Great Demo. Thanks !! And an extra thanks for having the sense to play the SAME riff while comparing the gear. Can't say enough about people who do gear demos and go crazy on their instrument, playing something new each time, making it very difficult to do an objective comparison.
i do a ton of acoustic gigs. i used to carry a sound brd and a mackie 450. i kept that stuff but decided to buy a smaller rig. the loudbox artist fills a room beautifully. people will laugh at the size until you turn it on and up. 120 watts giddy up. thank you fishman. jimmy d acoustic performer nh
I think it's important to note that fender does not have a single acoustic amp on the market that can punch in the same weight class as Fishman. Fishman is to acoustic amplification what fender is to tube-driven electric amplification.
Yeah, about as third as good too. Loud Box Mini hands down all the way. 15 watts with the Fisher compared with vs 60 for the Loud Box. As with all things in life, you get what you pay for.
Excellent Comparison. I like the sound of the Fishman however I also like the features of the Roland. Thanks for taking the time to compare the 3 amps using basically the same settings and guitar riff.
The Roland sounds the best from my standpoint. The Fender is too low end to match with the other two. However, I do have one and it works well for smaller venues only.
If he had used the comparable Fender amp instead of the low end model, it would've been a whole nother story. Ditto the more comparable Roland. I think this was a Fishman promo video.
I have been using Roland Ac 33 for 4 years now. I play in subway and its very light battery powered with kick ass loop and and absolutely great acoustic sound perfect control over mid bass and treble. people love the sound of it , but now I want to taste the fishman amp , can't wait.
I have both a Fishman Loudbox Mini and a Roland AC-60 (bigger brother to the AC-33) I like them both but nudge just a bit towards the Fishman for the best sound. I typically use the AC-60 with my PA in the home studio but use the Loudbox Mini while playing live in smaller venues. It has plenty of power and seems to enhance my Guitar.
THANK YOU!! I've actually been torn between these exact amps (though leaning toward the Fishman) and have the same (or similar) guitar as you're using here. Fishman it is!!!
Nice Demo. Really impressed with the Roland. The clean setting sounds the most natural of the three. Actually sounds like your acoustic guitar with no coloring at all. Just louder. Isn’t that ultimately what we want out of an acoustic amp? I like the Fishman but it sounds a little like an acoustic guitar on steroids. Which, I guess, some people might like.
I have owned both the Fishman and Roland. The little Fender is not in the same class or price range. It is plain and simple and will do a small gig. No bells and whistles. I tried one in a store and bought it. Great for a small room dinner gig, parties, acoustic jams. I used a Loudbox for a year or so. One night it sparked and electric smoke came out and that was it. A friend has gone through two of them in less than two years.
@@jasper_north yes friend I am, the only downside is that the battery isn't detachable and it lasts only for 2,5 to 3 hours max! Of heavy usage, though you can easily change this by applying a bigger and more reliable battery 🔋
I so agree with you, Angus... I had a mini concert last week in Perth (WA) (Australia) and a friend helped me plug my acousti,,guitar to his Fish MAN guitar amplifier. I fell in love with that thing right away, so much so, I actually ran to the music shop today to check it out! It was my first mini concert which I held on my birthday, and I sang Hebrew music with my acoustic guitar to the tunes I composed. I felt really good about FISH MAN! Love it! - David Kam, Perth, WA.
Problem is with this is the EQ mixer settings from the MIC into the recorder. Also, the listeners computer speaker output, headphones probably best way to solve that. The Fishman needed the bass raised from flat as it is thinner and trebley. Same with Fender, although Fender sounded fairly good flat.
I own the fishman and the roland and both the fender 15w and the acoustasonic 90. Roland is better built with more features and it can stand tall to the Fishman mini. The Fender 15W they are using on this video would not be a fair comparison but the 90W will totally impress you. Most of these videos are either advertising Fishman Amps or Taylor Guitars. There is a lot of nice sounding equipment out there besides these two products, IMO.
I have the Fishman Loud Box Mini, it's a great amp. The is a XLR output that is on the back of the amp I use that to connect to another smaller generic acoustic amp that I bought at a pawnshop and connect the XLR output to the 1/4 input jack of that amp.. just for monitor or just to have it next to the Fishman amp and slight off on an angle for more broadcast of the sound.... I love having everything I need in that one Fishman amp. Ampifiers have come a long way from the early 80's I can tell you guys that. If your looking for an acoustic amp with a xlr mic jack and other inputs and outputs.. this Holiday season.. buy this one.
I understand that, but usually you have some budget to spend and you would appreciate a comparison of similarly priced products, so that you can pick one piece of gear in an already predetermined price range. I really doubt that there is a lot of people that are ready to spend 500 bucks for a combo and end up buying a 100 dollar one with completely different specs.
I just ordered the fishman about an hour ago.... before hearing this. I done good.... It was a toss up between the loudbox mini and the Roland.... the loudbox sounds much more clear and full.
My buddy has had a Loudbox Mini for several years now, and I have been quite impressed with it. A couple of days ago, I stopped into a pawnshop on a whim, and they had one. It’s newer than my buddy’s, and it has the Bluetooth input. I tried it out, and everything seems to be in good shape working order (it looks brand new). The only thing I couldn’t test is the DI out and Auxiliary inputs on the back. Since they didn’t have the ability for me to test them they took some $ off the price. I got a good deal on an amp I have been wanting for some time now!
For most clean, clear and powerful, I'd go for the Fishman. For most pleasing to the ears, I actually prefer the Roland. If I'm broke and have no choice but to settle for a cheapy, I'd reluctantly, and with heavy resentment, get the Fender and slowly walk away slouched, mumbling and shaking my fist at the cruel, cruel heavens!
