Looking for luxury guitar amplifier combos that deliver studio-quality sound? I recommend models like the Fender Mustang LT25 and Champion II, which offer versatile tones, built-in effects, and high-quality components. Compact and portable, these amps blend power and clarity, making them perfect for practice, recording, or small gigs. If you’re interested in top-tier sound with premium features, keep exploring—there’s plenty more to discover that can elevate your playing experience.
Key Takeaways
- Premium models like Fender Mustang LT25 and Champion II offer studio-quality tones with advanced digital effects and high-performance circuitry.
- High-end combos feature boutique-grade preamps, wide frequency response, and customizable tone-shaping options for professional sound.
- Luxury amplifiers often include high-quality speakers, built-in effects, and versatile connectivity for studio and live precision.
- Select models incorporate digital modeling, Bluetooth streaming, and USB interfaces for seamless recording and sound customization.
- Top-tier combos deliver balanced, nuanced sound with clarity and warmth, ideal for studio-quality recording and professional performances.
Fender Mustang LT25 Guitar Amp, 25W Combo with USB Audio Interface
If you’re a beginner or someone looking for a versatile, easy-to-use guitar amplifier, the Fender Mustang LT25 is an excellent choice. Its 25-watt combo packs a powerful punch with an 8-inch Fender-designed speaker, making it suitable for practice, recording, or small gigs. The amp offers 30 preloaded presets, covering various music styles, so you can experiment effortlessly. The simple 1.8-inch color display makes navigation straightforward, especially for newcomers. Plus, the USB audio interface allows quick recording and editing, giving you studio-quality features without complexity. Built with durable components and backed by a 2-year warranty, it’s reliable and perfect for versatile playing.
Best For: beginners and intermediate guitarists seeking a versatile, easy-to-use amplifier with recording capabilities for practice, recording, and small gigs.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with a clear color display, ideal for beginners.
- Includes 30 preloaded presets covering diverse music styles for versatile tones.
- Built-in USB audio interface for quick recording and editing.
Cons:
- 25W power may be insufficient for large venues or outdoor performances.
- Compact size might limit the sound projection in larger spaces.
- Limited to an 8-inch speaker, which may not satisfy players seeking larger, more powerful amps.
Fender Champion II 50-Watt Guitar Amplifier Bundle
The Fender Champion II 50-Watt Guitar Amplifier Bundle stands out as an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for versatile tones and easy setup. I appreciate its two channels with clean and overdrive options, including British and modern distortion flavors, suitable for a range of genres from jazz to metal. The built-in effects like reverb, delay, chorus, and tremolo add depth, and the auxiliary input lets me jam along with tracks. Its 12-inch speaker delivers solid sound, and the bundle’s accessories—cable, picks, and instructional video—make it ready to play right out of the box. Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile amp that offers great value.
Best For: beginner to intermediate guitar players seeking a versatile, easy-to-use amplifier with built-in effects and multiple channels.
Pros:
- Offers two channels with clean and overdrive tones, including British and modern distortion flavors.
- Built-in effects such as reverb, delay, chorus, and tremolo enhance sound customization.
- Comes with useful accessories like instrument cable, picks, and instructional video for immediate use.
Cons:
- Knobs can be fragile and may stick out or break with rough handling.
- The amplifier’s loudness may be excessive at higher volume settings for small spaces.
- Limited to 50 watts, which might be insufficient for large venues or outdoor performances.
Fender Mustang LT25 Guitar Amplifier Bundle
Designed for practice and small performances, the Fender Mustang LT25 Guitar Amplifier Bundle offers a versatile and user-friendly option for both beginners and experienced players. Its 25-watt power and 8″ Fender Special Design speaker produce clear, well-rounded tones with impressive volume. The amp features a colorful 1.8″ display, multiple connectivity options, and built-in effects, making it ideal for practice, recording, or small gigs. The bundle includes essential accessories like an instrument cable and picks, so you’re ready to play right out of the box. Overall, it’s a compact, reliable, and highly capable amp that delivers studio-quality sound in a convenient package.
