Feature:
Four reasons why I didn't give the amp a 10. First, the programming controls are not intuitive, but the manual does an excellent job of explaining how to use the controls. Second, these amps really need an effects loop/return jack. The built in effects are nice, but I use several effects pedals to get my unique sound and would like to run them through the a built-in effects loop. Third, the built-in combinations of effects are cool, but I would like more control over the mix. Lastly, this amp should have 2 inputs, not just one.
Quality:
So far so good. I've dragged these amps back and forth to practice and gigs, and they are holding up well. Minor scrapes and tiny tears in the tolex is about all the issues so far after about a year of moderate use. I always carry a spare tube just in case, but everything seems to be solid. The controls are still easy to operate, no crackling or scratchiness, the jacks are working fine, the effects still sound good.
Value:
For versatility, power, reliability, and quality at a reasonable price, these amps are hard to beat. The regular prices are good, but if you find them on sale for 20-30 bucks off, grab one, you won't be sorry.
Desirability:
Some may dislike the chrome grill plate used in place of the usual VOX diamond cloth, but it definitely helps prevent accidentally tearing the grille cloth or puncturing a speaker. The rotating speaker, wah, and tremolo effects are great for 60s classic rock. The chorus, compression, and delay are great for modern rock. One of the really cool things (on the 30 watt and larger versions) is the ability to turn down the main amp without turning down the preamp. This allows you to get real tube overdrive sound at lower volumes, as well as easily adjust for smaller venues when you gig.
Sound:
Very versatile controls. Can play anything from 60s classic rock to 80s punk and get the right sound. The amplifier simulations are pretty close, but the Tweed 4x10, the Blackface 2x12, and the AC30TB are dead on. The 12AX7 tube in the preamp gives you a warm, vintage sound. I bought three of these amps, the 50 watt version with 2-12" speakers, the 50 watt version with 1-12" speaker, and the 15 watt version with 1-8" speaker. The 50 watt units are sufficient to play most gigs, and the 15 watt is perfect for practice at home. I've used the amps with my Strats, a Moseley, and my 60s Epi Casino, and get authentic early and classic rock and roll sounds from them.
Ease of Use:
Once you read the manual and get over the learning curve on programming the channels, it's a piece of cake to duplicate your setup. There are things about this amp that are not intuitive, but once known, set up is easy.
Support:
Haven't had to use VOX support.
Overall:
If I lost this amp due to theft or damage, I would probably replace it with the same. Like I said above, I already bought 3 of them, and I think what you get for the money is hard to match. They can produce the warmth of the older, small Fender amps as well as the brassiness of the small Marshall solid state amps. If you can't afford to buy several different amps to match different styles of music, this one amp may be what you need to cover a lot of territory.
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