🔥Which one is best? Vox AC10 vs Vox AC15c1🔥
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- čas přidán 5. 07. 2024
- Today we are shooting out the Vox Ac10 Vs Ac15c1. The point of this video is to help you out, in case you are considering one of these amps. What are the difference between the ac10 and the ac15? What are the similarities? Which one is best for your needs? That is what we'll explore in this video.
I'll cover the tubes, EL84 and 12AX7, that are in both amps. As well as the Celestion speakers that are in both the AC15 and AC10. How about whether these amps are good pedal platforms? That, and much more.
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Time Stamps:
0:00 AC10 VS AC15
0:04 AC15 Clean No Reverb
0:19 AC10 Clean No Reverb
0:34 WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOU?
0:48 AC10 AND AC15 Specs
0:55 AC10 specs
1:22 AC15 specs
1:50 AC15 Clean + Reverb
2:13 AC10 Clean + Reverb
2:36 Pros of AC10
3:37 Cons of the AC10
5:28 AC15 Clean + Reverb MAXED OUT
5:44 AC10 Clean + Reverb MAXED OUT
6:02 Pros of AC15
6:27 Cons of AC15
7:14 AC15 Gain
7:32 AC10 Gain
7:51 My two cents on the AC10
8:32 My two cents on the AC15
8:44 AC15 Heavy Gain
9:07 AC10 Heavy Gain
9:30 Other videos
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⚡️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: czcams.com/play/PLeAo3au6SN1mEE4I1YYC2GtP7Y9sZ4VKT.html
MINI Superbeetle: czcams.com/play/PLeAo3au6SN1kHtYSahXeUYwEOxyzbqill.html
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
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?
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
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.
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?
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!
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.
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!
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.
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
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!
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.
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
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?
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!
Thanks for this comparison.
My pleasure. Did you have a favourite?
Fantastic job guys!
Glad you enjoyed it!
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.
That’s a really cool video Jon!
+Steve In The Mix thanks brother, I’m trying real hard 😉
Great review,very informative thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
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
Very good comparisons. Wow thank you.
Thanks! Did you have a favourite?
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
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 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?
Btw. When you’re running the top boost channel where do you set the volume level for the normal channel? I find it can really beef up the low end if you turn it up. (I discovered this after watching your video on the normal channel and how the top boost volume effects it - great tip btw).
+2speedy4u22 I did not use the “tone hack” as I wanted to make this video a fair comparison. So the Normal channel was not on.
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.
Really useful. Thankyou.
Glad it helped Graham.
this is a great video!
+Valentina it means a lot coming from a fellow CZcamsr. Thank you!
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? 🤪
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 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. :)
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.
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
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!
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. 😂
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?
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.
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.
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, 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.
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.
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.
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?
Do you think the AC10 will be an upgrade over the Boss katana 100? I mostly play at home and in the studio but plan to do some small gigs. I’m not a big effects guy so the loss of the effects won’t be an issue. Cheers
If you do not need the extra effects and mostly play clean and light overdriven tones, then I would say go for it.The AC10 is plenty loud for small gigs and if you dig that Vox tone, then you'll be happy with this amp.
Thank you so muck for this comparison. it helped me a lot.
I am wondering ... Can we imagine replacing the digital reverb of the AC10 by a spring reverb ?
I don't think that is possible to do. That being said, there are some really awesome reverb pedals on the market, if you don't like the one in the AC10.
Thanks a lot mate - very useful
My pleasure. Did you have a favorite?
Great review!!
Thanks! Which one would you pick?
@@TheToneLounge Prob going to get the AC10 this weekend. All my amps are vintage American. My only concern is that there is no way to use an attenuator without a mod.. Even my 5 watt 57 champ is too loud for home when cranked!
@@milesv5352 I use a Two Notes Captor and send the signal of the amp to my recording interface. From there I use IRs. That is one way to use such amps without modding them.
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?
Props to that Tonic riff!
One of my favorite rock bands!
