The Ugly Truth About The Vox AV Series

Vox unveiled its new line of amp ahead of NAMM. They are impressive to look at and they boast a list of features that sound pretty ambitious. The stand out features are: Valve Operation, Analog Amp Modeling, Adjustable bias control, and Retro-Inspired Looks.

From Vox:

Drawing upon nearly 60 years of tube amplifier design, the all-new AV (Analog Valve) Series from VOX offers players a full pallet of authentic amplifier sounds via eight, all-analog pre-amp circuits .VOX’s AV amplifiers also feature a true analog circuit design based on the classic 12AX7 tube, which lends classic, harmonically rich tones to these amps. The innovative Valve Stage section modifies the circuit to add, or reduce, brightness & bass response, and also allows users to adjust the bias and response of the power section on the fly. Additional features like a unique, sealed cabinet design, three classic effects (Chorus, Delay & Reverb), and a retro-inspired aesthetic establish the AV Series as one the most exciting, and unique, offerings in the VOX lineup.

This all looks appealing, but there are some points that are cause for concern...

Exactly How "Tube" Is It?

Vox is all too happy to call this thing Analog Value, but what seems strange is that it uses two 12AX7 tubes. If you notice, Vox usually puts a EL84 in the power section of its amps. 12AX7s are usually doing the light duty in the pre-amp section, even in 15-watt amps. The presence of the these tube make think that it is solid state that is doing the real heavy lifting in these amps. If that is the case, then it hearkens back to the old "valve reactor" line that failed to excel, despite doing something that Vox has had a great track record doing: good sounding hybrid amps (VT series and Cambridge amps.

This Isn't A New Idea

Amp modeling and on-board effects have been done before. Vox's VT series has been doing just that for years, and doing a rather decent job at it. This amp claims to accomplish its amp-tones from analog circuits rather than digital modeling. It also included a second 12AX7 tube in the "power section" and that all sounds rather exciting, but there is nothing really new to the table. I'd be impressed if there is a measurable difference between the VT and AV tones.

I Still Kinda Want One

Sure, there are somethings that look a little fishy, but the proof is in the pudding. These amps look amazing in the pictures that Vox has put out. I can't wait to see one in person. I'm more excited about playing one of these and seeing how well it stacks against the VT amps. These amp sort of remind me of the Fender Excelsior amps that came in went a few years ago. These have a few more tricks up there sleeve though. There hasn't been a price point set yet, so there is still a chance these things are overpriced/ a bargain.

Check out the update: HERE