Vox ToneLab Guitar Amp Modeling Processor

No longer available at zZounds
Circuit uses 12AX7 as a power amp tube. 16 amp models. 10 cabinet models. 22 modeled effects

Vox packed the incredible modeling power of Valvetronix amplifiers into a portable, desktop or live Stage Edition box. Introducing the new Vox ToneLab and Tonelab SE amp modelers - for amazing amp sound anywhere.

Announcing the new Vox ToneLab & Tonelab SE (Stage Edition), the newest members of the Valvetronix series that fuses Vox's advanced modeling technology with real tube power and sound. The compact ToneLabs faithfully model the famous amp sounds loved by guitarists around the world, ranging from hard-to-find vintage amps to high-end modern amps. In addition, ToneLab's 12AX7/ECC83 loaded, Valve Reactor power amp circuit reproduces the sound and feel of multiple vacuum tube power amps to deliver every detail of warm, fat tube amp sound. ToneLab and Tonelab SE boast advanced features not found on Valvetronix amplifiers, such as separate speaker cabinet modeling which produces an unmatched spatial sense even when you use the line output and MIDI I/O for program transfer & editing. In addition Tonelab provides an S/P DIF jack for high-quality digital recording.

Features:
Vox Valve Reactor (using a 12AX7/ECC83 dual triode as a power amp tube) circuit delivers the sound and feel of actual tube power amps

16 amp models ranging from vintage classics to modern "boutique" standards

10 cabinet models add even more variety and authenticity

22 modeled effects with quality that rivals stand-alone units

Heavy-duty construction

Familiar knob-based interface for ease of use

96 read more programs

Headphone output

Optical digital out (S/P DIF) for digital recording (Tonelab Only)

Dedicated editor software for even more detailed editing

MIDI I/O

Optional Valvetronix series foot controller for even more performance possibilities

Backlit LCD with easily viewed LED-like display

Vox Valve Reactor Circuit Delivers True Tube Sound
The power amp section on the ToneLab range features our patented Vox Valve Reactor circuitry that was introduced in our Valvetronix amplifiers. This unique technology enables ToneLab and Tonelab SE to provide the sound, feel and dynamic range that, until now, were only possible with a multitude of all-tube amplifiers. The Valve Reactor circuit uses a 12AX7/ECC83 dual triode vacuum tube, a virtual output transformer and a dummy speaker circuit that simulates impedance changes of a real speaker. In other words though the output power (level) is low, it has the same power amp circuit as an actual full-tube amp, and faithfully reproduces the response of the power amp circuits of the original amp that is being modeled. It reconfigures itself so that its characteristics are the same as the amps it's modeling (class A, class AB, negative feedback circuit, etc.) This means that all of the nuances of the original amp model including sound, feel, distortion and presence are reproduced.

Sophisticated Modeling Technology
Starting with Vox's own AC30, the 16 types of historic amp sounds in Tonelab and Tonelab SE range from hard-to-obtain vintage amps to costly high-end amps. From clean sounds to extreme high-gain distortion, these models cover a wide range of tonal possibilities. Cabinet modeling reproduces the acoustical character of ten different types of cabinet shapes and speaker types. Even when you use the line output for direct recording, ToneLab delivers a superb sense of spatial realism and depth.

22 Amazing Built-In Effects
Each one of the 22 effects in ToneLab and ToneLab SE is a carefully crafted model of one of a variety of sought after classic and popular effects. These are organized into categories of Drive, Modulation, Delay, and Reverb, and deliver quality that rivals stand-alone units. From standard effects such as compressor, overdrive, chorus, and tremolo, through to effects like rotary speaker, acoustic simulator, tape echo, and auto wah, this single unit is all you need to create a rich variety of effect sounds.

96 Different Programs
A combination of amps, cabinets, and effects can be set up as one of 96 programs, so you can recall all your favorite settings instantly. The 48 preset programs cover a wide range of sounds, and let you start experiencing ToneLab's amazing sound right away.

All the Right Ins and Outs
Perfect for recording and live performance, ToneLab includes everything you need for killer guitar sound. The LINE/AMP switch on ToneLab and ToneLab SE lets you send the ideal signal to any connected device, so you can enjoy the ToneLab's real tube sound whether it is connected directly to a mixer or MTR for direct line recording or to another amp for live performance on stage and the headphone out is just what you need for late-night practicing. Of course, ToneLab's digital output is indispensable for recording in a digital environment.

Heavy-Duty Looks and Intuitive Knob-Based Operation
The design of both ToneLab and ToneLab SE complements its superior features, with heavy-duty metal construction and control knobs that make operation easy and intuitive. Program names, parameter values, and original values are displayed in the LCD screen, which is backlit for excellent visibility. Valve icons show the number and model of the power tubes used in the original amp being modeled.

