⚡️This is the first video in a new series about the AC10. In the mean time, you can watch the AC15 and the Mini Superbeetle series⚡️: 👇👇👇 AC15 series: ruclips.net/p/PLeAo3au6SN1mEE4I1YYC2GtP7Y9sZ4VKT MINI Superbeetle: ruclips.net/p/PLeAo3au6SN1kHtYSahXeUYwEOxyzbqill
@@TheToneLounge I crank it up max. I open my back door and sit outside having it next to me. I open my room window next to my door and have a extension cable. Turn it on and play. RN at this very moment I'm learning Parking Lot - plums
This was a really useful comparison. I've always wanted to pick up an AC15 but recently came across a used AC10. I think I'm convinced it's the one for me. I gig with a Deluxe Reverb Reissue & currently get my Vox tones from a Catalinbread CB30 pedal. I just really want a Vox for my man cave and quiet jams. Thanks for putting this together!
Hi Tom, I'm really glad to hear that this video was helpful. I was hoping that it would serve that purpose. Glad to hear that it did. Let me know when you get your Vox, I'd love to hear your feedback on the amp.
Great video. I thought the AC10 was a bit warmer and fatter even with the smaller speaker in the video. So, I bought the AC10. Great choice. Love it for being able to crank it and it's still a nice manageable volume. The AC15 I tried was just a tad too loud to hit that magic spot. The 1O is perfect!
I compared the ac10 v ac15 in guitar shop. I went with the AC10 for my bedroom. I was looking for the vox vintage sound for playing Beatles, kinks, shadows etc. I also wanted the vox valve distortion at acceptable volume levels without using pedals in my bedroom and this was the main reason for going with the ac10. The AC10 sounds seriously seriously good loud and quiet , clean and dirty. Great video. If I didn’t already have a boss katana 100 and pedals I might have gone for the ac15 if it was my only amp . Truth is they’re both great!
You can't go wrong with either of these amps. I do think that the AC10 makes for a better home use/practice amp than the AC15. Are you using an external cab with your AC10?
I played a Dragon tele on an AC10 and was totally blown away. I wasn't sure if it was the amp or the Page pickups. When I put the guitar into some random solid state nearby, that confirmed it was the AC10. It is as good as you say.
I modified my ac15 so I could hook up an attenuator. Omg! It’s perfect now. I get low, home volume with all the tone of it being turned up. It’s truly a versatile amp now. Great for home use now.
@@TheToneLounge no it was more scary than difficult. There’s a vid on RUclips where a guy mods his vox ac10 for an attenuator. I just did what he did to my ac15, but I improved it a bit by installing a switched female 1/4” jack so that the amp wouldn’t require a jumper cable when the attenuator is not in use. All the parts were ordered on Amazon and all connectors were solder-less, crimp push on type. The attenuator was just an inexpensive one made by Carl’s custom guitars. But it’s perfect. The scary part was you need to drill a hole in the back of the amp for the new 1/4” jack panel.
I cannot recommend this enough for the ac15. Vox should have the amps come this way. For many people it’s like hearing their amp for the very first time.
@@wyattsdad8561 hey man, I’m thinking of doing the exact same thing. I’d be over the moon if you could link me everything that you bought? Just been looking for the switched 1/4” jack but I’m clearly not as good at finding these things as you..
This made me move my ac10 a lot more! Compared to the 15, it’s warmer, but still had some great treble when pushed. Perfect for my situation too, just a small home studio in an apartment so don’t wanna drive the neighbors crazy.
+Lando27Music dude! You should try it. I can’t swear that you’ll love it, but if you like the beefyness of a humbucker with the clarity of the single coil, then you’ll dig the P90! My favourite pickup right after the Tele.
The ac15 is a great practice amp. The master volume works so well with the gain of the amp. You can crank it and turn the master down and get a seriously awesome tone, plus you get way more than headroom for pedals if you plan on jamming with a particularly Loud drummer. Put some casters on it and get a young member in the band with a good back for stairs. 🤘🏻😷🤘🏻
It's a pretty loud practice amp though. I see it more as a studio amp, or an amp that can be mic'ed up for gigs. It is too darn heavy though, if I were to gig again I probably wouldn't bring that amp. In comparison though, my Bad Cat cab weighs as much as the AC15, and so does the head. That amp is ridiculously heavy. 😂
Good video! And i find it very important to mention to people that a 15w tube amp is way too loud for comfortable home use.. Especially played in a small room, as most people will do! So many youtubers sell the idea that a tube amp can be played at 100db like it's nothing, when in reality you'll suffer irreversible ear damage over a relatively short period of time ;)
Well any tube amp, even like a 5 watt is too much if played cranked at home. The AC15 worked fine for me at home, and never had any complaints. I always played at more than reasonable volumes.
I have both of these amps and I like the AC15 but the AC10 with a tube swap and plugged into a 2x12 cab sounds much better in person and I don’t know the science but I feel it’s a lot louder in the cab. I don’t really play my ac15 anymore cuz I love the AC10 more.
Great video, guys. I've got both amps. When I'm at home, I use the AC10 almost exclusively, except when recording. The Greenback in the AC15 is so much better sounding (to my ears) whether playing clean or dirty. Also - the AC10 weighs 27 pounds, not 12. Also also - folks should know that if they do buy an AC10 new (as I did about two years ago), they'll have to replace the junky Chinese tubes, as they'll start making noise within a year or so. I bought Mesa Boogie replacement power and pre-amp tubes. They went into the amp like a dream, in 5 minutes (I've got a power hand drill for all the screws on the back of the amp), and the new tubes sound great too. The AC10 is a great amp for home use, coffee-house small gigs, and for getting together at somebody's house to jam or rehearse. If a drummer is present, though, you'll need something bigger, or as you said, will have to mic through the P.A. Keep up the great work!
I think I might have made a typo when I wrote my notes when I did my research for this video, you are not the first to point out that it's not 12 lbs. Oh well, at least folks are catching it and rectifying my mistake. I totally agree with you, the AC10 is great for just about everything. I do intend to change the stock tubes, and probably put a different speaker in it too. That might be a cool video idea, stock versus upgraded AC10. Thank you so much for your feedback. Cheers
Pollo Guitar - I paid $20 per 12ax7 preamp tube ($40 total) and $48 for the pair of EL84s. All Mesa Boogie, all from Sweetwater. So about $100, but WELL worth it.
Pollo Guitar - it stopped the crackling noise, which was my main goal. And, to my ears, it now sounds warmer and and sweeter (although that could just be confirmation bias!). But it sounds wonderful.
I just picked one-up myself. I bought mine new, but it was still a good deal. I needed something quiet for this apartment and it’s perfect … I haven’t recorded it yet, but I’m sure it’s going to sound fantastic.
@@TheToneLounge I have had an AC10 C1 for 3.5 years. Came with a Greenback G10 plus the original factory unit. . Now after so long I put the original speaker back in. I feel this was the best one after all ! however the tubes are too close to the magnet. i also carried out mods to the closed back. This amp was made to a certain price bracket..not to a certain standard. You can get some good tones..but they could have done a better job for not much more money. The 15 is too loud for home use..
I could be feeling a bit defensive having just bought an AC 15 for bedroom use (well, OK, living room use), but That Pedal Show managed to get some pretty nice noise out of the 15 at bedroom levels.
Had the ac15, got the ac10 and sold the ac15😁 To me, the 10 sound better, tighter and cooler voice. Thats all subjective, Im gigging regulary and use it with a 210 cab and an attenuator, play dirty. Great amp:)
I almost kept my AC10, but I wanted a Marshall Class 5 really bad. So I traded it. Now I kind of wish I didn't lol It is a very cool amp. How are you finding it in a gigging situation? Loud enough for most applications?
@@TheToneLounge It works great in almost every gigging situations my good man. But I almost always mic it up. I play in different bands, and my to Main Amps are the ac10 with a 210 cab and a Marshall SV (plexi) with a 212. Always cranck them and use attenuator.
I've got the ac10. I like it, as a musician, it's loud, light weight, with great tone, at a good price. I don't think the reverb is that great. The technicians don't respect the design so much. I agree about choosing the 15 if you are a pro, but I disagree about it keeping up with the band. I turned that little amp up all the way. It gave me a headache. Nothing wrong with micing , or adding an extra cabinet anyway.
The AC15C1 is they easiest amp to attenuate ever (the head only even has an attenuator) - it has the wire inside to connect an attenuator. You can get a palmer attenuator used for under $100 if you skim 50% volume you can get break up at a reasonable volume.
Have both, I have the creamback/JJ upgrades ac10 and it’s great, but if you plug it into a Ext speaker it becomes an absolute killer. More than loud enough to play with a band unmic’d. I use a 15” celestion fullback and it’s unbelievable!
The AC10 is a fantastic amp. I had originally set out to buy one, but when I got to the music store it was gone. They had an AC15 instead. Guess which one I bought? 🤪
One of your best videos yet. Love the twins montage, that should become your trademark, you really got something here. Even go with triplets and quadruplets sometime if you ever compare 3 or 4 different pieces of gear.
You never . . . ever fail . . . with the details Jonathan! As a proud owner of a VOX product, you lay out great comparisons. Best of all, you do not present one as better than the other - - - however you convey the individuals purpose.
+Jay Shrivastava thank you my friend. I hope that these videos can be helpful to those watching, so I make them with as much info as I can. Glad to hear that I am on the right track.
@@TheToneLounge Salut! Je ne savais pas que tu parlais français!! ;) J'ai choisi le greenback. Maybe I will try the blue some day but for now the Greenback feel perfect for my needs!! Good clean, good crunch!
Salut Francis! Oui je suis Québecois! Le Greenback est mon choix aussi. Le AlNiCo Blue est un classique, mais pour mon style plus Rock, j’aim bien le GB.
@@TheToneLounge Plus polyvalent le greenback selon moi! ;) Content de savoir que t’es québécois!! J’ai beaucoup regardé tes vidéos avant d’acheter le vox! J’avais un blues deluxe avant, bon ampli, mais le vox est un keeper!! Cheers!
I have an AC15 Heritage Handwired and an AC10. I live in a duplex, when I play the AC15 I make sure my neighbor is not home! Otherwise , the AC10 is my go to. Personally , I love the digital reverb on it! Great Surf sound!
Very cool! The digital reverb is indeed rather good on that AC10. Does the AC15HW have a down scale on it? I remember that the AC30HW could be scaled down, not sure if the AC15 has that option as well?
