AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Tube Guitar Heads Under $5,000 2026
The top pick is Tone King Imperial MKII 20-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo ($2,390). Blackstar TV-10 A 10-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo gives you the most for the money at $535. Mesa Boogie Mark IIC+ Reissue 75-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 162 models across 27 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Tone King Imperial MKII 20-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
Imperial MK II Head BK · Tone King
22 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight11.3 kg
The Tone King Imperial MK II is a beautifully voiced amp, offering a classic American clean and a searing lead tone thanks to those 6V6s. The Ironman II attenuator is a game-changer for apartment players wanting that high-volume tube saturation. It’s a sweet spot for blues, rock, and vintage tones – ideal for players who appreciate a refined, boutique feel without the extreme complexity of some modern amps.
Pros
- Excellent Ironman II attenuator delivers cranked amp tones at manageable volumes
- 3x12AX7 preamp provides a wide range of dynamic and responsive gain
- 5AR4 rectifier contributes to a smoother, more vintage-flavored tone
Cons
- Relatively heavy for a 20-watt head, transport could be a challenge
- Limited channel flexibility compared to more complex multi-channel amps
79AudioFu
Index↓ 15.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,812 · Aug 17$2,390 now$2,390€2,124 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Marshall Studio Vintage SV20C "MK II" 20-Watt 1x10" Guitar Combo
Studio Vintage SV20H · Marshall
28 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight9.25 kg
The SV20H is a fantastic little head if you're chasing that vintage Marshall tone – think early Stones, classic rock. It's got the SLP preamp magic and EL34 power section in a manageable, practice-friendly package. Great for players wanting that raw, British sound without a massive stack.
Pros
- Authentic 1959SLP preamp voicing delivers classic Marshall crunch.
- EL34 power tubes provide that signature British amp warmth and sustain.
- Power reduction to 5W is ideal for home practice and recording.
Cons
- Limited single channel design restricts tonal flexibility for modern players.
- The 9.25 kg weight makes it less portable than smaller amp heads.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,045 now$1,045€929 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Marshall JMP 1959 Super Lead 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp Head 1967…
1959 HW · Marshall
41 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight21 kg
This 1959HW is a straight-up Marshall monster – the classic Plexi tone, handwired and ready to rumble. It’s built for players chasing that raw, vintage British sound, perfect for rock, blues, and hard rock. Be warned: it’s a loud one, so plan your volume accordingly!
Pros
- Handwired construction ensures exceptional reliability and tonal complexity.
- EL34 power tubes deliver that iconic Marshall high-gain roar.
- ECC83 preamp tubes provide a responsive, dynamic feel and nuanced overdrive.
Cons
- The 100W output is loud – requires a suitable venue or attenuation.
- Limited channel flexibility restricts versatility for modern, cleaner tones.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,925 now$2,925€2,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Orange TH30H 2-Channel 30-Watt Guitar Amp Head
TH30H · Orange
41 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight15.5 kg
The TH30H is a fantastic amp for players wanting that classic Orange crunch without needing a massive stack. It’s surprisingly versatile thanks to the wattage reduction and the ‘Shape’ control, making it a great option for blues, rock, and even some heavier styles – perfect for smaller venues or home recording.
Pros
- EL84 power tubes deliver Orange’s signature chime and harmonic richness.
- The 'Shape' control on the dirty channel offers excellent tonal sculpting.
- Switchable wattage provides versatility for home practice and gigging.
Cons
- Relatively heavy for a 30-watt head; portability can be an issue.
