THE RIVALS

Obviously the AER Compact 60 is the main contender if you’re looking for a versatile, trustworthy and robust acoustic amp. Expect to pay around £849 for the Mk IV and £899 for Tommy Emmanuel’s signature model, which includes some features tuned to TE’s specification, including the reverb settings. Other makes would include Fender’s Acoustic 100 at £359, Marshall’s AS50D for £269, and Fishman’s Loudbox range, including the Loudbox Mini at £289 and the Loudbox Artist Bluetooth for £521. If you need something you can carry to a gig on the bus or tube, we’re hearing very good things about Schertler’s range of acoustic amps. Check out the Schertler David at £1,044, for instance.