I have owned all 3 at one time or another and played a taylor, wechter and a blueridge 180A thru them all and my preference when all was said and done was the Rolland. The Taylor and the Wechter both had factory built in preamp EQ systems and the Blueridge has an LR Baggs anthem set up. I felt that the Rolland got the best out of the different pickup configurations and the vocal chanel far exceeded the other two. I have played out a few times thru a friends Bose L1 that cost $1,000 and I'll take the rolland over his any time.
I have the Fishman Loudbox Mini and I love it. I just ordered the Roland AC33 for the battery power and portability advantage for busking. One thing that you didn’t demo was that the Roland has two setting for the chorus effect. Space & Wide. The ‘Wide’ setting give the Roland a massively full sounding chorus effect that seems blow away the Fishman effect. I also have a Fender Acoustisonic Jr. Great amp as well. I know, I’m a gear junkie. lol 😊🤘😁 Again, three very different amps in terms of flexibility and wattage, and what they can be used for.
I guess there is not many videos that recommend amps for Nylon Electro acoustic guitars , since I see my favorite brand of amps here I wanna share my experience. I used to have the Fishman loudbox artist I like the presence and power of this amp and at the time the best I found for nylon but I was't happy with effects and the tone I always used an extra EQ pedal and Reverb to get the sound I wanted and still not convinced, besides of that it was a little bit heavy to transport since I take the train a lot. Then I found the Roland AC33 and I felt in love with the warm tone since the first moment even though is not that powerful is very light to transport perfect for small gigs or practice I love this amp. Fender great amps but for nylon electroacoustic no thanks hehe
Geo Suquillo Hi, interesting comment about the AC33 - how do you find the battery arrangement? I ask as I see the Fishman now comes with a built in battery. Also, do you use a backing track again the Fishman has a blue tooth link so simplified things. I saw the classical guitar teacher on RUclips strongly recommending separate batteries.
@@thestrictlynoparking I have the ac33, love the battery setup. 20watts stereo on battery, but 8 hrs per charge and cheap and easy to always have a replacement set or two and quick and easy to swap with the way they designed the compartment as a removable cartridge.
I just bought the Fender 15w but did not like the quality of the sound. The lack of reverb was also a turn off. I changed it for the newly released Fishman Micro and it’s a million times better. It’s smaller in size from the Fender 15, but it’s a 40W amp with amazing clear sound and more effects. Love it
Thanks for the comparison. I've been trying to figure out the right amp to play with my classical guitar. I wonder if the Fender 30 would have been a better comparison than the 15 however. There was no walk through the features (like the fact that there is no Reverb on the 15). But again, helpful overall - thank you.
Thanks for this demo. I use Loud Mini for my Taylor and ES339 (semi hollow body) and love its warm full sound. I also liked the Fender in comparison to Roland. I may give it a try someday. Nice price too.
Fishman is 60W. Roland is 30W. Fender is 15W. Fishman Loudbox Mini cost $350. The Fender is only $99 Is it even surprising that Fishman sounds better?? Why would you want to race a Nissan GTR against a 2L Ford Focus and a 1000cc mini car?
The issue I have with these comparisons is nobody ever shows you what they sound like with vocals. Who does a gig of any kind and just plays guitar? Not many people I know.
Hey! I play a lot of instrumental stuff...that said, acoustic guitar is much more demanding of an amp than vocals in my experience. Vocals are like electric guitar, mostly mid-range. If you like the sound with your guitar and it accepts a mic you like IMO you should be just fine.
You forgot to mention the Fishman Phase and you should have used the fender acoustica 90 instead of the 15 so that price wise they are more comparable..Its my opinion but thanks for the comparing ....the fishman would have been the least expensive and at 60 watts perfect for small gigs..you have to compare apples with apples...Thanks
Hello Joe! Thanks for the feedback here. The purpose of this video was to show off what we had in stock at the time, and is also an example of what you might typically find in a music store these days here in Australia. The other purpose was to help demystify the option paralysis that some people might experience when seeing multiple acoustic (or even electric) guitar amps. They all sound different and have different features; thus making a pure apples-to-apples comparison not entire applicable given our unique setting and variables.
good comparison and thanks. I like the Fishman Mini on the flat EQ with a little reverb best. The Roland sounded a little muddy and had lower volume. The Fender was very bright and lost some of the mids and especially lows. Cheers, sideman
It was always going to be Fishman. Best little amp in the world. I've even seen a guy use it with a Pedal Steel Guitar and it played great. The other two could never handle that.
Utterly inane 'comparison' aka "product shootout". AUD$600 Fishman Loudbox Mini 60 vs AUD$170 Fender Acoustasonic15? ROFL Completely different target demographics and specific price point segments. One would have to be pretty stupid not to figure out that for more than 3½ times the street price of that baby Fender, the Fishman is going to have more features and superior overall sound. Maybe 5 year old vid, but still a nonsense for Noddys.
All three of those amps are promoted as a perfect solution for the solo artist who sings and accompanies himself on guitar. They all have microphone channel. While it was interesting to hear how well they handle an acoustic guitar, why is there nothing about how well any of them handles vocals? I've heard a few singer/songwriter type acts at coffee houses and clubs where the performer was using amps like these. Often the guitar sounds good, but the tone quality on the vocals really sucks. If you're going to review and compare acoustic amp with vocal channels, REVIEW THE ENTIRE AMPS, not just the guitar side.
