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Country guitar tone isn’t just about twang anymore. Sure, the crisp snap of a Telecaster through a clean tube amp is still a hallmark of the genre, but country music has expanded far beyond its Appalachian roots. Country guitar has always borrowed and evolved, embracing new sounds along the way. From the jazz-influenced Western Swing players of the ’40s and ’50s—like Billy Byrd and Hank Garland—through the rock-infused production of Mutt Lange and the arena-ready licks of session aces like Brent Mason and Dan Huff, each era has left its mark.
These days, some country hits share more DNA with ’70s rock than with the "high lonesome" sound of the traditional “mountain music” country sprang from. Players like Jason Isbell lean into rock’s grit, Keith Urban straddles the line between Nashville sheen and pop-savvy energy, and Brad Paisley keeps one foot in tradition and the other planted firmly in blazing technical prowess.
A great country guitar amp is about character, clarity and the right balance of warmth and bite. From the Bakersfield sparkle of a Fender Deluxe Reverb to the broad-shouldered power of a Twin, or the rock grind of a MESA/Boogie, we’re breaking down the best amps for country guitarists today. Let’s get into it.
Pictured: Fender Vintage Reissue '65 Twin Reverb Grille Logo
Table of Contents
What Makes a Great Country Guitar Amp?
Comparing the Best Guitar Amps for Country
The Best Tube Guitar Amps for Country
Fender Vintage Reissue '59 Bassman
Fender '64 Custom Deluxe Reverb
Fender Vintage Reissue '65 Twin Reverb
Fender Limited-Edition '65 Princeton Reverb
Fender '62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition
MESA/Boogie Mark VII 1x12 Combo
Milkman Sound 85W Pedal Steel Tube Guitar Combo
Peavey Classic 30
VOX AC30C2 Custom
Comparing the Best Pedalboard Guitar Amps for Country
The Best Pedalboard Guitar Amps for Country
Fender Tone Master Pro Multi-Effects Processor
Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Processor
Milkman Sound The Amp 100W Tube-Hybrid Pedalboard Amp
Universal Audio UAFX Woodrow '55 Instrument Amplifier Effects Pedal
Universal Audio UAFX Dream '65 Reverb Amp Effects Pedal
The Roundup
People Also Ask ...
What Makes a Great Country Guitar Amp?
As country music has evolved over the years, so too have the characteristics of what makes for a great amp for country guitar. It's no longer simply about the traditional clean Fender-style combo tone. Rather, modern country players are pushing the boundaries, and many are looking for amps that deliver a wide range of tonal options, from crystalline cleans to gritty overdrives.
Pictured: Fender Vintage Reissue '65 Twin Reverb Jensen Speakers
There are, though, certain key features that remain essential for a great country guitar amp, regardless of the specific style of player. These include a robust, clear midrange, a strong low-end response and a smooth, articulate high-end response, with excellent touch sensitivity and dynamics. For players who lean toward a more traditional country sound, ample headroom and a wide range of gain options are also crucial. For those who prefer a more edgy sound, a versatile amp with a range of tonal options and channel switching capabilities can be just the ticket.
Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark VII 6L6 Power Tubes
We'll also be exploring some interesting alternatives to traditional amps with a number of pedalboard-friendly options, from digital modeling rigs that offer the ultimate in tonal flexibility to compact tube (or hybrid) amplifiers that mount on your pedalboard. From fly gigs and studio sessions to "silent stage" performances, we’ll cover the best options, no matter what your specific needs may be.
