Price Paid: 500 ($AUS) used
Features: 7
I think my Vox AC50 is a mid sixties model and I've had it for over ten years now. In that time I've never really heard an amp that I like the actual sound of better although at times I have hankered for either more power (50 watts can get drowned out by other loud players) or extra features - like traditional reverbs and tremelo.
The AC-50 seems to have enough power in most situations for me. In very loud situations it falls short. Volume settings past 5 are distorted (nice as it is) but not any louder. A bit like Fender Bassman 50's in this regard. Turn up to 10 and you get harmonic distortion which is not very nice in my view.
I believe the key to using this amp to great effect is making sure you've got a good solid wood, solid back speaker cabinet to plug it into. I use a twin Fender cabinet that was meant for a Fender Tremolux (I know, where's the Tremolux head - I sold it!! I'm sorry I was poor and it was only 30 watts). This combo sounds great to me. Really solid bottom end and great jangling bell midrange and tops.
Sound Quality: 10
I use a Telecasters, Rickenbacker and a Gretsch Country Gentleman with this amp and they seem to really suit it. Les Paul type guitars don't seem to do as well for some reason. They tend to sound thick and characterless. The distortion on this amp is I think one of its main strengths. My model has a master volume (which may be a modification I don't know - I've seen others with out it.) and this helps to train the distortion to the level you like. It's great for crunchy power pop type sounds - I think the Ibanex Tubescreamer was aiming for something similar. Overall though it doesn't "jangle" as richly as some AC-30's I've heard.
Reliability: 10
It's nver broken down! Amazing for athirty five year old amp and I've benngigging with it for years. It should stay at home really to rest and be preserved but I've tried to replace it with other amps (Fender Deville, Fender Vibrosonic, Fender Pro Reverb, Fender Bassman) and I'm never that happy and have to go back to it. The others just don't geta rich enough tone, particularly in distortion, or aren't loud enough (Bassman).
Customer Support: 1
No such thing. I have to send overseas to buys knobs. Most amp serviceman can deal with it however, it's a very simple.
Overall Rating: 10
I've had this amp since the mid eighties and have only seen two others over here in Perth Western Australia in that time. I understand that they are around in USA and UK in some numbers though. I'll buy another if I see one in good nick especially. I'd also like to buy the original speaker cabinet if I ever see one (fat chance).
I just wish it tremolo and reverb and the option of being just a tad louder clean if required.
Submitted by Rick Mason at 05/11/2001 19:54
