Portable headphone amp for guitar and bass that packs amp models, modulation and ambience into a pocketable unit, the VALETON Rushead Max Pocket Headphone Amp. Perfect for late-night practice or musicians who travel light and still want convincing tones. Is the compact feature set and battery life enough for serious practice and simple recording?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Sound Signature: Versatile tone from clean to driven, with cab simulation for headphones or line-out
- • Best for: Bedroom practice, travellers and recording beginners needing portable multi-effects
- • Not ideal for: Musicians requiring full-rig stage output or hands-free performance controls
Compact USB-chargeable headphone amp with Clean, Overdrive and Distortion amp models plus cabinet simulation. Switchable MOD and AMBIENT modules add chorus, tremolo, flanger, reverb and delay while auxiliary input and line-out expand practice or recording options.
Practice for longer – thanks to onboard USB charging and rechargeable battery
Onboard USB charger powers an internal battery that supports playtime for up to five hours. Charging occurs via USB, removing dependence on mains adapters during short sessions.
Up to five hours of battery life keeps practice sessions uninterrupted when away from a pedalboard or amp. Rechargeable operation suits travellers and bedroom players who need quick, cable-free setup.
A complete tone toolkit – with AMP, MOD and AMBIENT modules
AMP module supplies Clean, Overdrive and Distortion amp models with cab simulation for headphone and line-out use. MOD module switches between chorus, tremolo and flanger, while AMBIENT module adds reverb and delay.
Access a range of classic amp tones and complementary effects without multiple pedals. Quick switching between modules helps shape sounds for practice, direct recording or live DI use.
Silent practice and direct recording – thanks to cab simulation and line-out options
Cab simulation is applied for headphone output and for the line-out, designed to feed full-range systems. Aux input accepts backing tracks for simultaneous jamming.
Use headphones for quiet practice or connect the line-out to a recorder, interface or PA. Aux input makes it easy to play along with songs from a phone or player.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for VALETON Rushead Max Pocket Headphone Amp
- AMP Module (Clean/Overdrive/Distortion) – Fast access to a wide range of familiar amp tones
- MOD Module (Chorus/Tremolo/Flanger) – Adds texture for richer practice and recordings
- AMBIENT Module (Reverb/Delay) – Create depth and space for realistic headphone tones
- USB Rechargeable Battery – Up to five hours of portable playtime for travel and practice
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Portable headphone amp / multi-effects
- Amp Module: Clean, Overdrive and Distortion amp models with cab simulation
- MOD Module: Chorus, Tremolo, Flanger
- AMBIENT Module: Reverb, Delay
- Aux Input: 3.5mm for jamming with external audio players
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the amp be used with both guitar and bass?
A: Yes. Product naming and description indicate suitability for both guitar and bass use.
Q: How long does the rechargeable battery last?
A: Onboard USB charging provides up to five hours of playtime between charges.
Q: Can I practise silently with headphones or record direct?
A: Yes. Cab simulation is available for headphone use and the line-out can feed a full-range system or recording interface.
🏆 Our Verdict
Bedroom players, travelling musicians and beginners who need compact amp tones will find a lot to like here. The combination of three amp models, switchable modulation and ambience modules, plus USB charging and cab simulation, makes it a convenient practice and recording tool. Strong long-term value comes from a portable feature set that keeps practice and simple recording sessions straightforward.
