The Fender Mustang Micro is a headphone amp ideal for focused practice without noise. It boasts features like 12 amp models, 13 effects, Bluetooth audio, and a USB interface. However, it lacks a dedicated app for sound creation. When compared to the NUX Mighty Plug, the Mustang Micro offers superior sound but has fewer features. The Mighty Plug, on the other hand, is more versatile and affordable, I recommend NUX.
● Want to practice without sound from the speaker.
● An amp in the room is in the way.
● Want to practice with focus.
● What is different between Fender and NUX headphone amps.
This article reviews the Fender Mustang Micro for those who resonate with the above points Yosh (@Yosh_Guitar), an ex-music store clerk in Japan.
Pros of Fender Mustang Micro
Compact Headphone Amp Without Disturbing Others
Perfect for those who can’t play with an amp due to living in an apartment or for family reasons. Connect directly to the guitar and plug in headphones for high-quality sound. Despite being a home amp, it’s ultra-compact at a width of 3.81 cm, height of 8 cm, depth of 2.87 cm, and weight of 51 grams. Great for minimalists who don’t want to add more items to their room or gear enthusiasts who don’t have space for more equipment.
12 Amp Models for Jazz to Metal
Adopted 12 types of amp modeling from the culmination of Fender’s digital amps, the Mustang GTX, to cater to all genres. From Fender clean sounds like TwinReverb and Deluxe Reverb to Marshall and modern high gain. You can play jazz to heavy metal.
13 Types of Effects
Multiple types of reverb, and effects that add delay or chorus to reverb. Switch types with the EFFECTS button and adjust parameters with the MODIFY button.
Bluetooth Audio
Connect wirelessly with mobile or tablets via Bluetooth. Play songs or YouTube videos while playing the guitar. Great for practicing copying songs or improvising.
USB Rechargeable Battery with Up to 6 Hours of Operation
Powered by a rechargeable battery. According to the catalog specs, it lasts for 4 hours. Uses a USB Type-C port.
USB Audio Interface Function
Connect to a PC and record directly with your favorite Mustang Micro sound. Useful for songwriting notes or demo tracks. Firmware updates also use the USB port.
Con: Many Limitations in Sound Creation (No App, 5-Level EQ)
Most amps that can connect via Bluetooth allow sound creation through a dedicated app, but the Mustang Micro doesn’t have this. All sound settings are done using the buttons on the device. Amp and other parameters are indicated by the color of the LED light. Instead of adjusting with a 3-band EQ, there’s a flat setting, two dark settings, and two bright settings, making it a 5-level preset. On the flip side, you can create sound just with the device, making it suitable for beginners who aren’t good at sound creation, those who find launching an app bothersome, or those who want to play immediately.
Fender Mustang Micro Sound
From the videos, the sound quality seems pretty good. All 12 amp model sounds can be heard in the video. The sound quality changes depending on the quality of the headphones or earphones used. It is not recommended to use cheap headphones.
Comparison with NUX Mighty Plug
| Spec | Mustang Micro | Mighty Plug |
|---|---|---|
| Market Price | $119.99 | $74 |
| Amp Model | Guitar | Guitar/Bass |
| Tone Number | 12 Amps + 13 Effects | 13 Amps + 19 Effects + 20 IR |
| Bluetooth | Audio Only | Audio + App |
| USB | Type-C | Micro-USB |
| Rhythm Machine | None | Available |
| Operating Time | Approx. 4 hours (at high volume) | |
| Up to 6 hours (at low volume) | 3 hours |
The NUX Mighty Plug offers more features when compared spec-wise. It’s also low-cost. Sound quality is good in both cases. The Mustang Micro doesn’t have bass modeling, but using the Studio Preamp mode provides a flat sound without cutting off the bass. It seems to work well with active basses. Switching amp types with just a button on the device is convenient. Considering the price as a home modeling amp, it’s reasonably priced.
In summary, the Fender Mustang Micro is recommended for:
- Those not good at sound creation
- Those who find launching an app bothersome
- Those who want to focus on playing without unnecessary features
- Those who want to play for long hours
The NUX Mighty Plug is recommended for:
- Those who want to use it for bass as well
- Those who prefer multi-functionality
- Those who want a lot of sound creation variations
That’s a general impression. For a detailed review of the Mighty Plug, check here.