The crappy vocals might not have been the amp's fault. Amps and speakers typically can reproduce vocals a lot more easily than acoustic guitar, fewer transient spikes (minus plosives) and relatively narrow frequency range.
I tested many amplifiers (AER 60 III , Marshall, VOX, Ld System PA ) and no one sounded naturally, acoustically after 10 AM (this same thing Tommy Emmanuel said about his AER 60III ). After that the vocal sounded really bad. Before I have the idea of buying a new amplifier, I used the Alto 112A loudspeaker with a mixer that had Lexicon effects. Unfortunately, the dimensions and weight very large for transport. So I asked the question what we need for the vocal and acoustic guitar ? We need a full range that is the same as with HIFI ? So why not try it ? I connected my old JVC small amplifier, Sony speakers (2 Way 5inch with bass reflex) and mixer. I connected the guitar and then G major ... the guitar sounded great for the first time. Then I tested the microphone and the sound was fantastic again. The guitar and vocal sound beautiful, warm and naturally. Beautiful soft bass. Its a great solution for a small gigs better than every acoustic amplifier. I bought the boss Ad2 and the guitar sounds even better. Stay Tuned Guys ! Small, portable, cheap and sound amazing !
What is the battery life of Fishman amp with electric guitar and backing tracks at same time? Answer: terrible. Since no one could answer this question I had to buy one and try it myself. I got three hours and 20 minutes using an electric guitar with backing tracks dialed to 11 o clock. Not even half way. It also distorts the bass at this volume. Immediately returned to the store. My Traynor tvm 50 is far superior. Buy a 5 ah lithium battery and get eight hours at full volume.
Did you mean the Roland? I think that's the only one of the three that can go on batteries. Also I'm wondering why you'd want one of these acoustic guitar amps for electric guitar.
I am a huge Fender-guy, (love their stuff) but "Lets keep-it Real" The Fishman Sounded (by far) the Best, followed by the Roland and the Fender was like-a toy. Nice demo & comparison. oNe LovE from NYC
I agree... but let's also "keep it real" and say that the Fender was a third of the price of the others. To make a fair comparison you need to get at least in the same price range... and IN that price range Fender has amazing Amps that are as good as the Fishman (though I love the Fishman).
Roland is outstanding at amplifying the screech. Interesting. Fender stars out very transparent , no depth to sound. That loudbox is beautiful. Very natural sounding.
Todd Lorenc u get what u pay for so the Fishman and Roland sound better but the Fender is great for its price. I got a used one for $60 Can. Can't be beat for the money.
BarneyFife00 , yes it can be beaten: 50€ for a used Carlsbro Sherwood signature...(85w with 12' celestion speaker + tweeter)..., Carlsbro are cheap and sound full...
Yes they can. The biggest issue with electric through an acoustic amp or PA is harsh sounding high frequency distortion. Distortion sounds sweet through a woofer in large part because it acts as a low pass and high pass filter, clearing out the mud on the bottom and the fizz on the top and leaving a large mid range with added harmonic complexity from the distortion. When playing clean this isn't an issue, only with the added harmonic info from distortion does the need arise to attenuate the extreme frequencies. Distortion was a happy accident in combination with inexpensive single speaker (woofer, no tweeter, no sub) PA design. Old tube amps were PAs. One channel for the microphone(s), one for the instruments (often with tremolo and reverb). Then we got rid of unbalanced mics and nowadays most people ask, why does this amp have separate input and input channels? But that design more closely mirrors modern acoustic amp design, with the addition of a dedicated tweeter and crossover. If you don't have a budget, the Rivera Sedona Lite is amazing (don't judge it by Rivera's crappy demos) and has a custom defeatable tweeter for playing electric.
fishman sounds best, i had d ac33, i was disappointed in it. it is a POS for d money u pay for it. BUT: d loudbox mini is not durable. i vbeen using it 4 a year, volume knobs max at 1 o clock, speaker started 2 rattle,singing a bit loudly and kills d guitar channel's volume: radically reduces its volume!! brown cover is a joke: peeling off,si weak
Picked up a loubox last week. Great sound and bonus 1/8 line in so I can play along with my phone or mp3 player. Also don't let the size fool you. I could have the cops at my house of I turn this little giant up past half way. 60w rms in a 20lb. amp, home run.
i noticed the IQ set up for the Fishman loud mini had low-med-high in the center , i wouldn't do that i prefer low in 4 med in 2 and high in 6 for acoustic guitar ,if you do rhythm guitar ...if you do lead guitar ..could be all IQ knobs in the center
Great comparison. I appreciate seeing and hearing the entry level Fender right along side the mid level Roland and Fishman. Most reviews follow the trite format of only comparing units at the same price point. When I go to a music store I like to compare different price points. Thanks!
Thanks for your feedback! We really appreciate it! Great point... as a customer, you don't just see two amps - there are often so many it may be hard to choose without hearing them all. This is a good example of cutting through the hard graft and making it easy for you to decide on what's best for you.
i think that guitar would sound good through anything! lol. What guitar is that? i agree, fisherman sounds best. the roland goes well against it though. ty 4 review.
I got to say they all sounded good even the 15 watts Fender. I still don't know witch one I want I really liked to Roland sound with my guitar a Fender Tim Armstrong Deluxe Neo-D Pickup. The Fishman sounded great too.. I don't play in a band or anywhere it's just for me in my basement... What do you guys think? Fishman or Roland?? Thanks.
