The AC30 uses the same preamp section as the AC15, but doubles up on the power amp section, packing in 4 of the EL84 valves. On the power amp front, you’ve got 2 6BQ5 (EL84) power amp tubes, which deliver a total of 15watts of output power (hence the name). The Vox AC15 uses three 12AX7 (ECC83) tubes for its preamp section, which deliver that classic AC chimey tone. Tubes and power: Vox AC15 vs Vox AC30 Tubes and power: Vox AC15 On the whole, both amps deliver pretty the same tonal elements, so this one is a tie.Ģ. As you imagine, you’ve got more high-frequency energy happening here, which helps overdriven lead tones really cut through in a mix.
The top boost channel on either amp is a good fit for lead tones. Overdrive tonesīoth of these Vox amps get firmly into crunchy drive territory, though neither will compete with the balls-to-the-wall high-gain tones from the likes of a JCM900 or 5150.Ĭrank up the gain on either amp and you’ll get a nice classic rock crunch tone, or throw a TS9 in front for a more highly-drive Texas blues tone. The amps are a fantastic platform for pedals, allowing you to throw in a compressor or delay pedal for a variety of different clean tones. For example, you’d probably find an AC amp to have a bit less top-end than a Fender amp. The clean channel on these amps is decidedly mid-focused, with a present, jangly tone that isn’t crazy sparkly. Sounds and tones: Vox AC15 vs Vox AC30 Clean tonesīoth amps offer pretty much the same tonal palette, using the same preamp circuits and speaker offerings (which we’ll discuss soon).
It’s also a great choice if you have a couple of different guitars with different output levels, as it has high and low input jacks.ġ. Go for Vox AC30 if you need maximum clean headroom, are using the amp for live performances, or need an effects loop for connecting external pedals.It’s also a good choice if you’re playing in your bedroom, as the lower wattage allows you to reach saturation without blasting the neighbors. Go for Vox AC15 if you’re looking to get that creamy mid-range Vox tone on a budget, don’t require an effects loop, and don’t need too much clean headroom.So when it comes down to Vox AC15 vs Vox AC30, which one should you choose? Here’s a quick overview: Price & Value For Money: Vox AC15 vs Vox AC30 30-Second Summary: Vox AC15 vs Vox AC30.