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Average Price: $171

Budget/Beginner

$300

$701+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Unleash your sonic potential with the Fender Mustang III, a versatile beast in the realm of combo guitar amplifiers. Perfect for guitarists craving diversity, this powerhouse facilitates a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. With its robust selection of onboard amp models and presets, the Mustang III eliminates the clutter of pedals, letting your creativity flow unimpeded. Whether you're recording at home or captivating audiences live, this amplifier is engineered to elevate your performance to new heights.

Key Features:

  • 100 watts of power, suitable for performance and practice settings
  • 17 onboard amp models and 100 presets, offering a vast landscape of tones
  • Integrated effects, including reverb, delay/echo, tremolo, and phaser, enrich your sound palette
  • External footswitch connectivity allows for hands-free control over effects and settings
  • Stereo XLR outputs make live performances and studio recording more versatile
  • USB connectivity for direct recording and preset management

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Mustang III 100-Watt 1x12" Modeling Guitar Combo
Finish Black
Year 2011 - 2012
Made In China
Categories Guitar Combo Amps, Guitar Modeling Amps
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Color Family Black
Electronics Solid State
Model Family Fender Mustang III
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 100
Power Tube Type None
Reverb Digital Reverb
Series Fender Mustang Amp
Speaker Configuration 1x12"

FAQs

What type of music is the Fender Mustang III best suited for?

The Fender Mustang III is versatile and ideal for various genres, including rock, blues, and jazz, thanks to its 18 high-quality amp models and multiple built-in effects.

How many watts does the Fender Mustang III produce?

The Fender Mustang III is a 100-watt guitar amplifier, providing ample power for both practice and live performances.

Does the Fender Mustang III come with built-in effects?

Yes, the Fender Mustang III features built-in effects, including big fuzz, green screamer, intelligent pitch shifting, and more, allowing for diverse sound shaping.

Can I connect the Fender Mustang III to a computer for recording?

Yes, the Fender Mustang III offers USB connectivity and comes with Ableton Live Lite 8 Fender LE edition, enabling easy recording and editing on your computer.

Does the Fender Mustang III include a footswitch?

Yes, the Fender Mustang III includes a footswitch, allowing you to easily switch between presets and control effects during performances.

What are the key connectivity options on the Fender Mustang III?

The Fender Mustang III features one input, two stereo XLR outputs, and USB connectivity, providing flexibility for various performance and recording setups.

intheblues

intheblues

Blind Test - Fender '68 Custom Deluxe vs Fender Mustang III

Video thumbnail for Blind Test - Fender '68 Custom Deluxe vs Fender Mustang III by intheblues

Blind Test - Fender '68 Custom Deluxe vs Fender Mustang III

intheblues

intheblues

Video thumbnail for The Fender Mustang III Review. by Phillip McKnight

The Fender Mustang III Review.

Phillip McKnight

Phillip McKnight

Video thumbnail for Fender Mustang III Amplifier Live Gig Test & Review by intheblues

Fender Mustang III Amplifier Live Gig Test & Review

intheblues

intheblues

Video thumbnail for Fender Mustang III 100W 1x12 Guitar Combo Amp by Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Fender Mustang III 100W 1x12 Guitar Combo Amp

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Video thumbnail for Fender Mustang III Guitar Amplifier - Blues Tones! by intheblues

Fender Mustang III Guitar Amplifier - Blues Tones!

intheblues

intheblues

Video thumbnail for Fender Eric Clapton Tremolux vs Fender Mustang III Blind Test by intheblues

Fender Eric Clapton Tremolux vs Fender Mustang III Blind Test

intheblues

intheblues

Video thumbnail for Warum 2 Fender Mustang III so unterschiedlich klingen !!! by Pierre Disko

Warum 2 Fender Mustang III so unterschiedlich klingen !!!

Pierre Disko

Pierre Disko

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile with over 99 modeling effects for various styles

  • Ideal for beginners due to its simplicity and range of sounds

  • Portable and suitable for practice rooms to medium venues

  • Integrates well with computers for easier effect and amp configuration

  • Includes a footswitch for easy preset changes and effect toggling

  • Good value for a wide array of tones and effects

  • Effective for both recording and live performances

  • Emulates classic amps (Fender, Marshall, Mesa) convincingly

CONS

  • Overdrive and fuzz effects sound artificial

  • Not the best choice for Jazz or clean sound enthusiasts

  • Some presets and effects are underused or repetitive

  • Can produce a hiss on certain settings

  • Small screen interface can be tedious to navigate

  • May not be powerful enough for all gigging situations

  • Modelling may not satisfy those preferring traditional amps

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Mustang III.

Use cases and applications

  • The Mustang III is noted as less effective for high-gain metal, with users preferring Marshall or Blackstar amps for such genres.

    Source
  • Mustangs are praised for live use; they perform well up to volume level 7, making them suitable for mic'ed performances.

    Source
  • The amp is gig-worthy, with users praising the '65 Twin Reverb settings for classic clean tones and the SuperSonic (Burn) for saturated sounds.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Mustang III V2, priced around $350, may offer good value, but users suggest saving for higher-end tube models for better long-term satisfaction.

    Source

User experience

  • The Mustang amps are seen as versatile with decent clean tones, especially when used with external pedals.

    Source
  • Some users find the Mustang III overly complex, recommending selecting one amp model and fine-tuning it rather than relying on presets.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Blues Jr. amps can be easily and cheaply modified for improved performance, making them a versatile alternative.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Blues Jr. is suggested as a sweet spot for those seeking affordable tube tone over modeling amps like the Mustang III.

    Source
  • The Mustang III's distortion is often criticized, with comparisons highlighting a '68 Twin Reverb for superior studio tone.

    Source
  • For high-gain tones, users recommend considering amps like Randall or Peavey over the Mustang III for better metal sound profiles.

