Fishman Loudbox Acoustic Amp Range | Review

Fishman Loudbox Acoustic Amp Range | Review

Nick Jennison presents an in-depth look at the Loudbox range, Fishman's award-winning line of acoustic amplifiers. Whether you only play at home or are out on the road, Nick explores why you might need an acoustic amp and helps you decide which of these five models suits your needs.

The Fishman Loudbox acoustic amplifiers are truly impressive — offering a range of options that cater to various needs and preferences. However, with some models sharing features and others boasting unique specifications, the toughest challenge in using one of these amplifiers is deciding which one is right for you in the first place. Whether you need the ultra-portable Micro for on-the-go practice, the battery-powered Mini Charge for versatile busking, the powerful Artist for serious gigs, or the robust Performer for maximum output and flexibility, there's a Loudbox model designed to meet your specific acoustic amplification needs. Let's dive into each model, starting with the smallest.

Fishman Loudbox Micro

The Fishman Loudbox Micro is the tiniest in the range, weighing just 8.7 pounds and measuring a compact 12" H x 13.7" W x 9.7" D. Despite its size, it boasts the same preamp circuitry as its larger counterparts, making it an excellent practice amp. Its 40-watt power and XLR-DI output mean it can also function as a gigging amplifier when connected to a larger PA system. This compact amp packs a punch volume-wise, making it perfect for small, discreet performances such as wedding gigs or intimate venues. It includes built-in reverb and chorus effects, and you can plug in both a guitar and a microphone, offering versatility in a compact package. Whether practising at home or playing in a small venue, the Micro has you covered.

Fishman Loudbox Mini

Next is the Loudbox Mini, with 60 watts of power and a larger speaker for fuller bass response and more projection. Weighing in at 19.8 pounds and with dimensions of 12" H x 13.7" W x 9.7" D, this model is suitable for gigs and rehearsals, providing enough power for louder settings while still being a practical home practice amp. The Loudbox Mini features Bluetooth connectivity and an aux input, allowing you to play tracks through the amp. It also has an XLR output to send a combined signal of both channels to a front-of-house system. One notable feature is the IEC inlet, which replaces a wall wart power supply, making it easy to use standard power cables globally. For musicians needing a bit more oomph, the Mini is an excellent choice.

Fishman Loudbox Mini Charge

The Loudbox Mini Charge is essentially a Loudbox Mini with the added benefit of a built-in battery, offering up to 18 hours of playtime without being plugged in. This is ideal for busking musicians or gigs where power access is limited. It includes a 12-volt car charger, ensuring you can charge it on the go. With all the features of the Loudbox Mini, including Bluetooth and aux input, the Mini Charge provides the ultimate portability without compromising sound quality. Despite its extra features, it remains portable, weighing 21 pounds and maintaining the same dimensions as the Mini. Whether on the streets or in a venue without easy power access, the Mini Charge delivers.

Fishman Loudbox Artist

The Loudbox Artist steps up the game with 120 watts of power and a bi-amp design, suitable for serious gigs even with a drummer. It features two identical channels that can function as either instrument or microphone inputs, each with a combi TRS input, a three-band EQ, and dual feedback control. The Artist offers a wider range of effects, including two reverbs, a delay, an echo, two choruses, a flanger, and a slap echo. It also has Bluetooth connectivity and phantom power. One standout feature is the independent XLR outputs per channel, allowing separate mixing for instruments and vocals, which is invaluable for professional musicians. This model, though more powerful, remains manageable at 25.5 pounds and 15.5" H x 13.5" W x 11.5" D. For the gigging musician who needs flexibility and power, the Artist is a top contender.

Fishman Loudbox Performer

The Loudbox Performer is the largest and most powerful, with 180 watts and a three-speaker design (tweeter, mid-range, and woofer). This amp delivers detailed mid-range and high volume, suitable for any stage setting, from small venues to larger gigs. It shares most features with the Loudbox Artist, including dual independent channels and a variety of effects, but with more power and a three-speaker system for enhanced sound quality. The Performer is versatile, handling acoustic and electric instruments with ease, making it a robust choice for professional use. Despite its power, it remains portable at 30 pounds, with dimensions of 21" H x 14" W x 15.5" D. By plugging in an electric guitar with a Fishman power bridge, you can even achieve impressive acoustic and electric tones independently. This added versatility ensures that the Performer can adapt to various musical needs, offering a comprehensive solution for diverse performances without having to cart around more gear than necessary. If maximum power and versatility are what you seek, the Performer will not disappoint.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Fishman Loudbox range offers a solution for every acoustic guitarist's needs, from the ultra-portable Micro and Mini models to the professional-grade Artist and Performer. Each model delivers exceptional sound quality, user-friendly features, and robust build quality. Whether you're playing at home, busking, or performing on stage, Fishman Loudbox amps provide unparalleled flexibility and sound excellence. Hopefully, this overview has helped you decide which one would be best suited to your needs. For a hands-on experience, visit your local guitar store and try them out for yourself.

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