Comparing the Best Guitar Amps for Country
|
Amplifier |
Type |
Wattage |
Channels |
Speakers |
Features |
Price* |
|
Tube |
50W |
1 |
4x10" Jensen P10R |
Classic tweed design, vintage tone |
$1,259.99 |
|
|
Tube |
20W |
2 |
1x12" Jensen C12Q |
Handwired, vintage reissue |
$2,499.99 |
|
|
Tube |
85W |
2 |
2x12" Jensen C12K |
Classic clean tones, built-in reverb and tremolo |
$1,849.99 |
|
|
Fender Limited-Edition ’65 Princeton Reverb 12W 1x12 Combo Amp |
Tube |
12W |
1 |
1x12" Celestion G12M |
Limited edition, classic reverb and tremolo |
$1,199.99 |
|
Fender ’62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition 12W 1x12 Tube Combo Amp |
Tube |
12W |
1 |
1x12" Eminence Special Design |
Signature model, vintage-inspired design |
$2,199.99 |
|
Tube |
90W |
3 |
1x12" Custom Celestion |
Multi-channel versatility, graphic EQ |
$3,499.00 |
|
|
Tube |
85W |
1 |
1x15" Telonics |
High headroom, designed for pedal steel |
$3,499.00 |
|
|
Tube |
30W |
2 |
1x12" Blue Marvel |
Vintage tweed styling, versatile tone |
$799.99 |
|
|
Tube |
30W |
2 |
2x12" Celestion G12M |
Classic British tone, built-in reverb and tremolo |
$1,499.99 |
Pricing as of March 2025*
The Best Tube Guitar Amps for Country
Pictured: Fender Limited-Edition '65 Princeton Reverb Tube Guitar Combo Amp
Fender Vintage Reissue '59 Bassman
Tipping Our Hat: Like a well-worn pickup truck that still hauls, the '59 Bassman reissue delivers the kind of tone that’s built to last and gets the job done every time.
Things to Consider:
- 50 watts of pure tube power with four 10" Jensen speakers for big, open sound
- Simple, no-frills control layout—just plug in and play
- Originally designed for bass, but legendary for guitarists chasing full, responsive cleans
Shop Now: Fender Vintage Reissue '59 Bassman Tube Guitar Combo Amp
The Fender Vintage Reissue ’59 Bassman is a cornerstone of classic country tone. Its 4x10 configuration delivers a broad, articulate sound with plenty of headroom, making it a perfect match for Tele twang or Gretsch jangle. Whether you’re laying down sharp, percussive rhythm parts or cranking it up for some edge-of-breakup grit, the Bassman keeps things warm, dynamic and undeniably musical.
For more information on the most popular Fender amps, be sure to check out How to Choose the Best Fender Guitar Amplifier.
Fender '64 Custom Deluxe Reverb
Tipping Our Hat: If a Tele through a Deluxe ain’t country, then neither is a back porch and a cold beer at sunset.
Things to Consider:
- 20 watts of tube-driven clarity and smooth breakup
- Built-in tube-driven reverb and tremolo for rich, atmospheric tones
- Handwired construction for vintage-accurate sound
Shop Now: Fender '64 Custom Deluxe Reverb 20W 1x12 Tube Guitar Combo Amp
The Fender ’64 Custom Deluxe Reverb is an all-time favorite among country pickers, known for its lush cleans and touch-sensitive response. With just the right amount of power to stay clean at reasonable stage volumes, it still breaks up beautifully when pushed. It’s the perfect amp for classic Nashville-style chicken pickin’ or smooth, reverb-soaked ballads.
Fender Vintage Reissue '65 Twin Reverb
Tipping Our Hat: Clean, loud and big enough to fill the whole dance hall—this amp is the honky-tonk PA of your guitar tone.
Things to Consider:
- 85 watts of ultraclean headroom—ideal for pedal steel or traditional country lead tones
- Built-in spring reverb and tremolo for classic shimmer
- Twin 12" Jensen C12K speakers provide rich, full-bodied sound
Shop Now: Fender Vintage Reissue '65 Twin Reverb Tube Guitar Combo Amp
If you need pristine cleans with enough volume to cut through a full band, the Fender Vintage Reissue ‘65 Twin Reverb is the gold standard. Its high headroom makes it a go-to for pedal steel players, while traditional country pickers love its glassy, articulate sound. And if you ever need a little grit? Well, just bring a pedal—it takes them beautifully.
