Contents
- 1 Must-Buy Guide: Yamaha THR10II Review
- 2 Compare Models in the THR Series
- 3 Unboxing the New THR10II: First Impressions!
- 4 Explore the Design and Features of the THR10II
- 5 THR10II: The Red Glowing Marvel
- 6 How to Use and Operate the THR10II: A Complete Guide
- 7 Check Reviews and Ratings for the THR10II!
- 8 Only Available in Cream Color?
- 9 THR10II Review and Summary
Must-Buy Guide: Yamaha THR10II Review
Looking to enhance guitar playing in my study and in search of an amplifier with a sophisticated design, I came across the Yamaha “THR10II”.
The “THR10II” is a model that has been highly praised by guitarists and YouTubers for its outstanding sound and functionality. The reason why it’s said “You can’t go wrong with buying this” is because it has a variety of amp modeling and Bluetooth functionality, making it perfect not just for playing music but also for listening to it.
The compact design is also attractive as it blends into any space in your home. The “THR10II,” which further enriches my hobby of playing guitar and creating content, was definitely a worthwhile purchase.
Yamaha Guitar Amp “THR10II”
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Compare Models in the THR Series
The most important difference is the size and weight. The higher-end model “THR30II Wireless” is larger in size and has a solid feel, while the lower-end model “THR10II” is lightweight and compact.
| Model | THR30II Wireless | THR10II Wireless | THR10II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 420×195×155 mm | 368×183×140 mm | 368×183×140 mm |
| Weight | 4.3kg | 3.2kg | 3.0kg |
There are also differences in features and performance. The text below is a comparison table found on Yamaha’s official website.
(Quoted from the official YAMAHA website)
Let’s summarize each point.
- THR30II Wireless
The top model with 30W high output, compatible with guitar wireless and rechargeable batteries, allows you to enjoy authentic sound in your study or living room. The size is a bit large, but in return, the powerful volume and performance are attractive. - THR10II Wireless
A compact 20W model equipped with wireless functionality. With its easy-to-carry size and light weight (3.2 kg), it can be used anywhere without being location-specific. - THR10II
While it is a basic model that does not support wireless or battery use, it retains the high sound quality of the THR series. Recommended for those who want the lightest (3.0 kg) and simplest usability.
A major appeal of the THR series is that you can choose according to each application and installation space.
This time, I prioritized a compact size and didn’t plan on connecting the guitar wirelessly, so I chose the most basic and affordable model, the “THR10II.”
If you are considering purchasing, please check out the detailed specs and prices on Amazon.
THR30II Wireless
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THR10II Wireless
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THR10II
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Unboxing the New THR10II: First Impressions!
Purchased at the lowest price on Amazon, the “THR10II” arrived the next day. The cardboard of the outer box features an illustration of the product, evoking a sense of design despite its simplicity. Due to storage space limitations, I disposed of the outer box, but it was so well-made that it seemed a waste to throw it away.
The specifications for the “THR10II” are listed on the side, raising expectations even before opening the box.
Upon opening it immediately, the upper section neatly contained the AC adapter for power supply.
In the lower section, the “THR10II” unit was neatly stored.
When you take out the main unit, the first thing that catches your eye is its cool design. It is more compact than I thought and easy to carry due to its light weight.
The back side had a matte black finish.
The accessories are limited to a simple instruction manual and AC adapter, but they are sufficiently adequate.
Explore the Design and Features of the THR10II
Let’s take a closer look at the “THR10II”.
The distinctive feature at first glance is the numerous knobs arranged on the upper part. I will describe the role of each knob later, but this is what I feel is the greatest feature of the “THR series.”
First, on the upper left side, there is the power button.
On the upper left side, there are grouped terminals for “INPUT” from the guitar, and “PHONES” and “AUX” for connecting headphones and external devices. It is impressive how the layout is intuitively easy to operate.
Furthermore, another major feature of the “THR Series” is the “Y” pattern on the front speaker part.
I believe this is a design inspired by the “Y” of “YAMAHA.” This pattern, while simple, enhances its individuality.
