Overview

The Yamaha THR10II is a 20-watt stereo desktop guitar amplifier that uses Yamaha’s Virtual Circuitry Modeling (VCM) and adds Bluetooth audio/control plus a USB audio interface. It drives two 3.1-inch (8 cm) full-range speakers and measures 368 × 183 × 140 mm at 3.0 kg. This non-wireless model does not include a built-in battery; wireless/battery capability is reserved for the THR10II Wireless variant. Connections include 1/4” input, stereo mini AUX/PHONES, DC in, and USB (USB Audio Class 2.0). [1]

Scientific Validity

\[\Large \text{0.5}\]

There is no published third-party suite of bench measurements (THD+N, SNR, linearity, FR vs. level) for the THR10II, so we start from the policy default and adjust conservatively. What we can verify: rated output 20 W (10 W + 10 W), two 3.1” drivers, 24-bit A/D (+3-bit floating) and 24-bit D/A with 48 kHz sampling over USB, and Bluetooth 4.2 (A2DP, SBC). These are competent, modern specs for a compact modeling amp/interface but do not demonstrate transparent playback to a master. Accordingly, the scientific validity remains average pending comprehensive independent measurements. [1][3]

Technology Level

\[\Large \text{0.7}\]

THR10II integrates VCM amp/cab/effect modeling (15 guitar models plus acoustic/bass/flat voicings), Bluetooth audio/MIDI control via the THR Remote app, five on-unit user memories, and Yamaha’s “Extended Stereo” processing for wider sound from a small enclosure. USB class-compliant I/O simplifies computer connectivity. Overall execution is solid and refined rather than bleeding-edge. [1][3]

Cost-Performance

\[\Large \text{0.7}\]

Representative street price for THR10II in the U.S. is 369.99 USD. [4][5]
The cheapest equivalent-or-better alternative we could verify is the Positive Grid Spark 40, which offers modeling with deep app control, Bluetooth audio, and a built-in USB recording interface (with higher 40 W output) at 249 USD. [6][7]
Using these verified prices yields a cost-performance score of 0.7 for the THR10II.

Reliability & Support

\[\Large \text{0.8}\]

Yamaha’s build quality and service network are strong for this category, and the THR line has a long track record. In the U.S., THR guitar amplifiers carry a 1-year limited warranty (regional terms may vary). [8]

Rationality of Design Philosophy

\[\Large \text{0.7}\]

The “third-amp” concept is coherent: desktop-friendly power, stereo playback, and integrated modeling/effects for practice and home recording. Extended Stereo enhances perceived width for both guitar and streamed audio. Trade-offs include intentionally colored response (it’s an instrument amp) and the absence of a line-out on the non-wireless model. [1][3]

Advice

If you want a compact, great-sounding practice/recording rig that doubles as a Bluetooth speaker and simple USB interface, the THR10II delivers with minimal setup. If budget takes priority and you want more power and app-centric features, the Spark 40 is the value pick at a substantially lower verified price. [6][7]

References

[1] Yamaha USA – THR-II specs (THR10II): https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/guitars_basses/amps_accessories/thr-ii/specs.html
[2] Yamaha USA – THR-II series page: https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/guitars_basses/amps_accessories/thr-ii/index.html
[3] THR30II/THR10II Reference Manual (Tech specs, 48 kHz, BT 4.2/SBC): https://jp.yamaha.com/files/download/other_assets/7/1287107/THR30II_Wireless_reference_manual_En_F0.pdf
[4] Yamaha Shop USA – THR10II product page (369.99 USD shown): https://shop.usa.yamaha.com/en/p/instruments/guitars-basses-amps/guitar-amps/thr10ii-10-watt-desktop-guitar-amp
[5] Guitar Center – THR10II (369.99 USD): https://www.guitarcenter.com/Yamaha/THR10II-10W-2x3-Guitar-Combo-Amp-Cream-1500000300889.gc
[6] Positive Grid – Spark 40 product page (features): https://www.positivegrid.com/products/spark
[7] Sweetwater – Spark 40 price (249 USD): https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PGSparkPrl–positive-grid-spark-combo-amp-pearl
[8] Yamaha USA – Guitars/Amps Warranty (THR amps, 1-Year): https://usa.yamaha.com/support/warranty/guitars/index.html

(2025.8.30)