#VOX AC30CC2 RELIABILITY SERIES#
VOX Custom Series amps offer two channels: Normal and Top-Boost. Not only that, but the HRD III is roughly $300 cheaper, brand-new.Īre there any recommendations or pros/cons of either of these amps that should make me sway towards one, and not the other? This would be my first tube amp, and I REAAAAAAAALLY don't know much - only from what I've read over the net and such.The VOX AC30 combo amp has been an icon for decades, known as the sound that powered the 1960s' "British Invasion." Based on the classic AC30 design, the all-new Custom Series AC30C2 and AC30C2X offer numerous up-todate enhancements, delivering the most versatile AC30 design in VOX history. I've read in previous forum posts where Joe himself has made some comments on the HRD III, and even suggested it. I'm more into the indie-rock type of sound (Kings of Leon, The Kooks, Matthew Good), but I would also like to get a nice, JB-ish type of sound. Any input on this?Īs I've said, I've come down between the AC30 CC2 and the Fender HRD III. This happens in both the Normal and Top Boost channels.
#VOX AC30CC2 RELIABILITY FULL#
However, based on some research and stuff (reviews), there's been a lot of people saying that the amp is known to break down a lot, and quick, and because of this, I keep wanting to go to the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe III since I haven't heard or seen any bad reviews, especially for their reliability. I replaced all of the tubes (pre-amp and power) in my Vox AC30CC2 with a full set of JJ Tubes (EL84 x4, 12AX7 x3) and ever since my amp has been incredibly quiet with occasional volume jumps that send me flying out of my seat. I also love the wamplers and will likely pick out 3 or 4 within the year.
I do demos of all those pedals individually on separate videos if that would help you in your quest. And the RAT is the great high gain 80's tone used by dudes like Jeff Beck and Steve Stevens and many more. In addition, its linearity and tone characteristic make it the ideal replacement for EL84 hi-fi amplifiers, such as those built by Fisher, Scott, and Harmon-Kardon. The Sparkle is great for a boost and some country tones. Due to its rugged construction and conservative ratings, it is the most reliable current production EL84 type available for use in Vox AC-30 type amplifiers. The Fulldrive is like when he kicks on his tube screamer.
The AC30 is the obvious choice if youre looking for the beatlesque 1960s sound - or the more overdriven rock sound of REMs Peter Buck. Your choice should depend on what music you are playing. The OCD is kinda like Joe's Strait Jubilee tone. I have equivalents of both amps - a Bruno Underground (boutique amp based on Vox AC30) and Roland JC-160 (with 4x10 speakers instead of 2x12). I don't really prefer any its kinda a smorgasbord of tones at my feet. Out of your OD pedals, would there be one you'd prefer most? Say more that could definitely come close to a JB tone? I'm even more convinced to get after watching that. NICE! You're getting some UNREAL tones out of that. I also have demos paring it with a marshall JCM 800 Here is an video I did of it the day after I got it. I have the one that has the Green and Blue speaker in it and love it.