There's a switch to go from 15 watts to 7 and a half. It works, but at 7 and a half , it's still pretty loud. That's why I bought the AC10. I have to mention that the AC15 has an awesome clean sound, my Les Paul sounds awesome thru it! I bought it for my Rickenbackers, but prefer the Les Paul thru it!
This might be the video that helped me choose my next amp. I was deciding if I want to get an amp for home practice or gigging use. I have a Boss Katana MKII 100 that does my band practice and gigging soon. So I think I'll go with the AC10 as a home use amp for those beautiful cleans.
I own the AC10 with a creamback and JJs and it kills! I have a hard time getting a good low volume out of it, but I use it during rehearsal and it is plenty loud. I think it is just as loud as my blues jr, but way more versatile
Just noticed that Jet Harris purchased a Vox AC15 in July 1959. So maybe this now obscure but great guitarist from UK is known in the USA. The Shadows also brought the Stratocaster to the UK. Check out Hank Marvin's wonderful tone in the series of instrumental hits they had before the Beatles. Apache, Wonderful Land, FBI, Foot Tapper, Guitar Tango. Ahead of their time.
+John Carden looks like they put the AC15 on the map. It’s funny to think that such a design would still be rocking this many years later. Much like Fender with the Telecaster, Vox got it right the first time with the AC15! I’ll have a look at the songs you mentioned.
I've the AC10 and sounds really good, but I'm considering to change to an Fender Blues Junior because I prefer those clean tones... But when you put half of gain on AC10, is butter... You start to feel it a little bit crunchy.
I had an AC10 a couple of years ago and sold it. I admit it soured me a bit on Vox amps as the other Vox I had prior to that was a Lil Night Train. I just found the sounds kinda thin and fizzy I tried the AC15 and got it immediately. I found that it sounded fuller and your tips on cranking the master and using the eq trick on the normal channel were very helpful.
Great video this, was just what I needed. Tried out an AC10, really liked it, but wondered if it was better to get the “better amp” in the AC15. I think the latter sounds better and has more options in terms of tonal flexibility, but I just want a fun valve amp at home and for recording with the occasional gig, so I’ll probably go for the AC10
Great comparison guys For my purposes it's the ac10 all the way.Lollar p90s + OCD v1.4 + wampler faux analog echo into this bad boy! Tone heaven. Liked and subscribed
You have no idea how many people think I have a twin. Truth be told, I did the Calvin & Hobbes thing with the cardboard box and cloned myself. My wife isn't happy about it. And yes, both amps are stunning to look at!
Sorry for the late reply, YT seems to no longer update me when I get replies and comments. Those are the same tubes I have in my AC15. Reliable and they sounds great.
Same thing happened to me! I had it for almost a year when it happened. Luckily it was at worship practice, not actual worship. Had enough time to swap tubes and it REALLY came alive!
In the AC10; a creamback 10" 45 watt works perfectly with this amp; it really opens up the tomes. perfect blues. A 10" Greenback will fit as well. Keep in mind either must be the 16 ohm version. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for the information David. The stock speaker in the AC10 is the same that is found in the AC4BL. It's alright but not the best speaker in the world. The GB would be my ideal choice. Cheers
I have the ac 10 and it is pretty great unless you have a super loud band. If you want to use it for studio use you might wanna get another cab for it because the tubes are so close to the speaker that they can make a rattling sound when low e is ringing out. The reverb is better in the ac 10 then real reverbs in other voxes in my opinion. Upgrade the preamp tubes to ehx and you are good to go
@@TheToneLounge - I used to have an AC15 and loved it and know it well, so it was great to see the comparison. This time I am going for the AC10 - it is way more portable and it has some more fullness in the lower mids that I like a lot
Best demo ever been wanting a vox you guys helped me decide great players entertaining and all you needed to know thank you...Roland J Gutierrez from Magdalena New Mexico USA...
I considered the AC10 but eventually settled on a special edition AC15. Mine was pre-loaded with JJ tubes and a Celestion Creamback. It is heavy, but other than size & weight, it is the better amp IMO.
You can take the bell off of any speaker which makes it much smaller. I put a greenback in a bassbreaker and had to remove the cover. I heated it up with a hair drier which heats up the glue that holds it on. Simple.
Thank you SO much. I already have an AC15 but for the basement it’s a bit much. So looking at alternative so this was a great vid. Might go with an AC4 maybe.
You are most welcome Kord! I have a ton of videos on Vox amps on this channel so be sure to check them out. Let me know if you have any questions. Cheers
+Artamus Sumatra I’m considering doing either a stereo setup with the AC10 and the AC15, or use one for cleans and the other for gain. They are both very cool. But yeah, my AC15 is king!
Arksolva Studio Cool, those would be great together. I’ve always wanted an AC-15, and in 2014, my dream came true. I got the blue and cream TV special edition they were doing at the time. Wonderful chimey tone that my guitars love, it’s 100% stock, and I’m keeping it that way.
Arksolva Studio Thanks, I haven’t seen many of these around. They made red/cream ones too, and they seem to be a bit more common, I had to order my blue/cream one directly from Vox, because none of the stores had it. I figured it would compliment my favorite Stratocaster’s lake placid blue/parchment pickguard color scheme. 🙂
Great vid :) I looked at both of these amps for a very long time and whilst I really like the AC10, I finally decided on the AC15. I'm very happy with my choice as the AC15 ticks all the boxes for my needs.
+Ruiseart Alcorn same here. I originally intended to purchase an AC10, but I settled on the AC15 because of that extra spice it offered. They are both great little amps, it’s all down to preference.
@@steverherb Yes indeed! My AC15 is my main amp! These days I use it in a wet/dry configuration with my Fender Bassbreaker 45. It's a great combination! :)
I have the AC 10 Limited Edition Cream.. its PLENTY for gigs..I use it for slide guitar. Teamed with my Mesa Boogie 525 Express I have a well rounded sound.. yes..I am mostly rhythm guitarist..I do occasionally bust a solo..these amps do me just fine.
@@TheToneLounge I've received my ac15 and I love it! I've heard you mention a couple of time that cranking the master and using the channel volume for overall level is best for tone and I absolutely agree. Really happy with the ac15!
In general, for "clean" sounds, the AC10 sounded better to me, because it brings more bass than AC15 (or maybe less treble). Vox AC15 is louder and brighter, and it sounds maybe better cranked up into distortion, but it also brings more treble (maybe undesirable, and not necessarily with good harmonics). Despite the less power of AC10, I liked how it sounds overall, and would use it in live with a microphone.
The AC10 is a very capable amplifier. Before I got my AC15, I was actually wanting to buy an AC10. The morning that I got to the store with the money in hand, they had sold the AC10. I tried the AC15 that they had in store, and the rest is history. I could have been just as happy with the AC10 tbh.
Been playing an AC30 for the past 10 years. Now I'm looking for an amp I can carry by myself and am looking at the smaller VOXs first. I love my normal channel so the AC10 is not an option but somehow the AC15 doesn't convince me either. Maybe it's time to move on and get myself a Fender or a Supro after all.
Thanks for your videos, it's been a big help. I've been dying to get a Vox AC15C1 and a Marshall DSL 20CR, two completely different amps that complement each other in all styles. But regarding the Vox after watching the video I thought that the AC10 could be better (75% is for playing at home 25% in the studio with my son on drums). But I'm in a dilemma because I have a chance to buy the AC15 at the price of the AC10, in this case do you think that even working with volume the AC15 for home is too excessive? Do I take advantage of the opportunity or not because it's to play more at home? There's a guitar riff in your other video About Vox Tone Hacks at 1:50 I love it but I can't find the song, tell me what it is? Keep up the good work
My pleasure, Antonio! To be honest with you, the difference in volume between the both of them is not that huge. They are both loud for home use, if you are not careful. I do have a video that you might want to watch, where I show how to use an AC15 at home. LINK: ruclips.net/video/XwH_uPrfHko/видео.html
@@TheToneLounge Thank you for your help. So it will be another timbre choice!? In your opinion which do you like more AC15 or AC10? A solution would also be to change the amp to use a Guitar Amp. On AC15 I can use Top Booster for more aggressive sound and Normal channel for cleaner sound, correct? Attenuator
@@AntonioRamos_To I have a soft spot for the AC15. It has more headroom and less gain, when compared to the AC10. The Top Boost is a louder since it has an EQ section, but it also has a bit less head room. Technically speaking, the Top Boost and Normal channel are just two different inputs to the same channel. As for attenuation, the Vox are not really made in a way that lets you use an outside attenuator. The best ways I've found to do this is in the video I shared.
Can't believe I nearly missed this in my feed. A great video. You can see the difference between the two clearly, the AC10 using the enclosed back to add more bass to the sound. The AC15 with its greenback just sounds so much more harmonic rich. Spot on with not being able to crank an AC15 to max in a normal domestic environment. From a technical side, I wonder what brands of tubes that they are using in the newer models. If they have just bought in generic Chinese tubes a simple modification would be to change the EL84's to a decent brand, something russian or Uk made, or use American made 6BQ5's (same tube, different number in the US). The other worry for me would be the longevity of the AC10's output transformer and tubes with a closed back and very little ventilation. They are obviously using a lower anode voltage to reduce the power output and a smaller transformer set to bring the weight down but these can be detrimental to lifespan. On the whole though, two good amps depending on your needs.
Great observations! The cabinet construction and chassis design reflect the need for a big sound in a smaller enclosure. I'm sure some sacrifices had to be made to make the amp into this final iteration. In person, at bedroom levels, the AC10 sounds bass heavy and full. As you crank it up, the bass gets too much, real fast. So playing at gig levels, I would most likely take the back panel off. That way the tubes donèt over-heat and the speaker can push more air without sounding muddy. For home use, I would probably use JJ EL884, which are said to be lower power than regular EL84.
@@TheToneLounge Power dissipated by the tubes is a combination of anode voltage and the biasing point of the tubes. Certainly the AC15 runs a much higher b+ level to get that extra 5w. Laney did something similar with their 15w combo, except the output transformer wasn't really up to the job and kept melting.
To my ears the AC15 was the clear winner, but it's impossible to tell how things really sound over youtube. I've got an AC15 already, but I'm really interested in adding an AC10 soon!
It is always better to try them in person for sure. I'd be willing to be you would dig it, based on the fact that it sounds very raunchy when cranked and it packs a punch. Let me know if you ever try one, I'd be curious to know what you think of it.