I tried taking a photo from above looking down at the top. The numerous controls available allow for the creation of detailed sounds, which is likely one of the reasons many guitarists favor this.
On the back, along with the YAMAHA logo, there are USB input ports and power cable input ports. It is well supported in terms of functionality.
The details, such as specifications, were written on the bottom surface.
THR10II: The Red Glowing Marvel
When you connect the power cable and press the power button, the inside of the amplifier begins to glow red.
The inner light shines through a “Y” pattern, casting shadows on the table.
Furthermore, the power button and switch indicators also light up in red, making you feel the attention to detail in the production.
These meticulous productions further enhance the stylishness of the amplifier’s design.
How to Use and Operate the THR10II: A Complete Guide
The official website provides the clearest explanation on how to use the “THR10II,” detailing the functions of each switch and knob.
(Quoted from the official YAMAHA website)
Here, we will explain particularly important points in summary.
The “AMP knob” on the left is an important part that allows you to select the type of amplifier. You can select the general direction of the sound you want to produce.
- CLEAN：Characterized by a clear and crisp sound. It is perfect for arpeggios and jazz.
- CRUNCH：Adds a light distortion, suitable for blues and rock rhythm.
- LEAD：Designed for lead guitar, characterized by a distorted sound with good sustain.
- HI GAIN：Ideal for heavy rock and metal with a high-gain sound.
- SPECIAL：Enjoy unique sounds specialized in specific tones and genres.
This is an explanation about the terminal on the right side.
- INPUT terminal: This is the most basic terminal for connecting a guitar.
- AUX Port: When you connect audio equipment, you can play music through the speakers. It is also ideal for playing backing tracks for practice.
- PHONES terminal: By connecting headphones, you can enjoy playing without worrying about your surroundings.
You can create delicate sounds with the group of knobs located in the center. It’s a very fun part because you can adjust it like an effector.
- GAIN：Adjust the level of sound distortion.
→ When set low, it delivers a clean and transparent sound, while setting it high yields a strong distortion suited for rock and metal. - MASTER：Adjust the overall volume of the amp.
→ When you increase the volume, the power amp feel increases and the sound becomes thicker. It produces a sound with a strong presence even in a band performance. - BASS：Adjustment of the low frequency range.
→ When you increase the number, the sound gains depth and becomes a fuller, richer sound. It is especially recommended for performances that emphasize riffs and bass. - MIDDLE：Adjustment of the mid-range.
→ When raised, the outline of the sound becomes clearer, and it makes the guitar sound more prominent. It is effective when you want to improve backing and solo breakout. - TREBLE：Adjustment of high frequency range.
→ When you increase the number, the sound becomes brighter and sharper, giving arpeggios and cutting a sparkling impression. - EFFECT：Effect types （CHORUS、FLANGER、PHASER、TREMOLO）。
→ You can create a thick sound with CHORUS or add a sense of sway with TREMOLO, allowing for production tailored to the music. - ECHO/REV：Reverb or echo effect.
→ If you choose SPRING, you can enjoy a sound reminiscent of a classic amp reverb, and if you choose HALL, you can enjoy a sound as if you are playing in a wide space.
The “GUITAR” and “AUDIO” knobs allow you to adjust the final volume of the guitar and the volume of the audio input, respectively.
- GUITAR knob：Adjusts the volume of the guitar input.
- AUDIO knob：Adjusts the volume of audio input from Bluetooth or AUX terminals.
Additionally, the official website also featured a tutorial video explaining how to use the “THR10II”. It’s very easy to understand, so it’s a must-see.
Check Reviews and Ratings for the THR10II!
There were many favorable reviews on the official Amazon website. I also checked the reviews and ratings before making my purchase. Here are excerpts from a few reviews.
After using it for a year, my feeling is that it indeed turned out to be a wonderful guitar amp, just as its reputation suggested. You can save five created sounds, so you can enjoy changing the tone and having fun in various ways when playing arpeggios or playing and singing. I’m only slightly better than a beginner, but when I listen to sound through this amplifier, even simple arpeggios sound beautiful and rich, and just strumming chords roughly sounds reasonably good. It was the best choice for me.
