Vox AC4 - 4W 1x12" Combo Amp

The Vox AC4 (AC4C1-12) 4W 1x12" Combo Amp is a popular all-tube amplifier known for delivering classic Vox tone in a compact and affordable package. It is a fantastic choice for home practice, studio recording, and small gigs where you need authentic tube tone at a manageable volume.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Core Concept & Sound:

• 4 Watts of All-Tube Power: The amp's signal path is powered by two 12AX7 preamp tubes and a single EL84 power tube. This circuit design delivers the legendary "Top Boost" tone of a Vox AC30, but at a fraction of the power. The 4 watts of power are surprisingly loud, and when cranked, they provide a rich, dynamic, and touch-sensitive tone.

• 12" Celestion Custom Speaker: A key feature that sets this version apart from the smaller AC4 models is the 12-inch Celestion speaker. This larger speaker size provides a fuller, less "boxy" sound with more low-end presence, giving the amp a bigger and more open feel that better resembles its larger siblings like the AC15 and AC30.

• Classic Vox Tones: The amp is designed to provide both the clean, chimey tones and the rowdier, overdriven sounds that Vox amps are famous for. The Gain and Volume controls allow you to dial in everything from sparkling cleans to a satisfying British crunch.

• Class A Amplifier Design: The AC4 features a Class A amplifier design, which is a key part of the classic Vox sound. This design is known for its clarity, warmth, and dynamic response.

Build Quality & Adjustability:

• Simple Control Layout: The control panel is straightforward, with controls for Gain, Volume, Bass, and Treble. This simple setup makes it easy to find a great sound without getting lost in a sea of knobs.

• Vintage-Style Cosmetics: The amp has a classic Vox aesthetic, often featuring a basket-weave vinyl covering, a diamond grille cloth, and a vintage-style handle.

• External Speaker Output: The amp includes a 1/4" external speaker jack (16 ohms), which allows you to bypass the internal speaker and connect the amp to a larger cabinet for even more tonal diversity.

• Durable Construction: The amp is built with solid construction and designed to withstand the rigors of travel and frequent use.

Overall Impression:

The Vox AC4 (AC4C1-12) 4W 1x12" Combo Amp is an excellent choice for:

• Players seeking classic British tones: Its all-tube circuit and Top Boost voicing make it a perfect amp for blues, rock, and indie players who love the classic Vox sound.

• Home and Studio Recording: The low wattage and great tone make it a fantastic tool for recording where you need to get authentic tube saturation at a reasonable volume.

• Gigging Musicians: It has enough power for small gigs and can be easily mic'd for larger venues. Its compact size and weight also make it highly portable.