Great video comparison. Your ac10 must be a super light weight. I think your actually quoting it in kgs as opposed to pounds. I believed it’s 27 pounds as opposed to 12. None the less much lighter than the 15. FWIW I’ve owned both but still have the 15. I thought the build quality was much better on the 15 but I liked the less weight and good low volume tones of the 10.
I have the AC15 and AC4 (both combos)...........will prob trade the AC4 up for the AC10...........the AC 15 is "more" and I use it with the Normal channel and pedals..........in fact, I love the Top Boost as well, but with just a little hair on the tone (I get all my OD tones from pedals - covers band with a wide range of songs to do) So, for me, although the clean tones sound so similar, the grab and go nature of the 10 makes a lot of sense, and the home practice aspect too (the 15 sounds lifeless unless it's up too loud for home use) Cracking video - thanks!
Yeah, the AC10 is a great amp. I wish I could have tried it with an external cab. Something with a Greenback would have been cool. That is the thing with comparison videos, there are too many variables that make a drastic change in tone between the amps. If I could find a way to get the amps mic'ed up with the same cab and speakers, it would make for a closer comparison. Some say that the AC15 can achieve great tones at lower volumes with the help of pedals, but I find the AC10 to perform great in that regards, without the need for pedals. Lightweight, loud enough for most gigs and sounds killer. Definitely a great amp!
Peter, try a always on pedal (can be a booster, compressor ou low gain overdrive like a klon or timmy type) to fix that "lifeless tone" on your AC15 when you are at home. I use a Xotic EP booster and I'm happy. Good luck and have a good time😎🎸
Great video, thanks. I have both. Just be aware that the AC10 Extension is 16ohm, plus as I understand it cuts off the internal speak, so you are plugging in a replacement, rather than an extension, speaker.
@@TheToneLounge The 15 is a much better and more versatile amp, but is heavier to lug around, so for convenience the 10 gets used for medium volume rehearsals. Cheers
I just got an ac15 and it’s my first tube amp. I love it. But I’m thinking I could’ve gotten the 10. I just assumed the ten wasn’t going to sound that great because of its size. But man the ten sounds really good. So maybe one day I’ll buy a ten too.
The Tone Lounge do you know if the power on an ac15 can be turned down to give it more tone at a lower volume? I think There’s some type of switch on the back of my ac15 but I wasn’t sure what it was for. Like my vox ad50vt can be turned down with a little pot in the back to give you better sound at low volume
There is no power scale on the AC15C1, but if you want better tones at lower volume you could try my tone hack! ruclips.net/video/qRFBYM0r7R4/видео.html
@@TheToneLounge I run my AC10 with a Deluxe Reverb from the stereo output of a Boss dd6 and it sounds HUGE. A 335 into my TS9, Wampler Sovereign, Texan Twang, and Rotosphere is really fun to play. I also have a Strat and a Tele as well. I like the clean sounds with the Tele the best. The humbuckers get a little muddy to me with a Vox. The dirt is awesome though. I absolutely love my AC10 and would easily recommend it over the 15 just for pure tonal reasons based on the side by side comparison I done with them at Guitar Center a few years ago when I got my AC10. What is a good price for a legit AC30 btw?
Thanks for this video! I was aimed at AC15 (or Blues Junior or Bassbreaker, but I'll stick to Vox here). Thing is, I don't gig, it's just me here in the house with small kids and neighbours real close. My main guitar is a Tele, and I crave clean tones with a bit of raunch for blues. Right now I'm running a Boss Katana 50, it's very good for what it is, but it's time I got my first tube amp. Amp size isn't so important, but glorious tone at low volume is key for me. I even looked at the AC4... The AC10 looks closer to my solution without being overkill. Here in Canada right now (June 2020), at new prices, the AC10 is $650 (AC15 is $950) so that extra $300 might help towards a tremolo and reverb pedal... Great job on this video, loved your straight-up take. Thanks! Aaron
The reverb in the AC10 is not that bad. In a way, I like it better than the one in the AC15. Try it first before buying a reverb pedal, you might find it suitable for your needs. If so, then you got extra cash for another pedal! :)
@@TheToneLounge As soon as this virus thing is past, I will be trying out both AC10 and AC15. Something about the sound of the 10 (in your video and in others too) grabs me. The reverb in my Katana 50 (it has plate, spring and hall) is OK by me too, though I find I fiddle a lot to get it just right for what I'm after that day. If I like the 10's reverb, and can use that money for an OCD or something else, then you're right that's a win. Thanks so much for your reply!
My pleasure Aaron. Check out these series to get more of an idea on what you might want to look for in your next amp. Pedals with Vox: ruclips.net/video/7VyhYZps1Bw/видео.html Vox AC15 series: ruclips.net/video/qRFBYM0r7R4/видео.html AC10 series: ruclips.net/video/JjM4YIbuNBM/видео.html
hey bud ...i just got an AC 15 for 400 !! ...reverb is broken ...but heres the thing ..i !@#$%^ hate reverb ! lol....i am much more delay - or dry sort of guy .....here in australia , they gor for 1000 ..or on special at the moment for 760 $ ...so i saved a packet ! ....i am very happy.. heres me with my old amp- a laney ...ruclips.net/video/SFwJJHUAIn0/видео.html
Hey Jonathan, I recently discovered your channel, I'm 55 yrs old and I've been playing seriously (meaning continually) since I was 18 so that's 37 years...which doesn't in any way mean I'm good...nevertheless I've had just about every type of big brand amp you can think of but only recently did I get a Vox (and I've had thousands and thousands of euros worth of gear) and I love the sound of the AC10 but it doesn't take all kinds of drive pedals well whereas Fender amps do, meaning I have to pick and choose which drives sound good through the Vox AC10. Cheers, Mike.
Hey Mike, that is what my ever growing series called Vox Friendly Pedals is for. I hope you find something in there. Cheers 𝗩𝗢𝗫 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗟𝗬 𝗣𝗘𝗗𝗔𝗟𝗦: ruclips.net/p/PLeAo3au6SN1kfdYcyp8bvHttqkPinQ2Wt
like always great video...i have a great way of getting bedroom volumes...with a telecaster neck pickup its awesome....try this...top boost....master volume all the way up....tone cut all the way off (like 7 o clock)...bass 10 o clock....treble 2 o clock....reverb all the way up...tremelo off....guitar volume all the way up...maybe roll tone half off on tele...now play a chord and slowly turn up gain untilyouget desired volume...if you want to practice clean thats perfect....if not then you will need some pedals to get you there....use the boss blues driver with gain almost off...maybe 9 o clock or less....tone between 9 ans 12....and turn volume up until you hit your desired volume...if you want even more gain run that into an OCD with gain almost off (again, 9 or less) tone at 11 to 2 depending on taste and volume again low....so...this stacking trick gets some awesome harmonic response that emulates the amps characteristics at loud volumes.
Dang, looks like I have to try this now lol. I think I got spoiled playing at louder volumes and forgot how to tweak an amp to fit the "practice" volume. I'll give that a spin and I'll let you know what I think of it. Your trick of using overdrive/gain pedals makes a whole lot of sense, since you are reducing the dynamics by clipping them, which gives you a more even output. I think a compressor/limiter might make sense as well, as they both control dynamics. Thanks for sharing this great tip. Cheers
Really informative video. Thanks! While I did prefer the sound of the AC15, the AC10 was no slouch. I just may pick up an AC10 for another basement practice amp. It would be a nice complement to my blackface Princeton reissue. And it would make for a nice stereo option. Liked and subscribed!
It would definitely compliment your Fender amp. As you said, the AC10 is no slouch and it has a really killer overdrive too. Takes pedals very well and would look great beside your Princeton. Cheers
I would really like to see how the AC10 compares to the Mini Superbeetle since they're both really good amps for practice at home without risking a divorce when you put them in the living room.
Hi how are doing? I bought the amp AC10 based on your videos because I didn't have a place to try it out. It's a great amp. If you will could you show some of your favorite settings on it. Thanks
I love that...if you’re looking for just a practice amp, the AC15 might not be for you....that is awesome! I never ever play my AC10 anymore, strictly only play my ac4 now- AC10 is way too loud for home use, even my AC4 has “opened” recently and it gets loud as balls for home use, it will gig with a 212 extension cabinet. These amps open up after time, and pedals push them way over, you will not get a great idea of how loud they get when you plug straight in. Great extension cabinet, good tubescreamer like pedal and these become unruly beasts
The AC4 is pretty darn loud, but it's not the kind of loudness that bugs the neighbors too much, as it barely has any low end information. So, loud when you stand directly in front of it, but in the next room it ain't so bad.
The Tone Lounge no low end? It can get a lot of low if you tweak it just right, with the right humbucker. But if you have a 212 extension cabinet, preferably open back - the AC4 will deliver loads of low end. Give it a try
Which AC4 do you have? The 10inch or the 12inch? Or perhaps the AC4tv? I'm looking to buy used and tossing up between an AC10c1 and an AC4tv. I know; only thing they have in common is speaker size.
@@emmanuelangelakis2569 I have the AC4C1 10”. It’s the top boost circuit. The other 10”. That one is the “normal” channel. I definitely would pick one up just to complete what I have. But I am a top boost kind of guy. Unless you have an original Vox amp with an ef86 preamp tube - I don’t really see the magic of the normal channel. I think any Vox tone from the early 60s cannot be separated from the ef86 tube. So not a big fan of the modern normal channel.
@@voxpathfinder15r I tried that out in a store a few weeks ago. Loved it. Also more appropriate for me, bedroom hack in an apartment. The AC10 is more ego. Decisions! Oddly enough, I also have a Pathfinder 15R.
@@TheToneLounge I am a beginner from ages, and looking for information on best tube amp for home practise, and practical information/example on different pedal ie what actually these pedal does. Do we really need them? Also what should be the line up if we need any. And I am hoping you will be the one to pass on the information. Thankyou brother.
The AC10 was originally Vox's attempt to create a more western, Fenderish sounding amp. Whenever I listen to these shootouts I walk away confident that the AC15 wins, but every time thus far my yardstick has been the classic Vox sound. Having listened to the AC10 live, and as good as recordings have become they don't seem to be able to capture some important parts of it's sound, I realized I was not giving it a fair shake. There is a silky smoothness, a lower end beauty and lower midrange to it. Certain AC15 iterations would win me over more perhaps but I am beginning to think that the modern AC10 is a wonderful sound for me. Dammit.
Vox amps are hard to capture in a recording. I've been recording these amps for years, and I sometimes mess it up. The AC10 is a very capable amp, and sounds incredible in person. I think it's sound is in part due to the smaller output transformer. It breaks up in a very different way compared to the AC15. The choice of speaker is different too, it's the VX10 from Celestion. They are the same speaker found in the AC4bl and the Mini Superbeetle cab.