Best For: beginners and experienced guitar players seeking a versatile, portable practice amp with high-quality sound and easy-to-use features.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with a bright color display for simple navigation
- Versatile with 30 pre-programmed sounds, 30 customizable presets, and built-in effects
- Compact and lightweight design, weighing only 15 pounds, ideal for small performances and practice
Cons:
- On/off toggle switch may become loose or collapse over extended use
- Limited to 25 watts, which may not be suitable for large venues
- Some users may find the connectivity options or interface less advanced for professional recording needs
Fender Frontman 20G Guitar Amp (20W, 6 Inch Speaker)
Looking for a compact, reliable amp that offers versatile tones without breaking the bank? The Fender Frontman 20G is perfect. With 20 watts and a 6-inch Fender special design speaker, it delivers clear, balanced sound ideal for practice and small gigs. Its simple, intuitive design features a clean channel with volume and three EQ knobs, plus a switchable Drive channel for more varied tones. It also includes a 1/8 auxiliary input for jamming along with tracks and a headphone jack for silent practice. Backed by a 2-year warranty, this stylish amp combines quality, performance, and affordability in a compact package.
Best For: beginner to intermediate guitar players seeking a versatile, reliable practice amp that is portable and budget-friendly.
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive design suitable for all skill levels
- Versatile tones with clean and Drive channels, plus EQ controls
- Includes auxiliary input and headphone jack for versatile practice options
Cons:
- Limited 20-watt power output may not be ideal for large performances
- Smaller 6-inch speaker may lack deep bass and full sound for some users
- Lacks advanced features like effects or multiple channels found on higher-end amps
Rockville G-AMP 20W Guitar Amplifier with Bluetooth and Effects
If you’re a beginner or casual player seeking an affordable yet versatile practice amp, the Rockville G-AMP 20W stands out as an excellent choice. Its 20-watt output and 6.5-inch speaker deliver crisp, dynamic sound perfect for practice or small gigs. The amp offers dual guitar inputs, clean and overdrive channels, and a built-in delay effect for professional tone. Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream backing tracks wirelessly, while the headphone jack supports quiet practice. Compact and lightweight, it’s easy to transport. Although some users suggest upgrading the speaker or adding pedals for heavier distortion, overall, it’s a versatile, feature-rich amp at an unbeatable price.
Best For: beginners and casual guitar players seeking an affordable, portable practice amp with modern features like Bluetooth and effects.
Pros:
- Excellent value with a 20-watt output and versatile features suitable for practice and small gigs
- Built-in Bluetooth allows wireless streaming of backing tracks and play-along music
- Compact, lightweight design makes it easy to transport and ideal for small spaces
Cons:
- Some users find the distortion less suitable for heavier metal styles; upgrading or pedals may be needed
- Sound quality can be improved, especially in terms of heavier overdrive and overall tone depth
- Limited volume controls on the second channel and short power cords may affect convenience
Fender Frontman 10G Guitar Amplifier Bundle
The Fender Frontman 10G Guitar Amplifier Bundle is an excellent choice for beginners or hobbyists seeking a reliable, portable practice amp. With 10 watts of power, it offers enough volume for home practice without being overwhelming. Its versatile tone options include a clean or overdrive switch, producing rich bass with a resonant, full sound thanks to its closed-back design. The compact and lightweight build makes it easy to carry, while features like auxiliary input and headphone output support media playback and silent practice. Plus, the bundle includes essential accessories like a reliable instrument cable and picks, making it a great starter kit.
Best For: beginners, hobbyists, or casual guitar players seeking an affordable, portable practice amplifier with versatile tone options.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry.
- Offers versatile tones with both clean and overdrive settings, suitable for various playing styles.
- Comes with essential accessories like a reliable instrument cable and picks, providing great value for beginners.
Cons:
- Slight graininess or drowned sound at times, which may affect tone clarity.
- Limited 10-watt power output might not be suitable for larger performances or band practice.
- Some users find the sound quality slightly less refined compared to higher-end amps, but it exceeds expectations at its price point.
FBA-10 Guitar Amp, 10W Mini Electric Guitar Amplifier
The FBA-10 Guitar Amp is an ideal choice for guitarists seeking portable, high-quality sound for practice, travel, or street performances. It features pure analog technology with a precise frequency response from 100Hz to 20kHz, ensuring crystal-clear, natural tones. With a 10W output, it covers over 165 feet, making it perfect for various settings. The dual tone modes—CLEAN and DRIVE—let me switch between pristine and gritty sounds easily, while GAIN and TONE controls allow for detailed sound shaping. Its compact design, lightweight build, and wireless streaming via 5.3 technology make it a versatile, stylish, and reliable practice companion.