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:
czcams.com/video/XwH_uPrfHko/video.html
Great video! Quick question, Which would you choose between an AC10 vs Fender Super Champ X2 for home use?
+justice4all72 the AC10, hands down!
The Tone Lounge yes, no contest!
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!
How does the closed back affect the tone of the amp or its VOXinex? I am thinking of a head option (cheaper) and have it paired with the 112 speaker in my Peavey Bandit combo
In the AC10 you get more bass and the mids sound a bit boxy. In the AC15, it’s not entirely closed. Much less bassy and better mids.
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.
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.
The AC 10 sounds great with my Farfisa combo organ. ❤
Oh, that's interesting. Do you use a more gained up tone with it?
Hi! What do you name master on the AC10 beside the volume, since the amp has gain and volume only?
That would be the Volume. Since the Gain adds distortion, then I refer to Volume as the Master. I hope this helps.
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 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 CZcams 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..
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: czcams.com/play/PLeAo3au6SN1kfdYcyp8bvHttqkPinQ2Wt.html
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.
Definitely the AC15, just has a bigger fuller sound. Do you have an AC4-12 to compare. I was looking at one of these for a practise amp as the AC15 is too heavy for practice.
I do! Well my AC4 has the 10". Despite the smaller speaker, it sounds killer. You can boost the low end with pedal for low volume playing.
Hi! I decided to go with tha ac15!!! What attenuator would be a good choice for home praticing? Thanks for the video!
Cheers!
I use a Two Notes Captor 16 with mine. It's not the conventional attenuator but I do home recording, so I use the amp with Impulse Responses. You can also check Thomann, Sweetwater or Long&McQuade (depending where you are in the world) for other alternatives.
@@TheToneLounge ok thanks a lot! ;)
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 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
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😎🎸
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!
Have you played the Ac10 through different speakers such as the Greenback? Also, do you think that new tubes make a difference in the sound? Thanks👍
?
I have not. But it would be a cool idea to try in the near future. As for tubes, they make a significant difference. I personally use JJs but any quality brand will do.
👍thanks!
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?
Great vid! I went with the AC-15 for me but both sound great. I really wanted the 12" speaker.
I have traded out the greenback for the WGS speaker and really dig it. Little more low end.
+Gino Ames nice! Which WGS did you go with? I’m considering trying other speakers with both my amps. I’m even thinking about trying a 2x10 with my amps.
@@TheToneLounge I went with the G12C/S. Same speaker Vox is using but with a smooth cone. Adds a little more low end.
I dig it. High wattage so the speaker doesn't break up as easy. I am a pedal guy so I dig that.
Cool, I’ll have to take a look at that model. Thanks for sharing. Cheers
Gino Ames I bought the limited edition that comes with the g12c and it is definitely nice to have that extra spice. I dig it too!
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: czcams.com/video/XwH_uPrfHko/video.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.
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:
czcams.com/video/7VyhYZps1Bw/video.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?
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 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!
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: czcams.com/video/z0Ve3jlX0Cs/video.html
AC10 Series: czcams.com/video/JjM4YIbuNBM/video.html
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:
czcams.com/video/XwH_uPrfHko/video.html
Change the V1 tube to a 12AU7, it makes it much more manageble ;-)
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?
Hi Jonathan, could you please make a try on the AC10 but using the greenback speaker in the AC15 ? I'm curious, I infer that the culprit of the muddiness of the AC10 is due to the 10 inch speaker or its the small combo format. Keep the great work!!!
Hi Joe,
Sadly I know longer own the AC10. The speaker does contribute to the mudyness. Does Celestion make a 10" GB? I can't recall.
@@TheToneLounge yes they do, but I've heard the small speaker and small cab format on those recordings as well. Thank you for your fast answer. You are doing an excellent Job on your channel
@@TheToneLounge you can take a listen to this video where Sweet Water has an exclusive 10" Green back speaker on VOX AC10 czcams.com/video/93kLrRZZBnQ/video.html
Love the AC10
What do you love about it?