@@TheToneLounge I really believe it is my own jaundiced ear. What are your thoughts about the speaker you mention? And the different breakup characteristics? I have found, with a small test group mind you, that Vox is pairing some very good speakers to their combos. They do the amps justice. Interested in your findings. Thanks
These are made by Celestion, and they are quite good. They do clean and dirty tones well. They are not my favorite speakers, but when I spot them in an amp, I tend to leave them there.
+John Carden I’m not too familiar with The Shadows. I know of their importance and contributions, but have not taken the time to indulge in their work. Any recommendations for me?
My guitar teacher recommended I get the ac 15. He knows I love vox amps and says it has amazing sound. It might be heavy but I think I’ll make the trade off. I’ll be using it for studio work and small gigs (if we are ever able to do them). How does it sound with an ocd overdrive pedal?
I’ll be giving you more details later today ( I’m going to be on the road for a bit). Here is the OCD with the AC15: ruclips.net/video/7VyhYZps1Bw/видео.html
When I went to get my AC10 there was an AC15 right beside of it. I plugged in the AC10 and thought I had went to heaven. I then thought "well if this is this good the 15 must be even better" and so I plugged in the AC15 and in about 10 seconds flat I was like "DEFINITELY getting the 10"! It was THAT much better side by side. I've got an AC10 and a Deluxe Reverb and each have awesome qualities but man when you plug a Tele straight into the 10 it is absolutely glorious. I would HIGHLY recommend the AC10 over the 15 from my experience and I use a TS9, Texan Twang, Rotosphere, Boss DD6, and a Wampler Sovereign and you can SERIOUSLY push the 10 REALLY well with pedals AND it sounds awesome even at low volumes. I can not recommend it enough. The 10 is the way to go in my book.
@@SimpleManGuitars1973 I agree. I have both an AC30CCX2 with the Alnico Celestion Blues and it sounds amazing! At louder volumes in a big venue, but it weighs about 74lbs and is harder to get a nice over driven sound at much quieter volumes. My AC10 sounds really great at low, medium and louder volumes. Because it's a closed back 10" speaker it has more bass than you would expect. It sounds great as is and with overdrive pedals. But I also have a larger cabinet with 12" Greenback that you can plug into the back of it and that sounds amazing! I run that into a Weber MASS 100 attenuator and man that thing really sings! And at reasonable volumes, but it can get very loud for a 10 watt amp, if you want it to. The icing on the cake is that it is only about 10lbs (super light and portable) and is reasonably price for new and used. Since it is fairly small I like to think of it almost as an AC10 Head when I plug into a cabinet.
@@SimpleManGuitars1973 saw your posts. I am getting my first tele. Been playing on one at the store. Played my strat through a vox30 and loved it. But the price!! Started looking and playing on a 15 at the store beautiful tones. Wanted $650 for it. Ive now found an online store with a 15 for $600. However, they also have a 30 for the same price. I have to say that i like the sounds and simplicity of the 15c1. I havent had any time with the 10. Dont play live anymore but i do record my own stuff. I feel like im short changing myself by getting the 15 when i could have double the wattage for the same price. But that 15 sounds better to my ears than the 30. Opinions?
Perhaps you can help me?Unfortunately, there are no music stores where I live (nearest is a 2hr flight) so everything I buy online is based on online clips and judgement. I gotta 2020 Rickenbacker 325 with flatwounds. Aiming for the early Beatles tone. I know in order to achieve this, I’d have to get an AC15 or 30 but im going for practicality and home use. Recently bought the Universal Audio Ruby and alternating it with the tech 21 moptop and Keeley Chambers Verb which goes straight to my marshall mini silver jubilee with 2x12 cab or my little vox pathfinder 10 which can get me the tones but still struggling. Im unable to achieve the clarity and CHIMEY tones for those early Beatles stuff. Im on the fence now if I should sell my Ruby and Tech 21 Liverpool moptop for the Ac10. No live gigging for now. Been playing guitar for over 25 years. Also, seen your video between the Ac10 and superbeetle. I think I prefer the sound of the 10 more. Any feedback is appreciated.
The AC10 is surprisingly gainy. Perhaps this is due to the smaller output transformers. For the sound you are after, ever considered the AC4? It might fit the sound you are after.
I used to have an ac15 and i actually was able to get very good clean tones at low volume. Im sad i sold it. so i dont know if i want it back or try ac10 this time. Um one thing i dont fully know about is the difference between normal channel and top boost other than no eq and ac15 gets tone cut. But i dont know if thats all needed for me vs just to have the ac10.
Hi Corey, It's hard for me to answer, but I do have two entire series on both amps. I'm certain you will find the answer to your questions there. Cheers AC15 series: ruclips.net/video/z0Ve3jlX0Cs/видео.html AC10 Series: ruclips.net/video/JjM4YIbuNBM/видео.html
Good, useful comparison here. Can anyone explain the difference between the ac15's external and exstenion spk outputs? Does using the external out cut off the internal spk but using the extension out would leave it connected?
+Montag Alexis the external output cuts out the internal speaker of the AC15 and sends all of the signal to the ecternal cab. The extension output let you add a secondary output to another cab, all while still using the speaker in your amp.
⚡️This is the first video in a new series about the AC10. In the mean time, you can watch the AC15 and the Mini Superbeetle series⚡️:
👇👇👇
AC15 series: ruclips.net/p/PLeAo3au6SN1mEE4I1YYC2GtP7Y9sZ4VKT
MINI Superbeetle: ruclips.net/p/PLeAo3au6SN1kHtYSahXeUYwEOxyzbqill
I have a Vox AC15 and live in the middle of nowhere on my own. So I can use it without anyone being bothered by me
That's the ideal way to do it. How loud are you playing?
@@TheToneLounge I crank it up max. I open my back door and sit outside having it next to me. I open my room window next to my door and have a extension cable. Turn it on and play. RN at this very moment I'm learning Parking Lot - plums
AC15: Bad for your back, good for your tone.
+anthony silva lol very, very true!
hey, as one is reclining in their hospital bed recovering, I wonder if they'd mind having the AC-15 brought in so you could still play LOL
Hmm the ac15 is pretty light in my opinion
Bad for your neighbours also. Unless they want to join in on your party.
Ac30 is far heavier! I love my ac15
This was a really useful comparison. I've always wanted to pick up an AC15 but recently came across a used AC10. I think I'm convinced it's the one for me. I gig with a Deluxe Reverb Reissue & currently get my Vox tones from a Catalinbread CB30 pedal. I just really want a Vox for my man cave and quiet jams. Thanks for putting this together!
Hi Tom,
I'm really glad to hear that this video was helpful. I was hoping that it would serve that purpose. Glad to hear that it did. Let me know when you get your Vox, I'd love to hear your feedback on the amp.
Great video. I thought the AC10 was a bit warmer and fatter even with the smaller speaker in the video. So, I bought the AC10. Great choice. Love it for being able to crank it and it's still a nice manageable volume. The AC15 I tried was just a tad too loud to hit that magic spot. The 1O is perfect!
I compared the ac10 v ac15 in guitar shop. I went with the AC10 for my bedroom. I was looking for the vox vintage sound for playing Beatles, kinks, shadows etc. I also wanted the vox valve distortion at acceptable volume levels without using pedals in my bedroom and this was the main reason for going with the ac10. The AC10 sounds seriously seriously good loud and quiet , clean and dirty. Great video. If I didn’t already have a boss katana 100 and pedals I might have gone for the ac15 if it was my only amp . Truth is they’re both great!
You can't go wrong with either of these amps. I do think that the AC10 makes for a better home use/practice amp than the AC15. Are you using an external cab with your AC10?
I played a Dragon tele on an AC10 and was totally blown away. I wasn't sure if it was the amp or the Page pickups. When I put the guitar into some random solid state nearby, that confirmed it was the AC10. It is as good as you say.
I modified my ac15 so I could hook up an attenuator. Omg! It’s perfect now.
I get low, home volume with all the tone of it being turned up. It’s truly a versatile amp now. Great for home use now.
That is awesome! Was it hard to do?
@@TheToneLounge no it was more scary than difficult. There’s a vid on RUclips where a guy mods his vox ac10 for an attenuator. I just did what he did to my ac15, but I improved it a bit by installing a switched female 1/4” jack so that the amp wouldn’t require a jumper cable when the attenuator is not in use. All the parts were ordered on Amazon and all connectors were solder-less, crimp push on type. The attenuator was just an inexpensive one made by Carl’s custom guitars. But it’s perfect.
The scary part was you need to drill a hole in the back of the amp for the new 1/4” jack panel.
I cannot recommend this enough for the ac15. Vox should have the amps come this way. For many people it’s like hearing their amp for the very first time.
@@wyattsdad8561 hey man, I’m thinking of doing the exact same thing. I’d be over the moon if you could link me everything that you bought? Just been looking for the switched 1/4” jack but I’m clearly not as good at finding these things as you..
I like the cleaner, more open sound of the AC15 too much... thanks for the comparison.
The AC 10 sounds great with my Farfisa combo organ. ❤
Oh, that's interesting. Do you use a more gained up tone with it?
finally...a review that includes the clean sound. subbed.
Glad you did! And yes, I do cleans, a lot of rhythm guitars and not too much leads and I do volume roll back on the guitars too. Cheers
This made me move my ac10 a lot more! Compared to the 15, it’s warmer, but still had some great treble when pushed.
Perfect for my situation too, just a small home studio in an apartment so don’t wanna drive the neighbors crazy.
I'm glad to hear that. Sometimes I make a video with an intended purpose in mind, but it can also help others too.
I love my AC10 so much, it sounds incrediblewith my LP. Great video thanks
Me too. I play a little Gretsch. The tone is killer
a Tele and a Vox. my fav! cool video man!
+Lando27Music thanks Landon! That Tele sounds great with both amps. Have you ever tried P90’s with your Vox?
Arksolva Studio still have never played a p90 ever! Hopefully one day
+Lando27Music dude! You should try it. I can’t swear that you’ll love it, but if you like the beefyness of a humbucker with the clarity of the single coil, then you’ll dig the P90! My favourite pickup right after the Tele.