Best For: guitarists who need a portable, high-quality practice amp suitable for home, travel, or street performances.
Pros:
- Pure analog technology with a wide frequency response for clear, natural tone
- Compact, lightweight design with wireless streaming for easy portability
- Dual tone modes and adjustable GAIN and TONE controls for versatile sound shaping
Cons:
- Slight background noise on the Drive channel is normal and may require adjustment
- Not suitable for large venues due to 10W power output
- Using the amp while charging or with low battery can increase background noise
Fender Blues Deluxe™ Reissue, Tweed
Designed for players who crave authentic vintage tone with modern reliability, the Fender Blues Deluxe™ Reissue, Tweed delivers warm, clean sounds perfect for blues, country, and rock. Its classic tweed covering, chrome control panel, and chicken head knobs give it a vintage look, while the two-channel design with reverb and drive offers versatile tonal options. Powered by two 6L6 Groove Tubes and a 12-inch Special Design Eminence speaker, it provides 40 watts of pure tube warmth and projection. Whether you’re practicing or gigging, this amp fills the room with natural lows, sparkling highs, and nuanced overdrive, making it a true studio-quality powerhouse.
Best For: guitarists seeking authentic vintage tone with reliable performance for blues, country, and rock styles in practice or gig settings.
Pros:
- Classic vintage look with high-quality tweed covering and chrome control panel
- Warm, clear clean tones with nuanced overdrive, ideal for various genres
- Robust build quality and powerful 40-watt tube amplification suitable for small venues
Cons:
- Heavier weight (~21 pounds), may require assistance for portability
- Slightly sensitive volume control ramp-up can be inconvenient during performances
- Higher price point compared to some modern solid-state amps
LyxPro 40W Electric Guitar Amplifier with EQ and Inputs
If you’re looking for an affordable yet versatile practice amplifier, the LyxPro 40W Electric Guitar Amplifier with EQ and Inputs fits the bill perfectly. It features a powerful 40W solid-state design with an 8” speaker, delivering clear treble and booming bass. The built-in EQ controls, drive, delay, and multiple inputs—including passive, active, and microphone—make it adaptable for various uses. Compact and lightweight at just under 15 pounds, it’s portable enough for rehearsals, small gigs, or studio work. While some build quality concerns exist, users praise its sound quality and affordability, making it a solid choice for beginners or those seeking a reliable practice amp.
Best For: beginners, practice players, and small gig performers seeking an affordable, versatile, and portable guitar amplifier.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight design makes it easy to transport and set up
- Built-in EQ, drive, delay, and multiple input options enhance versatility for various sound needs
- Good sound quality with clear treble and booming bass at an affordable price point
Cons:
- Build quality concerns, such as plastic knobs and particle board construction, may affect durability
- Limited effects, with delay only on the guitar channel and reverb not available on the mic input
- Some users report issues like intermittent cutouts and potential longevity concerns over time
Fender Rumble 25 V3 Bass Amplifier
Looking for a compact yet versatile bass amp that’s perfect for practice sessions or small gigs? The Fender Rumble 25 V3 delivers rich, balanced sound in a portable package. With an 8-inch speaker, 25 watts of power, and a switchable mid-scoop contour, it offers flexible tone shaping. Its 3-band EQ handles everything from gritty growl to punchy modern tones. Lightweight at just under 23 pounds and featuring auxiliary and headphone inputs, it’s ideal for rehearsals and acoustic gigs. Though limited in deep bass response, upgrading the speaker can considerably enhance sound quality. Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile choice for bass players needing studio-quality sound in a small, affordable amp.