+Acadian79 I own and use both the Fishman and the Roland, and they are both great, depending on your sound preferences and intended locations. But here's the bottom line: The Fishman sounds truer to the sound of my instrument and is highly responsive, while the Roland puts a bit more of its own stamp on the sound (but nicely, warmly so). The Fishman is fuller, and handles male vocals better without breaking up. It also goes deeper into the bass regions (important for warm and powerful vocals). And the Fishman is louder before distortion. In fact, I have a hunch that maybe some kind of mild compression is built into the Fishman, for I find it handles fingerpicking exceptionally well, and when you transition to strumming there is not such a huge difference in sound levels. That is different with the Roland. When run off batteries, the Roland can sometimes break up if you it hit it hard. But heck, it's a much lighter amp designed for on-the-go use with a battery-operated option, so you can't really compare. If you want something for singing, too, and like to sing loud (and don't need battery operation), definitely go for the Fishman. It's excellent, compact and packs a punch. It's my favorite amp for the sound, and I've had many (including the Acousticube, which I find too harsh in the treble range). If you want something for double-duty as a light busking amp, the Roland is great. I even prefer it to the newer Roland Cube Street EX, which has more "power" on paper but sounds less full in bass, especially on the vocal channel, and has some irritating treble which the AC-33 doesn't. If you have a bit more cash, you might also want to wait and try the brand-new Fender Acoustic Pro, or Acoustic SFX. Both look to be promising amps. Or buy the Fishman AND the Roland, like I did. Then you have the best of both worlds. ;-) As for the older Fender in the video, I personally dislike that sound . Sounds nasal, not full, and not very high-fidelity.
Wow! Thanks for the info bud you cleared the light on the subject for sure! In the end I think I will go with Fishman wish I could get both haha Again thanks!
+Scott Becker I can speak to the Fender Acoustic Pro, as I am on the verge of purchasing one and have played it several times. Absolutely beautiful sound even at high gain. It does not have the effects of the SFX, I believe just chorus and reverb - so I may opt for the SFX, as I do not need the extra 20 watts of power for a living room amp. Both look gorgeous as well - not one that I will have to pack away when not playing.
i also forgot the Roland operates on batteries as well and the Fishman needs a power source. That's a huge difference from a convenience standpoint if you're busking. I wish Fishman would make an busking amp that uses a wireless microphone and ran on batteries. Are you listening Fishman?
Great Demo. Thanks !! And an extra thanks for having the sense to play the SAME riff while comparing the gear. Can't say enough about people who do gear demos and go crazy on their instrument, playing something new each time, making it very difficult to do an objective comparison.
●●● You're ABSOLUTELY right! ●●●
i do a ton of acoustic gigs. i used to carry a sound brd and a mackie 450. i kept that stuff but decided to buy a smaller rig. the loudbox artist fills a room beautifully. people will laugh at the size until you turn it on and up. 120 watts giddy up. thank you fishman. jimmy d acoustic performer nh
I think its important to note that the fender is literally a third of the price of the other two
And it's a third of the quality too. So you get what you pay for. :D
BINGO! A better comparison would be their 100-200- or the JR.
I think it's important to note that fender does not have a single acoustic amp on the market that can punch in the same weight class as Fishman. Fishman is to acoustic amplification what fender is to tube-driven electric amplification.
Yeah, about as third as good too. Loud Box Mini hands down all the way. 15 watts with the Fisher compared with vs 60 for the Loud Box. As with all things in life, you get what you pay for.
fishman flat -> 0:59
Roland flat -> 3:53
fender flat -> 5:49
I’ve owned a Loudbox Mini and it’s was incredible.
Excellent Comparison. I like the sound of the Fishman however I also like the features of the Roland. Thanks for taking the time to compare the 3 amps using basically the same settings and guitar riff.
The Fishman by far is the most clear and clean. Love it.
clear??? roland!
@@Gustavo-ro9hk No no. Fishman
The Roland seem best to me. Great sound with unmatched features plus Effects the other Amps have. Good comparison playing same thing through
Thanks so much. Wish you could have done some vocals. Agree about Loudbox.
The Roland sounds the best from my standpoint. The Fender is too low end to match with the other two. However, I do have one and it works well for smaller venues only.
A very good demo - a clear demonstration of the relative sounds/features of these amps.
Great comparison video. I’ve had a LoudBox Mini since 2014. Never even for a moment thought about getting another one.
Damn! I was expecting the Fender to blow them away. But I like the Fishman first and then the Roland.
If he had used the comparable Fender amp instead of the low end model, it would've been a whole nother story. Ditto the more comparable Roland. I think this was a Fishman promo video.
@@GeeDeeBird Agree. I just bought the Fender amp new for £80.
I have been using Roland Ac 33 for 4 years now. I play in subway and its very light battery powered with kick ass loop and and absolutely great acoustic sound perfect control over mid bass and treble. people love the sound of it , but now I want to taste the fishman amp , can't wait.
Garv Bomjan
How did you get on with the fishman? im looking to replace my cube street with an amp that I don't have to bounce of walls to get a decent tone
I have both a Fishman Loudbox Mini and a Roland AC-60 (bigger brother to the AC-33) I like them both but nudge just a bit towards the Fishman for the best sound. I typically use the AC-60 with my PA in the home studio but use the Loudbox Mini while playing live in smaller venues. It has plenty of power and seems to enhance my Guitar.
Is there a way to plug in a headset in the AMP?
I had a fender amp once and got rid of it real fast. Replaced with a fishman and never looked back.
THANK YOU!!
I've actually been torn between these exact amps (though leaning toward the Fishman) and have the same (or similar) guitar as you're using here.
Fishman it is!!!