    Source
  • Owners who have tried the Marshall Code 50 and Boss Katana 100 prefer the Mustang III for its versatility and home-friendly volume control.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Factory presets are frequently deemed ineffective; users recommend disabling MOD, STOMP, and DELAY effects for better initial tone control.

    Source
  • Owners suggest avoiding external FX units, as the Mustang series reportedly struggles with them, affecting tone quality.

    Source
  • Adjusting treble to 2 or 3 and setting bass and mids halfway can improve tone, though it may initially sound unusual.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Adjusting "bias" and "sag" settings on the Mustang III can enhance tube-like warmth and responsiveness.

    Source
  • The Mustang III's USB interface allows direct recording; users find it produces some of the best tones compared to other connection methods.

    Source
  • Community presets via Fuse software can refine tones; searching by genre helps in finding suitable sounds for specific music styles.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The second gain knob for the SuperSonic (Burn) must be adjusted through the software interface, adding depth to the sound.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 15 Reviews and 46 Ratings

5 star
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ronaldame

All around and a must for a beginner.

Before buying a new amp I looked for something easy to use, easy to carry, a nice sound and not that expensive. And after comparing lots of amplifiers and reviews from buyers everything pointed to the Fender Mustang III v2. At 100W it manages a good range of effects. It's interface is simple and may take some time to learn to use it, but once that you do you'll realize that it's very easy. Took me a while because I'm more used to graphic stuff but after experimenting I finally understood the logic. Also it can be connected to your computer so the configuration of the chain of effects and amplifiers can be done in a more friendly interface and be transferred to the amplifier.

I recommend this to any beginner that is thinking into getting something to learn the differences between effects and amplifiers and to find his/her inner sound. Before buying this I was thinking into buying a bulbs amplifier but I think that at the moment I'm pretty good with this one. In the end is more important to learn what you want and what you're more suitable of than expending money just on a hunch.

Ah! and it also comes with a stomp-box with 2 buttons which can be configured to change between presets or activate/de-activate some effects it's very cool how it can adapt to your needs.

By the way, there's a red version (which is the one that I have) and it's beautiful.

wyatt_goodwin

i great starting amp

if you need a versatile and not something that will break the bank this amp is perfect for beginner musicians. it has 100 save files i believe that are customizable to the person with a multitude of effects that are fairly decent.

trentstar

Great Amp

I have recorded the last 3 CD's with this amp. I am sure a full cabinet would be nice but when you are on a budget this amp is awesome. It has 100 different setting and I only use about 3 of them. I have had this amp about 3 years and played 1 show with extreme sound coming from the amp in a good way. I highly recommend this one.

cojo112233

Great beginner amp

A great digital amp the accurately emulates other tube amps. This is perfect for a beginner whether you are just jamming by yourself or playing in a band it definitely packs the power. However the constant looking at the tiny screen that everything is controlled from can be quite tedious but the fact that it is filled with many different and depth filled effects makes up for this. I do think that the usb cable that allows you to create presets on your computer is quite unnecessary, though.

lexi_carlson

Really good!

I really like this amp. My only thing is, even with the two foot switch (comes with it) and a four foot switch (doesn't come with it, nor do I have it. But I have used one before.) There is not a lot of diversity. Like this, say on your settings you've got a fuzz, a chorus, a tape delay, and a reverb. okay now say for one song your playing you want an overdrive instead of a fuzz, or you want say a phase. unless you get an "out side pedal/effects it gets a little tricky. But, you could between each song change the settings. So, in all for a good tone and excellent sound. 9.9/10. I've not got anything bad to say about it. I just wish I'd bought the red one, because it'd look really cool!

fuzzycat

Very good sound, but getting all the possible choices can take time and patience

I am pleased with this amp, but I don't know that it would be powerful enough for gigging. I use to have a Pro Reverb and I don't think it is nearly as good (of course there is a huge difference in price as well.) I for one am not a great fan of modeling amps as you certainly can't fuss with settings and all that if you are on stage. I would prefer a straight forward amp and use pedals to get different tonalities/sounds. However, for in home use it is great and certainly loud enough (if you live in an apartment, too loud!) For the price, you can't complain.

jean_michel_destcroix

Great Gig amp

I bought it because I needed a solid "portable" amp (with pedals included), I decided to get a modelling amp for the variety of tones and amp; out of all the modelling amp that I tried not only does the Mustang provide the truest tone to the selected amplifier but also the pedals sound very much legitimate almost as proper pedals do

micheller

All in one!

This amp is great for both the practice room, your living room or small to medium sized venues/stages. With over 99 modelling effects, this amplifier is really all-in-one.

ignacio_robles_rodriguez

i think it worths its price.

it´s cheap, its really versatyle if you want to have everithing under the hood and also brings a two button footswitch that you can adjust to change chanels or turn on/off effect pedals. The fuse software is really usefull. just as good as it gets

johnpickk_

Great amp, especially for practicing.

Sounds great, especially for classic fender amps, especially the twin reverb! Can't go wrong! Also, suprisingly good at recreating marshall/mesa/orange tones too!

Artist usage

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See how Nathan Shope uses Fender Mustang III

Nathan Shope

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "The Casters WWF 4/6/19 part 3," Nathan Shope describes the Fender Mustang III as "one of my favorite amplifiers," praising its portability, compact size, and powerful output.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender Mustang III, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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jwettel

jwettel

Gear IQ 300

pedroquemia

pedroquemia

Gear IQ 138

falka

falka

Gear IQ 119

1 alternative for Fender Mustang III, curated by the Equipboard community.

Fender Mustang III V.2 100W 1x12 Combo Amp

$190.00

Vintage or Discontinued newer

The V.2 introduced updated software and a tolex exterior.

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