AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Positive Grid Modelling Guitar Combos 2026
The top pick is Positive Grid Spark MINI Portable Digital Modeling Guitar Practice Amp ($201). Positive Grid Spark GO Wireless Digital Modeling Guitar Practice Amp gives you the most for the money at $111. Positive Grid Reactor 100 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 18 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Positive Grid Spark MINI Portable Digital Modeling Guitar Practice Amp
Spark Mini BK · Positive Grid
24 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight1.5 kg
The Spark Mini is a clever little practice amp – a seriously portable and fun way to explore a ton of amp and effect sounds. It’s perfect for bedroom players, beginners, or anyone wanting a grab-and-go rig for casual jamming. Don't expect stage-filling power, but it's surprisingly versatile for its size and price.
Pros
- Excellent portability thanks to integrated battery and compact design.
- Smart Jam feature is genuinely useful for practice and inspiration.
- Positive Grid's app provides a vast and constantly expanding sound library.
Cons
- 10 watts is limiting for gigging or loud practice sessions.
- 2” speakers lack the headroom for serious volume or bass response.
79AudioFu
Index↓ 10.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$224 · Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Positive Grid Spark GO Wireless Digital Modeling Guitar Practice Amp
Spark Go PW · Positive Grid
19 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight0.4 kg
The Spark Go PW is a clever little practice amp and speaker. It’s fantastic for bedroom players, songwriters, or anyone needing portable backing tracks and chord assistance, but don't expect it to replace a full-sized amp for gigging. The app integration is key to its appeal and unlocks a surprising amount of sonic versatility.
Pros
- Excellent portability thanks to compact size and rechargeable battery.
- Smart Jam feature is genuinely useful for practice and fun.
- The Spark app unlocks a massive and constantly expanding sound palette.
Cons
- 5 watts is truly limiting for band practice or loud playing.
- The 2” speaker, while decent, lacks the headroom for serious volume.
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- Weight10.7 kg
This combo works well for both bedroom practice and small gigs thanks to its three power settings. The AI feature is cool because you can type or draw to get a tone, and the app makes building chains simple. However, the unit is quite heavy to transport, and the description doesn't tell you how many effects or presets are inside.
Pros
- Switchable power levels for quiet practice or loud stages
- Custom 12-inch speaker delivers focused room sound
- AI lets you describe tones to generate sounds instantly
Cons
- No specific amp model names listed in the text
- Weight of 10.7 kg is heavy for gigging
58AudioFu
Index↓ 15.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$393 · Aug 17$332 now$332€295 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight5.2 kg
The Spark 40 PW is a neat little practice amp, especially if you're into experimenting with sounds and backing tracks. It’s perfect for beginners or bedroom players who want a versatile, app-driven experience, but don’t expect it to replace a full-sized amp for gigging or serious recording.
Pros
- Smart Jam is surprisingly effective for practice and inspiration.
- Compact size makes it ideal for small spaces or travel.
- Onboard controls offer basic amp shaping without needing the app constantly.
Cons
- 4” speakers lack serious low-end extension; bass response is limited.
- Relies heavily on the app for full functionality; can feel restrictive.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$280 · Aug 17$269 now$269€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight13.9 kg
This combo packs a big 100-watt mode with a solid 12-inch speaker for home practice. The AI tool lets you try new sounds without touching knobs, which is great for beginners. However, the lack of listed amp models means you won't know exactly which vintage sounds are included. It's heavy to carry, but the switchable power makes it useful for both quiet rehearsals and bigger gigs.
Pros
- Switchable 1, 25, and 100 watts for flexible volume control
- One custom 12-inch speaker delivers focused midrange clarity
- BIAS X Engine powers realistic amp and cabinet modeling
Cons
- No specific amp models listed for detailed tonal breakdown
- Effect types and counts are not detailed in the specs
54AudioFu
Index↓ 6.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$505 · Aug 17$472 now$472€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Positive Grid Spark GO Wireless Digital Modeling Guitar Practice Amp
Spark Go BK Bundle · Positive Grid
19 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight13.5 kg
This Spark Go bundle is a smart move for bedroom players and gigging musicians needing a clean, extended sound. The Spark CAB really fleshes out the little Spark amp's capabilities, making it surprisingly versatile for rehearsals and smaller venues. It's a great value for what you get, offering a significant upgrade over the standard Spark speaker.