The ac15 is a great practice amp. The master volume works so well with the gain of the amp. You can crank it and turn the master down and get a seriously awesome tone, plus you get way more than headroom for pedals if you plan on jamming with a particularly Loud drummer. Put some casters on it and get a young member in the band with a good back for stairs. 🤘🏻😷🤘🏻
It's a pretty loud practice amp though. I see it more as a studio amp, or an amp that can be mic'ed up for gigs. It is too darn heavy though, if I were to gig again I probably wouldn't bring that amp. In comparison though, my Bad Cat cab weighs as much as the AC15, and so does the head. That amp is ridiculously heavy. 😂
Thank you! Because of you and some friends suggesting, I now have an AC15C1 and I love it so much.
That's awesome Jayden! Normal or Top Boost for you?
@@TheToneLounge Top Boost!
This channel is amazing! It helped me decide what amp I should get. I ended up going for the AC10 for at home use :)
That's awesome! I'm glad that the content has proved helpful. How do you like your AC10?
I use it at home too, it’s great for home.
Good video! And i find it very important to mention to people that a 15w tube amp is way too loud for comfortable home use.. Especially played in a small room, as most people will do! So many youtubers sell the idea that a tube amp can be played at 100db like it's nothing, when in reality you'll suffer irreversible ear damage over a relatively short period of time ;)
Well any tube amp, even like a 5 watt is too much if played cranked at home. The AC15 worked fine for me at home, and never had any complaints. I always played at more than reasonable volumes.
Not to mention the eviction order!
I have both of these amps and I like the AC15 but the AC10 with a tube swap and plugged into a 2x12 cab sounds much better in person and I don’t know the science but I feel it’s a lot louder in the cab. I don’t really play my ac15 anymore cuz I love the AC10 more.
Great video, guys. I've got both amps. When I'm at home, I use the AC10 almost exclusively, except when recording. The Greenback in the AC15 is so much better sounding (to my ears) whether playing clean or dirty. Also - the AC10 weighs 27 pounds, not 12. Also also - folks should know that if they do buy an AC10 new (as I did about two years ago), they'll have to replace the junky Chinese tubes, as they'll start making noise within a year or so. I bought Mesa Boogie replacement power and pre-amp tubes. They went into the amp like a dream, in 5 minutes (I've got a power hand drill for all the screws on the back of the amp), and the new tubes sound great too. The AC10 is a great amp for home use, coffee-house small gigs, and for getting together at somebody's house to jam or rehearse. If a drummer is present, though, you'll need something bigger, or as you said, will have to mic through the P.A. Keep up the great work!
I think I might have made a typo when I wrote my notes when I did my research for this video, you are not the first to point out that it's not 12 lbs. Oh well, at least folks are catching it and rectifying my mistake. I totally agree with you, the AC10 is great for just about everything. I do intend to change the stock tubes, and probably put a different speaker in it too. That might be a cool video idea, stock versus upgraded AC10.
Thank you so much for your feedback. Cheers
Pollo Guitar - I paid $20 per 12ax7 preamp tube ($40 total) and $48 for the pair of EL84s. All Mesa Boogie, all from Sweetwater. So about $100, but WELL worth it.
Pollo Guitar - it stopped the crackling noise, which was my main goal. And, to my ears, it now sounds warmer and and sweeter (although that could just be confirmation bias!). But it sounds wonderful.
I just picked one-up myself. I bought mine new, but it was still a good deal. I needed something quiet for this apartment and it’s perfect … I haven’t recorded it yet, but I’m sure it’s going to sound fantastic.
@@TheToneLounge I have had an AC10 C1 for 3.5 years. Came with a Greenback G10 plus the original factory unit. . Now after so long I put the original speaker back in. I feel this was the best one after all ! however the tubes are too close to the magnet. i also carried out mods to the closed back. This amp was made to a certain price bracket..not to a certain standard. You can get some good tones..but they could have done a better job for not much more money. The 15 is too loud for home use..
I could be feeling a bit defensive having just bought an AC 15 for bedroom use (well, OK, living room use), but That Pedal Show managed to get some pretty nice noise out of the 15 at bedroom levels.
Those guys are awesome, love TPS. I have a video on that very topic:
ruclips.net/video/XwH_uPrfHko/видео.html
Great video! Very clear and prompt!! Can't wait for that AC10 tone tip video!!!
If I can get my hands on another AC10 I will make that video happen! Anything specific you would like to see?
when you mentioned the weight of the AC15 i actually gasped. That’s so friggin heavy man!
It is. Not sure why though. Perhaps the speaker?
True, and the issue hurting your legs its true... I have one and I forgot that issue but las time I took it to service... It hurt my rt knee. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Yeah, they sure are heavy amps! 😂
@@TheToneLounge I own one and my theory is that a lot of the weight is in the glue holding its particle board cabinet together.
Magnets is why it’s heavy
Had the ac15, got the ac10 and sold the ac15😁 To me, the 10 sound better, tighter and cooler voice. Thats all subjective, Im gigging regulary and use it with a 210 cab and an attenuator, play dirty. Great amp:)
I almost kept my AC10, but I wanted a Marshall Class 5 really bad. So I traded it. Now I kind of wish I didn't lol It is a very cool amp. How are you finding it in a gigging situation? Loud enough for most applications?
@@TheToneLounge It works great in almost every gigging situations my good man. But I almost always mic it up. I play in different bands, and my to Main Amps are the ac10 with a 210 cab and a Marshall SV (plexi) with a 212. Always cranck them and use attenuator.
@@toreknutsen7251 I added a parallel jack on the speaker of my AC-10 so I can have an attenuator or linedriver connected ;-)
I've got the ac10. I like it, as a musician, it's loud, light weight, with great tone, at a good price. I don't think the reverb is that great. The technicians don't respect the design so much. I agree about choosing the 15 if you are a pro, but I disagree about it keeping up with the band. I turned that little amp up all the way. It gave me a headache. Nothing wrong with micing , or adding an extra cabinet anyway.
Yeah, it depends on the musical context. With a Blues band with a drummer that isn't too heavy handed, it can work.
The AC15C1 is they easiest amp to attenuate ever (the head only even has an attenuator) - it has the wire inside to connect an attenuator. You can get a palmer attenuator used for under $100 if you skim 50% volume you can get break up at a reasonable volume.
The way I use mine is by using a Two Notes Captor 16, going straight to my audio interface.
You wrote " it has the wire inside to connect an attenuator" ... but how? do you know of any video or webpage that teaches this?
Thanks
Have both, I have the creamback/JJ upgrades ac10 and it’s great, but if you plug it into a Ext speaker it becomes an absolute killer. More than loud enough to play with a band unmic’d. I use a 15” celestion fullback and it’s unbelievable!
The AC10 is a fantastic amp. I had originally set out to buy one, but when I got to the music store it was gone. They had an AC15 instead. Guess which one I bought? 🤪
I have a ac15c1 and trust me it is not too loud for home use. Use the volume knob ;-)
Exactly! When did you get yours?
@@TheToneLounge A guy traded me for my roland blues cube. My AC15c1 is in snakeskin. Awesome amp.
One of your best videos yet. Love the twins montage, that should become your trademark, you really got something here. Even go with triplets and quadruplets sometime if you ever compare 3 or 4 different pieces of gear.
+Herr Nox thanks brother. It took me a while to figure it out but finally got it. I will definitely try this again.
You never . . . ever fail . . . with the details Jonathan! As a proud owner of a VOX product, you lay out great comparisons. Best of all, you do not present one as better than the other - - - however you convey the individuals purpose.
+Jay Shrivastava thank you my friend. I hope that these videos can be helpful to those watching, so I make them with as much info as I can. Glad to hear that I am on the right track.
I never been so happy with my ac15c1!!! Best amp I ever had!!!
Sweet! Quel version? La Greenback out le Bleu?
@@TheToneLounge Salut! Je ne savais pas que tu parlais français!! ;) J'ai choisi le greenback. Maybe I will try the blue some day but for now the Greenback feel perfect for my needs!! Good clean, good crunch!
Salut Francis! Oui je suis Québecois! Le Greenback est mon choix aussi. Le AlNiCo Blue est un classique, mais pour mon style plus Rock, j’aim bien le GB.
@@TheToneLounge Plus polyvalent le greenback selon moi! ;) Content de savoir que t’es québécois!! J’ai beaucoup regardé tes vidéos avant d’acheter le vox! J’avais un blues deluxe avant, bon ampli, mais le vox est un keeper!! Cheers!
I have an AC15 Heritage Handwired and an AC10. I live in a duplex, when I play the AC15 I make sure my neighbor is not home! Otherwise , the AC10 is my go to. Personally , I love the digital reverb on it! Great Surf sound!
Very cool! The digital reverb is indeed rather good on that AC10. Does the AC15HW have a down scale on it? I remember that the AC30HW could be scaled down, not sure if the AC15 has that option as well?
There's a switch to go from 15 watts to 7 and a half. It works, but at 7 and a half , it's still pretty loud. That's why I bought the AC10. I have to mention that the AC15 has an awesome clean sound, my Les Paul sounds awesome thru it! I bought it for my Rickenbackers, but prefer the Les Paul thru it!
Am purchasing a AC14C1. Been wanting one for soooo long. Cant wait
Let me know when you get it!
@@TheToneLounge right!! Didnt know they made a 14. Of course i meant the 15.
This might be the video that helped me choose my next amp. I was deciding if I want to get an amp for home practice or gigging use. I have a Boss Katana MKII 100 that does my band practice and gigging soon. So I think I'll go with the AC10 as a home use amp for those beautiful cleans.
The AC10 is a great choice!
I own the AC10 with a creamback and JJs and it kills! I have a hard time getting a good low volume out of it, but I use it during rehearsal and it is plenty loud. I think it is just as loud as my blues jr, but way more versatile
For better results at bedroom levels you need this:
ruclips.net/video/XwH_uPrfHko/видео.html
Change the V1 tube to a 12AU7, it makes it much more manageble ;-)
Just noticed that Jet Harris purchased a Vox AC15 in July 1959. So maybe this now obscure but great guitarist from UK is known in the USA. The Shadows also brought the Stratocaster to the UK. Check out Hank Marvin's wonderful tone in the series of instrumental hits they had before the Beatles. Apache, Wonderful Land, FBI, Foot Tapper, Guitar Tango. Ahead of their time.
+John Carden looks like they put the AC15 on the map. It’s funny to think that such a design would still be rocking this many years later. Much like Fender with the Telecaster, Vox got it right the first time with the AC15! I’ll have a look at the songs you mentioned.
I've the AC10 and sounds really good, but I'm considering to change to an Fender Blues Junior because I prefer those clean tones... But when you put half of gain on AC10, is butter... You start to feel it a little bit crunchy.
