I already used the Amplug AC30 and Amplug Bass. They were both ok but could be improved a lot. The Amplug 3 Boutique seems to address rightfully the biggest issues of the other amplugs.
First, I choose the amplug since I do not want to go into a smartphone app with 200 presets. If so, then I'd rather plug into an interface and a laptop.. I just want a real pocket guitar amp.
The tone of this Amplug 3 Boutique is improved compared to the other ones. No no sense fx. It is easy to dial a nice and workable guitar tone. However it can not stand comparison against the Nuxx or the Boss who are much more expensive as well.
Plenty good enough for everyday practice. Will not do it for performing.
The distorsion is fine and rock oriented. You won't get a tube amp response however it kinda emulates a decent warm tone for the money.
The best feature for me is the drums machine. You can set somehow easily the tempos by taping the button which somehow get you where you want. Finally, no non-sense drums patterns. No useless samba pattern etc... Each pattern feels relevant for most guitar playing. Very nice addition to have included a 6/8 or 12/8 (can't remember) time signature pattern and a swing for blues and jazz. Last but not least, there's also a metronome with a nice, pleasant tone! This thing was surely designed by actual musicians.
Here's now why I can not give full 5 stars. It is still hard to set accurately so tiny buttons without seeing them. The buttons easily change positions accidentally, if you move.
Setting the volume of the fx and the drums presets from the very same button is a bit confusing.
No control screen to tell you what preset you are on. You always search with your fingers which buttons you'r supposed to action hoping not to shuffle everything.
The build quality is still cheap plastic. The buttons feel a bit loose and fragile. The connector input to your guitar doesn't feel strong. I use a short extension cable which help as well to actually ease the handling... so the Amplug is located on my strap more than under my guitar.
Overall I am very happy but I would have gladly to pay 50 euros more and get a bit more high-end build quality.