Nice Demo. Really impressed with the Roland. The clean setting sounds the most natural of the three. Actually sounds like your acoustic guitar with no coloring at all. Just louder. Isn’t that ultimately what we want out of an acoustic amp? I like the Fishman but it sounds a little like an acoustic guitar on steroids. Which, I guess, some people might like.
I agree with you.
Great Amp the Roland 33. I've had it now for 3 years I play all my electric guitar with it .
I have owned both the Fishman and Roland. The little Fender is not in the same class or price range. It is plain and simple and will do a small gig. No bells and whistles. I tried one in a store and bought it. Great for a small room dinner gig, parties, acoustic jams. I used a Loudbox for a year or so. One night it sparked and electric smoke came out and that was it. A friend has gone through two of them in less than two years.
The Fishman blow up??? That's no fun! :O
I've just ordered my fishman from Thomann and I can't wait for it to arrive.
Happy with it?
@@jasper_north yes friend I am, the only downside is that the battery isn't detachable and it lasts only for 2,5 to 3 hours max! Of heavy usage, though you can easily change this by applying a bigger and more reliable battery 🔋
Looking for a small acoustic amp for my Furch, great review thanks - I think the Fishman had the best depth of acoustic sound.
The loudbox is my favorite. I have a the fender 15 because its in my price range but it sounds excellent with my acoustic.
I so agree with you, Angus...
I had a mini concert last week in Perth (WA) (Australia) and a friend helped me plug my acousti,,guitar to his Fish MAN guitar amplifier.
I fell in love with that thing right away, so much so, I actually ran to the music shop today to check it out!
It was my first mini concert which I held on my birthday, and I sang Hebrew music with my acoustic guitar to the tunes I composed.
I felt really good about FISH MAN!
Love it!
- David Kam, Perth, WA.
Problem is with this is the EQ mixer settings from the MIC into the recorder. Also, the listeners computer speaker output, headphones probably best way to solve that. The Fishman needed the bass raised from flat as it is thinner and trebley. Same with Fender, although Fender sounded fairly good flat.
I own the fishman and the roland and both the fender 15w and the acoustasonic 90. Roland is better built with more features and it can stand tall to the Fishman mini. The Fender 15W they are using on this video would not be a fair comparison but the 90W will totally impress you. Most of these videos are either advertising Fishman Amps or Taylor Guitars. There is a lot of nice sounding equipment out there besides these two products, IMO.
The loudbox is now available with battery power as well.
I have the Fishman Loud Box Mini, it's a great amp. The is a XLR output that is on the back of the amp I use that to connect to another smaller generic acoustic amp that I bought at a pawnshop and connect the XLR output to the 1/4 input jack of that amp.. just for monitor or just to have it next to the Fishman amp and slight off on an angle for more broadcast of the sound.... I love having everything I need in that one Fishman amp. Ampifiers have come a long way from the early 80's I can tell you guys that. If your looking for an acoustic amp with a xlr mic jack and other inputs and outputs.. this Holiday season.. buy this one.
Mr Tom - interesting!
Mark - Thanks, I do the best I can... playing since 1984:
hearthis.at/mrtom/set/mrtom-original-acoustic-songs/
Kinda like stereo?
Nice comparison! Fishman sounds the best, can't wait to get one!
Like to hear ^60 watt comparison on all 3 and vocals as well
At 4:37 there is a digital artefact on the AC33 reverb. I have a Cube 10GX which does the same on spring reverb.
Good catch.
Hmmm... The Fender costs 110 USD, the Roland cca 500 and the Fishman cca 400. Weird comparison...
He's comparing sound so that a buyer can determine if they are worth the price difference to their "ear".
I understand that, but usually you have some budget to spend and you would appreciate a comparison of similarly priced products, so that you can pick one piece of gear in an already predetermined price range. I really doubt that there is a lot of people that are ready to spend 500 bucks for a combo and end up buying a 100 dollar one with completely different specs.
Agreed. He should have demonstrated the 40 watt acoustisonic. At $199, it's still way cheaper than the other two.
Awesome demo. If I had the budget I'd get the Fishman and the Fender, connect them to an AB/Y pedal and run them together.
I just ordered the fishman about an hour ago.... before hearing this. I done good.... It was a toss up between the loudbox mini and the Roland.... the loudbox sounds much more clear and full.
The Fender sounded like crap! I was very surprised. Great video all the same and I think I will get the Fishman. Thanks!
My buddy has had a Loudbox Mini for several years now, and I have been quite impressed with it.
A couple of days ago, I stopped into a pawnshop on a whim, and they had one. It’s newer than my buddy’s, and it has the Bluetooth input.
I tried it out, and everything seems to be in good shape working order (it looks brand new). The only thing I couldn’t test is the DI out and Auxiliary inputs on the back.
Since they didn’t have the ability for me to test them they took some $ off the price. I got a good deal on an amp I have been wanting for some time now!
The latest has a rechargeable battery
For most clean, clear and powerful, I'd go for the Fishman. For most pleasing to the ears, I actually prefer the Roland. If I'm broke and have no choice but to settle for a cheapy, I'd reluctantly, and with heavy resentment, get the Fender and slowly walk away slouched, mumbling and shaking my fist at the cruel, cruel heavens!
Rolands ac 60 should be compared ?? same with fender not a 15 maybe thier 60
Maybe the microphone was a little better positioned for the Fishman than the other ones... Just saying. Anyway, it seems its got the best sound.