- Effect loop’s tone can be slightly colored, not transparent.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$955 now$955€849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Marshall JVM410C 4-Channel 100-Watt 2x12" Guitar Combo
JVM410H · Marshall
12 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Weight22 kg
The JVM410H is a beast – a proper Marshall head with that legendary EL34 power section. It’s got a ton of channels and sounds, making it fantastic for players who want a single amp to cover a wide range of rock and metal tones. If you're a gigging guitarist needing serious power and flexibility, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Full tube signal path delivers Marshall’s signature crunch and sustain
- Four channels offer incredible tonal flexibility, from clean to high-gain
- Programmable master volumes allow for precise volume control at different stages
Cons
- The weight (22 kg) makes it impractical for frequent transport
- The complex routing can be overwhelming for less experienced users
74AudioFu
Index↑ 3.5%since Aug 17$1,631 · Aug 17$1,687 now$1,687€1,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mesa Boogie Fillmore 50 2-Channel 60-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
Fillmore 50 Head · Mesa Boogie
41 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight11.79 kg
The Fillmore 50 is a seriously impressive amp. It delivers that iconic Mesa Boogie tone – a fantastic blend of clean clarity and driven character – in a more manageable package than some of their bigger heads. This is perfect for players seeking that vintage American amp vibe without the extreme high-end price tag.
Pros
- Exceptional clean headroom with a vintage warmth, thanks to the 6L6 tubes.
- Versatile channel options provide a wide range of tones, from sparkling cleans to crunchy overdrive.
- The long tank spring reverb is genuinely lush and classic Mesa.
Cons
- The Fillmore 50 is quite heavy, making portability a challenge for some.
- The fixed bias design requires more specialized maintenance and potential tube replacement.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,531 now$2,531€2,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Friedman Small Box 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp Head
Small Box · Friedman
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight15.2 kg
The Friedman Small Box is a powerhouse for players seeking a focused, high-gain amp with serious headroom. It’s a fantastic choice for rock, hard rock, and even modern metal tones where you want that raw, aggressive edge but still retain clarity. This amp is a studio workhorse or perfect for a discerning gigging guitarist who prioritizes tone above all else.
Pros
- Hand-wired construction ensures exceptional reliability and tone shaping.
- Custom USA transformers deliver a tight, articulate low-end response.
- Dual master volumes offer incredible dynamic range, from clean to high gain.
Cons
- Premium-priced, putting it out of reach for many gigging musicians.
- Limited channel flexibility compared to more complex multi-channel amps.
74AudioFu
Index↓ 9.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,600 · Aug 17$3,250 now$3,250€2,888 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mesa Boogie Mark IIC+ Reissue 75-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
Mark IIC+ Head · Mesa Boogie
30 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight17.7 kg
This amp brings back the classic feel of the original Mark II with its vintage tone. You get clean and driven sounds in one unit, plus a reverb effect and a loop for pedals. It is a solid choice for players who want that old-school Boogie sound without modern clutter. Just keep in mind it is a single channel and quite heavy to carry around.
Pros
- Delivers a pure vintage sound from the original Mark II design
- Provides dual power modes for clean or driven tones
- Includes a buffered FX loop for clean pedal signals
Cons
- Single channel limits tone variety for some players
- Heavy weight makes transport and stacking difficult
74AudioFu
Index↓ 7.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$4,725 · Aug 17$4,385 now$4,385€3,897 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Blackstar TV-10 A 10-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
TV-10 A 6L6 · Blackstar
34 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight8.8 kg
This small amp packs a punch with a single 6L6 tube, making it loud enough for small gigs or solo practice. It has a useful effects loop and a foot switch, but the lack of a second channel or more effects limits its options. It's a solid, affordable choice for players who want a simple, direct sound without too many choices.
Pros
- Uses powerful 6L6 power tubes for big, loud sound
- Includes a dedicated effects loop for clean pedals
- Comes with a foot switch for easy on-the-fly control
Cons
- Only one channel means no tone shaping variety
- Reverb is the sole built-in effect with no EQ
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$535 now$535€475 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Orange Rocker 15 Terror 2-Channel 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head
Rocker 15 Terror · Orange
38 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight6.4 kg
The Rocker 15 Terror is a pocket rocket – seriously loud for its size and packed with Orange’s signature saturated tone. It's a fantastic choice for gigging musicians who want a high-gain amp with a manageable footprint and the ability to dial back the volume for practice. Think high-energy rock, blues, and even heavier styles – it really delivers.