Not sure which I would pick between those two. The Blues Jr is a very cool amp, but I prefer the clean tones of the AC10.
@@TheToneLounge Thanks for your time! A hug from Chile!!
I had an AC10 a couple of years ago and sold it. I admit it soured me a bit on Vox amps as the other Vox I had prior to that was a Lil Night Train. I just found the sounds kinda thin and fizzy
I tried the AC15 and got it immediately. I found that it sounded fuller and your tips on cranking the master and using the eq trick on the normal channel were very helpful.
That's why I make these videos. I know some people struggle with these amps, so putting out some information can be helpful to some people.
@@TheToneLounge Keep em coming. You got a new subscriber to your channel here. :)
I got the ac15 2x12 a few months ago. After it got some break in time, it sounds great.
How are you liking the amp so far?
Ac15 might be the better option but I have seen many ac10's on stage.
Köksal ÖNER That is very true, the AC10 is great little amp for gigs too.
Great video this, was just what I needed. Tried out an AC10, really liked it, but wondered if it was better to get the “better amp” in the AC15. I think the latter sounds better and has more options in terms of tonal flexibility, but I just want a fun valve amp at home and for recording with the occasional gig, so I’ll probably go for the AC10
Great comparison guys For my purposes it's the ac10 all the way.Lollar p90s + OCD v1.4 + wampler faux analog echo into this bad boy! Tone heaven. Liked and subscribed
I love P90's as well with my AC15. I'm still debating if I love it more than my amp and a Tele. Thanks for the like and welcome to the community!
My AC10 loves the p90s on my Gibson LP Special.
Very clever, on the couch, doing the comparison. They sound awesome, but truth be told, I find them very pleasing to look at.
You have no idea how many people think I have a twin. Truth be told, I did the Calvin & Hobbes thing with the cardboard box and cloned myself. My wife isn't happy about it. And yes, both amps are stunning to look at!
@@TheToneLounge hah, Calvin and Hobbes! There's a name from the past!
A Celestion Creamback will fit into the AC10 and improve the sound.
Oh? That sounds like a cool speaker to try with it. Does it require any mods?
@@TheToneLounge The Creamback fits without modification. It’s an excellent speaker for the AC10.
I love my ac10. Only bad thing is the tubes were trash within a week. Other than that 100% worth the price. Love the tone.
It’s a great amp for sure! What tubes did you put in it?
@@TheToneLounge I swapped them for JJ EL84 and ECC83-S
Sorry for the late reply, YT seems to no longer update me when I get replies and comments. Those are the same tubes I have in my AC15. Reliable and they sounds great.
Same thing happened to me! I had it for almost a year when it happened. Luckily it was at worship practice, not actual worship. Had enough time to swap tubes and it REALLY came alive!
Yeah, when the tubes go on these amps, it makes a huge impact on the tone.
An excellent video-- the side-by-side comparison is really well done. Kudos-- keep up the good work.
Thank you for watching and thanks for the feedback. Which one did you prefer?
I'm going with the AC-10-- All the fun without all the weight. I'll let the P.A. do the heavy lifting...
@@gollumismycopilot That's a great strategy!
In the AC10; a creamback 10" 45 watt works perfectly with this amp; it really opens up the tomes. perfect blues.
A 10" Greenback will fit as well. Keep in mind either must be the 16 ohm version. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for the information David. The stock speaker in the AC10 is the same that is found in the AC4BL. It's alright but not the best speaker in the world. The GB would be my ideal choice. Cheers
@@TheToneLounge the greenback compared to the cream back sounds a bit muffled. I wish I had tried it. Maybe do a comparison video?
Great channel my friend, keep up the great work! Amazing job smashing 1K Keep crushing it! :D
+The People's Bookkeeper thank you so much my friend! I’m happy with the results. Cheers
I have the ac 10 and it is pretty great unless you have a super loud band. If you want to use it for studio use you might wanna get another cab for it because the tubes are so close to the speaker that they can make a rattling sound when low e is ringing out. The reverb is better in the ac 10 then real reverbs in other voxes in my opinion. Upgrade the preamp tubes to ehx and you are good to go
What do you prefer about the EHX tubes?
Well done as always - you do some of the best gear videos out there in terms of the thoughtfulness, tones, and the playing.
Thank you for the kind words. Did you have a favorite between the two?
@@TheToneLounge - I used to have an AC15 and loved it and know it well, so it was great to see the comparison. This time I am going for the AC10 - it is way more portable and it has some more fullness in the lower mids that I like a lot
The AC10 is definitely a great choice. Let me know if you grab one, I'm curious to hear your thoughts.
Best demo ever been wanting a vox you guys helped me decide great players entertaining and all you needed to know thank you...Roland J Gutierrez from Magdalena New Mexico USA...
Hey Roland, you are most welcome! Which one would you choose: AC10 or AC15?
I considered the AC10 but eventually settled on a special edition AC15. Mine was pre-loaded with JJ tubes and a Celestion Creamback. It is heavy, but other than size & weight, it is the better amp IMO.
For sure, it sounds incredible. Have you seen the series I have on this channel, all about the AC15?
@@TheToneLounge Great, I'll definitely be checking out more of your AC15 content.
I use it with an 12" ext. cab and it’s so amazing pushed I love it., can even use it with live shows
What 12" are you using?
Thanks for this comparison.
My pleasure. Did you have a favourite?
You can take the bell off of any speaker which makes it much smaller. I put a greenback in a bassbreaker and had to remove the cover. I heated it up with a hair drier which heats up the glue that holds it on. Simple.
Interesting! Any change in tone at all?
@@TheToneLounge Other than the speaker upgrade taking the bell off of the greenback, I could not tell anything except the upgrade.
Thank you SO much. I already have an AC15 but for the basement it’s a bit much. So looking at alternative so this was a great vid. Might go with an AC4 maybe.
You are most welcome Kord! I have a ton of videos on Vox amps on this channel so be sure to check them out. Let me know if you have any questions. Cheers
They’re both great, of course I do prefer the AC-15, because that’s the one I’ve got.😁👍
+Artamus Sumatra I’m considering doing either a stereo setup with the AC10 and the AC15, or use one for cleans and the other for gain. They are both very cool. But yeah, my AC15 is king!
Arksolva Studio Cool, those would be great together. I’ve always wanted an AC-15, and in 2014, my dream came true. I got the blue and cream TV special edition they were doing at the time. Wonderful chimey tone that my guitars love, it’s 100% stock, and I’m keeping it that way.
That edition of the AC15 looks amazing. I’d love to get my hands on one at some point. Your lucky.
Arksolva Studio Thanks, I haven’t seen many of these around. They made red/cream ones too, and they seem to be a bit more common, I had to order my blue/cream one directly from Vox, because none of the stores had it. I figured it would compliment my favorite Stratocaster’s lake placid blue/parchment pickguard color scheme. 🙂
Great vid :) I looked at both of these amps for a very long time and whilst I really like the AC10, I finally decided on the AC15. I'm very happy with my choice as the AC15 ticks all the boxes for my needs.
+Ruiseart Alcorn same here. I originally intended to purchase an AC10, but I settled on the AC15 because of that extra spice it offered. They are both great little amps, it’s all down to preference.
@@TheToneLounge That's it, exactly :)
Same here, the AC15 quickly won me over. I hope you're still digging your amp.
@@steverherb Yes indeed! My AC15 is my main amp! These days I use it in a wet/dry configuration with my Fender Bassbreaker 45. It's a great combination! :)
I have the AC 10 Limited Edition Cream.. its PLENTY for gigs..I use it for slide guitar. Teamed with my Mesa Boogie 525 Express I have a well rounded sound.. yes..I am mostly rhythm guitarist..I do occasionally bust a solo..these amps do me just fine.
That sounds like a versatile rig. What made you choose Mesa and Vox as the perfect combination for slide?
Thanks for the great video Man. I have an ac15 in the mail. Can't wait!
Let me know what you think of it when you get!
@@TheToneLounge I've received my ac15 and I love it! I've heard you mention a couple of time that cranking the master and using the channel volume for overall level is best for tone and I absolutely agree.
Really happy with the ac15!
I Love my AC15C1 plenty of Power I want an AC10 for home use only though or a small gig
The AC10 is a great option. I might get one myself in the near future.
I have both, the ac10 has a better tone whereas the ac15 takes a little work to get there
Very helpful thank you. Torn between these two, but live in an apartment so the AC10 it is
Good choice! I hope it works for you.
Fantastic job guys!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Love the AC10
What do you love about it?
In general, for "clean" sounds, the AC10 sounded better to me, because it brings more bass than AC15 (or maybe less treble).
Vox AC15 is louder and brighter, and it sounds maybe better cranked up into distortion, but it also brings more treble (maybe undesirable, and not necessarily with good harmonics).
Despite the less power of AC10, I liked how it sounds overall, and would use it in live with a microphone.
The AC10 is a very capable amplifier. Before I got my AC15, I was actually wanting to buy an AC10. The morning that I got to the store with the money in hand, they had sold the AC10. I tried the AC15 that they had in store, and the rest is history. I could have been just as happy with the AC10 tbh.
Been playing an AC30 for the past 10 years. Now I'm looking for an amp I can carry by myself and am looking at the smaller VOXs first. I love my normal channel so the AC10 is not an option but somehow the AC15 doesn't convince me either. Maybe it's time to move on and get myself a Fender or a Supro after all.
Both Fender and Supro would be great choices too.
Yeah it’s annoying. I use an AC30 in the studio and there’s nothing like it in a smaller package.
Thanks for your videos, it's been a big help.
I've been dying to get a Vox AC15C1 and a Marshall DSL 20CR, two completely different amps that complement each other in all styles.
But regarding the Vox after watching the video I thought that the AC10 could be better (75% is for playing at home 25% in the studio with my son on drums).
But I'm in a dilemma because I have a chance to buy the AC15 at the price of the AC10, in this case do you think that even working with volume the AC15 for home is too excessive? Do I take advantage of the opportunity or not because it's to play more at home?
There's a guitar riff in your other video About Vox Tone Hacks at 1:50 I love it but I can't find the song, tell me what it is?
Keep up the good work
My pleasure, Antonio!
To be honest with you, the difference in volume between the both of them is not that huge. They are both loud for home use, if you are not careful. I do have a video that you might want to watch, where I show how to use an AC15 at home.
LINK: ruclips.net/video/XwH_uPrfHko/видео.html
@@TheToneLounge Thank you for your help. So it will be another timbre choice!? In your opinion which do you like more AC15 or AC10? A solution would also be to change the amp to use a Guitar Amp.
