Which Hotone Ampero Multi-Effects Pedal Should You Choose?
Currently, the Hotone Ampero line of multi-effects processors is being heavily discussed in the guitar community. Thanks to their great features, good sound quality, and reasonable price, these pedals are rivaling giants like Line 6.
For example, instead of spending a fortune on multiple analog pedals, you can get the Ampero Mini for as low as $229.99, a multi-effects pedal that’s really small and packs in a myriad of great features.
As many guitar players get confused about which multi-effects processor to choose, we prepared this comprehensive buying guide comparing in detail all of the models on the Hotone Ampero line and their unique characteristics. Let’s dive in!
In a hurry? Check out our quick guide comparing all of the pedals at the end of the article!
Hotone Ampero Family - In-Depth Review
Hotone Audio Ampero
Main Features
- The first-generation Ampero model
- 4-inch touchscreen
- 242 built-in effects
- 64 amp and 60 cab models
- Built-in IR loader
- 198 presets
- Built-in drum machine
- Built-in looper
- 4 footswitches
- Built-in expression pedal
- Stereo output
The original Hotone Ampero was released a few years ago but still holds up as one of the best multi-effects processors at a reasonable price, packed with premium features such as the 242 built-in effects and 64 amp models.
This multi-effect pedal is pretty easy to use, with a relatively large 4-inch touchscreen, a set of five knobs, and four footswitches for changing banks and presets.
While a new Ampero version already came out, the original Ampero also has a very useful feature that isn’t present on some models: a built-in expression pedal you can use to control effects on the fly.
When it comes to I/O configuration, the Ampero, unlike its smaller brother Ampero One, has a pair of balanced XLR outputs. Practically speaking, this is one of the very few differences between the two, along with the extended number of footswitches.
Another great feature is the MIDI input, which allows you to extend the number of available footswitches with a pedal like the Hotone Cybery or similar, and to connect virtually any type of MIDI controller to your Ampero.
Who Is the Hotone Ampero For?
The Hotone Ampero is a great choice if you want a built-in expression pedal and features like a MIDI input and balanced XLR outputs. While it features less effects than the second generation Ampero models, it still holds an excellent price for value.
Hotone Audio Ampero One
Main Features
- A more compact Ampero processor
- 4-inch touchscreen
- 242 built-in effects
- 64 amp and 60 cab models
- Built-in IR loader
- 198 presets
- Built-in drum machine
- Built-in looper
- 3 footswitches
- Built-in expression pedal
- Stereo output
The Ampero One is the company’s entry-level compact processor. The unit is pretty similar to the original Ampero, with the same 242 built-in effects, 64 amp models, and functions such as a built-in drum machine and looper.
However, there are a few small features that were removed: the Ampero One only offers three footswitches, no knobs under the 4-inch touchscreen, and no MIDI input or balanced outputs.
Despite these differences, it’s safe to say that the Ampero One is a solid choice for most guitarists, regardless of their experience level, and we would recommend it over the original Ampero, as the price difference is quite big and isn’t very justifiable.
As you can see, the Ampero One has a basic but effective I/O configuration, with a single input, a pair of stereo outputs for added versatility, and a very convenient extra expression pedal input.
Who Is the Hotone Ampero One For?
We recommend the Ampero One to anyone who’s looking for a solid multi-effects processor on a budget, as it’s currently one of the most solid options on the market at its price range.
Hotone Ampero II
Main Features
- Second-generation fully-featured Ampero
- 5-inch touchscreen
- More than 460 built-in effects
- 87 amp and 68 cab models
- Built-in IR loader
- 300 presets
- Built-in drum machine
- Built-in looper
- 4 footswitches
- Built-in expression pedal
- Stereo output (balanced/unbalanced)
Moving on to the second generation of Hotone’s multi-effects processors, we have the Ampero II. The pedal is one of Hotone’s newest products, with more than 460 built-in effects, a bank with 300 preset slots, and several new additions when compared to the first generation of the line.
The effect selection on this pedal is really impressive. One particularly interesting module that was added is the AI noise gate, a suppressor that uses artificial intelligence to kill any hum or interference from your signal.
On the back, you can see that the most recent models now feature a much more complete I/O configuration, including a USB-C port, a stereo FX loop, and the ability to plug in an XLR-type connector. There’s a MIDI I/O on the side as well.
While the Ampero II is pricey, it is a great option if you want a processor that you can double as an audio interface and use on its own, as it is packed with so many features that you will probably not need anything else in your rig.
Who Is the Hotone Ampero II For?
If you’re a power user and want to dig deep and experiment with the 460+ built-in effects, going for the second generation of the Ampero is a great call. Otherwise, the more basic models are still a solid option.
Hotone Audio Ampero II Stage
Main Features
- A processor focused on touring musicians and live concerts
- 5-inch touchscreen
- More than 460 built-in effects
- 87 amp and 68 cab models
- Built-in IR loader
- 300 presets
- Built-in drum machine
- Built-in looper
- 8 footswitches
- Stereo output (balanced/unbalanced)
The Ampero II Stage is pretty similar to the standard Ampero II but lacks a built-in expression pedal in exchange for more footswitches, something that can be a benefit depending on your use case.
As this particular model was made with live concerts in mind (hence the name Stage), the eight footswitches are a very convenient plus if you want to be able to control each effect more easily, or perhaps activate the looper function on the fly.