Pros
- Classic Orange crunch, surprisingly versatile for its size
- Switchable wattage allows for bedroom to gig volume
- ECC83/ECC81 preamp provides rich harmonic complexity
Cons
- Limited clean headroom – primarily a distortion amp
- Gigbag is functional but basic, lacks robust protection
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$787 now$787€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 162 tube guitar heads
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Engl Fireball 25 Type E633 2-Channel 25-Watt Guitar Amp HeadE633SR Fireball 25 LTD Red · Engl · 6 finishes73Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 12
Synergy SYN-20IR 3-Channel 20-Watt Modular Guitar Amp HeadSYN-20IR Head · Synergy · 2 finishes73Stable$1,339€1,190$1,339€1,190Check ↗
- 13
Marshall Origin ORIGIN20H 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadOrigin 20H Head · Marshall72Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 14
Orange OR30 30-Watt Guitar Amp HeadOR 30 Orange · Orange72↓ 1.1%$2,126€1,889$2,126€1,889Check ↗
- 15
Mesa Boogie Mark Five 35 2-Channel 35-Watt 1x12" Guitar ComboMark Five:35 Head · Mesa Boogie72Stable$3,037€2,699$3,037€2,699Check ↗
- 16
Mesa Boogie Mark VII 3-Channel 90-Watt 1x12" Guitar ComboMark VII Head · Mesa Boogie72Stable$4,703€4,179$4,703€4,179Check ↗
- 17
Marshall Origin ORIGIN50H 50-Watt Guitar Amp HeadOrigin 50H Head · Marshall71Stable$708€629$708€629Check ↗
- 18
Mesa Boogie Mark IIC+ Reissue 75-Watt 1x12" Guitar ComboIIC+ HRG Head · Mesa Boogie71Stable$4,162€3,699$4,162€3,699Check ↗
- 19
Marshall 2245 JTM45 MK II Reissue 2-Channel 30-Watt Guitar Amp HeadJTM45/2245 · Marshall70Stable$1,743€1,549$1,743€1,549Check ↗
- 20
Orange OR60 60-Watt Guitar Amp HeadOR 60 Orange · Orange · 2 finishes70↓ 11.1%$2,249€1,999$2,249€1,999Check ↗
- 21
Mesa Boogie 90s Dual Rectifier Solo Head Reissue 2-Channel 100-Watt…90s Dual Rectifier LTD · Mesa Boogie70Stable$3,600€3,199$3,600€3,199Check ↗
- 22
Marshall DSL100HR 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp HeadDSL100HR · Marshall69Stable$933€829$933€829Check ↗
- 23
Engl E658 Steve Morse Signature 20 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadE658 Steve Morse Signature 20 · Engl · 2 finishes69Stable$1,451€1,289$1,451€1,289Check ↗
- 24
Friedman Pink Taco V2 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadPink Taco V2 Head · Friedman69↓ 4.7%$1,822€1,619$1,822€1,619Check ↗
- 25
Marshall Studio Classic SC20C "JCM 800 Lead Series" 20-Watt 1x10"…Studio Classic SC20H · Marshall · 2 finishes68Stable$1,045€929$1,045€929Check ↗
- 26
Marshall Studio 900 SN20H "JCM 900" 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadSN20H Studio 900 Head · Marshall68Stable$1,338€1,189$1,338€1,189Check ↗
- 27
Friedman Runt 20 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadRunt-20 Head · Friedman68Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 28
Marshall 1987X MK II Reissue 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp Head1987X · Marshall68Stable$2,002€1,779$2,002€1,779Check ↗
- 29
Friedman PLEX 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp HeadPlex Head · Friedman68Stable$3,250€2,888$3,250€2,888Check ↗
- 30
Engl Fireball 100 Type E635 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp HeadFireball 100 E635BO Blackout · Engl · 4 finishes67Stable$1,573€1,398$1,573€1,398Check ↗
- 31
Marshall JCM800 Lead Series 2203X Reissue 100-Watt Guitar Amp HeadJCM 800 Reissue 2203 · Marshall67Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
- 32