On AC15 I can use Top Booster for more aggressive sound and Normal channel for cleaner sound, correct?
Attenuator
@@AntonioRamos_To I have a soft spot for the AC15. It has more headroom and less gain, when compared to the AC10.
The Top Boost is a louder since it has an EQ section, but it also has a bit less head room. Technically speaking, the Top Boost and Normal channel are just two different inputs to the same channel.
As for attenuation, the Vox are not really made in a way that lets you use an outside attenuator. The best ways I've found to do this is in the video I shared.
Can't believe I nearly missed this in my feed. A great video. You can see the difference between the two clearly, the AC10 using the enclosed back to add more bass to the sound. The AC15 with its greenback just sounds so much more harmonic rich. Spot on with not being able to crank an AC15 to max in a normal domestic environment. From a technical side, I wonder what brands of tubes that they are using in the newer models. If they have just bought in generic Chinese tubes a simple modification would be to change the EL84's to a decent brand, something russian or Uk made, or use American made 6BQ5's (same tube, different number in the US). The other worry for me would be the longevity of the AC10's output transformer and tubes with a closed back and very little ventilation. They are obviously using a lower anode voltage to reduce the power output and a smaller transformer set to bring the weight down but these can be detrimental to lifespan. On the whole though, two good amps depending on your needs.
Great observations! The cabinet construction and chassis design reflect the need for a big sound in a smaller enclosure. I'm sure some sacrifices had to be made to make the amp into this final iteration. In person, at bedroom levels, the AC10 sounds bass heavy and full. As you crank it up, the bass gets too much, real fast. So playing at gig levels, I would most likely take the back panel off. That way the tubes donèt over-heat and the speaker can push more air without sounding muddy.
For home use, I would probably use JJ EL884, which are said to be lower power than regular EL84.
@@TheToneLounge Power dissipated by the tubes is a combination of anode voltage and the biasing point of the tubes. Certainly the AC15 runs a much higher b+ level to get that extra 5w. Laney did something similar with their 15w combo, except the output transformer wasn't really up to the job and kept melting.
I'm glad to have you there to explain this to me, I find it very interesting but do not have the skills to go deep with electronics.
@@TheToneLounge it's one of those things... I can't play the guitar and I'm glad I know people who can.
Great comparison, thanks for doing this!
+Sublyme I’m glad it was helpful. Which amp did you prefer?
To my ears the AC15 was the clear winner, but it's impossible to tell how things really sound over youtube. I've got an AC15 already, but I'm really interested in adding an AC10 soon!
It is always better to try them in person for sure. I'd be willing to be you would dig it, based on the fact that it sounds very raunchy when cranked and it packs a punch. Let me know if you ever try one, I'd be curious to know what you think of it.
Great video comparison.
Your ac10 must be a super light weight. I think your actually quoting it in kgs as opposed to pounds. I believed it’s 27 pounds as opposed to 12. None the less much lighter than the 15.
FWIW I’ve owned both but still have the 15. I thought the build quality was much better on the 15 but I liked the less weight and good low volume tones of the 10.
+2speedy4u22 i’ll have to double check, I might have made a mistake lol. Thanks for the feedback.
Yes, it is around 13 kg. :-) !! Sweet weight.
Great review,very informative thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
I have the AC15 and AC4 (both combos)...........will prob trade the AC4 up for the AC10...........the AC 15 is "more" and I use it with the Normal channel and pedals..........in fact, I love the Top Boost as well, but with just a little hair on the tone (I get all my OD tones from pedals - covers band with a wide range of songs to do)
So, for me, although the clean tones sound so similar, the grab and go nature of the 10 makes a lot of sense, and the home practice aspect too (the 15 sounds lifeless unless it's up too loud for home use)
Cracking video - thanks!
Yeah, the AC10 is a great amp. I wish I could have tried it with an external cab. Something with a Greenback would have been cool. That is the thing with comparison videos, there are too many variables that make a drastic change in tone between the amps. If I could find a way to get the amps mic'ed up with the same cab and speakers, it would make for a closer comparison.
Some say that the AC15 can achieve great tones at lower volumes with the help of pedals, but I find the AC10 to perform great in that regards, without the need for pedals. Lightweight, loud enough for most gigs and sounds killer. Definitely a great amp!
Peter, try a always on pedal (can be a booster, compressor ou low gain overdrive like a klon or timmy type) to fix that "lifeless tone" on your AC15 when you are at home. I use a Xotic EP booster and I'm happy. Good luck and have a good time😎🎸
Good video. Problem is, I like em both
You should try both to see which one you prefer.
Great video, thanks. I have both. Just be aware that the AC10 Extension is 16ohm, plus as I understand it cuts off the internal speak, so you are plugging in a replacement, rather than an extension, speaker.
Thanks for the info, Tim! Do you have a favorite between both amps?
@@TheToneLounge The 15 is a much better and more versatile amp, but is heavier to lug around, so for convenience the 10 gets used for medium volume rehearsals. Cheers
I just got an ac15 and it’s my first tube amp. I love it. But I’m thinking I could’ve gotten the 10. I just assumed the ten wasn’t going to sound that great because of its size. But man the ten sounds really good. So maybe one day I’ll buy a ten too.
The 10 is a great amp. It has more gain then the 15. But it's a great choice. Pairs well with the AC15 too.
The Tone Lounge do you know if the power on an ac15 can be turned down to give it more tone at a lower volume? I think There’s some type of switch on the back of my ac15 but I wasn’t sure what it was for.
Like my vox ad50vt can be turned down with a little pot in the back to give you better sound at low volume
There is no power scale on the AC15C1, but if you want better tones at lower volume you could try my tone hack!
ruclips.net/video/qRFBYM0r7R4/видео.html
The Tone Lounge okay thank you so much I’ll watch it!
@@TheToneLounge I run my AC10 with a Deluxe Reverb from the stereo output of a Boss dd6 and it sounds HUGE. A 335 into my TS9, Wampler Sovereign, Texan Twang, and Rotosphere is really fun to play. I also have a Strat and a Tele as well. I like the clean sounds with the Tele the best. The humbuckers get a little muddy to me with a Vox. The dirt is awesome though. I absolutely love my AC10 and would easily recommend it over the 15 just for pure tonal reasons based on the side by side comparison I done with them at Guitar Center a few years ago when I got my AC10. What is a good price for a legit AC30 btw?
Thanks for this video! I was aimed at AC15 (or Blues Junior or Bassbreaker, but I'll stick to Vox here). Thing is, I don't gig, it's just me here in the house with small kids and neighbours real close. My main guitar is a Tele, and I crave clean tones with a bit of raunch for blues. Right now I'm running a Boss Katana 50, it's very good for what it is, but it's time I got my first tube amp. Amp size isn't so important, but glorious tone at low volume is key for me. I even looked at the AC4... The AC10 looks closer to my solution without being overkill. Here in Canada right now (June 2020), at new prices, the AC10 is $650 (AC15 is $950) so that extra $300 might help towards a tremolo and reverb pedal...
Great job on this video, loved your straight-up take. Thanks! Aaron
The reverb in the AC10 is not that bad. In a way, I like it better than the one in the AC15. Try it first before buying a reverb pedal, you might find it suitable for your needs. If so, then you got extra cash for another pedal! :)
@@TheToneLounge As soon as this virus thing is past, I will be trying out both AC10 and AC15. Something about the sound of the 10 (in your video and in others too) grabs me. The reverb in my Katana 50 (it has plate, spring and hall) is OK by me too, though I find I fiddle a lot to get it just right for what I'm after that day. If I like the 10's reverb, and can use that money for an OCD or something else, then you're right that's a win. Thanks so much for your reply!
My pleasure Aaron. Check out these series to get more of an idea on what you might want to look for in your next amp.
Pedals with Vox: ruclips.net/video/7VyhYZps1Bw/видео.html
Vox AC15 series: ruclips.net/video/qRFBYM0r7R4/видео.html
AC10 series: ruclips.net/video/JjM4YIbuNBM/видео.html
@@TheToneLounge Will do. \m/ \m/
hey bud ...i just got an AC 15 for 400 !! ...reverb is broken ...but heres the thing ..i !@#$%^ hate reverb ! lol....i am much more delay - or dry sort of guy .....here in australia , they gor for 1000 ..or on special at the moment for 760 $ ...so i saved a packet ! ....i am very happy.. heres me with my old amp- a laney ...ruclips.net/video/SFwJJHUAIn0/видео.html
Really useful. Thankyou.
Glad it helped Graham.
Hey Jonathan, I recently discovered your channel, I'm 55 yrs old and I've been playing seriously (meaning continually) since I was 18 so that's 37 years...which doesn't in any way mean I'm good...nevertheless I've had just about every type of big brand amp you can think of but only recently did I get a Vox (and I've had thousands and thousands of euros worth of gear) and I love the sound of the AC10 but it doesn't take all kinds of drive pedals well whereas Fender amps do, meaning I have to pick and choose which drives sound good through the Vox AC10. Cheers, Mike.
Hey Mike, that is what my ever growing series called Vox Friendly Pedals is for. I hope you find something in there. Cheers
𝗩𝗢𝗫 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗟𝗬 𝗣𝗘𝗗𝗔𝗟𝗦: ruclips.net/p/PLeAo3au6SN1kfdYcyp8bvHttqkPinQ2Wt
like always great video...i have a great way of getting bedroom volumes...with a telecaster neck pickup its awesome....try this...top boost....master volume all the way up....tone cut all the way off (like 7 o clock)...bass 10 o clock....treble 2 o clock....reverb all the way up...tremelo off....guitar volume all the way up...maybe roll tone half off on tele...now play a chord and slowly turn up gain untilyouget desired volume...if you want to practice clean thats perfect....if not then you will need some pedals to get you there....use the boss blues driver with gain almost off...maybe 9 o clock or less....tone between 9 ans 12....and turn volume up until you hit your desired volume...if you want even more gain run that into an OCD with gain almost off (again, 9 or less) tone at 11 to 2 depending on taste and volume again low....so...this stacking trick gets some awesome harmonic response that emulates the amps characteristics at loud volumes.
Dang, looks like I have to try this now lol. I think I got spoiled playing at louder volumes and forgot how to tweak an amp to fit the "practice" volume. I'll give that a spin and I'll let you know what I think of it. Your trick of using overdrive/gain pedals makes a whole lot of sense, since you are reducing the dynamics by clipping them, which gives you a more even output. I think a compressor/limiter might make sense as well, as they both control dynamics. Thanks for sharing this great tip. Cheers
Very good comparisons. Wow thank you.