Pros
- Spark CAB delivers substantial, clean power for small gigs.
- MDF cabinet construction provides surprising rigidity for its size.
- Flat-response speaker ensures accurate amp modeling reproduction.
Cons
- The MDF cabinet, while rigid, isn't as durable as plywood.
- Limited physical EQ controls necessitate reliance on the app.
43AudioFu
Index↓ 4.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$399 · Aug 17$381 now$381€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Positive Grid Spark GO Wireless Digital Modeling Guitar Practice Amp
Spark Go PW Bundle · Positive Grid
19 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight0.4 kg
The Spark Go PW is a brilliant little practice amp – seriously impressive sound for its size. It’s perfect for bedroom players, travel, or anyone wanting a versatile, app-controlled amp with a surprising amount of features. The app makes it easy to explore tones, but don’t expect to blow away a room full of people – it’s designed for personal practice.
Pros
- Surprisingly full sound for its size thanks to the passive radiator.
- Spark app integration provides a vast and constantly updated tonal palette.
- Excellent portability – truly a grab-and-go practice amp.
Cons
- 5 watts is sufficient for practice, but not gig-worthy; lacks headroom.
- Build quality feels somewhat plasticky; not a premium, robust feel.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$132 now$132€117 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Spark 2 PW is a clever little practice amp, especially for guitarists who want instant gratification and a digital-first workflow. It's a fantastic all-in-one solution for bedroom players and songwriters needing amp tones, effects, and a decent Bluetooth speaker—just don’t expect studio-grade fidelity or rugged construction.
Pros
- Excellent amp modeling for a compact practice amp.
- Sonic IQ AI is genuinely useful for finding sounds quickly.
- Built-in looper is surprisingly robust and creative.
Cons
- The single channel limits tonal flexibility for serious players.
- Battery life claims are optimistic; expect closer to 6-8 hours realistically.
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$291 now$291€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This combo is great for students who want to practice anywhere with its long battery life and built-in looper. The 50-watt speaker gets loud enough for a bedroom, and the 33 amps plus 43 effects give plenty of tone options. It suits beginners thanks to Auto Chords, but serious players might want more power or preset storage.
Pros
- Includes a hard cover for safe transport and storage
- Built-in looper lets you record and layer tracks easily
- Battery power offers up to 12 hours of practice time
Cons
- Only 50 watts of power for limited loudness
- Limited to 8 customisable presets on the device itself
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$309 now$309€275 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Spark 2 is a fantastic practice amp for bedroom players and those wanting a simple, modern sound. The AI-powered suggestions and looper make it a ton of fun, and the Bluetooth speaker is a real bonus. It’s perfect for beginners or intermediate players who want a convenient and versatile amp without the complexity of a full-blown modeling rig.
Pros
- Spark AI simplifies sound discovery, making amp and effect selection intuitive.
- Excellent Bluetooth speaker functionality adds versatility beyond guitar practice.
- The built-in looper is surprisingly robust and genuinely useful for songwriting.
Cons
- The 50-watt output is limiting for gigging or loud band rehearsals.