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 ;-)
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
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!
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.
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 $300 might help towards a tremolo and reverb pedal...
Great job on this video, loved your straight-up take. Thanks! Aaron
The reverb in the AC10 is not that bad. In a way, I like it better than the one in the AC15. Try it first before buying a reverb pedal, you might find it suitable for your needs. If so, then you got extra cash for another pedal! :)
@@TheToneLounge As soon as this virus thing is past, I will be trying out both AC10 and AC15. Something about the sound of the 10 (in your video and in others too) grabs me. The reverb in my Katana 50 (it has plate, spring and hall) is OK by me too, though I find I fiddle a lot to get it just right for what I'm after that day. If I like the 10's reverb, and can use that money for an OCD or something else, then you're right that's a win. Thanks so much for your reply!
My pleasure Aaron. Check out these series to get more of an idea on what you might want to look for in your next amp.
Pedals with Vox: czcams.com/video/7VyhYZps1Bw/video.html
Vox AC15 series: czcams.com/video/qRFBYM0r7R4/video.html
AC10 series: czcams.com/video/JjM4YIbuNBM/video.html
@@TheToneLounge Will do. \m/ \m/
hey bud ...i just got an AC 15 for 400 !! ...reverb is broken ...but heres the thing ..i !@#$%^ 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 ...czcams.com/video/SFwJJHUAIn0/video.html
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.
So, what the best amp between Ac15 and Ac10 for small-medium gigs?
I'm not sure. The difference in wattage does not make for a night and day difference.
I think it comes down to personal taste. I found the AC10 to have a more aggressive distortion, and it's great if you are digging the Top Boost channel's tone. It is also a bit smaller and much lighter in weight.
The AC15 is a bit more flexible in terms of options but is heavier. I suggest trying both to see what suits you best.
Ayyy i have the aston spirit mic things the best mic i ever used was mostly just checking for the high gain tones sounds like the ac10 gets a bit more crunch and low end on the gain but im sure the 15 could be eq'd for a litte more bass i find it odd that the ac 15 doesn't have a dedicated gain nob while the pathfinder and ac10 both do
Yeah the AC10 has more gain on tap, probably due to the smaller transformers. It's a very cool amplifier.
thank you
My pleasure.
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!
What about AC15CH head with built in attenuator 15 - 1.5 and 1/6 Watt for home use?
Lot of people love that one! Ask Landon Bailey, he has one.
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.
Excellent summary..👍🇦🇺
Glad it helped! Which did you prefer?
@@TheToneLounge heart says 15, brain says 10 and wife says Super Beetle Mini.. 🤣👍🇦🇺
@@jimmyjimmy951 the boss has spoken my friend lol
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. 🙂
Buddy, Have you change your tubes to make the amp more better tone?
Stock tubes in both amps 😉
that AC15 🤤 have you ever tried the AC15vr? used they’re about half the price of the ac15 and i wonder if it’s twice as good haha.
I have not, sadly, but do intend to try one and make some videos at some point. If you check on FB groups you might be able to get people's opinion on that.
Well done¡¡..very interesting...could be interesting too a good comparision like this between Ac4-c1 12 and Ac10-c1,both are amps that one wish to have for home practice...and all guitarist,learner and experienced could be interested to have one of this two little big amps..regards¡¡
Great idea! I’ll keep my eye out for both amps and will do a video shootout of those two. Cheers
Ohh thanks...I will be waiting for 😉👍
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 like to come back and watch this vid. It makes think I should’ve bought the ac 10. But I know If I did I’d still want the power of the ac15. That 10 sounds amazing tho. I’ll end up with both some day. My 15 is kinda loud lol
The AC10 is a very cool amp. If you own both at some point, try running them as dry/wet rig.
The Tone Lounge what does that mean?
Wet/Dry= use two amps at the same time. One has the affects like reverb and delay ( wet) the other does not (dry)