If you’ve read this blog before, you know I’m a big fan of Danelectro. And with good reason. Their products are playable, durable, and affordable too. Furthermore, Danelectro’s amps and guitars are absolutely dripping with those sought after classic tones and vintage looks. That’s why I love them, and that’s why I know your kids will love them too.
The Pros:
While the Hodad DH-1 is Danelectro’s flagship min amp, the Danelectro Honeytone N-10 Guitar Mini Amp is probably its best value. In fact, you won’t find a better value under $20 anywhere. Period.
As for it’s vaunted durability, I’ve owned my Honeytone for 4-years, and it works as well, looks as good, and sounds as great as the first day I got it!
As for performance, this little amp packs a powerful punch. The Honeytone is capable of crystal clear tones that chime like a bell, and it’s gut-busting overdrive is a spectacle to behold. But most surprising of all is its volume. This 9V battery driven amp is loud. Actually, it’s really, really loud. Luckily, the Honetyone comes stocked with a headphone jack, so you can plug in and practice to your heart’s content without disturbing anyone.
The Cons:
Most mini amps are designed to handle clean tones and overdriven tones, and that’s about it. Few mini amp models–except the Hodad DH-1–come with effects of any kind. So if you’re looking for reverb, tremolo, or echo, the Honeytone might not be for you.
Overall:
For $20, you get a killer mini amp with a real leather strap, a belt-on clip, a 9V battery (you can also plug in and power it with 9V Power Adapter), and a surprisingly handy control settings chart to help you dial in the perfect tone. (On a side note: Oh, how I wish the Hodad DH-1 came with a similar chart!!!)
All in all, the Honetone is an excellent starter amp. But if you a few extra dollars to spend, you may consider opting for the slightly more expensive Danelectro DH-1 Hodad . It’s got all the same great features as the Honeytone, but it comes with slapback echo and tremolo effects.
Please Note: Brian Parham is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.