Fender Limited-Edition '65 Princeton Reverb
Tipping Our Hat: Small but mighty, this is the amp equivalent of a fishing trip—simple, reliable and always a good time.
Things to Consider:
- 12 watts of all-tube goodness, perfect for home or studio use
- Compact and lightweight, but still packs a punch
- One of the most beloved reverb and tremolo circuits in Fender history
Shop Now: Fender Limited-Edition '65 Princeton Reverb Tube Guitar Combo Amp
The Fender Limited-Edition ’65 Princeton Reverb might be small, but it delivers a legendary tone that has graced countless country recordings. With a 12" speaker, rather than the traditional 10", it’s a fantastic grab-and-go amp for smaller gigs, or an excellent studio tool for players who want lush cleans and natural tube compression without deafening volume.
Fender '62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition
Tipping Our Hat: Like a well-aged bourbon, the ’62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition amp is smooth, warm and packed with character.
Things to Consider:
- 12 watts of handwired vintage-style tube tone
- Special-design Eminence speaker voiced for warm, full sound
- No reverb—just pure, unadulterated tube breakup
Shop Now: Fender '62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition 12W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
Designed with Stapleton’s rich, soulful tone in mind, this handwired '62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition is all about warm, dynamic cleans and touch-sensitive breakup. It’s a fantastic option for players who want a straightforward amp with nothing in the way of their tone.
MESA/Boogie Mark VII 1x12 Combo
Tipping Our Hat: This ain’t your granddaddy’s country guitar amp—this one’s got the horsepower to tear up the highway.
Things to Consider:
- 90 watts of versatile tube-driven power with multiple modes
- 3-channel design covers everything from pristine cleans to roaring overdrive
- Graphic EQ for shaping your perfect tone
Shop Now: MESA/Boogie Mark VII 1x12 90W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
While often associated with rock and metal, the MESA/BoogieMark VII combo offers a wealth of clean and edge-of-breakup tones perfect for modern country. If you need one amp that can do it all—from clean chicken pickin’ to searing leads—this one’s built for the long haul.
For more information on MESA/Boogie's current amp offerings, be sure to check out How to Choose the Best MESA/Boogie Guitar Amplifier.
Milkman Sound 85W Pedal Steel Tube Guitar Combo
Tipping Our Hat: Built by a pedal steel player for pedal steel players—think of this as the Cadillac of country clean tones.
Things to Consider:
- 85 watts of high-headroom tube power
- 15" Telonics speaker designed for full-range clarity
- Simple yet powerful design, perfect for pedal steel or pristine clean guitar tones
Shop Now: Milkman Sound 85W Pedal Steel Tube Guitar Combo Amp
When you need clean, uncompressed power that can fill any room, the Milkman Sound 85W pedal steel amp delivers. Designed specifically for pedal steel players but equally loved by guitarists who crave warm, full-bodied tone, this amp is an investment in studio-quality sound.
Peavey Classic 30
Tipping Our Hat: A working musician’s amp through and through—no frills, just great tone, like a worn-in pair of boots.
Things to Consider:
- 30 watts of tube power with rich, dynamic tone
- Classic tweed styling with a modern edge
- Versatile enough for everything from honky-tonk to outlaw country
Shop Now: Peavey Classic 30 1x12 Tube Guitar Combo Amp
The Peavey Classic 30 has been a staple of country and roots rock for decades, offering warm cleans and a smooth breakup that fits right into a traditional or modern rig. With the vintage-style tweed covering and all-tube circuitry, it’s a tuneful flashback to the roots of amplified country music.
VOX AC30C2 Custom
Tipping Our Hat: A British import, sure, but so was whiskey—this amp has its place in country if you’ve got the chops to make it sing.
Things to Consider:
- 30 watts of chiming, midrange-rich British tone
- Two Celestion Greenback speakers for punchy articulation
- Built-in reverb and tremolo for added character
Shop Now: VOX Custom AC30C2 30W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
While the VOX AC30 Custom is more often associated with British rock, plenty of country players have put it to work, thanks to its responsive, touch-sensitive dynamics. If you love the idea of country twang with a little extra midrange growl, this amp has the right kind of attitude.