Best For: beginner to intermediate bass players seeking a portable, versatile amp for practice and small gigs with customizable tone options.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry
- Versatile tone shaping with 3-band EQ and switchable mid-scoop contour
- Built-in auxiliary input and headphone jack for convenient practice and media playback
Cons:
- Limited deep bass response below 70 Hz, affecting very low-end sounds
- Original speaker may be of lower quality, requiring upgrades for better sound clarity
- Not suitable for large venues or high-volume performances
LEKATO Mini Electric Guitar Amp 5W
Are you searching for a portable amp that delivers quality sound without the bulk? The LEKATO Mini Electric Guitar Amp 5W is perfect for practice and travel. It’s compact, lightweight, and rechargeable, fitting easily into backpacks or luggage. Despite its small size, it offers four built-in effects—clean, distortion, overdrive, and reverb—plus adequate volume for personal practice. With a simple 6.35mm plug and Bluetooth compatibility, you can connect your guitar or stream music for practice with accompaniment. It provides around six hours of use per charge, making it a convenient, versatile option for musicians on the move.
Best For: musicians seeking a portable, lightweight, and versatile practice amp for on-the-go guitar practice and casual jamming sessions.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for easy carrying and hanging on the guitar
- Built-in effects (clean, distortion, overdrive, reverb) for versatile sound options
- Rechargeable with approximately 6 hours of battery life, eliminating the need for external power sources
Cons:
- Limited 5W power output may not be suitable for large group settings or loud environments
- Bluetooth functionality does not support headphones or external speakers directly
- Requires a specific 5V 2A charger; higher voltage chargers could damage the device
Monoprice 1×10 Guitar Combo Amplifier
The Monoprice 1×10 Guitar Combo Amplifier stands out as an excellent choice for beginners and budget-conscious musicians who need reliable power and versatile sound in a compact package. With a true 40-watt output and a 10-inch speaker, it can deliver high volumes capable of keeping up with drummers, making it great for practice and small gigs. It handles bass well and offers a genuine spring reverb, along with a 3-band EQ for sound shaping. External speaker jacks add versatility, while its sturdy build makes it portable. Despite some minor drawbacks like potential muddiness at high volumes, it provides impressive volume, clarity, and tone for its price point.
Best For: beginner and budget-conscious musicians seeking a reliable, versatile practice amp with powerful sound and simple controls.
Pros:
- True 40-watt output with high volume capable of keeping up with drums
- Authentic spring reverb and 3-band EQ for customizable tone
- Compact, sturdy design suitable for practice and small gigs
Cons:
- Potential muddiness at high volumes if not properly adjusted
- Some users report build flaws and speaker muffling issues
- Limited effects options; distortion may be limited without pedals
JOYO Mini Guitar Amp 5W Portable with Bluetooth and Effects
If you’re searching for a portable amplifier that combines convenience, versatility, and affordability, the JOYO Mini Guitar Amp 5W Portable with Bluetooth and Effects is an excellent choice. Weighing just 4.9 ounces, it’s perfect for practice, travel, or outdoor jam sessions. It offers a 5-watt output with built-in effects like clean, overdrive, distortion, and reverb, all easily switchable. Its Bluetooth 5.1 lets you stream music or backing tracks directly from your phone. Despite its small size, it provides decent sound quality suitable for casual practice, making it ideal for beginners, kids, or anyone needing a compact, easy-to-use amp on the go.
Best For: beginners, kids, or casual musicians seeking a portable, easy-to-use amplifier with decent sound quality and Bluetooth connectivity.
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly portable, ideal for travel and outdoor use
- Built-in effects (clean, overdrive, distortion, reverb) for versatile sound options
- Convenient Bluetooth 5.1 streaming for backing tracks and music
Cons:
- Small speaker may distort at higher volumes
- Output port sticking out can be vulnerable to damage
- Auxiliary 6.5mm adapter purpose may be unclear for some users
Electric Guitar Amp 20W Portable Amplifier with Headphone Input and Noise Reduction Cable
For musicians seeking a portable yet powerful practice amp, this 20W electric guitar amplifier offers an ideal solution. It’s lightweight, weighing just 6.2 pounds, with a sturdy design for durability and easy transport. The amp features a built-in 6.35mm instrument input and AUX for connecting music devices, plus a headphone jack for silent practice. Controls for gain, bass, treble, and volume let me shape my sound precisely. Its professional noise reduction cable ensures stable, clear output during performances or practice sessions. Whether I’m at home, outdoors, or performing live, this amp delivers reliable, studio-quality sound in a compact, travel-friendly package.
