The classic look of the VOX AC30 amplifier
There can be few amplifiers more classic looking and revered than the VOX AC30 twin.
The staple of many groups of the 1960's, they were first used by Cliff Richard's backing band The Shadows in 1960 to give us the classic sounds we still enjoy today.
In fact the Shadows were instrumental in the development of the AC30, they needed something that could give them enough volume to be heard over the screaming fans of the early 1960's venues.
Groups such as the Rolling Stones, Beatles and Monkees all used the classic looking amplifier.
Essentially a valve driven amplifier with an optional Top Boost which later became standard, the AC30 was a loud amplifier, equivalent to a 100 watt job.
In the 1970's the move to solid state under new company ownership was less than well received by musicians and the popularity was damaged, indeed around this time, boutique amplifier makers such as the Mesa Boogie brand became popular, further woes to the brands that had failed to move with the times. A somewhat ironic outcome as 'reissues' of the classic amplifiers are all the rage.
I did have an AC30, a 1990's reissue which was mighty heavy and quite a thing but I moved to using an AC15 which was more manageable. The 15 and 30 were both the classic reissue and both had tremolo, the 15 had reverb too both being foot switchable.
The alternative for me now is a VOX AD120 which gives me the look and sound of the AC30 but is lighter to move and also has many modelling possibilities of other amplifier makes.
The AC30 still has its adherents in the tribute band and for those who follow the Shadows and 60's bands, originals and reissues alike fetch good prices. But my personal view is I can get the look and sound from the AD amplifiers so that is my choice, having owned the 15 and 30.
The staple of many groups of the 1960's, they were first used by Cliff Richard's backing band The Shadows in 1960 to give us the classic sounds we still enjoy today.
In fact the Shadows were instrumental in the development of the AC30, they needed something that could give them enough volume to be heard over the screaming fans of the early 1960's venues.
Groups such as the Rolling Stones, Beatles and Monkees all used the classic looking amplifier.
Essentially a valve driven amplifier with an optional Top Boost which later became standard, the AC30 was a loud amplifier, equivalent to a 100 watt job.
In the 1970's the move to solid state under new company ownership was less than well received by musicians and the popularity was damaged, indeed around this time, boutique amplifier makers such as the Mesa Boogie brand became popular, further woes to the brands that had failed to move with the times. A somewhat ironic outcome as 'reissues' of the classic amplifiers are all the rage.
I did have an AC30, a 1990's reissue which was mighty heavy and quite a thing but I moved to using an AC15 which was more manageable. The 15 and 30 were both the classic reissue and both had tremolo, the 15 had reverb too both being foot switchable.
The alternative for me now is a VOX AD120 which gives me the look and sound of the AC30 but is lighter to move and also has many modelling possibilities of other amplifier makes.
The AC30 still has its adherents in the tribute band and for those who follow the Shadows and 60's bands, originals and reissues alike fetch good prices. But my personal view is I can get the look and sound from the AD amplifiers so that is my choice, having owned the 15 and 30.
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