Your ears are fine. Most people can't hear much of a difference because it is very subtle. The JJ tubes in the pre-amp section are a touch more "harsh" then the stock tubes.
Thank you for actually making a tutorial, as well as a comparison. All this details helped a noob myself to understand alot more compared if it was just comparison. I never replaced tubes in an amp before.
I liked the stock tubes better. I thought they were janglier which is what you expect from a Vox. But I might have just been responding to the color of the background. I'm very color sensitive.
Brighter, freezing earlier. It depends what you're looking for. Both are good. The CHINA Tubes are warmer ??? or not ? I will make this experiment on my Blackstar HT-1 : TAD / SOVTEK against TELEFUNKEN / VALVO and try to make a video with good sound quality. It's very interesting ! :-) Thanks.
Extremely subtle difference and probably not worth the expense. I actually prefer the (very)slightly warmer chinese tubes. Changing tubes in amps is alot of nonsense unless one has gone bad.
Great video! It's very clear how to do it. But one thing is not clear to me yet: biasing the EL84 tubes? Or is it not needed? My local guitar shop told me it has a build in automatic bias system? Is this true?
The stock tubes sound better, warmer and less brittle and harsh. Maybe the JJ's need to 'burn' in a little? But on this comparison I'd ne putting the stock tubes back in. Just my 2 cents ;-) Thanks for the demo.
@jAMMAN798 p.s. do you know why on the first one is there the silver cover on it?!? I can't understand, so i can put a different tube from the others 2 on this position, fo esemple a Gold Lion and 2 Tung sol?
Changing the tubes did not change the amp sound significantly. In the clean channel, the change may be more noticeable. Probably the change of valves is more noticeable by replacing the 12ax7 with a 12ay7 or a 12au7 of Grove type quality.
In the erly moment from change the same I notice the volume amp has down as in this video, but this happen for one day practice and then could estabilize and now JJ difference litf up the sound don't you worry
@simonfowler81 Thank you. One item you should take note of is that I later changed the JJ pre-amp tubes. Have a look at my details in the Show More section below the video.
ok cool ta. I've changed the power tubes myself PLENTY of times but not the pre-amp tubes so found your video really helpful! so for me to order replacements, i should get a Groove Tubes Gold Series GT-12AX7-C for position 1, and just a couple of Sovtek 12AX7WA Preamp Vacuum Tubes for pos 2 and 3?
Bravo on the video...enjoyable to watch and covered all the bases! The jazz in the beginning was perfect lol. The JJs did have more bell and glassy clarity, which sounded great for certain passages, but the stock did sound more vintage with more hair on the gain, which is cool in the right context. Hmm...
Hmmm...it seems like a speaker change would be more significant. I then will focus my funds on removing the excessive noise from my Telecaster, before worrying about tubes.
I belive the "41" on the box of output tubes stands for the number related to when the tube with distort/saturate: 1 being easily distrorted and 10 being least distorted. Never saw 2 numbers like that maybe it means a "4" and "1" is matching delineation?
Some AC30's do use valve rectifiers...but the current AC30C (Custom) uses solid state rectification. The previous AC30CC (Custom Classic) did use the GZ34 rectifier valve. Older UK made Korg/Marshall AC30/6TB's used the GZ34 also...i'd say more have than haven't in Vox's history. Solid state is more efficient though hence why in most valve modern amps is by far the most common means. Valve rectifiers are said to give a different response/playing feel due to their inefficiency...that spongy feel.
I noticed a pleasant difference between the Gold Pin replacement option, but not so much with these. That's disheartening, because I preferred the cost of the standard option and there is hardly any difference (save for a crisper and more present bite). Then again, I've blown a tube, so that's sort of moot.
I think people WANT to like JJ because they are saving $$. In this comparison, the originals sounded as good if not better in some cases. I wish that you just had done the comparison right though. ... Use a looper pedal and play the exact same tones twice, and isolate the guitar track. The other stuff just makes it hard to hear the nuances of the difference.