Best For: musicians and guitarists seeking a lightweight, portable amplifier for practice, outdoor performances, or studio use with versatile connectivity and sound control.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design (6.2 pounds) for easy transport and outdoor use
- Multiple input options including instrument, AUX, and headphone jack for versatile connectivity
- Adjustable sound controls (gain, bass, treble, volume) for customized tone
Cons:
- 20W power output may be insufficient for large venues or loud band setups
- Limited built-in effects or advanced sound features
- May require additional accessories for optimal performance in certain environments
Leo Jaymz 20W Electric Guitar Amplifier
With its 20W power output and versatile sound options, the Leo Jaymz Electric Guitar Amplifier is an ideal choice for beginners and casual players seeking portable, affordable amplification. It features clean and distortion channels, along with a 3-band equalizer, AUX input, and CD line input, making it highly adaptable for different tones and playback. Its compact size (6.5 inches) and lightweight design (5.5 pounds) make it easy to carry and perfect for practice, small gigs, or recording. Built with durable metal and plastic, it offers rich sound quality with low noise, earning praise for its value and performance.
Best For: beginners, casual players, and small gig performers seeking an affordable, portable, and versatile guitar amplifier.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry.
- Versatile sound options with clean and distortion channels, plus a 3-band equalizer.
- Good sound quality with rich tone and low noise, offering great value for the price.
Cons:
- Durability concerns, with some users experiencing humming or other issues after extended use.
- Mixed reviews on customer support and warranty services.
- Limited power output (20W) may not be suitable for larger performances or venues.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Luxury Guitar Amplifier Combos
When selecting a luxury guitar amplifier combo, I focus on key factors like power and volume to match my playing style. Sound quality and tone are vital for achieving the desired musical expression, while versatile effects and connectivity options enhance flexibility. Durability and build quality ensure the amp withstands regular use and travel, making these points indispensable in my decision-making process.
Power and Volume
Have you ever wondered how the power of a guitar amplifier affects its performance on stage? The wattage directly impacts how loud the amp can get, with higher wattage amps producing more volume suitable for larger venues. For stage performances, I recommend at least 50 watts, while 20-30 watts often suffice for practice or small gigs. Power also influences the amp’s headroom and dynamic range, determining how clean or distorted the sound becomes at high volumes. However, volume isn’t everything—an amp with excessive power but poor tonal control can overpower your sound or create unwanted noise. Balancing power and volume is vital to achieve the loudness you need without sacrificing tonal quality or risking distortion when using effects or multiple speakers.
Sound Quality and Tone
Choosing a luxury guitar amplifier combo means prioritizing exceptional sound quality and tone. These amps deliver rich, full-bodied sounds with clear articulation across all frequencies, making every note stand out. They often incorporate boutique-quality preamp tubes or advanced digital modeling to add tonal complexity and authenticity, ensuring your sound is both warm and expressive. Premium components, like high-grade speakers and precise EQ controls, allow for subtle tonal shaping and superior fidelity. Versatility is key; a great combo can produce pristine clean tones or gritty overdrive and distortion, depending on your style. Additionally, top-tier models maintain minimal noise, hiss, or distortion, even at high volumes, providing a studio-quality experience in any setting. Sound quality truly elevates your playing and recording potential.
Versatile Effects Options
The array of effects available on a luxury guitar amplifier combo can considerably expand your creative options. With effects like reverb, delay, chorus, tremolo, and overdrive, you gain greater tonal flexibility to craft your sound. Many amps offer multiple effect presets and customizable parameters, allowing you to tailor your tone for different styles and settings. Digital effects typically include adjustable features like delay time, modulation depth, and effect mix, giving you precise control over your sound. Built-in effects can enhance both live performances and recordings by providing instant access to diverse textures without needing external pedals. The quality and variety of these effects markedly boost the overall versatility and creative potential of your amp, making it a true studio-quality tool.