- Relies heavily on the app for full feature set; less appealing for purists.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 18 modelling guitar combos
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Positive Grid Spark 2 PW w/Bag & FootswitchPositive Grid36Stable$494€439$494€439Check ↗
- 12
Positive Grid Spark 40 BK BundlePositive Grid · 2 finishes35↓ 6.0%$528€469$528€469Check ↗
- 13
Positive Grid Spark 40 PW BundlePositive Grid32↓ 4.6%$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 14
Positive Grid Spark 2 PW BundlePositive Grid31↓ 2.0%$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 15
Positive Grid Spark 2 PW w/Battery BundlePositive Grid22Stable$366€325$366€325Check ↗
- 16
Positive Grid Spark 2 BK w/Battery BundlePositive Grid22Stable$366€325$366€325Check ↗
- 17
Positive Grid Spark 2 BK w/Footsw BundlePositive Grid22Stable$438€389$438€389Check ↗
- 18
Positive Grid Spark 2 PW w/Footsw BundlePositive Grid22Stable$444€395$444€395Check ↗
Modelling Guitar Combos by the numbers
Measured across all 134 models we track, not a sample.
Median $336 — half of all modelling guitar combos here cost less.
median of 111 models · 0.56 kg–17.2 kg
How to choose the best modelling guitar combos
Tone Modelling
Positive Grid's BIAS engine is the core. It's genuinely impressive how they've captured the nuances of iconic amps and cabs, but it's not always a perfect recreation - sometimes it's a better version, with more headroom or a more controllable breakup. The ability to tweak parameters and create custom amp models is a huge draw.
Speaker Simulation
This is where a lot of modelling amps stumble, but Positive Grid's IR (Impulse Response) library is surprisingly strong. You get a decent range of cab tones built-in, and the option to load your own IRs takes it to another level - crucial for getting a truly authentic recorded tone. The Spark's auto-generated backing tracks are a neat trick, but don't expect them to replace a real band.
User Interface & Software
The BIAS Tone Cloud is a mixed bag. The sheer number of user-created amp and effect presets can be overwhelming, but it also means you'll likely find something that works for you. The app itself is generally intuitive, but occasional glitches and connectivity issues are a reality.
Build Quality
This is a consistent point of critique. The plastic enclosures on some models (like the Spark) feel a little cheap for the price. The HZ series steps up the build quality significantly, but you pay for it. It's a trade-off - you're getting advanced modelling in a lighter, more portable package, but that comes at the expense of premium materials.
Dynamic Response & Articulation
This is where Positive Grid really shines. The BIAS engine does a fantastic job of responding to your picking dynamics, giving you a surprising amount of nuance and feel, especially when compared to older modelling amps. It's the difference between a sterile, lifeless sound and something that actually breathes.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Positive Grid modelling combos. They've carved out a distinct space in the amp market, and for good reason - the Spark, the HZ, the BIAS amps - they've all got something going for them. But are they actually worth the hype? We're going to break down what makes Positive Grid's approach unique, what they do well, and where you might want to look elsewhere.
Positive Grid amps are great for bedroom practice, recording, and even gigging, but be realistic about what you're getting. The Spark is a fantastic entry point, but don't expect high-end studio tone. If you're serious about recording, invest in a good set of headphones or monitors - the onboard speakers are... adequate.
The HZ series is a serious contender for gigging, but budget accordingly.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 26 modelling guitar combos from the Thomann catalogue (of 134 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Positive Grid amps as good as the real thing?
'As good' is subjective. They capture the essence of many classic amps, and often improve on them with more flexibility and control. But the subtle imperfections and mojo of a vintage amp are hard to replicate perfectly.
Can I use my own impulse responses (IRs) with Positive Grid amps?
Absolutely! Most models support loading custom IRs, which is essential for dialing in a truly authentic cab tone. Just make sure the amp supports the IR format you're using.
What's the difference between the Spark, HZ, and BIAS series?
The Spark is the budget-friendly, all-in-one practice amp with smart features. The HZ series focuses on high-end tone and build quality. BIAS is the software engine and hardware platform that allows for deep customization and amp modelling.
Do Positive Grid amps require a lot of tweaking to get a good sound?
It depends. The Tone Cloud offers tons of presets, so you can get something decent right out of the box. But the real power comes from digging into the BIAS engine and customizing your own sounds.
Are Positive Grid amps easy to use live?
Generally, yes. The presets are easy to switch between, and the effects are well-integrated. However, the app-based editing can be a bit clunky if you're trying to make changes on the fly.





