Best Keyboard Amp (2022 Reviews Updated)
Last Updated on [todaysdate format="F, jS Y"]
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We’ve read hundreds of reviews, talked to a load of keyboard players, and spent ages picking out the tiny differences between keyboard amps. It was fun, but was also so we can tell you that the Roland KC-600 is the keyboard amp to get. If you are looking for an affordable amplifier for your keyboard, and one that can handle most situations with ease, this amplifier really delivers.
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Editor’s Picks
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What is a Keyboard Amplifier?
A keyboard amp is used to make a keyboard sound louder and more powerful during performances. Many novice keyboard players start off using powered speakers or a guitar amplifier to magnify their sound as they learn about, and become more familiar with the with their keyboard. This is totally fine in the in the early stages, but remember guitar amps were designed to enhance the sounds produced by guitars, not keyboards.
As you become more serious about playing your keyboard, or plan to use it for gigs, it would be ideal to invest in an amplifier specifically tailored for it. Keyboard amps are used to reproduce the broader frequency ranges of electronic instruments, a task that guitar amps are just not equipped to handle. Some keyboard amps can even be used as alternative small PA systems ideal for practice sessions or performing in small venues.
Best Keyboard Amp for the Money
| Model | Size | Weight | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roland KC-550 | 17.5 x 23.2 x 21.1 inches | 75 pounds | 180W |
| Alto Kick12 | 14.2 x 19 x 18.3 inches | 39.2 pounds | 400W |
| Hammond Leslie LS2215 | 27.8 x 28 x 27.8 inches | 83.5 pounds | 300W |
| Roland KC-880 | 29.9 x 23 x 18.5 inches | 97 pounds | 320W |
How Do I Choose A Keyboard Amp?
Here are a few essentials to consider when purchasing an amplifier for your keyboard.
Power. With regards to keyboard amplifiers in in particular, higher the amplifier wattage, the louder you can play without distorting the sound. Choose the desired speaker size and amount of power needed based on the main purpose of the amplifier. It is for home practice or in the studio? Then 15 to 30 watts with an 8 inch speaker should provide you with sufficient sound. But, if you plan on playing large venues, or outdoors, you will need a much more powerful amp, something in the 200 to 600 watt range, with a 15 inch speaker.
Inputs and outputs. Be sure the amp you are considering has the correct type of inputs, and enough of them. If you want to connect more than two pieces of equipment, then you should look for an amp with more than two channels. You should also check for AUX, microphone and headphone ports.
Portability: It's important to note portability when choosing an amplifier. Again, what will be its main function? Will it be for home use? The studio? Indoor or outdoor gigs? If you plan to travel frequently, or use the amplifier for busking the more compact and light-weight, the better.
Effects and Other Features: Keyboard amps with multiple channels generally include some mixer-like features. Some also have channel-specific effects like reverb and chorus, which can be especially useful if you are plugging in a microphone along with your keyboard. Some high-end keyboard amplifiers also have voicing and modeling controls that allow you to adjust the overall tone of a channel.
Our Reviews
Having the best keyboard amp will significantly change the sound output of your keyboard. But with so many options available, choosing the right amp can be a daunting task for anyone, especially a beginner. All amplifiers have their own unique sound, different features, come in a variety of wattages, and also vary widely in price. Some brands are more popular than others, but that doesn't necessarily make them better. So how do you choose?
Taking all of these variables into consideration can make it difficult to know exactly which keyboard amplifier to buy.It's a tough job, but someone has to do it. We know that having a keyboard sound magnifier is a must, so we've done the research for you and compiled this comprehensive list of keyboard amp reviews to aid you in your search.
1. Editor’s Pick: Roland KC-600 Stereo Mixing Amp
Keyboard players everywhere have relied on Roland’s KC amps for their powerful high-fidelity sound, onboard mixing capabilities, versatile connectivity, and lasting durability, for over twenty years. Those are just a few of the reasons why our pick for best keyboard amplifier, is one of the models with in the KC line, The 200 watt KC-600.
Jam packed with many new design features, the KC-600 is an updated version of the KC-550, Roland’s most popular and best-selling keyboard amp. The power of the KC-600 has been increased from 150 to 200 watts, and the two-way speaker system features a newly designed 15' woofer for improved sound quality. The cabinet features Roland’s patented twin bass-reflex design, providing extended low frequency response without distortion.
Paired with the newly redesigned power section, the KC-600 delivers even better bass performance for amplifying 88-note stage pianos, organs, and synthesizers, plus rhythm machines and other electronic instruments. An added benefit of the efficient new power section is reduced weight, making the KC-600 easier to carry from gig to gig. Whatever you plug into it, the KC-600 amplifies it with stellar sound quality.
