In today’s article, we’re going to have a close look on some of the best VOX amps and we’re going to investigate if they are actually that good or not. Undoubtedly, this gear has a really solid reputation among the guitar players. We love them for their unique tone, look, versatility and durability. But are they worth the money?
Of course! Vox manufactures some of the best guitar amps in the world. Their great reputation is a result of their high quality, remarkable attention to detail and perfect customer service. In addition, their gear is loved by some of the legendary guitarists. Undoubtedly, Vox amps are always a great choice.
Let’s dive deeper with research and find out more what makes these amps so good. We’ll also highlight some of the best Vox models so grab your best headphones and stay tuned because there will be a few tasty sound demos!
8 Best Vox Amps – List
I have to admit that some of the models mentioned below are my all-time favorites! Since I used a few pieces of this gear in the past, I feel obliged to share my experience with all of you.
Here’s my list of top 8 Vox recommendations. Feel free to check out more details about this gear below.
| Vox AC30S1 | See on Amazon | See on Thomann |
| Vox AC10C1 | See on Amazon | See on Thomann |
| Vox VX50 Acoustic Combo | See on Amazon | See on Thomann |
| Vox Cambridge 50 | See on Amazon | See on Thomann |
| Vox AP2AC | See on Amazon | See on Thomann |
| Vox AC30HW2X | See on Amazon | – |
| Vox Mini GO | See on Amazon | See on Thomann |
| Vox AC15C2 | See on Amazon | See on Thomann |
1. Vox AC30S1
One of the best and most reputable tube amps of all time. Undoubtedly, this piece of gear will be enough for the most demanding guitarists. Personally, it’s one of my all-time favorites.
It’s pretty large and loud so it works perfectly during live gigs. In addition, it has a great clean channel that works amazingly with guitar pedals. At the same time, it allows you to get a bit more crispy and crunchy tones too. If you’re not familiar with the AC30 model, you should be aware that it’s one of the most British guitar amps in the world. It’s really tough to be disappointed with it!
Here’s a really cool demo.
2. Vox AC10C1
In comparison with the previous model, the AC10 is way smaller, but it’s still loud enough to use for live performances. It’s very simple, but at the same time, it’s really effective. In addition, Vox decided to add the reverb and master volume knobs, which offer an enjoyable boost.
Who is it for? Well, I think that it’ll be perfect for home use, studio use and rehearsals. It’s really versatile so it will work well in a wide variety of different genres. I highly recommend checking it out if you’re searching for a reliable tube amp.
3. Vox VX50 Acoustic Combo
One of the best and most affordable acoustic guitar amps in the world. I had the pleasure to compare this amp with Fender Acoustasonic, which is pretty much on the same level and it’s also really popular. And I have to admit that the clarity and depth of the VX50 made a stunning impression on me.
I think Vox model will be ideal for all performers and especially singer-songwriters. What’s more, the reverb on that thing is just awesome! Undoubtedly, it’s one of the coolest acoustic combos out there.
Vox Cambridge 50
Although it’s not a classic tube amp, it features the Nutube preamp – a low-voltage vacuum tube equivalent. It’s a new technology, but it sounds absolutely fantastic. The amp is equipped with 11 different presets, which offer a big versatility when it comes to tone.
I think that it’s a great choice for beginners. It’s small and loud so it should be more than enough for home use. In addition, the amount of presets gives you a cool introduction into different styles and effects so instead of buying a new pedalboard, you can just start experimenting with the Cambridge amp.
Check out the demo below.
5. Vox AP2AC
It’s time for something different – it’s a headphone amplifier! If you haven’t heard about these before, I highly recommend checking them out. There are loads of models available and they’re all small and affordable. I think it’s a perfect solution for everyone who wants to peacefully practice at home without making too much noise.
Although it’s really compact, it offers a huge variety of sounds. That includes three amps modes and nine selectable effects (with reverb, delay and chorus). Undoubtedly, at this price, it’s a real bargain.
6. Vox AC30HW2X
One of the most expensive Vox tube amps available on the market right now. It costs a lot but it offers an absolutely unique tone. In addition, it looks truly fantastic from the outside and it’s handmade in the UK.