The initial investment might be a bit high, but it should be worth it. When playing the electric guitar, the importance of the amplifier is quite significant, so I think buying this would be satisfactory for home practice. Even without an effector, you can tweak various settings with a dedicated app, so for now, this alone is OK. I think you should buy additional effects units and so on as needed. This amp is well worth buying as an entry point to playing the guitar.
I’ve picked up the guitar again for the first time in 10 years since my student days. I purchased this amplifier because it had high ratings online (from guitarists on video sites). The good thing about this amplifier is that it can stream music via Bluetooth, making it ideal for sessions as you can listen to tracks while playing the guitar.
※If you start playing guitar with naive expectations and end up feeling frustrated, a benefit of this amp is that it can also be used as a speaker, which guarantees your investment is protected even if you face setbacks. Additionally, the sound quality is generally good.
Additionally, the dedicated smartphone app by YAMAHA (which can only be used if you own YAMAHA equipment) enables both shooting and recording. It allows you to polish your practice by listening back to the recorded sound, and since it can also shoot videos simultaneously, it is highly recommended for those who want to upload performance videos to video sharing sites. If you’re going to buy an amplifier for less than 10,000 yen around there, you’d better spend a lot of money and buy this amplifier.
If you don’t have money, work hard and buy it. By the Guitarist in His Thirties Making a Comeback. I should have bought it sooner. Despite being just for home practice, it’s so clean. It seems like you can enjoy various sounds.
I’m a beginner at guitar, but I’m the type who starts with the form, so I bought this one which had good reviews online. I am personally very satisfied because I can produce all the sounds I want. I thought that if you have extra money, it’s better to buy it even if you are a beginner.
I considered buying many effectors, but with this one, since it comes equipped with basic effect functions, it’s sufficient.
There are more reviews available, so if you are interested, please take a look.（→(→View the rating on the official Amazon site)）
Only Available in Cream Color?
The color of Yamaha’s guitar amp “THR10II” is currently available only in “cream.” As you can see from the photos in the previous articles, depending on the way the light hits and the angle, it has a unique color that can appear as a dark cream or a light cream.
On the other hand, the higher-end model “THR30II Wireless” is being sold as a limited edition in “White” and “Black”.Both designs are very cool, but in my case, I don’t need the features that the “THR30II Wireless” offers, and the price is quite high, so I gave up on purchasing the “White” model.
Since I’ve coordinated the interior in monochrome, I was a bit hesitant to choose this yellowish “cream-colored” amplifier. However, when actually placed, it surprisingly blends in well and there is hardly any discomfort.
That being said, for users who are particular about their interior, it would be desirable to see a white model of the “THR10II” appear.
(Quoted from the YAMAHA official website)
Limited Edition Yamaha Guitar Amp
THR10II Review and Summary
The Yamaha “THR10II” is a desktop amp that, despite its compact size, delivers a genuine sound.
【Positive Points】
- Design: A simple and stylish cream color design that fits in seamlessly whether placed in a study or living room.
- Functionality: You can finely adjust the amp type and effects, and enjoy creating a variety of sounds.
- Usability: The knob layout is easy to understand, and its intuitive operation is user-friendly even for beginners.
- Portability: Compact and lightweight, easy to carry.
【Points of Concern】
- Color Variations: Since it’s only available in cream, it would be nice to have options like white or black.
- Limited Functionality: Compared to the higher-end model “THR30II Wireless,” there are some functional limitations, but it is still sufficient for everyday use.
What I actually felt from using it is that practicing at home becomes significantly more enjoyable with just this one device. The balance between sound quality, design, and usability is very good, and it’s easy to see why people say, “You can’t go wrong with this purchase.”
For those who want to easily enjoy playing music at home or wish to enrich their musical life, this is definitely a recommended model: Yamaha’s guitar amp “THR10II”.
Yamaha YAMAHA Amp THR10II
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