Comparing the Best Pedalboard Guitar Amps for Country
|
Amplifier |
Type |
Channels |
IR Cab Sim |
Features |
Price* |
|
Digital |
Multiple |
Yes, over 6,000 Fender-captured IRs; supports 3rd-party IRs |
Over 100 amp and effect models, 7” color touchscreen, 60-second stereo looper, 4 effects loops, instrument and XLR mic inputs, Bluetooth connectivity |
$1,549.99 |
|
|
Digital |
Multiple |
Yes, supports 3rd-party IRs |
Over 300 amp, cab, mic and effect models, 6.2” LCD display, 12 touch-sensitive footswitches, 4 effects loops, 8-in/8-out USB audio interface |
$1,399.99 |
|
|
Tube |
1 |
No |
100W Class-D power section, tube preamp, reverb and tremolo effects, XLR line out with cab sim, effects loop |
$699 |
|
|
Digital |
1 |
Yes, built-in speaker emulation |
Emulates classic ’50s American tube amp, live and preset modes, Bluetooth for customization |
$399.00 |
|
|
Digital |
1 |
Yes, built-in speaker emulation |
Emulates classic ’65 American tube amp with reverb and vibrato, live and preset modes, Bluetooth for customization |
$399.00 |
Pricing as of March 2025*
The Best Pedalboard Guitar Amps for Country
Fender Tone Master Pro Multi-Effects Processor
Tipping Our Hat: Like a Nashville session ace, this one can play just about anything—and sound great doing it.
Things to Consider:
- Over 100 amp, cab and effect models, including classic Fender tones
- 7” color touchscreen with intuitive controls
- Four effects loops, instrument and mic inputs, and extensive routing options
Shop Now: Fender Tone Master Pro Guitar Multi-Effects Processor
The Fender Tone Master Pro is a serious all-in-one solution for country guitarists who need flexibility. Whether you’re after pristine Twin Reverb cleans, Deluxe Reverb breakup or something a little grittier, this unit delivers, with deep customization options for dialing in the perfect sound. Great for fly dates, silent stages or the player who wants studio-quality tone without a room full of amps.
Check out The Best Multi-Effects Pedals of 2025 to learn more about the hottest multi-effects processors availble today.
Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Processor
Tipping Our Hat: As versatile as a trucker's hitch on a loose tarp, this rig covers everything from old-school twang to full-blown arena rock.
Things to Consider:
- Over 300 amp, cab, mic and effect models
- 12 touch-sensitive footswitches and a large 6.2” LCD display
- Built-in IR support for cab simulations and extensive routing options
Shop Now: Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Processor
Line 6 has been a go-to for players who want high-quality digital tone, and the Line 6 Helix takes that concept to the next level. With spot-on models of Fender, VOX and boutique amps, plus an arsenal of effects, it’s a powerful option for country players who need a huge tonal range in one unit.
Milkman Sound The Amp 100W Tube-Hybrid Pedalboard Amp
Tipping Our Hat: Small enough to fit on your board, but powerful enough to handle the gig—just like a well-trained border collie.
Things to Consider:
- 100W Class-D power section with a real tube preamp
- Built-in reverb and tremolo for classic vintage tone
- XLR line out with cab simulation for direct recording or PA use
Shop Now: Milkman Sound The Amp 100W Tube-Hybrid Guitar Pedalboard Amp
The Amp from Milkman Sound is a brilliant solution for players who want real tube tone without the bulk of a traditional amp. Perfect for players who gig direct or need a lightweight alternative to a combo, it delivers warm, touch-sensitive response and classic American amp feel.
Universal Audio UAFX Woodrow '55 Instrument Amplifier Effects Pedal
Tipping Our Hat: Classic ‘50s American tube amp tone, packed into a stompbox—like finding a vintage amp at a roadside pawn shop.