The Roland and the Fender amps are a tie to my listening ear for closest reproduction of an accoustic guitar's natural sound.
is Fishman Loudbox mini good choice for Classical guitar?
yes
I have owned all 3 at one time or another and played a taylor, wechter and a blueridge 180A thru them all and my preference when all was said and done was the Rolland. The Taylor and the Wechter both had factory built in preamp EQ systems and the Blueridge has an LR Baggs anthem set up. I felt that the Rolland got the best out of the different pickup configurations and the vocal chanel far exceeded the other two. I have played out a few times thru a friends Bose L1 that cost $1,000 and I'll take the rolland over his any time.
I love the fishman mini I'm am biased cuz I own one but it's a great little amp. it's definitely a keeper!!
I have the Fishman Loudbox Mini and I love it. I just ordered the Roland AC33 for the battery power and portability advantage for busking.
One thing that you didn’t demo was that the Roland has two setting for the chorus effect. Space & Wide. The ‘Wide’ setting give the Roland a massively full sounding chorus effect that seems blow away the Fishman effect.
I also have a Fender Acoustisonic Jr. Great amp as well.
I know, I’m a gear junkie. lol 😊🤘😁
Again, three very different amps in terms of flexibility and wattage, and what they can be used for.
what about the vocal part ?
I guess there is not many videos that recommend amps for Nylon Electro acoustic guitars , since I see my favorite brand of amps here I wanna share my experience.
I used to have the Fishman loudbox artist I like the presence and power of this amp and at the time the best I found for nylon but I was't happy with effects and the tone I always used an extra EQ pedal and Reverb to get the sound I wanted and still not convinced, besides of that it was a little bit heavy to transport since I take the train a lot.
Then I found the Roland AC33 and I felt in love with the warm tone since the first moment even though is not that powerful is very light to transport perfect for small gigs or practice I love this amp.
Fender great amps but for nylon electroacoustic no thanks hehe
Geo Suquillo Hi, interesting comment about the AC33 - how do you find the battery arrangement? I ask as I see the Fishman now comes with a built in battery. Also, do you use a backing track again the Fishman has a blue tooth link so simplified things. I saw the classical guitar teacher on RUclips strongly recommending separate batteries.
@@thestrictlynoparking I have the ac33, love the battery setup. 20watts stereo on battery, but 8 hrs per charge and cheap and easy to always have a replacement set or two and quick and easy to swap with the way they designed the compartment as a removable cartridge.
Why didn't you put the Boss Acoustic live in there
I just bought the Fender 15w but did not like the quality of the sound. The lack of reverb was also a turn off. I changed it for the newly released Fishman Micro and it’s a million times better.
It’s smaller in size from the Fender 15, but it’s a 40W amp with amazing clear sound and more effects. Love it
I play my Acoustasonic Strat through a Loudbox(not the mini). I don’t see how you could beat it, Fishman electronics in the guitar and the amp
Thanks for the comparison. I've been trying to figure out the right amp to play with my classical guitar. I wonder if the Fender 30 would have been a better comparison than the 15 however. There was no walk through the features (like the fact that there is no Reverb on the 15). But again, helpful overall - thank you.
Thanks for the comparison. Two of these amps are on my shortlist and if I lived in Oz (I'm in the UK), I'd definitely order from you. Cheers.
Thanks for this demo. I use Loud Mini for my Taylor and ES339 (semi hollow body) and love its warm full sound. I also liked the Fender in comparison to Roland. I may give it a try someday. Nice price too.
Fishman is 60W. Roland is 30W. Fender is 15W.
Fishman Loudbox Mini cost $350. The Fender is only $99
Is it even surprising that Fishman sounds better??
Why would you want to race a Nissan GTR against a 2L Ford Focus and a 1000cc mini car?
I bet if I blindfolded you, you'd not be able to tell the difference.
Great review, really helpful. Thanks!
I've been eyeing the fishman's for a long time now. Expensive but worth it.
The issue I have with these comparisons is nobody ever shows you what they sound like with vocals. Who does a gig of any kind and just plays guitar? Not many people I know.
Hey! I play a lot of instrumental stuff...that said, acoustic guitar is much more demanding of an amp than vocals in my experience. Vocals are like electric guitar, mostly mid-range. If you like the sound with your guitar and it accepts a mic you like IMO you should be just fine.
Is it me or is the mic only dead center on the fishman, left on the 33 and right on the fender?
Good demo, thanks. I am fixing to buy, and am leaning towards the fishman mini.
The Roland sounded best to me, couldn't go wrong with any of them.
thanks for posting this video. Helped me decide my pick :)
You forgot to mention the Fishman Phase and you should have used the fender acoustica 90 instead of the 15 so that price wise they are more comparable..Its my opinion but thanks for the comparing ....the fishman would have been the least expensive and at 60 watts perfect for small gigs..you have to compare apples with apples...Thanks
Hello Joe! Thanks for the feedback here. The purpose of this video was to show off what we had in stock at the time, and is also an example of what you might typically find in a music store these days here in Australia.
The other purpose was to help demystify the option paralysis that some people might experience when seeing multiple acoustic (or even electric) guitar amps. They all sound different and have different features; thus making a pure apples-to-apples comparison not entire applicable given our unique setting and variables.
good comparison and thanks. I like the Fishman Mini on the flat EQ with a little reverb best. The Roland sounded a little muddy and had lower volume. The Fender was very bright and lost some of the mids and especially lows. Cheers, sideman
It was always going to be Fishman. Best little amp in the world. I've even seen a guy use it with a Pedal Steel Guitar and it played great. The other two could never handle that.