On the back, the configuration is pretty much the same as the standard Ampero II, with the addition of an extra expression pedal input, and an extra set of passthrough 3.4-inch input/output.
For all that matters, the Ampero II Stage is a bit pricey, as it's one of the company’s high-end processors. While it’s perfect for the touring musician, some functions might be overkill for beginners and bedroom guitarists.
Who Is the Hotone Ampero II Stage For?
If you're frequently playing live and running a complex gig with expression pedals, FX loops, and multiple outputs, this processor is a solid choice, as it was designed with touring musicians in mind.
Hotone Audio Ampero II Stomp
Main Features
- A second-generation compact Ampero processor
- 4-inch touchscreen
- More than 460 built-in effects
- 87 amp and 68 cab models
- Built-in IR loader
- 300 presets
- Built-in drum machine
- Built-in looper
- 3 footswitches
- Stereo output
The Ampero II Stomp has pretty much all of the internal features of the Stage model, including a large number of effects and a high-quality amp simulator, but at a more compact size in exchange of a few minor functions.
The main difference between the Stomp model and its bigger brothers is the smaller number of footswitches, which shouldn’t be a deterrent for the vast majority of guitar players. The I/O configuration is also a bit different.
Despite having a simpler I/O configuration than the Stage model, the Stomp model still has some quite impressive features, doubling as an audio interface with 8 inputs and outputs, plus MIDI in/out on the side.
Who Is the Hotone Ampero II Stomp For?
The Stomp model is a middle ground between the Stage and the Mini models, so it’s a great choice for those looking for a compact processor with convenient features such as a set of physical knobs. It’s also excellent for use with analog pedals.
Hotone Audio Ampero Mini
Main Features
- The Ampero Mini offers similar features to larger Hotone models in a compact form
- 4-inch touchscreen
- 199 built-in effects
- 52 amp and 50 cab models
- Built-in IR loader
- 198 presets
- Built-in drum machine
- Built-in looper
- 2 footswitches
- Stereo output
The Ampero Mini is the smallest multi-effects processor in Hotone’s product line. Boasting a minimalistic design, this pedal can be controlled via the touchscreen interface and only features two footswitches (for preset selection).
The Mini has only a fraction of the effects present in larger models: 199 instead of 460, but it still holds up quite well, featuring many impressive functions for a unit that size, such as the 198 preset slots.
In the back, you can see that the Mini’s I/O configuration is quite simple, allowing you to plug in your guitar, an expression pedal, an aux signal, and nothing else. While it doesn’t boast extended capabilities like the larger models, this setup should be more than enough if you’re running a standard rig.
Who Is the Hotone Ampero Mini For?
A great way to use the Ampero Mini is with analog pedals. If you already have an analog pedalboard but would like more versatility, this unit shouldn’t take much space in your setup. It’s also the perfect choice if you’re looking for a processor that you can throw in your guitar bag and head to your practice or gig.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Hotone Ampero Pedals as an Audio Interface?
Yes, both the Ampero II and Ampero II stage functions as an audio interface, allowing you to connect the pedal via USB to your computer and start recording guitar parts on your DAW of choice.
Can I Integrate My Analog Pedals With the Hotone Ampero Units?
Absolutely. You can simply place your existing analog pedals before or after the Ampero, or make use of the FX loop present in some models.
Do Hotone Ampero Pedals Support Third-Party IRs (Impulse Responses)?
Yes, all Hotone Ampero models support third-party IR loading, allowing you to expand the tonal possibilities by using your favorite cabinet simulations.
Is There a Difference in Sound Quality Between the First and Second-Generation Ampero Pedals?
Yes, the second-generation models (like the Ampero II and Ampero II Stage) feature more advanced algorithms, more built-in effects, and improved amp modeling, resulting in better sound quality and more tone-shaping options.
Conclusion
As you can see, Hotone has a quite extensive pedal line, with different multi-effects processors for different use cases. Regardless of your choice, you can expect excellent sound quality and deep functionality from all models.
Our verdict? If you’re on a budget, models like the Ampero One or Mini are your best bet, even when compared with pedals from other brands. If you’re a power user looking for the maximum amount of versatility, we recommend you grab one of the units from the second generation (such as the Stomp and the Stage), as they will certainly leave you satisfied.
Thank you for reading this far! Below is a comparison with the main features of all Hotone Ampero models discussed in the article.
|
Model |
Effects |
Amp/Cab Models |
Number of Footswitches |
Number of Inputs and Outputs |
Built-In Expression Pedal? |
Price |
|
242 |
64 amps and 60 cabs |
4 |
1 instrument input and a pair of stereo outputs |
Yes |
$399.99 |
|
|
242 |
64 amps and 60 cabs |
3 |
1 instrument input and 1 stereo output |
Yes |
$299.99 |
|
|
460+ |
87 amps and 68 cabs |
4 |
2 instrument inputs a pair of stereo outputs |
Yes |
From $579 |
|
|
460+ |
87 amps and 68 cabs |
8 |
2 instrument inputs a pair of stereo outputs |
No |
$699.99 |
|
|
460+ |
87 amps and 68 cabs |
3 |
2 instrument inputs and 1 stereo output |
No |
$499.99 |
|
|
199 |
52 amps and 50 cabs |
2 |
1 instrument input and 1 mono output |
No |
$229.99 |
You can check these and many other pedals in our store!
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