Mesa Boogie Rectifier Badlander EL34/100 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar…Badlander 100 Amp Head · Mesa Boogie67Stable$3,374€2,998$3,374€2,998Check ↗
- 33
Engl E725 Ravager IR 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadE725 Ravager IR · Engl66↓ 0.6%$753€669$753€669Check ↗
- 34
Engl Powerball II Type E645/2 4-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp HeadPowerball II E645/2 · Engl · 3 finishes66Stable$1,743€1,549$1,743€1,549Check ↗
- 35
Friedman Runt 50 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp HeadRunt-50 Head · Friedman66Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 36
Friedman Twin Sister 2-Channel 40-Watt Guitar Amp HeadTwin Sister Head · Friedman66Stable$3,712€3,299$3,712€3,299Check ↗
- 37
Marshall JCM 800 Lead Series Modified 2203MS Reissue 100-Watt Guitar…2203 Modified JCM 800 · Marshall65Stable$3,228€2,869$3,228€2,869Check ↗
- 38
Friedman JEL-20 Jake E. Lee Signature 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp…JEL-20 Head · Friedman64Stable$2,081€1,849$2,081€1,849Check ↗
- 39
Engl Savage 60 Head Mark II E630II 4-Channel 60-Watt Guitar Amp HeadSavage 60 E630 II · Engl · 2 finishes64Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 40
Friedman Little Sister 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadLittle Sister Head · Friedman63Stable$1,619€1,439$1,619€1,439Check ↗
- 41
Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555X Reissue 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp…2555X Silver Jubilee · Marshall63↑ 4.7%$1,743€1,549$1,743€1,549Check ↗
- 42
Soldano ASTRO-20 3-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadAstro-20 Head · Soldano63Stable$2,137€1,899$2,137€1,899Check ↗
- 43
Marshall DSL20CR 2-Channel 20-Watt 1x12" Guitar ComboDSL20HR · Marshall62Stable$494€439$494€439Check ↗
- 44
Supro 1932R Royale 50-Watt 1x12" Guitar ComboRoyale Head · Supro61Stable$1,349€1,199$1,349€1,199Check ↗
- 45
Friedman JEL-50 Jake E. Lee Signature 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp…JEL-50 Head · Friedman61Stable$3,600€3,199$3,600€3,199Check ↗
- 46
Orange Dark Terror 15-Watt Guitar Amp HeadDark Terror Head · Orange60Stable$572€508$572€508Check ↗
- 47
Peavey 6505 MH "Mini Head" 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp Head6505 MH · Peavey60Stable$743€660$743€660Check ↗
- 48
Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp HeadCub V EL34 Head · Bad Cat60Stable$3,375€2,999$3,375€2,999Check ↗
- 49
Mesa Boogie Triple Crown TC-100 3-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp HeadTriple Crown TC-100 Head · Mesa Boogie60Stable$4,388€3,899$4,388€3,899Check ↗
- 50
Mesa Boogie 90s Triple Rectifier Solo Head Reissue 2-Channel 150-Watt…90s Triple Rectifier · Mesa Boogie60Stable$4,703€4,179$4,703€4,179Check ↗
- 51
Orange Dual Terror 2-Channel 30-Watt Guitar Amp HeadDual Terror Head · Orange59Stable$775€689$775€689Check ↗
- 52
Engl E606 Ironball Head 20Engl · 3 finishes59Stable$967€859$967€859Check ↗
- 53
Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt 1x12" Guitar ComboCub V EL84 Head · Bad Cat58Stable$3,037€2,699$3,037€2,699Check ↗
- 54
Suhr PT15 Pete Thorn Signature 3-Channel 15-Watt Guitar Amp HeadPT15 I.R. Head · Suhr58↓ 2.7%$4,050€3,599$4,050€3,599Check ↗
- 55
Marshall 1959BJA Billie Joe Armstrong Signature Handwired JMP Reissue…1959BJA Billie Joe Armstrong · Marshall58Stable$4,050€3,599$4,050€3,599Check ↗
- 56
REVV Dynamis D20 MK2 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadD20 Amp Head BK MK2 · Revv56Stable$1,631€1,449$1,631€1,449Check ↗
