Practical questions about vox ac15vr, ac15c1, and the valvetronix circuit

[rockingoutetc]

First, I'd like to thank mylespaul forums for all the great info I've obtained by just reading some threads. It really has been valuable. Now it's time to start my own.

Basically I'm am/was looking at the Vox AC15VR. On the vox website they talk about the amp. It is a mix of solid state and tube technology. They say:

Originally designed for the critically acclaimed Valvetronix modelling amplifiers, the Valve Reactor circuit places a 12AX7 vacuum tube (or “valve”) into the power stage. Known as a dual-triode tube, the 12AX7 is actually two tubes in one.

As it happens, the Valvetronix series are modeling amps which are cheaper. I tried on in store set to emulate an AC30 and it sounded pretty nice.

On the valvetronix page on Vox's website, they note "Tube-driven VOX Valve Reactor circuit uses a 12 AX7 vacuum tube for true-tube tone"

Since they are using the same technology and the same tube, does this mean the AC15VR is essentially the same as the amps in the valvetronix series?

Basically (to my relatively untrained eyes) it seems the only difference is the AC15VR has a larger speaker and a lower wattage when compared to the valvetronix series.

I've also been thinking about going all the way up to a VOX ac15c1 which is all tube. My only concern with this option is: Is it going to be possible to get great tone at volumes that are not very loud? The seeming advantage with solid state is you can get the full tone (however inferior it may be) at any volume.

Thanks so much for your help guys, I wouldn't turn to any other site.

[gtimach1]

Originally Posted by rockingoutetc

I've also been thinking about going all the way up to a VOX ac15c1 which is all tube. My only concern with this option is: Is it going to be possible to get great tone at volumes that are not very loud?

I think the VOX AC15c1 sounds terrific at low volumes. You have a pre and post volume control on the Top Boost channel, which allows you to dial in plenty of gain or keep it clean. Would it be better cranked? Sure, but that could be said about most amps.

I find the AC15c1 to be a very satisfying sounding amp at lower volumes. The volume is relatively easy to control, so you can play darn soft or crank it up a bit with ease.

I did gig with it once in a small club and it sounded amazing.

It is actually one of my favorite amps to play late at night. So, yes, I think it sounds good at low volumes.

[thinkgreen]

i found that i can control my tone and volume far easyer on my ac15c1, than i ever could on my ac4tv. imo it sounds sweet whatever volume you have it at

[Drew224]

It really isn't even to hard to decently open up an AC15, imo. I've played some, and I own a 15 watt tube amp that I've played at various volumes in various situations.

[rockingoutetc]

Good to know, I really appreciate the advice. MLP is a quality site. I'll probably break the bank/save up a bit and get the ac15c1.

However, I'd still like to know if the VR and the other valvetronix are basically the same for curiosity reasons only at least.

Other random question, anyone Use a Keeley Ds1 Ultra with their Vox Amps? Love those Marshall solos, but really want the vox tones for rhythm and most other items.

[chef]

Originally Posted by rockingoutetc

Good to know, I really appreciate the advice. MLP is a quality site. I'll probably break the bank/save up a bit and get the ac15c1.

However, I'd still like to know if the VR and the other valvetronix are basically the same for curiosity reasons only at least.

I'd save up for an AC15.

I owned a Valvetronix VT-80+. It was an ok amp, I sold it to get something else (egnater). I also spent 15 mins or so messing around with a AC15vr. I think it sounds better than my VT-80+ did on the AC-15 channel. Maybe the speaker, may be the circuit, I don't know. I have also played various tube AC15's and I think that is the best choice for vox tones unless you can handle the size/volume/weight of an AC-30 (which I can't).

[kboman]

The AC15 is sweet and works fine in an apartment. Don't get it if you have back problems though... MDF all the way