[wpsm_offerbox button_link="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077HRWKZ6?aaxitk=mNeAgKKAezRvPVnc1dhDoQ&pd_rd_i=B077HRWKZ6&pf_rd_p=44fc3e0f-4b9e-4ed8-b33b-363a7257163d&hsa_cr_id=5786613360301&sb-ci-n=asinImage&sb-ci-v=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71V7mRletUL.jpg&sb-ci-a=B077HRWKZ6&tag=bestamps02-20" button_text="Check Amazon" title="Roland KC-600" description="The amp is rated at 180W, which sound low in comparison to the other amps we are reviewing today." thumb="https://ampshq.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/1-284x300.jpg" ]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMJQeLsHE_0
In addition, of course, the Roland KC-600 offers plenty of extra features:
Features:
- Compact and versatile keyboard amplifier with 200 watts of power
- Redesigned power amp and universal power supply provide increased stability, improved bass reproduction, and reduced weight
- Custom 2-way speaker system with newly developed 15-inch woofer and horn tweeter
- Onboard mixer with 4 stereo input channels, stereo auxiliary input, and master EQ with Shape switch
- Output Select function on Channel 4 for monitoring click and guide tracks
- XLR mic input, XLR and ¼-inch line outputs, headphones output, and sub output
- Metal jacks for increased durability
- Stereo Link connection allows you to combine 2 KC-600 amps for stereo operation and more channels
- Removable casters included
- 64 pounds
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- Great keyboard amp praticing in studio or small venues.
- A stereo AUX input allows you to connect portable music players and a subwoofer output means you can connect an external sub should you want even more bass.
- The Stereo Link feature allows you to connect 2 KC-600 amps for more stereo output and channels.
- There is a 4 channel EQ built in to the amp, which allows you to quickly find the sound you’re looking for. A “shape” switch makes things even easier, affording you a number of pre-set sounds, all of which are nicely balanced.
- The amp features four inputs, including a balances XLR microphone jack. Perfect if you are the kind of player who needs to plug in a lot of gear.
- This amp is flexible. Outputs can be used to tie it into a PA system when playing large venues.
- The frequency spectrum covered by this amp is outstanding, it delivers solid lows, prominent mids, and detailed highs.
- This amp was designed with gigs in mind, solid build. You'll definitely get many years of service out of it.
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- At 64 pounds it's a little heavier than other similar options, but the KC-600 is still fairly lightweight in comparison to its 75 pound predecessor, the KC-550.
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2.Laney Audiohub Combo AH300
The Laney Audio Hub AH300 is a multi-faceted amp, it features 5 channels, 5-band graphic master EQ and Digital Delay designed to deliver consistency in performance and sound quality for a wide range of applications and instruments. At 300 watts, it's great for duos and moderately sized venues, The carpeted AH300 can be tilted back to function as a sound monitor.
The Audiohub is designed to have a flat balanced sound, amplifying the true tone of your keyboard without altering it. With a variety of input options including XLR, Jack and RCA, the Audio Hub AH300 can handle 2 independent channels, with the option to shape the tone with a 3-band EQ control. Keyboards, electric drums, vocals, even audio/MP3, there's nothing this amp can't handle.
The Laney AH300 features onboard digital delay with feedback, time and level controls, and an FX loop to add character and depth to your sound. The AH300 is a powerful and versatile unit, with the ability to cater to a wide variety of instruments as well as musicians,
[wpsm_offerbox button_link="https://www.amazon.com/Laney-Guitar-Combo-Amplifier-AH40/dp/B008O51S2M/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=Laney Audiohub Combo AH300&qid=1572242296&sr=8-1-fkmr0&tag=bestamps02-20" button_text="Check Amazon" title="Laney Audiohub Combo AH300" description="The AH300 is a powerful and versatile unit, with the ability to cater to a wide variety of instruments as well as musicians, " thumb="https://ampshq.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/laney.jpg" ]
In addition, is has these great features:
Features:
- 300 Watts
- 15" Custom Designed Loudspeaker & HF Horn
- 5 Channels: - Ch 1:Balanced XLR/Unbalanced Line, Ch2:Balanced Xlr/Hi-Z Instrument, Ch 3 & 4: Stereo Unbalanced Line And Ch 5: Rca Line Input
- Carpet Covered, Dual Position Kickback Cabinet
- On-Board Display Featuring 16 Presets With Parameter Adjustment
- Master 5 Band Graphic EQ
- Jack Inputs On All Channels
- XLR Input On Ch1 & Ch2
- Minimum 8 OHMS speaker connection
- 52 pounds
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- This amp has an optional tilt to further project your sound while playing gigs. protects robust cabinet construction.
- In addition to its strong build and sturdy design, the AH300 is carpeted to further protect your amp from scratches and scrapes when dragging it from gig to studio.