- 57
Engl Savage 120 E-610 MKIIEngl · 2 finishes56Stable$2,632€2,339$2,632€2,339Check ↗
- 58
Engl E670FE-6L6 Special EditionEngl · 2 finishes56Stable$3,711€3,298$3,711€3,298Check ↗
- 59
Harley Benton TUBE5 HeadHarley Benton · 3 finishes55Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 60
Harley Benton TUBE15 HeadHarley Benton · 3 finishes55Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 61
Peavey invective MH Misha Mansoor Signature 2-Channel 20-Watt Mini…invective MH · Peavey55Stable$843€749$843€749Check ↗
- 62
Synergy SYN-50 2-Channel 50-Watt Modular Preamp Guitar Amp HeadSYN-50 Head · Synergy55Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
- 63
Soldano SLO-30 Classic 30-Watt Guitar HeadSLO 30 Classic Head · Soldano · 2 finishes55Stable$3,374€2,998$3,374€2,998Check ↗
- 64
Orange OR 15 HOrange · 2 finishes54Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 65
Victory Amplifiers The Deputy Lunch Box HeadVictory Amplifiers54↓ 10.0%$1,214€1,079$1,214€1,079Check ↗
- 66
Marshall DSL1CR 2-Channel 1-Watt 1x8" Guitar ComboDSL1HR · Marshall53Stable$298€265$298€265Check ↗
- 67
Evh 5150 Iconic 15W 6L6 Top BLKEvh · 2 finishes53Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 68
Peavey Classic 20 MH Mini HeadClassic 20 MH TW · Peavey53Stable$775€689$775€689Check ↗
- 69
Evh 5150 Iconic 80W Top BKEvh · 2 finishes53Stable$843€749$843€749Check ↗
- 70
Victory Amplifiers V40 The Duchess MKII Lunch BoxVictory Amplifiers · 2 finishes53Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
- 71
Evh 5150 III 50 W 6L6 Head BKEvh · 2 finishes53Stable$1,518€1,349$1,518€1,349Check ↗
- 72
Mesa Boogie Rectifier Badlander EL84/25 2-Channel 25-Watt 1x12"…Badlander 25 Amp Head · Mesa Boogie53Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
- 73
REVV Dynamis D40 2-Channel 40-Watt Guitar Amp HeadD40 Head · Revv53↑ 6.7%$2,700€2,399$2,700€2,399Check ↗
- 74
PRS HDRX 20 HeadPRS · 2 finishes52Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 75
Engl E611 Savage 30Engl52Stable$1,406€1,249$1,406€1,249Check ↗
- 76
Engl E766 Marty Friedman HeadEngl52Stable$1,856€1,649$1,856€1,649Check ↗
- 77
Engl Steve Morse Signature Top E656Engl52Stable$2,565€2,279$2,565€2,279Check ↗
- 78
Marshall Studio JTM ST20H "MK II" 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadStudio JTM ST20H Head · Marshall51Stable$1,045€929$1,045€929Check ↗
- 79
Victory Amplifiers VX Kraken MKII Compact HeadVictory Amplifiers51↓ 4.5%$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 80
Marshall 1959 ModifiedMarshall51Stable$3,589€3,189$3,589€3,189Check ↗
- 81
Marshall 2525H Mini Jubilee 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp Head2525H Mini Silver Jubilee · Marshall50Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 82
REVV Generator G50 3-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp HeadGenerator G50 Head · Revv50↑ 6.7%$2,700€2,399$2,700€2,399Check ↗
- 83
Evh 5150 Iconic 15W EL34 TopEvh49Stable$708€629$708€629Check ↗
- 84
Evh 5150 Iconic EL34 80W Top BKEvh49↓ 0.5%$852€757$852€757Check ↗
- 85
PRS Archon Classic 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp HeadArchon Classic 50 Head · PRS49↑ 8.6%$854€759$854€759Check ↗
- 86
Victory Amplifiers Sheriff 25 Lunch Box HeadVictory Amplifiers49Stable$1,349€1,199$1,349€1,199Check ↗
- 87
Victory Amplifiers Sheriff 25 Compact HeadVictory Amplifiers49Stable$1,518€1,349$1,518€1,349Check ↗
- 88
Evh 5150 III 50 W 6L6 Head StealthEvh49Stable$1,541€1,369$1,541€1,369Check ↗
- 89