Things to Consider:
- Authentic emulation of a ’50s tweed-style amp
- Live and preset modes for flexibility on stage or in the studio
- Bluetooth and mobile app control for deep customization
Shop Now: Univeral Audio UAFX Woodrow '55 Instrument Amplifier Effects Pedal
The UAFX Woodrow ’55 brings vintage tweed breakup to the pedalboard crowd, making it a fantastic option for country players who love the raw, dynamic feel of classic tube amps. Plug into a PA, use it as a preamp or throw it in front of an amp for an extra dose of grit and warmth.
Check out A Guide to Universal Audio's UAFX Pedals to dig into their full line of effects pedals.
Universal Audio UAFX Dream '65 Reverb Amp Effects Pedal
Tipping Our Hat: This pedal has more twang than a Texas roadhouse on a Friday night—if clean Fender tones are your thing, it delivers in spades.
Things to Consider:
- Captures the legendary ’65 Fender Reverb amp tone
- Built-in spring reverb and vibrato for authentic feel
- Live and preset modes with mobile app control
Shop Now: Univeral Audio UAFX Dream '65 Reverb Amplifier Effects Pedal
If your idea of country tone is built on shimmering cleans and smooth breakup, the UAFX Dream ’65 is as close as you’ll get to a real vintage black-panel amp in a pedal. Whether used direct or in front of a cab, it nails the dynamic, responsive feel of a real tube amp.
The Roundup
There are three U.S.-born musical styles that have had massive influence on the entire musical world—blues, jazz and country. All three are styles that are deeply rooted in American culture and history, and all speak directly to the heart of the human experience. Country music, in particular, is known for its storytelling tradition, with songs that often focus on themes of love, loss and everyday life. If you're moved to explore the world of country, we hope this article has helped you zero in on some of the best guitar amps to carry you along that road.
If you're still looking for more, you may want to check out some of our other articles, like our Guide to the Fender Telecaster, How to Buy a Vintage Telecaster and The Best Pickups for Telecasters.
And, if you need help deciding which amp is right for you, there's no substitute for sitting down with a few at your local Guitar Center and hearing them for yourself. Our knowledgeable associates will be happy to help you find the one that rings true for you. If one of our over 300 stores isn't convenient for you, you can also call your personal Gear Adviser and pick their brain.
Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark VII 1x12 90W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
People Also Ask ...
What are the best guitar amps for achieving classic country tones?
Classic country tones are often associated with clean, bright sounds that highlight the guitar’s natural twang. Amplifiers like the Fender Twin Reverb and Fender Deluxe Reverb are renowned for their clear, articulate tones and ample headroom, making them popular choices among country guitarists.
How important is a compressor pedal in a country guitar rig?
A compressor pedal is considered essential by many country guitarists. It evens out the dynamics, enhances sustain and adds the characteristic “snap” to chicken-picking and other country techniques, contributing significantly to the genre’s signature sound.
Can I achieve a good country tone with a solid-state amplifier?
While tube amplifiers are traditionally favored for their warm and responsive tones, many modern solid-state amplifiers and modeling amps have advanced significantly and can effectively emulate classic tube sounds. Models like the Roland Cube series are noted for their versatility and have been used successfully in country music settings.
What role does speaker size play in shaping country guitar tone?
Speaker size influences the tonal characteristics of an amplifier. For country music, 10" speakers are often preferred for their tight, focused sound, which complements the genre’s clean and articulate playing style. However, 12" speakers can provide a fuller low-end response, which some players might prefer depending on their specific tone preferences. Many pedal steel guitarists, who are looking for a more wide-range sound, will even go for 15" speakers.
Are there specific amp settings that work best for country music?
While personal preference plays a significant role, a common starting point for country tones includes setting the treble and presence controls higher to achieve brightness, keeping the bass moderate to prevent muddiness, and maintaining clean headroom by setting the gain or volume controls to avoid unwanted distortion. Utilizing the amp’s built-in reverb can also add depth to the sound, enhancing the overall tone.