- Has great versatility, the AH300 has 5 channels with a variety of input options. Each channel also has its own level control.
- Custom Designed Driver and HF Horn the AH300 delivers serious power.
- There is an option for linking to another amplifier or PA.
- The AH300 features 16 on board digital effects presets. Each effect can be adjusted independently via their FX send controls.
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- None that come to mind. It's an outstanding amp at a great price.
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3.Peavey KB4 Keyboard Amplifier
The KB 4 was designed as a personal PA system in a keyboard amp. The KB 4 features separate inputs on each channel and can easily handle voice, microphones and other instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, drum machines and backing machines, such as CD and DAT players. Other essential features include stereo effects loop, ground lift, master level, XLR balanced stereo line out, DDT™ defeat switch and the capability to drive an external speaker.
Power that's easy to use and easy to move.
The Peavey KB 4 Keyboard Amp and PA system has separate inputs on each channel and can easily handle voice, microphones and other instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, drum machines and backing machines, as well as CD and DAT players. Other essential features of the Peavey keyboard amp include stereo effects loop, ground lift, master level, XLR out, DDT w/defeat switch, and the power to drive an external speaker. The keyboard amp includes a 15" speaker and tweeter and generates 75W to drive the internal speaker or 100W with external speakers. The stereo mixer has 2-band EQ and main effects send/return. The Mic/Line channel has 3-band EQ and effects send/return plus monitor input with level control and assign, and a headphone out with level control. Built-in casters and handle make it an easy moving amp and PA system.
The Peavey KB 4 Keyboard Amp and PA system has separate inputs on each channel and can easily handle voice, microphones and other instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, drum machines and backing machines, as well as CD and DAT players. Other essential features of the Peavey keyboard amp include stereo effects loop, ground lift, master level, XLR out, DDT w/defeat switch, and the power to drive an external speaker. The keyboard amp includes a 15" speaker and tweeter and generates 75W to drive the internal speaker or 100W with external speakers. The stereo mixer has 2-band EQ and main effects send/return. The Mic/Line channel has 3-band EQ and effects send/return plus monitor input with level control and assign, and a headphone out with level control. Built-in casters and handle make it an easy moving amp and PA system.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSjUg3MSL2U
In addition, is has these great features:
Features:
- 75 watts/100 watts with external speaker
- 15 inch speaker and tweeter
- $ Channels: 1 & 2 have stereo 1/4" inputs, Channel 3 features stereo 1/4" and mono XLR inputs, Channel 4 1/4" monitor input
- Stereo mixer with 2-band EQ and main effects send/return
- Mic/Line channel with 3-band EQ and effects send/return
- Monitor input with level control and assign
- Headphone out with level control
- Built-in casters and handle for easy moving
- 72.00 pounds
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4.Leslie LS2215 Keyboard Combo Amplifier
This amp has been built by the people behind the iconic rotating Leslie speaker that gave the Hammond B3 organ its signature sound. The sound is warm, but still manages to be crystal-clear. It generates 200W of power, more than enough for large venues or for drowning out your drummer.
In fact, the sound produced by this keyboard amp is so good that the people we talked to for this review reported that they would recommend getting it even if they didn’t use a keyboard! The sound is big and clean, and so is just as good when amplifying vocals, brass, and strings as it is when used with a keyboard.
- The amp has three dedicated inputs for keyboards, other instruments, and mics, and each of these inputs has its own EQ section. In practice, this means that this might be the only amp you will ever need, and you can really tweak the sound of each input to achieve exactly the sound you want.
- If it’s important to you, this amp looks really great. Of course, we would expect this from an amp that comes from such an iconic range, but the styling has been nicely updated, retaining a vintage feel whilst also looking modern. You will be the envy of the rest of you band with this amp.
- This amp is a little heavy, and some people said that it could be a hassle to load it in and out of their cars. However, this is the price you pay for such good build quality – the whole package is incredibly rugged, and will put up with years of gigging with no complaints.
- Very few. If you play electronica, the warm sound of this amp might not be the perfect fit for the stranger sounds you make. However, if you play jazz or rock, the sound produced by this amp is precisely what you need.
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So which to choose?
Well, your choice of keyboard amp is yours. Some people prefer an amp that is small enough to carry around with them everywhere, others prioritize great sound quality. All of the amps we have reviewed today are a good choice, and we are confident that you will get many years of great service out of any of them.
There has to be a winner, though, and ours is the Roland KC-550. In our opinion, this is simply the most flexible keyboard amp available today, offering the power and effects of much larger amps whilst being small enough to easily travel around with!
If you have been using a guitar amp up until now, trust us – get this keyboard amp, and you will never go back!
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