Victory Amplifiers VX Kraken MKII Lunch Box HeadVictory Amplifiers49Stable$1,574€1,399$1,574€1,399Check ↗
- 90
Evh 5150 III 50 W EL34 Head BKEvh49Stable$1,631€1,449$1,631€1,449Check ↗
- 91
Victory Amplifiers The MKX Lunchbox HeadVictory Amplifiers49Stable$1,867€1,659$1,867€1,659Check ↗
- 92
Evh 5150 III Stealth 100W HeadEvh49Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 93
Friedman Jose 20 Series Tribute HeadFriedman49Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 94
Victory Amplifiers V140 Super Duchess MKII HeadVictory Amplifiers49Stable$2,531€2,249$2,531€2,249Check ↗
- 95
Mesa Boogie California Tweed 4:40 HeadMesa Boogie49Stable$2,675€2,377$2,675€2,377Check ↗
- 96
TWS 2864-S Top SilverTWS49↓ 3.6%$3,037€2,699$3,037€2,699Check ↗
- 97
Friedman Brit-50Friedman49Stable$3,375€2,999$3,375€2,999Check ↗
- 98
Mesa Boogie 90s Dual Rectifier StandardMesa Boogie49Stable$3,487€3,099$3,487€3,099Check ↗
- 99
Mesa Boogie 90s Triple Rectifier StandardMesa Boogie49Stable$4,106€3,649$4,106€3,649Check ↗
- 100
Peavey 6505 II 2-Channel 120-Watt Guitar Amp Head6505 II Head · Peavey48Stable$1,608€1,429$1,608€1,429Check ↗
- 101
Harley Benton TUBE30 HeadHarley Benton47Stable$449€399$449€399Check ↗
- 102
PRS MT 15 Amp V2PRS47Stable$673€598$673€598Check ↗
- 103
PRS DGT 15 HeadPRS47Stable$955€849$955€849Check ↗
- 104
PRS MT 100PRS47Stable$1,518€1,349$1,518€1,349Check ↗
- 105
Peavey 6505 1992 Original 2-Channel 120-Watt Guitar Amp Head6505 1992 Original Head · Peavey47Stable$1,529€1,359$1,529€1,359Check ↗
- 106
Bad Cat Ocelot Lunchbox HeadBad Cat47Stable$1,574€1,399$1,574€1,399Check ↗
- 107
Morgan Amplification MVP66 Head TwilightMorgan Amplification47↓ 4.8%$2,249€1,999$2,249€1,999Check ↗
- 108
Bad Cat Mod Shop Hot Cat 50 HeadBad Cat47Stable$2,587€2,299$2,587€2,299Check ↗
- 109
Bad Cat Cub 15 Mod Shop HeadBad Cat47Stable$2,587€2,299$2,587€2,299Check ↗
- 110
Bad Cat Mod Shop Black Cat 30 HeadBad Cat47Stable$2,700€2,399$2,700€2,399Check ↗
- 111
TWS 2864-S Top StealthTWS47Stable$3,150€2,799$3,150€2,799Check ↗
- 112
TWS Cali Sunset TopTWS47Stable$3,375€2,999$3,375€2,999Check ↗
- 113
TWS Cali Sunrise TopTWS47Stable$3,656€3,249$3,656€3,249Check ↗
- 114
TWS Lulis Signature TopTWS47Stable$4,388€3,899$4,388€3,899Check ↗
- 115
TWS Cali Sunset Top w/CabTWS47Stable$4,894€4,349$4,894€4,349Check ↗
- 116
Koch Amps Jupiter J45HG Head GreenKoch Amps46Stable$820€729$820€729Check ↗
- 117
Koch Amps Studiotone XL HeadKoch Amps46Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
- 118
Revv G25 Tube Amp HeadRevv46Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 119
Bogner Atma Head Wood ShellBogner46Stable$2,571€2,285$2,571€2,285Check ↗
- 120
Tone King Royalist MKIII Head BKTone King46Stable$2,925€2,599$2,925€2,599Check ↗
- 121
Bogner XTC 50 3534 50W HeadBogner46Stable$3,517€3,125$3,517€3,125Check ↗
- 122
Bogner Snorkler 50 HeadBogner46Stable$3,995€3,550$3,995€3,550Check ↗
- 123
Diezel VHX EL34 HeadDiezel46↑ 2.6%$4,039€3,589$4,039€3,589Check ↗
- 124
Friedman BE-50 Deluxe 3-Channel 50-Watt Tube Guitar Amp HeadBE-50 Deluxe · Friedman46Stable$4,499€3,998$4,499€3,998Check ↗
- 125
Orange Dark Terror 15-Watt Guitar Amp HeadDark Terror Head Bundle · Orange45Stable$761€676$761€676Check ↗
- 126
Orange Dual Terror 2-Channel 30-Watt Guitar Amp HeadDual Terror Head Bundle · Orange45Stable$1,189€1,057$1,189€1,057Check ↗
- 127
Supro 1696RTH Black Magick Rev HeadSupro45Stable$1,237€1,099$1,237€1,099Check ↗
- 128
Morgan Amplification AC20 Head TwilightMorgan Amplification45Stable$2,137€1,899$2,137€1,899Check ↗
- 129