Dedicated Editor Software for Even More Detailed Editing
Dedicated editor software for ToneLab and ToneLab SE is provided, and also can be downloaded from our website. This software enables you to be in complete control of your sound, so that you can tweak it to a level beyond what is available on the front panel. The software also lets you manage an unlimited number of programs. Download ToneLab Editor (2.6MB)

Optional Foot Controller
You can use an optional VC-4 foot controller for ToneLab to switch programs, control the volume or effect parameters, switch effects on/off, set the delay time, or access the tuner --- a great convenience for live performances.
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Amp Models: 16 types

Cabinet Models: 10 types

Effects: 22 types (Drive:10 types, Modulation: 5 types, Delay: 3 types, Reverb: 3 types,

Noise Reduction: 1 type

Programs: 96 (24 Bank x 4 Channel)

In/Outputs: Guitar Input, 2 x Output (1/4" Phone Jack), 1 x Digital Out (S/P DIF) - ToneLab only, 1 x VOX Bus, 1 x Headphone Out (ToneLab only), MIDI IN/OUT

Tuner Measurement Range: 27.5 Hz-2,093 Hz (A0-C7)

Calibration: A = 438-445 Hz

Signal Processing: A/D Conversion 20bit, D/A Conversion 20bit, Sampling Frequency 44.1KHz

Voltage: Local Voltage

Dimensions (ToneLab): 319(W) x 209(D) x 74(H)mm (excluding knobs, but including cover for Valve) / 319(W) x 213(D) x 79(H)mm (including knobs)

Dimensions (ToneLab SE): 710(W) x 244(D) x 111(H)mm

Weight: 2.4 kg (ToneLab), 7.0kg* (ToneLab SE) *Provisional TBC.

Power Consumption: TBC.

Accessories: AC/AC Power Supply

Options: VC-4 VOX Foot Controller

*Specifications and features are subject to change without notice.

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 631-390-6500

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. (89 ratings)
Submitted September 18, 2006 by a customer from adelphia.net

"Open up new Vistas of sound"

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Wonderful product that'll open up new vistas of sound-shaping and exploration. It can play the primary role in your rig, or part of any type of chaining (as for example, if you have your favorite stomp, you can still use it ... just feed it in through the frontend into the ToneLab as you would an Amp, then you have many individual Amp models to play through. You can place a Graphic EQ box on the back end of the ToneLab to adjust the final output to suit. The best of all worlds, really.) Great for recording as well as live play. The Amp & Cab models are excellent....each combo is similar to having a separate Amp and cabinet.

Sound
Excellent tonal range across the 16 Amp models. The Cab models add much to the sound as well ... use them live as well as recording. The VOX 30TB, US HI GAIN, Boutique CL and Tweeds models in particular are outstanding. The Amp models are very sensitive to EQ'ing; plus you have to read the manual to understand how the models react to using the Gain knobs. All Amp models lend themselves well to overdrive breakup of one form or another, from crunchy blues to wailing metal. I could say much about the Amp / Cab model combinations, but you'll have to try them for yourself. The various effects sections are excellent overall. My overall comment about Vox's "Valvetronix" technology is that it REALLY WORKS ... the "VR GAIN" (Master Volume simulation)

Features
BEST POINTS (IMO): (1) Being able read more to mix-and-match amp & cab models at will. The Amp & Cabinet models are basically the reason i bought this product....together with the Valvetronix feature. The models REALLY DO sound fabulous, and the Cab models are extremely useful for live play (not just recording.) USE THEM .... you'll see. (2) Very active Gain & EQ controls; they simulate their functionality on a real amp. (Read the manual for peculiarities for specific models.) (3) Very easy to overdrive a model to produce degrees of distortion. You can really produce Power section distortion as well as preamp.....very discerneable (Valvetronix really works!) (4) Intuitive design for setting up and making adjustments. "Feels" like using an Amp. Button use is easy too. (5) Good slate of effects, in separate sections. Easy to use and adjust. (6) Easy access to the 12AX7 via the front panel. (Some devices force you to take the thing apart to get to the tube.) THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR: (1) ToneLab is EXTREMELY active ... depending on your guitar's PUPs, you may have quite a time eliminating feedback between notes and chords for the hot amp models. (You can play with the builtin noise reduction feature; also watch the rear "Level" dial...don't crank it up too high.) The CH Volume knob is a necessity for leveling the output too. (2) You're limited to ONE pedal effect per patch. (Example: it'd be nice to use the compressor with another pedal. Not being able to match the OD pedals with one of the others doesn't bother me TOO much, since it's so easy to overdrive the amp models.) (3) The "desktop" version requries a separate footswitch, if needed. The ToneLab "SE" is an integrated panel/footswitch version with expression pedal. The "SE" would be best for live concert play, while the desktop version works for home/studio use.

Ease of Use
After studying the front & rear panels for a few minutes, and learning how to get into "manual" mode, you're ready to rock. Pick your 1st amp model, flip to a desired cab, and go. Easy to flip through the range of potential sounds by mixing/matching models. You should read the manual, BUT, it doesn't take an advanced degree to become effective with the ToneLab.

Quality
So far, so good. I'm using it in my studio at home, so i haven't banged it around at all. It's built heavy & solid.

Value
At $300, the desktop version is a GREAT value. It's far more versatile than most high-level distortion stomp's that can cost just as much, and don't provide all of the added features / effects. Compared to other modellers, it's less expensive, and (IMO) fully competitive specifically with the Boss & Line6 products. The Valvetronix technology sets the ToneLab apart from others due to its realistic sounds. The Boss sports many more "features", but hey, how many chained effects does one REALLY need, to sound good? Plus in recording, the issue is moot since you can do so many things with tracking and mixing anyway.

Manufacturer Support
??

The Wow Factor
I definitely wanted this product.

Musical Style:
Rock, Blues, Light jazz, contemporary
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