Rock Your World with the VOX AC30C2 Custom Amp: A Comprehensive Review
Blog Introduction: Whether you’re a musician or a music enthusiast, you know that a good amplifier is key to creating a great sound. And when it comes to amps, Fender is one of the most trusted and respected names in the industry. One particularly popular offering from Fender is the ‘65 Princeton Reverb guitar amplifier. But is it worth the investment? In this comprehensive review, we’ll examine the pros and cons of this amp, to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you.
Construction and Design:
The VOX AC30C2 Custom’s classic design and vintage aesthetics are sure to turn heads. The all-tube amplifier features a sturdy birch ply cabinet covered in textured black vinyl with traditional VOX diamond cloth, chrome corners, and a retro handle. It weighs approximately 71 pounds, making it quite a hefty amplifier, but that’s entirely expected for an amp with this much power. The VOX AC30C2 Custom has two channels- Normal and Top Boost- and each channel has its independent volume controls. There’s also onboard treble and bass EQ control, reverb, and tremolo speed/delay. Additionally, the optional VFS2A footswitch gives you even more control.
Sound Quality
The VOX AC30C2 Custom is a tube amplifier that delivers the vintage British tone that made VOX famous. Its tube-driven preamp and power amp sections- which come with four EL84 power tubes for 30 watts of power- deliver rich harmonic tones, which, when combined with the power stage’s push/pull design, provide excellent sustain and warmth. The optional VFS2A footswitch allows for smooth channel switching, making it an ideal amp for live performances. The amp also features a built-in reverb and tremolo effect for creating retro, surf-inspired tones. The VOX AC30C2 Custom’s tone is both sweet and dirty-a delicate balance of Fender-style clarity and grittier British vibe, making it perfect for those who need an amp that can deliver both clean and dirty tones.
Pros and cons:
As with any amplifier, the VOX AC30C2 Custom has its pros and cons. First and foremost, it offers a unique blend of British and American-style tones. The clean, jangly tones are genuinely reminiscent of a Fender Twin or Deluxe, while the overdriven sounds boast more of a British-style crunch that suits a variety of styles. Additionally, its built-in reverb and tremolo effects add depth and character to its tones. However, it is a relatively heavy amp. Also, certain models come with no onboard distortion, which can be a dealbreaker for some.
Conclusion:
The VOX AC30C2 Custom is an excellent amplifier for anyone seeking a vintage, British-style tone. Its tonal versatility, onboard effects, and classic design have cemented its place in music history. Although it is not a cheap amplifier, the VOX AC30C2 Custom’s overall performance, high-quality build, and reliable sound make it much more than just a classic amp replica. It’s the perfect tool for guitarists who want to add a touch of British heritage and classic rock vibes to their playing.