Why is the price so high? Well, it’s the top shelf when it comes to tube amps. The premium components and hand-wired construction wrapped in the grey vintage vinyl significantly affect the final price of this piece of gear. Undoubtedly, it’s offers one of the purest tube tunes that you can possibly find.
7. Vox Mini Go
A small and inexpensive portable modeling amp. The Vox Mini Go is an ideal amplifier for both beginner and more advanced players who are looking for a reliable amp to use at home and gigs. It sounds cool, it doesn’t cost too much and it even features a mic output – who needs anything else?
I think that it will be really tough to find a better portable amp at this price level. It offers so many different sound options and it’s even equipped with a looper! I highly recommend checking it out.
8. Vox AC15C2
The most iconic 15-Watt tube amp manufactured by Vox. This legendary model offers a unique tone and as a result – an amazing playing experience. Although it’s made in China, the overall quality is still awesome. Just bear in mind that it’s also really heavy – over 30 kilograms!
Similarly as the AC30, it’s one of my favorite Vox amps of all time. The clean tone on this thing is just awesome and it also sounds great with a little bit of overdrive or distortion. The pricing of this amp is not perfect, but in my opinion it’s worth every cent.
Feel free to check out the demo below.
What Makes These Amps So Good?
A lot of guitarists consider Vox as an absolutely iconic brand. It’s totally visible especially in the UK! Back when I was studying music in the UK, I met a lot of local bands in Southampton and London. From what I remember, the vast majority of them were using Vox for their rehearsals and live shows. Undoubtedly, people just trust them and they love their gear.
I had some experience with these amps in the past and I have to admit that I always enjoyed that classic and vintage tone. Their sound is really bright and crunchy, so it’s perfect for clean and overdriven tones. I don’t think that they’re great for high-gain though. If you’re into metal, you should probably stick to Marshall, Orange or Mesa Boogie.
Additionally, another factor that significantly impacts the popularity of Vox amps is their price. Of course, they are not cheap, but considering how great quality they offer, they are not too expensive either. I think that even their high level tube amps are within reach of most of advanced guitarists.
Where Are Vox Amps Made?
The company manufactures their gear in the UK and in China. Their most expensive models are handmade and hand-wired from scratch in England – and that ensures of the high quality. At the same time, their lower models are made in China. But don’t worry – they still offer a great quality. If anyone tells you that they suck just because they’re built in Asia, don’t listen to them – they’re clearly wrong.
Vox used to build amps only in the UK, but they decided to move with their production to China a couple of years ago. Is it a good thing? Well, as long as the quality is on point, we don’t have to worry too much about it.
Who Uses Vox Amps?
Undoubtedly, Vox amps had a massive impact on the music industry. What’s more, they’re still really popular among today’s professional musicians. The most famous artists who used this gear includes:
- Paul McCartney (The Beatles)
- Brian May (Queen)
- Chris Shiflett (Foo Fighters)
- Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits)
- Van McCann (Catfish & The Bottlemen)
- Ritchie Blackmore
- Jack Antonoff
- Elvis Costello
- Hozier
- and many, many more!
If you’d like to see more artists who love gear by VOX, make sure to check out the list on their official website.
Do Vox Amps Take Pedals Well?
If you’re wondering whether Vox amps are good for pedals or not, don’t worry. These amps are perfect for experimenting with new sounds and using a wide range of guitar pedals. I think that most of them should have enough clean headroom for that. Especially the tube amps like the AC30!
I’m sure that you’ll be able to achieve a lot of sweet tones on that, no matter if you’re going to choose reverb, delay, chorus or fuzz.
Summary
As you can see, there are a lot of interesting Vox amps out there. Whether you’re looking for a smaller amplifier for home use or something much bigger for live gigs, their gear won’t disappoint you.
Which Vox amp would I choose? Well, I’d probably stick with the classic – the VOX AC30. It’s iconic and it has everything you need from a tube amp. Although it’s pretty expensive, it’s totally worth that money. But don’t get me wrong – all the other amps mentioned above are also really good!
Let me know what you think about Vox amps in the comments section above! In addition, if you enjoyed this article, you may also like:
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