Utterly inane 'comparison' aka "product shootout". AUD$600 Fishman Loudbox Mini 60 vs AUD$170 Fender Acoustasonic15? ROFL Completely different target demographics and specific price point segments. One would have to be pretty stupid not to figure out that for more than 3½ times the street price of that baby Fender, the Fishman is going to have more features and superior overall sound. Maybe 5 year old vid, but still a nonsense for Noddys.
thx so much, you have helped me sooo much in a decision
All three of those amps are promoted as a perfect solution for the solo artist who sings and accompanies himself on guitar. They all have microphone channel. While it was interesting to hear how well they handle an acoustic guitar, why is there nothing about how well any of them handles vocals? I've heard a few singer/songwriter type acts at coffee houses and clubs where the performer was using amps like these. Often the guitar sounds good, but the tone quality on the vocals really sucks. If you're going to review and compare acoustic amp with vocal channels, REVIEW THE ENTIRE AMPS, not just the guitar side.
The crappy vocals might not have been the amp's fault. Amps and speakers typically can reproduce vocals a lot more easily than acoustic guitar, fewer transient spikes (minus plosives) and relatively narrow frequency range.
I tested many amplifiers (AER 60 III , Marshall, VOX, Ld System PA ) and no one sounded naturally, acoustically after 10 AM (this same thing Tommy Emmanuel said about his AER 60III ). After that the vocal sounded really bad. Before I have the idea of buying a new amplifier, I used the Alto 112A loudspeaker with a mixer that had Lexicon effects. Unfortunately, the dimensions and weight very large for transport. So I asked the question what we need for the vocal and acoustic guitar ? We need a full range that is the same as with HIFI ? So why not try it ? I connected my old JVC small amplifier, Sony speakers (2 Way 5inch with bass reflex) and mixer. I connected the guitar and then G major ... the guitar sounded great for the first time. Then I tested the microphone and the sound was fantastic again. The guitar and vocal sound beautiful, warm and naturally. Beautiful soft bass. Its a great solution for a small gigs better than every acoustic amplifier. I bought the boss Ad2 and the guitar sounds even better. Stay Tuned Guys ! Small, portable, cheap and sound amazing !
What is the battery life of Fishman amp with electric guitar and backing tracks at same time? Answer: terrible. Since no one could answer this question I had to buy one and try it myself. I got three hours and 20 minutes using an electric guitar with backing tracks dialed to 11 o clock. Not even half way. It also distorts the bass at this volume. Immediately returned to the store. My Traynor tvm 50 is far superior. Buy a 5 ah lithium battery and get eight hours at full volume.
Did you mean the Roland? I think that's the only one of the three that can go on batteries. Also I'm wondering why you'd want one of these acoustic guitar amps for electric guitar.
@@mountainstartemple6041 Yeah, acoustic amp for electric guitar. I suppose he could plug it in the wall as well
Fishman by a long shot. Roland sounded sweet but not as rich in tone. Fender was poop box.
Billy Jones yeah because the fender is a practice amp. Looks up the acoustisonic series
I just picked up the fender acoustic 3D, amazing sound.
Billy Jones yeah the fender he is using is cheap and the other 2 are step ups that's why this one didn't sound great.
HAHAHA...Poop box.
because he only used ac33...while fishman was 60watts...at least he should have used the ac60
I am a huge Fender-guy, (love their stuff) but "Lets keep-it Real" The Fishman Sounded (by far) the Best, followed by the Roland and the Fender was like-a toy. Nice demo & comparison. oNe LovE from NYC
I agree... but let's also "keep it real" and say that the Fender was a third of the price of the others. To make a fair comparison you need to get at least in the same price range... and IN that price range Fender has amazing Amps that are as good as the Fishman (though I love the Fishman).
I ended up with the Roland AC-33 . For my use , it’s perfect 👌🏻
Great review, thanks!
Roland is outstanding at amplifying the screech. Interesting. Fender stars out very transparent , no depth to sound. That loudbox is beautiful. Very natural sounding.
Would the Fender be good with ukulele/vocals for small art gallery /coffee house gigs?
Todd Lorenc u get what u pay for so the Fishman and Roland sound better but the Fender is great for its price. I got a used one for $60 Can. Can't be beat for the money.
Todd Lorenc Ukulele Music
BarneyFife00 , yes it can be beaten: 50€ for a used Carlsbro Sherwood signature...(85w with 12' celestion speaker + tweeter)..., Carlsbro are cheap and sound full...
I have the same Fishman, it really is awesome sounding. The Roland is second for sure. The Fender sounds very hollow, good for tuning I guess :P
on the Roland ac-33 if you add reverb to the guitar, does it also add reverb to the vocals?
Hi Sir! Can these acoustic amps work well too with semi hollow guitars for jazz?
Yes they can. The biggest issue with electric through an acoustic amp or PA is harsh sounding high frequency distortion. Distortion sounds sweet through a woofer in large part because it acts as a low pass and high pass filter, clearing out the mud on the bottom and the fizz on the top and leaving a large mid range with added harmonic complexity from the distortion. When playing clean this isn't an issue, only with the added harmonic info from distortion does the need arise to attenuate the extreme frequencies. Distortion was a happy accident in combination with inexpensive single speaker (woofer, no tweeter, no sub) PA design. Old tube amps were PAs. One channel for the microphone(s), one for the instruments (often with tremolo and reverb). Then we got rid of unbalanced mics and nowadays most people ask, why does this amp have separate input and input channels? But that design more closely mirrors modern acoustic amp design, with the addition of a dedicated tweeter and crossover. If you don't have a budget, the Rivera Sedona Lite is amazing (don't judge it by Rivera's crappy demos) and has a custom defeatable tweeter for playing electric.
fishman sounds best, i had d ac33, i was disappointed in it. it is a POS for d money u pay for it. BUT: d loudbox mini is not durable. i vbeen using it 4 a year, volume knobs max at 1 o clock, speaker started 2 rattle,singing a bit loudly and kills d guitar channel's volume: radically reduces its volume!! brown cover is a joke: peeling off,si weak
I have the Fishman Loudbox Artist. I highly recommend it. It's close to 600.00 but it's well worth the extra cash.