Vox AC30 HW 30WVox44Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
- 130
Hughes & Kettner Triamp Mark 3Hughes & Kettner44Stable$2,248€1,998$2,248€1,998Check ↗
- 131
Diezel Paul 2.5-Channel 45-Watt Guitar Amp HeadPaul · Diezel44↑ 10.0%$2,463€2,189$2,463€2,189Check ↗
- 132
Rivera KR7 Mick Thomson Sign. HeadRivera44Stable$4,274€3,798$4,274€3,798Check ↗
- 133
EVH 5150 III 50S 6L6 3-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp Head5150 III 50 W 6L6 Head Bundle · Evh · 2 finishes42Stable$1,766€1,569$1,766€1,569Check ↗
- 134
Diezel VH4 EL34 HeadDiezel42↑ 11.5%$3,701€3,289$3,701€3,289Check ↗
- 135
Diezel Herbert EL34 MKIIIDiezel41↑ 13.8%$3,701€3,289$3,701€3,289Check ↗
- 136
ENGL Ironball Special Edition E606SE 2-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadIronball Head Set · Engl40Stable$1,011€898$1,011€898Check ↗
- 137
Soldano SLO 100 Classic HeadSoldano · 3 finishes40Stable$4,724€4,198$4,724€4,198Check ↗
- 138
PRS Archon Classic 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp HeadArchon Classic 50 Head Bundle · PRS39↑ 5.1%$1,383€1,229$1,383€1,229Check ↗
- 139
Suhr SL67 MkII 50-Watt Guitar Amp HeadSL67 MKII Head · Suhr39Stable$4,500€3,999$4,500€3,999Check ↗
- 140
Electro Harmonix MIG-50 HeadElectro Harmonix38↓ 3.7%$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 141
Soldano ASTRO-20 3-Channel 20-Watt Guitar Amp HeadAstro-20 Head Bundle · Soldano38Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 142
Engl E651 Artist Blackout 100Engl37Stable$1,563€1,389$1,563€1,389Check ↗
- 143
Blackstar DA100 Ruby Doug Aldrich Signature 3-Channel 100-Watt Guitar…DA100 Ruby D.Aldrich Signature · Blackstar37Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 144
Engl E646 Victor Smolski LtdEngl37Stable$2,193€1,949$2,193€1,949Check ↗
- 145
Diezel Big Max 45-Watt Guitar Amp HeadBig MaX · Diezel37↑ 10.6%$2,238€1,989$2,238€1,989Check ↗
- 146
Engl E610II-OS Obscura LTDEngl37Stable$2,925€2,599$2,925€2,599Check ↗
- 147
Engl E653 Artist Blackout 50Engl36↑ 1.3%$1,451€1,289$1,451€1,289Check ↗
- 148
Blackstar HT-20RH MKIIIBlackstar34↓ 5.8%$773€687$773€687Check ↗
- 149
Victory Amplifiers VC35 The Copper Lunch BoxVictory Amplifiers34Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
- 150
Victory Amplifiers V30 The Jack MKII Compact HeadVictory Amplifiers34Stable$1,574€1,399$1,574€1,399Check ↗
- 151
Evh 5150 III 100S EL34Evh34Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 152
Orange Rockerverb 50H MKIIIOrange34Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 153
Orange Rockerverb 100H MKIIIOrange34Stable$2,461€2,187$2,461€2,187Check ↗
- 154
Bad Cat Era 30 HeadBad Cat32Stable$4,388€3,899$4,388€3,899Check ↗
- 155
Koch Amps Studiotone HeadKoch Amps31Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 156
Engl Ironball Head 20 BundleEngl31Stable$1,147€1,019$1,147€1,019Check ↗
- 157
Orange Thunder 30H BundleOrange30Stable$1,582€1,406$1,582€1,406Check ↗
- 158
Orange Rockerverb 100H MKIII BundleOrange30Stable$2,689€2,390$2,689€2,390Check ↗
- 159
Diezel VH2 EL34 HeadDiezel27↑ 11.1%$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 160
Diezel D-Moll EL34 Classic HeadDiezel26↑ 13.4%$2,463€2,189$2,463€2,189Check ↗
- 161
Marshall SV20H Jimi Hendrix BundleMarshall22Stable$2,249€1,999$2,249€1,999Check ↗
- 162
Marshall 1959JMH Jimi Hendrix He BundleMarshall22Stable$4,950€4,399$4,950€4,399Check ↗
Tube Guitar Heads by the numbers
Measured across all 201 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,799 — half of all tube guitar heads here cost less.