Connectivity Features
When selecting a luxury guitar amplifier combo, paying attention to connectivity features is essential for maximizing versatility and ease of use. Look for multiple input options like 1/4-inch, 3.5mm, or XLR connections to handle various instruments and audio sources effortlessly. A dedicated USB or Bluetooth interface is vital for seamless recording, playback, or wireless streaming, enhancing your setup’s flexibility. Separate channel controls and effects loops allow for precise routing and tone shaping tailored to your needs. Auxiliary inputs are helpful for connecting external media devices, making practice or performances more interactive. Additionally, headphone outputs provide silent practice options and direct monitoring, ensuring you can play anytime without disturbance. These features collectively boost your amplifier’s functionality and adaptability.
Build and Durability
Since durability is essential for reliable performance, I pay close attention to the materials and construction of luxury guitar amplifier combos. High-quality amps feature solid wood cabinets and metal chassis, which provide strength and longevity. Reinforced corners, sturdy handles, and secure panel fixtures further enhance their build integrity, making them resistant to wear and tear. Using high-grade components, like durable speakers and robust electronic circuitry, ensures consistent sound quality over time. Proper construction, including reinforced joints and quality internal wiring, reduces the risk of damage from regular use or transport. However, I also believe that regular maintenance and careful handling are key to preserving the build quality and extending the amplifier’s lifespan, ensuring it remains reliable and performance-ready for years to come.
Portability and Size
Choosing a luxury guitar amplifier combo often hinges on its portability and size, especially if you frequently gig or travel. I look at the amplifier’s weight and dimensions; smaller, lightweight models make transportation easier without sacrificing sound quality. Features like handles, casters, or built-in carrying straps are a big plus, simplifying setup and mobility. I also consider whether the size fits comfortably in my practice space or vehicle, ensuring it’s practical for my needs. Compact designs that can be stored or carried in backpacks, cases, or vehicle compartments are ideal for on-the-go use. However, I always balance portability with the power and features I require, making sure the amp delivers the performance I need without becoming unwieldy or undersized.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Luxury Guitar Amps Differ From Standard Models?
Luxury guitar amps differ from standard models mainly in their superior build quality, premium components, and advanced features. I’ve noticed they offer richer, more nuanced tones and better sound clarity at higher volumes. They often include customizable settings, better insulation, and stylish designs. These amps deliver a more refined, studio-quality sound that truly elevates my playing experience, making them worth the investment if you’re serious about tone and durability.
Can These Amps Be Used Effectively for Recording in a Studio?
Think of these amps as the Swiss Army knives of recording—versatile and reliable. Yes, they’re perfect for studio use, offering crystal-clear tones and rich dynamics that capture every nuance of your playing. Their high-quality components minimize noise and distortion, ensuring your recordings sound polished. I’ve found that investing in a luxury amp elevates my studio sessions, giving me professional results without needing extra equipment or extensive post-production.
What Maintenance Is Required to Keep These Amplifiers in Optimal Condition?
To keep my luxury guitar amplifier combo in top shape, I regularly dust it and check for loose connections. I keep the vents clean to prevent overheating and make certain I turn it off properly after use. I also schedule professional servicing annually to check tubes, electronics, and other internal components. Proper maintenance helps me enjoy consistent, studio-quality sound and prolongs the lifespan of my investment.
Are There Specific Genres That Benefit Most From Luxury Amp Features?
Interestingly, jazz and blues players often benefit the most from luxury amp features, as they thrive on rich, nuanced tones that these amps beautifully produce. I’ve found that genres emphasizing expression and dynamics, like indie or experimental music, also gain depth from premium sound-shaping options. These amps allow musicians to craft their unique sound, making them versatile choices regardless of genre—though some styles definitely shine brighter with high-end features.
How Do I Choose the Right Amp Size for Live Performances?
When choosing the right amp size for live performances, I consider the venue’s size and my sound needs. For small gigs, I go with a combo that offers 20-50 watts; larger venues call for 50-100 watts or more. I also think about portability and whether I need a speaker cabinet. Ultimately, I test different sizes to find the balance between power, clarity, and ease of transport.
Conclusion
So, after all this talk about studio-quality sound, you’d think finding the perfect luxury guitar amp combo is a walk in the park, right? Well, surprise—it’s almost as tricky as hitting that perfect high note! But don’t worry, with these top picks, you’re already ahead of the game. Just remember, no amp can replace your talent—though it can make you sound a lot fancier while trying!
