It utilises familiar guitar-amp controls (Gain, Volume, Treble, Middle, Bass, Presence and Master volume), augmented by a rotary Amp Type selector switch, plus dedicated effects sections that each have controls very similar to what you'd expect on a simple stomp box. Control ZoneĮverything about the Valvetronix is extremely intuitive. A stereo effects loop allows external rack effects to be integrated into the system and, for use with a PA or recording system, there's also a stereo line out and a headphone outlet with volume control.
There's an optional foot controller (not available for review) that facilitates easy patch switching, as well as pedal control over certain of the built-in effects (such as rotary-speaker speed or wah) and volume. To allow the user to gain a wider stereo spread, there are also sockets for adding external 8Ω speakers. The available power settings on the 120W review model were 1, 15, 30 and 60 Watts per channel (a 60W Valvetronix is also available). A number of power settings are available, via a rear-panel selector switch, to allow optimum audio performance at different sound levels. Photo: Mark EwingBecause effects like reverb sound better in stereo, each speaker is fed from its own power amplifier. Indeed, if you didn't examine the panel controls you could easily believe the Valvetronix was an AC30. Even the panel cosmetics and pointer knobs are classic Vox. Then the digital technology is married to a hybrid valve/solid-state signal path feeding a pair of 12-inch Vox loudspeakers, mounted in an open-backed cabinet styled very closely on that of the original Vox AC30. Physical modelling is used to take care of that part of the amplifier responsible for voicing, EQ and overdrive characteristics, and the built-in effects are all-digital too. The Vox Valvetronix Amp (designed by Korg, who now own title to the Vox name) is a modelling amplifier with a difference - instead of trying to use digital modelling to emulate absolutely every aspect of the sound, the designers have instead created a hybrid of a conventional guitar stage amplifier and a modelling amplifier. This hybrid physical modelling, valve and solid-state design, presented in a classic AC30-style format, aims to offer the best of all possible worlds.