Thanks! Did you have a favourite?
Really informative video. Thanks! While I did prefer the sound of the AC15, the AC10 was no slouch. I just may pick up an AC10 for another basement practice amp. It would be a nice complement to my blackface Princeton reissue. And it would make for a nice stereo option. Liked and subscribed!
It would definitely compliment your Fender amp. As you said, the AC10 is no slouch and it has a really killer overdrive too. Takes pedals very well and would look great beside your Princeton. Cheers
Props to that Tonic riff!
One of my favorite rock bands!
I love the AC10 especially live with a reasonable drummer lol!
Rock on!
I would really like to see how the AC10 compares to the Mini Superbeetle since they're both really good amps for practice at home without risking a divorce when you put them in the living room.
Here you go!
ruclips.net/video/JjM4YIbuNBM/видео.html
Hi how are doing? I bought the amp AC10 based on your videos because I didn't have a place to try it out. It's a great amp. If you will could you show some of your favorite settings on it. Thanks
Simple my friend, bass at 1 o'clock and treble at 11 o'clock. For clean tones, master all the way up and channel volume to taste.
I love that...if you’re looking for just a practice amp, the AC15 might not be for you....that is awesome! I never ever play my AC10 anymore, strictly only play my ac4 now- AC10 is way too loud for home use, even my AC4 has “opened” recently and it gets loud as balls for home use, it will gig with a 212 extension cabinet. These amps open up after time, and pedals push them way over, you will not get a great idea of how loud they get when you plug straight in. Great extension cabinet, good tubescreamer like pedal and these become unruly beasts
The AC4 is pretty darn loud, but it's not the kind of loudness that bugs the neighbors too much, as it barely has any low end information. So, loud when you stand directly in front of it, but in the next room it ain't so bad.
The Tone Lounge no low end? It can get a lot of low if you tweak it just right, with the right humbucker. But if you have a 212 extension cabinet, preferably open back - the AC4 will deliver loads of low end. Give it a try
Which AC4 do you have? The 10inch or the 12inch? Or perhaps the AC4tv? I'm looking to buy used and tossing up between an AC10c1 and an AC4tv. I know; only thing they have in common is speaker size.
@@emmanuelangelakis2569 I have the AC4C1 10”. It’s the top boost circuit. The other 10”. That one is the “normal” channel. I definitely would pick one up just to complete what I have. But I am a top boost kind of guy. Unless you have an original Vox amp with an ef86 preamp tube - I don’t really see the magic of the normal channel. I think any Vox tone from the early 60s cannot be separated from the ef86 tube. So not a big fan of the modern normal channel.
@@voxpathfinder15r I tried that out in a store a few weeks ago. Loved it. Also more appropriate for me, bedroom hack in an apartment. The AC10 is more ego. Decisions!
Oddly enough, I also have a Pathfinder 15R.
Pure info, u have got mine subscription!
Welcome aboard! Glad to have you. Let me know if you are looking for anything specific, I have a lot of videos.
@@TheToneLounge I am a beginner from ages, and looking for information on best tube amp for home practise, and practical information/example on different pedal ie what actually these pedal does. Do we really need them? Also what should be the line up if we need any. And I am hoping you will be the one to pass on the information. Thankyou brother.
@@RsqSqr You've come to the right place!
Good review thanks. However, the ac10 is about 27 #, not 12.
You are correct
The AC10 was originally Vox's attempt to create a more western, Fenderish sounding amp. Whenever I listen to these shootouts I walk away confident that the AC15 wins, but every time thus far my yardstick has been the classic Vox sound. Having listened to the AC10 live, and as good as recordings have become they don't seem to be able to capture some important parts of it's sound, I realized I was not giving it a fair shake. There is a silky smoothness, a lower end beauty and lower midrange to it. Certain AC15 iterations would win me over more perhaps but I am beginning to think that the modern AC10 is a wonderful sound for me. Dammit.
Vox amps are hard to capture in a recording. I've been recording these amps for years, and I sometimes mess it up.
The AC10 is a very capable amp, and sounds incredible in person. I think it's sound is in part due to the smaller output transformer. It breaks up in a very different way compared to the AC15. The choice of speaker is different too, it's the VX10 from Celestion. They are the same speaker found in the AC4bl and the Mini Superbeetle cab.
@@TheToneLounge I really believe it is my own jaundiced ear. What are your thoughts about the speaker you mention? And the different breakup characteristics? I have found, with a small test group mind you, that Vox is pairing some very good speakers to their combos. They do the amps justice. Interested in your findings. Thanks
These are made by Celestion, and they are quite good. They do clean and dirty tones well. They are not my favorite speakers, but when I spot them in an amp, I tend to leave them there.
@@TheToneLounge Thanks and God bless
Thanks, straightforward playing to compare easily. I thought I heard Jet Harris of The Shadows in there, showing my age.
+John Carden I’m not too familiar with The Shadows. I know of their importance and contributions, but have not taken the time to indulge in their work. Any recommendations for me?
This amp sits nicely in the mix that cuts through. It will, just not for metal. Think Tommy Petty early work.
Vox amps are what I like to call, "mix ready"!
That’s a really cool video Jon!
+Steve In The Mix thanks brother, I’m trying real hard 😉
My guitar teacher recommended I get the ac 15. He knows I love vox amps and says it has amazing sound. It might be heavy but I think I’ll make the trade off. I’ll be using it for studio work and small gigs (if we are ever able to do them). How does it sound with an ocd overdrive pedal?
I’ll be giving you more details later today ( I’m going to be on the road for a bit). Here is the OCD with the AC15:
ruclips.net/video/7VyhYZps1Bw/видео.html
When I went to get my AC10 there was an AC15 right beside of it. I plugged in the AC10 and thought I had went to heaven. I then thought "well if this is this good the 15 must be even better" and so I plugged in the AC15 and in about 10 seconds flat I was like "DEFINITELY getting the 10"! It was THAT much better side by side. I've got an AC10 and a Deluxe Reverb and each have awesome qualities but man when you plug a Tele straight into the 10 it is absolutely glorious. I would HIGHLY recommend the AC10 over the 15 from my experience and I use a TS9, Texan Twang, Rotosphere, Boss DD6, and a Wampler Sovereign and you can SERIOUSLY push the 10 REALLY well with pedals AND it sounds awesome even at low volumes. I can not recommend it enough. The 10 is the way to go in my book.
@@SimpleManGuitars1973 I agree. I have both an AC30CCX2 with the Alnico Celestion Blues and it sounds amazing! At louder volumes in a big venue, but it weighs about 74lbs and is harder to get a nice over driven sound at much quieter volumes.
My AC10 sounds really great at low, medium and louder volumes. Because it's a closed back 10" speaker it has more bass than you would expect. It sounds great as is and with overdrive pedals. But I also have a larger cabinet with 12" Greenback that you can plug into the back of it and that sounds amazing! I run that into a Weber MASS 100 attenuator and man that thing really sings! And at reasonable volumes, but it can get very loud for a 10 watt amp, if you want it to.
The icing on the cake is that it is only about 10lbs (super light and portable) and is reasonably price for new and used. Since it is fairly small I like to think of it almost as an AC10 Head when I plug into a cabinet.
@@synthsei I now have an AC30 and still my AC10 and I just use them both at the same time. Lol!
@@SimpleManGuitars1973 saw your posts. I am getting my first tele. Been playing on one at the store. Played my strat through a vox30 and loved it. But the price!! Started looking and playing on a 15 at the store beautiful tones. Wanted $650 for it. Ive now found an online store with a 15 for $600. However, they also have a 30 for the same price. I have to say that i like the sounds and simplicity of the 15c1. I havent had any time with the 10. Dont play live anymore but i do record my own stuff. I feel like im short changing myself by getting the 15 when i could have double the wattage for the same price. But that 15 sounds better to my ears than the 30. Opinions?
We need another shoot out, but try something different like update speakers in both amps and shoot them out again
That's a great idea. I just don't own the AC10 anymore. I'll have to see if I can get my hands on one and try that!
hmmm two AC-10s might be a good option :D
That would be a killer, affordable stereo rig for sure!
Perhaps you can help me?Unfortunately, there are no music stores where I live (nearest is a 2hr flight) so everything I buy online is based on online clips and judgement. I gotta 2020 Rickenbacker 325 with flatwounds. Aiming for the early Beatles tone. I know in order to achieve this, I’d have to get an AC15 or 30 but im going for practicality and home use. Recently bought the Universal Audio Ruby and alternating it with the tech 21 moptop and Keeley Chambers Verb which goes straight to my marshall mini silver jubilee with 2x12 cab or my little vox pathfinder 10 which can get me the tones but still struggling. Im unable to achieve the clarity and CHIMEY tones for those early Beatles stuff. Im on the fence now if I should sell my Ruby and Tech 21 Liverpool moptop for the Ac10. No live gigging for now. Been playing guitar for over 25 years.
Also, seen your video between the Ac10 and superbeetle. I think I prefer the sound of the 10 more.
Any feedback is appreciated.
The AC10 is surprisingly gainy. Perhaps this is due to the smaller output transformers. For the sound you are after, ever considered the AC4? It might fit the sound you are after.
Good vid
this is a great video!
+Valentina it means a lot coming from a fellow RUclipsr. Thank you!
Hey man! Loved what you were playing during the clean section, what song was that if i may ask?
Those are riffs I came up with. I try and avoid using copyrighted stuff, so I have to write little ditties on the spot.
I used to have an ac15 and i actually was able to get very good clean tones at low volume. Im sad i sold it. so i dont know if i want it back or try ac10 this time. Um one thing i dont fully know about is the difference between normal channel and top boost other than no eq and ac15 gets tone cut. But i dont know if thats all needed for me vs just to have the ac10.
Hi Corey,
It's hard for me to answer, but I do have two entire series on both amps. I'm certain you will find the answer to your questions there. Cheers
AC15 series: ruclips.net/video/z0Ve3jlX0Cs/видео.html
AC10 Series: ruclips.net/video/JjM4YIbuNBM/видео.html
Good, useful comparison here.
Can anyone explain the difference between the ac15's external and exstenion spk outputs? Does using the external out cut off the internal spk but using the extension out would leave it connected?
+Montag Alexis the external output cuts out the internal speaker of the AC15 and sends all of the signal to the ecternal cab. The extension output let you add a secondary output to another cab, all while still using the speaker in your amp.