median of 167 models · 6.35 kg–22.5 kg
How to choose the best tube guitar heads
Tone Character
It's gotta deliver. We're looking for amps with a distinct voice - whether that's a warm, bluesy crunch, a tight, modern high-gain tone, or a clean platform that can take pedals well. It's not just about 'good tone,' it's about what kind of tone fits your style.
Dynamic Response
Tube amps live and die by their responsiveness to your playing. A great amp will react to your pick attack, your volume knob, and your body English. If it feels flat and lifeless, it's a no-go, regardless of how good it sounds on paper.
Build Quality & Reliability
Cheap components and sloppy construction will lead to headaches down the road. We're looking for solid construction, reliable components, and a reputation for long-term dependability - especially if you plan on gigging regularly.
Clean Headroom & Breakup
How does it handle higher volumes? Does the clean channel stay clean, or does it break up into a usable crunch? A good amp gives you options - a pristine clean platform for pedals, and a sweet spot for natural overdrive.
Value for Money
Let's be honest, you're on a budget. We're evaluating how much sonic goodness you get for the price. Are there better-sounding amps out there? Sure, but at what cost? This is about finding the sweet spot.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk tube heads. You want that warm, responsive feel, that natural saturation, and that headroom that just breathes, but you're not trying to drop five figures. Getting a genuinely good tube amp under $5000 is totally doable, but you gotta know what to look for - it's about prioritizing and understanding the compromises. This list isn't about the best amps, period, it's about the best value for your money.
At this price point, you're likely to see some trade-offs. Some amps might have a limited feature set, like a lack of reverb or multiple channels. Don't expect boutique-level components or hand-wired circuitry - those are usually reserved for much higher budgets.
Focus on the core sound and feel - that's where you'll get the most bang for your buck. Pay attention to the power section - 30 watts can be plenty loud with the right speaker, but if you're playing stadiums, you'll want more.
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 201 tube guitar heads from the Thomann catalogue. 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
What's the deal with different tube types (EL34, 6L6, etc.)?
Different tubes have different sonic signatures. EL34s tend to be punchier and more aggressive, great for rock and blues. 6L6s are usually cleaner and offer more headroom. It's a matter of preference - experiment if you can.
Can I bias these amps myself?
Most likely, yes, but it requires some knowledge and a multimeter. Improper biasing can damage the tubes. If you're not comfortable, take it to a tech - it's worth the cost.
Are combo amps a viable alternative?
Absolutely. You'll save money on a separate speaker cab. However, the speaker choice is fixed, which limits your tonal flexibility. A head and cab combo lets you swap speakers for different sounds.
What's the difference between a 'watt' rating and actual volume?
Wattage is a measure of power, but perceived volume depends on the speaker, the room, and your gear. A 30-watt tube amp can often be louder than a 50-watt solid-state amp.
Are used amps a good option?
Definitely! You can often find great deals on used tube amps. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect the amp and, if possible, have a tech check it out before you buy.





