AntisNews

The sound of a great Vox tube amp is one of the 10 wonders of the world for guitarists, but until recently that experience has come with a relatively hefty price. A few years ago the situation started to change for the better when Vox developed some exciting new models that offered classic Vox tones at prices that weren’t out of reach to most players.

Vox’s new Custom series continues this welcome trend by providing classic Vox tones and pro features in fully gig-worthy amps that cost about what you’d expect to shell out for a basic entry-level amp. Interestingly, the new Custom series AC30C2 features a simpler design that does away with the various switches found on its previous (and currently discontinued) Custom Classic counterpart, while the Custom series AC15C1 expands upon the features and versatility of its Custom Classic brother by adding a Normal channel and a master Tone Cut control. The new models also come stock with Celestion Greenback speakers, which replace the Wharfedale speakers and the more expensive optional Celestion Alnico Blues.

The addition of a Normal channel and a tone cut control brings the AC15C1 closer to the classic AC30 Top Boost model than its previous incarnation. With its 15-watt output and single 12-inch speaker, the AC15C1 is like a mini AC30 that’s ideal for small club gigs and recording.


Like an AC30, the AC15C1 includes a very cool tremolo circuit with speed and depth controls. Unlike an AC30, the amp also features built-in spring reverb with a level control. The tremolo and reverb effects are in the master section, so they are applied to both channels, and you can engage or disengage each effect separately with an optional footswitch. An external speaker jack with an 8/16-ohm impedance selector automatically disconnects the internal speaker when you connect an external speaker cabinet, while the extension speaker jack keeps the internal speaker functioning when you plug in an additional cab.