Introducing the new Classic Plus range of all-tube amplifiers from Vox. This EL34-powered line-up marries the classic Vox tone and chime of rock and roll legend with a versatile high-gain channel that goes beyond anything in Vox’s 50 year history and into all-new Vox sonic territory. With the new AC50CP2 50-Watt combo, the Classic Plus range delivers amps that do it all — from the ’50s to tomorrow. Sound big? You bet. What do 50 years of classic Vox sonic history sound like? Play one.
2 Channels, Endless Possibilities
The Classic Plus is a channel-switching valve pre and power-amp guitar amplifier that can produce many flavors of tone, from pristine clean to impressive high-gains, and all points between. The 2 channels have a variety of wide-ranging controls to help you create the sound textures that you desire.
Channel 1 covers classic Vox AC30 tones, from sparkling clean to raunchy overdrive. The EQ on this channel is of the interactive passive format that is historic to Vox Top Boost amplifiers and boasts the addition of the famous Tone Cut control, which musically rolls off high end as it is turned up.
Channel 2 picks up where Channel 1 leaves off, delivering everything from modern blues and classic rock tones all the way to high gain classic metal sounds and fluid lead tones. While Channel 2’s EQ controls are also of the interactive passive format, they are centered on different frequencies to enhance the higher gain capabilities of Channel 2. The Channel 2 Bright Switch brings in an extra capacitor (switch down) across the Gain control to boost the high-mid and upper frequencies and is particularly effective on lower gain settings. The Bright Switch is great for giving extra bite and clarity to muddy sounding humbuckers. The Fat Switch adds extra gain, and focuses the mid range of the guitar and amp, which helps produce a “singing” tone when playing lead lines.
The Presence Control circuit is another unique feature to the AC range. It combines the traditional active power amp feedback circuit with a passive circuit within Channel 2’s preamp. This not only focuses the Presence boost, but, if you turn the control down, it will also introduce a high frequency cut filter that can be used to de-fuzz the preamp distortion, making it less aggressive and sweeter. Since the channels of the Classic Plus are totally independent, you do not need to compromise to achieve your desired tonal palette. It’s almost like being able to mix and match two completely different amplifiers!
Total, Tonal Control
The Classic Plus range is packed with features and controls that meld the best of Vox’s history with modern conveniences. The Classic Plus features a long spring, high-quality Spring Reverb with individual, foot-switchable level control for each channel, plus series FX looping with selectable level control and bypass switching. The Bypass slide switch will either engage the loop (switch On) or disconnect the effects loop circuitry from the rest of the amplifier (switch Off). With the Loop switch in the Off position, the Send jack socket is still operational and can therefore be used to send the signal to another device such as a tuner or slave amplifier. The Loop Level switch allows the loop to used at 2 different signal levels (approximately +4dBV (high) and -10dBV (low)). This will enable a wide range of devices to be connected to the amplifier. Channel switching and on/off reverb control is managed with the supplied VF002 dual footswitch.
Go Direct
The Classic Plus range features extensive direct recording and line out capabilities from both balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4 in. outputs with rotary level control and ground lift switching. To enable great sounding connection into PA or recording equipment, the DI also features a speaker emulating Low Pass Filter (LPF) network. This can be switched into or out of circuit as required. Another great plus of the DI circuit is that it is post the power amplifier’s phase inverter valve, and before the Output Master Volume control. No matter how loud or quiet your stage level is, you have totally independent control of the DI output level. You can even turn the Master Volume totally off and use the DI output for “silent” recording for those midnight sessions.
Power Trio
The Classic Plus range is comprised of the 50-Watt AC50CPH head (4 x 12AX7/ECC83, 2 x EL34B), the 100-Watt AC100CPH head (4 x 12AX7/ECC83, 4 x EL34B), and the 50-Watt AC50CP2 combo (4 x 12AX7/ECC83, 2 x EL34B). The AC50CP2 comes loaded with 2 Vox original design 12 in. speakers voiced for maximum performance with the Classic Plus. Pair either of the heads with Vox’s V412BN cabinet, and you’ve got an unbeatable tone machine. No matter how you play, there’s a Classic Plus for you. And with their combination of unmatched tone, flexibility and ultra-cool looks, the Classic Plus range is at home on any size stage. Plug in and hear them roar!
Power Output: 50 watts RMS into selectable 8 or 16-ohm loudspeaker load
Loudspeaker complement: 2 off Vox/Wharfedale GSH1230 8-ohm loudspeakers wired in series for a total of 16-ohm load
Valve complement: 4 x 12AX7/ECC83 (V1:Low microphonic) and 2 x EL34B
Dimensions (W x H x D): 702 x 265 x 540 mm / 27.6 x 10.4 x 21.3 in.
Weight: 35 kg / 77.2 lbs.
Included items: Power cable, VF002 footswitch
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Nice versatile amp
I picked this amp up after realizing My Mesa Boogie DC-10 2×12 wasn't quite the right amp for me. I really prefer amps with El34 or EL84 tubes. They sound a little warmer to my ears than a 6L6 amp. Anyway, this Vox AC50CP2 amp has a really nice clean channel and its spring reverb really makes single note blues lines sound fantastic with loads of sustain. The distortion channel of this amp is very much like a vintage Marshall or Orange with enough crunch for classic rock,classic metal, or even punk. If you are into 7 string or detuned modern metal mayhem and covet that thick low end Krank/Boogie tone, then this amp won't be able to get you there without a metal muff or similar pedal. I really dig this amp's vintage looks. The included 2 button footswitch has a metal housing and seems pretty sturdy. This amp is made in China, but so is my little Epiphone Valve Jr. stack which I also love. I hope this Vox holds up as well as the Mesa Boogie I just sold, but only time will tell. The 3 handles on top of this combo make it easier to carry than some other 2×12 tube combos. It weighs just under 80lbs, so it's no light weight. It comes with an extension speaker jack on the back so you can always add another cab. This is one of the more affordable 50 watt tube amps out there. A Boogie,Orange, or Marshall of similar wattage will set you back at least 1-2+ grand, so give this amp a try… you may be pleasantly surprised that Vox has branched out from their AC30 roots and made an amp that can not only produce good cleans but can also play your favorite rock or punk tunes.
rockchic from Ohio (Jun 6, 2008)
"Best new 50 watt tube amp that has vintage vibe, and modern tone, but still costs under a grand."
Nice vintage looking amp, plus it has a matching extension cab that can be purchased at a fair price.
Vox Ac50CP2 is the best bang for buck new 50 watt tube amp out there right now.
This Vox is made in China, and isn't as solid as a USA made Mesa Boogie amp but it's every bit as solid as a Marshall, Peavey, Laney ect
No opinion haven't had to deal with them yet. Amp works great!
a customer from netzero.com (6/22/2008)
