The Fishman LoudBox Mini is an incredible acoustic guitar amplifier…and I’ve reviewed a fair share of acoustic amps.
But!
I was certainly hesitant at first.
My hesitation stemmed from the Fishman Loudbox Mini’s Bluetooth capability. I’ll talk more about that later. For now, I’ll just jump right into the review.
Originally published on July 13, 2019, this post was republished on September 02, 2022.
A Versatile Acoustic Amp for Practicing and Performing
I’ve been playing Fishman amps for years, and I’ve always loved the robust tone that comes out of such a small amp. My review today is focused on an updated version that is lighter, sleeker, and high-tech.
For this review, I’m using my Bourgeois Country Boy with a Fishman under-saddle pickup. In addition, I’ll also try the Fishman LoudBox Mini with my Bourgeois OMS. This guitar will have an LR Baggs Lyric pickup.
I chose two different styles of pickups to see which one favors the Fishman Loudbox Mini the most.
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Yes, I Want the FREE Download!First Impressions on the Fishman Loudbox Mini
When I took this tiny, but powerful, acoustic amp out of the box, I was impressed. The brown and tan color scheme is classic and timeless.
The Fishman Loudbox Mini has two channels, one for an instrument and one for a mic. The instrument channel contains a phase switch for feedback control, as well as standard EQ controls like gain, lows, mids, and highs.
In addition, the Fishman Loudbox Mini also has built-in reverb and chorus effects. You never know when you might want to experiment with your sound!
The mic channel has a gain knob, 2-band EQ, and reverb. Situated near the mic channel is the Bluetooth switch (don’t worry, I’ll explain that business later), and the master volume.
Tone on the Fishman LoudBox Mini
As soon as I plugged in, I was not let down by the crisp and clear tones coming from the Fishman LoudBox Mini. This amp has enough power to play in small venues, and it is perfect for practicing.
As I switched between the Lyric pickup and the under-saddle pickup, I tended to favor the tone more on the LR Baggs Lyric. From flatpicking to hammering out chords, the pairing between the Lyric pickup and the Fishman LoudBox Mini is a match made in heaven.
With the Lyric pickup, there were definite subtleties brought out in my guitars tone. Overall, both pickups performed really well. And for the price point on the Fishman LoudBox Mini, it’s almost unbeatable!
Given how simple the controls are and how easy to use it is, I would recommend this acoustic guitar amp to any guitar geek looking to practice while plugged in.
Bluetooth? What’s the Big Deal?
I know I’ve been holding out on you about the Bluetooth feature in this amp. So, here’s more story.
I wrongfully assumed that the Bluetooth component of the Fishman LoudBox Mini was a marketing gimmick — something that was slapped on by the marketing team at Fishman last minute.
I wasn’t quite sure why the Bluetooth feature was included…
That is until I found a super awesome use for it!
Right away, I had the idea of playing a backing track on my computer through the amp. No need for complicated chords or converters. Instead, the Bluetooth feature lets you wirelessly connect a computer or phone. As a result, I didn’t have to play softly while listening to the backing track on my computer’s lackluster speakers.
If you are looking for an awesome way to start playing with backing tracks, the Fishman LoudBox Mini’s Bluetooth feature can help you out.
Fishman LoudBox Mini: Closing Thoughts
We all play the guitar for different reasons, and I want to celebrate that diversity. Whether you are practicing for a gig or enjoying a newfound hobby — at some point — every guitarist starts looking for gear that can help their tone, volume, or both.
Fortunately, the Fishman LoudBox Mini with Bluetooth is an excellent amp for all acoustic guitar players looking to get an acoustic amp. It’s simple, it’s small, but it is mighty!
Based on my own experience using the Fishman LoudBox Mini, I give it 4.5/5 stars.
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I live in Zambia. Wd luv to acquire a fishman loudbox. What is the cost?