The Traynor Acoustic Master Standard is also a fantastic value for the money.
Picked up a loubox last week. Great sound and bonus 1/8 line in so I can play along with my phone or mp3 player. Also don't let the size fool you. I could have the cops at my house of I turn this little giant up past half way. 60w rms in a 20lb. amp, home run.
and if they arrive, it's light enough to throw at them
How well does amped sound with no effects match just the guitar?
i noticed the IQ set up for the Fishman loud mini had low-med-high in the center , i wouldn't do that i prefer low in 4 med in 2 and high in 6 for acoustic guitar ,if you do rhythm guitar ...if you do lead guitar ..could be all IQ knobs in the center
This is great thanks!
Great comparison. I appreciate seeing and hearing the entry level Fender right along side the mid level Roland and Fishman. Most reviews follow the trite format of only comparing units at the same price point. When I go to a music store I like to compare different price points. Thanks!
Thanks for your feedback! We really appreciate it! Great point... as a customer, you don't just see two amps - there are often so many it may be hard to choose without hearing them all. This is a good example of cutting through the hard graft and making it easy for you to decide on what's best for you.
Thank you.
Can you plug headphones in the fishman?
Thank you verymuch.
Hey, the Loudmouth has a battery too!
Great review - cheers fae Bonnie Scotland
i think that guitar would sound good through anything! lol. What guitar is that? i agree, fisherman sounds best. the roland goes well against it though. ty 4 review.
Guitar is a Taylor.
I’ve been told the Fishman model has Bluetooth? Not mentioned here?
I like the fender it seems the flattest
thanks much sir.
I got to say they all sounded good even the 15 watts Fender.
I still don't know witch one I want I really liked to Roland sound with my guitar a Fender Tim Armstrong Deluxe Neo-D Pickup.
The Fishman sounded great too..
I don't play in a band or anywhere it's just for me in my basement...
What do you guys think?
Fishman or Roland??
Thanks.
+Acadian79
I own and use both the Fishman and the Roland, and they are both great, depending on your sound preferences and intended locations. But here's the bottom line: The Fishman sounds truer to the sound of my instrument and is highly responsive, while the Roland puts a bit more of its own stamp on the sound (but nicely, warmly so). The Fishman is fuller, and handles male vocals better without breaking up. It also goes deeper into the bass regions (important for warm and powerful vocals). And the Fishman is louder before distortion. In fact, I have a hunch that maybe some kind of mild compression is built into the Fishman, for I find it handles fingerpicking exceptionally well, and when you transition to strumming there is not such a huge difference in sound levels. That is different with the Roland. When run off batteries, the Roland can sometimes break up if you it hit it hard. But heck, it's a much lighter amp designed for on-the-go use with a battery-operated option, so you can't really compare.
If you want something for singing, too, and like to sing loud (and don't need battery operation), definitely go for the Fishman. It's excellent, compact and packs a punch. It's my favorite amp for the sound, and I've had many (including the Acousticube, which I find too harsh in the treble range).
If you want something for double-duty as a light busking amp, the Roland is great. I even prefer it to the newer Roland Cube Street EX, which has more "power" on paper but sounds less full in bass, especially on the vocal channel, and has some irritating treble which the AC-33 doesn't.
If you have a bit more cash, you might also want to wait and try the brand-new Fender Acoustic Pro, or Acoustic SFX. Both look to be promising amps.
Or buy the Fishman AND the Roland, like I did. Then you have the best of both worlds. ;-)
As for the older Fender in the video, I personally dislike that sound . Sounds nasal, not full, and not very high-fidelity.
Wow! Thanks for the info bud you cleared the light on the subject for sure!
In the end I think I will go with Fishman wish I could get both haha
Again thanks!
+Scott Becker I can speak to the Fender Acoustic Pro, as I am on the verge of purchasing one and have played it several times. Absolutely beautiful sound even at high gain. It does not have the effects of the SFX, I believe just chorus and reverb - so I may opt for the SFX, as I do not need the extra 20 watts of power for a living room amp. Both look gorgeous as well - not one that I will have to pack away when not playing.
+bmm47369 Thanks for sharing your take on the Fender Acoustic Pro. Curious to hear how you like the less powerful SFX if and when you try it.
What chords are those you play with the roland? They sound perfect to sing 'Lazarus' by Porcupine Tree
Please tell us which ones are better amplifiers?
Fishman all the way. There is even no comparisons.
thank you ❕
🔵 save up > buy a Fishman 🌟
Nice!! I dig Fender amps for electric guitars but do not like this Fender amp for electric acoustic so much.
FISHMAN is the best.
Hi again,,,,,and what model is that Taylor guitar, please?
i also forgot the Roland operates on batteries as well and the Fishman needs a power source.
That's a huge difference from a convenience standpoint if you're busking.
I wish Fishman would make an busking amp that uses a wireless microphone and ran on batteries. Are you listening Fishman?
Hi, Jimmy. They have Fishman Loudbox Mini Charge.