – it’s part of your journey. Your riffs, your songs, your tone – it all comes through this one amp, and that makes it feel special.
Combo amps bring together tone, simplicity, and connection in a way that’s hard to beat. They’re not just tools – they’re partners in crime for every jam, rehearsal, and gig. Whether you’re chasing vintage vibes or modern versatility, combos have a way of making the whole process of playing guitar feel more natural and, honestly, more fun.
JS: Combo amps make great grab-n-go solutions for gigs, rehearsals or sessions. What’s easier than a guitar gig bag over one shoulder, a pedalboard in one hand and a small combo in the other? With a few simple controls you can dial in a great base sound, making for a pedal-friendly palette for tone creation. A small tube combo and a pedalboard can provide enough tonal options to satisfy most players in just about any genre. And last, they allow players to quickly setup/teardown their rig and get off the stage.
Have you observed any particular display, marketing, and promotions strategies adopted by MI retailers who are especially successful in selling these types of amps?
AS: Successful MI retailers selling combo amps keep it simple, engaging, and relatable. Here’s what they do well:
1. Make Them Easy to Try: Retailers set up dedicated demo areas with guitars ready to plug in. It’s all about letting players experience the sound and feel for themselves, which is often the deal-maker for amps.
2. Show Them in Action: Good demo videos and A/B comparisons – on websites, emails, and social media. These videos highlight tone, versatility, and why nothing beats the real deal.
3. Tell a Story: They lean into the legacy of iconic models like the Vox AC30 or Fender Deluxe Reverb, showing how these amps shaped music history. When customers see how their heroes used these amps, it makes the connection personal.
4. Add Value: Smart retailers offer bundle deals with accessories like cables or footswitches, seasonal discounts, and financing options. These extras make it easier for customers to say “yes.”
5. Educate Without Overwhelming: Buying guides, workshops, or even a helpful sales rep explaining why a combo amp is perfect for small gigs or home playing helps customers make informed decisions without feeling pressured.
6. Build Community: Social media contests (“Show us your rig!”) or partnerships with local artists keep the buzz alive. Real players using real gear – it’s authentic and relatable.
7. Highlight the Experience: Successful retailers sell the feel. They remind customers that, at the end of the day, nothing matches the experience of plugging straight into a combo amp and letting it inspire your playing. It’s all about connecting emotionally, keeping it practical, and making the amps feel accessible to anyone looking to create great music.
JB: Pairing like-minded guitars on a stand right alongside the amplifier gives people an immediate impression of the amplifier’s personality (examples like a 335 and a vintage tweed amp, or a shredder guitar and a Bad Cat Lynx). In high-end rooms (like the ones we find Bad Cats in) you’ll usually sell more guitars due to better amp selection too! Secondly, rotate your inventory. If an amp of a guitar hangs on the same hook or sits in the same spot month after month, move it. Shake up the look of the retail floor often. Customers will see things differently if you present them differently.
PS: I think much of this is what makes any retailer successful, but specifically to guitar amps…
Good presentation and knowledgeable staff.
Ease of demonstrating/customer testing. Set up correctly with any required footswitch.
A specific sound room can help as well, especially for some more bashful customers.
Using the materials that Blackstar provides for all products that includes all the relevant information needed in quick formats: e.g., Point of Sale overlay, product information sheet, White Paper, et cetera.
JS: Dealer-created YouTube and social media videos have become an essential tool that creates excitement, drives consumers to their retail websites and ultimately, generates sales.
Do you have any recent or upcoming tube combo amps you’d like to shine the spotlight on?
PS: Released late last year were the following tube combos: TV-10 A and TV-10 B. These are 1×12, 10-watt Class A combos. The ‘A’ model uses a 6L6 power tube and is voiced based on vintage American amplifiers. The ‘B’ model uses an EL34 power tube and is voiced based on traditional British amplifiers. So, there’s currently two flavors. Both feature a relatively simple set of controls and output connections. However, they do have an internal load which, unusually for tube amps, means they can be used with headphones, while still using the whole signal path of the amp.
The most recent release was the feature laden St. James 100 combo. Although fundamentally a tube amp (all the tone is generated by tubes in both the preamps and power amps), it is also at the cutting edge of guitar amp technology. It has four channels, all footswitchable and with alternative voicings; fully variable power reduction and power tube control, enabling anywhere from 100 watts down to 1 watt to be dialled in using either or both pairs of EL34 or 6L6 power tubes; internal reactive load driving IR-based DSP technology to various output options; MIDI control of preamp functions including variable boost/solo level. It is also the lightest 2×12 100W tube combo available, due to clever construction and speaker design, as well a state-of-the-art bespoke SMPS power supply.
JB: Bad Cat has just released the Cub V in a 15w combo and a 40w combo. Both of these combos are based on Mark Sampson’s original Cub design, but we’re five generations in. The 5th generation brings in a fully buffered FX loop, improved dual master volume circuit, and improved switching for a completely tour capable rig. This is a completely point-to-point hand wired amplifier and will be the perfect companion to any player from country and rock to blues and soul.
AS: The Vox AC Handwired Series is set to be a game-changer this year. Vox has not only captured the iconic tone of the golden era of the AC series but has also elevated it with modern features tailored for today’s players. With additions like an effects loop and onboard spring reverb across all models, these amps deliver both vintage character and modern versatility. And let’s not forget – they look stunning, too. If you’re chasing the authentic chime, dynamic attack, and responsive feel that define a Vox AC amp, the Handwired Series is your ultimate answer.
JS: Our recently released Fender® Jack White Pano Verb™ Amplifier is a great example of finding ways to innovate in the tube amp space. Designed in collaboration with Jack White and his Third Man Hardware brand, it’s an all-tube combo amp with an integrated +26dB clean boost, spring reverb with EQ, Stereo Harmonic Tremolo and a pair of tube power amps driving both 10” and 15” speakers.
Expectations for this segment of MI in the coming months?
AS: The amp market is undoubtedly facing challenges with the rise of amp replacement products like plug-ins, profilers, and amp pedals. Yet, combo amps have always stood their ground. For so many of us, a combo amp was the first “real” amp we ever owned – it wasn’t just a piece of gear; it became part of our journey as musicians. And that story is still unfolding for countless young players today.
Sure, plugging your guitar into a computer has its conveniences, but there’s something fundamentally different about connecting directly to a real amp. The immediacy, the interaction, the way you can feel it respond under your fingers –it’s an experience that no digital emulation can truly replicate. That connection is why combo amps continue to inspire musicians, generation after generation.
JS: While we can’t speculate what others have planned, rest assured that Fender will continue to innovate in both the digital and tube amp categories in 2025 and beyond.
JB: All signs are pointing to a more 2025, after a hard-fought 2024. As more guitarists are digging into digital technology more are finding models that intrigue them enough to go on the hunt for the real thing. I expect some recovery in this segment in 2025.
PS: Although at one time these were ubiquitous, admittedly it has become more challenging due to other options, especially in the mid-range. The market for valve combos mainly sits with low-wattage options for good tone at home. We believe this type of mid-range purchase will correlate with any economic recovery, as people that would make that type of purchase are being more cautious with their money currently. However, at Blackstar we strive to design even our more traditional products to not only have the modern features that younger players want, but also produce them at competitive prices.