Best instructional video I've seen... ✔ I have the same Amp and will be putting in a complete set Tung-Sol tubes. Wasn't sure how V1 came out. Just pull like the rest of them. Question for ya... why does V1 have the metal tube around it?
Ducati Dude It reduces outside interference (required to produce the cleanest of signal as a starting point). Always put your best pre-amp tube in this location.
jAMMAN798 --> Thanks for the reply... should I leave in the Ruby, or put in the new Tung-Sol 12AX7? I'm just a newb and don't know what tubes are best. Thank you for your help... ☺
Pulled all the tubes... V1 was not a 'Ruby', it was a 12AX7B China. Same as V2/V3. Replaced all 3 with the new Tung-Sol 12AX7's... along with new matched Tung-Sol EL84 power tubes. The Amp sounds good now. No snap, crackle'n pop. Thanks again for your hepful advice.
One of the 3 preamp tubes is the phase inverter which should be the tube that is made of good quality so vibrations don't affect it. Sovteck or Shuguang tubes are very close to VOX stock tubes for the other two positions.
Wow what a great comparison. To me I think the stock tubes sound a little "brighter" and the JJs seem to have a little more gainish warmth to them. Very subtle but it's there.
To make a really nice difference switching tubes, using el84m power tubes make the cleans really clean and bell like. I like them a lot better than regular el84
Hi there I am new with amp tubes, when changing tubes do u need to have the same brand for the power n pre amp or u can have them dofferent like the pre amp being jj's n power tubes electro harmonix? I know its a silly question but better b safe than sorry right?
GhettoGinny, check the notes under the video and you'll see I did change out the JJ pre-amp tubes. The tone I have now is much more pleasing to the ears.
If they are the correct model of tube (i.e., EL84 and 12AX7) then they will fit. However, they are designed to only fit one way, so if you're not exactly bang on with the pins fitting in the holes, they won't go in. Also if you keep trying you may bend the pins slightly... just straighten then back with your fingers.
I have an AC15C1 and my tubes will not go in. If you could please help me, or anyone!!! I have the right tubes but still will not go in. First time replacing. Thanks!
ok i pulled my AC30 apart and the chassis doesn't look anything like yours - it looks like i have 5 pre amp tubes not 3? and none in a silver case? how do I work out what model i have?
Certainly an older edition VOX AC30. You would most likely have to bias your tubes, which means it's best to take it to a shop. The new model AC30s are designed to self bias tubes.
i run a matched quad of jj's as my power section, a tung-sol as my crossover, and EHG gold-pins in my two pre-amp slots. granted i have an older model AC30CC2 with Warehouse Guitar Speakers in it, ( vet 30 and ET65) but i love the tonal difference my jj power section provides. switched back to the old stock tubes a while back to see how they sound and they just sounded muddy and flimsy.
i have a vox ac30c2 and have not changed the tubes since i bought it. i love the tone it puts out (which means i probally shouldnt change it at all) lol. But i feel it could better idk... should i change the preamp tubes the power tubes or all of them for the best results? thank you.
Does anybody can ask on my question? if I will install Celestion Blue Alnico into ac30cc2 instead of regular vox speakers, will it give me 100% the same sound like on ac30cc2x or ac30c2x ?
Question - one of my pre-amp tubes have gone microphonic so i'm going to replace all 3 of them. I live in Australia & can find the original Ruby tube online but Can't find the other 2 tubes online to buy. I like my JJ power tubes but want to keep close to the original for the preamps. Can you give me some advice on why i need 1 type for pos1 and another type for pos 2 and 3, and suggestions on what tubes to get?
Greg Hart The AC30 HW is a sweet amp! When it comes to tubes for amps it is hit and miss. Some New Old Stock (NOS) tubes sound great in certain amps and in others, not so great. The AC30 is a straight ahead work horse amp, like the Fenders of the past which means that NOS tubes should sound very nice in them as the amps design was made around the capabilities and limitations of the limited variety of tubes on the market over 60 years ago. You'll want a tube that ensures you keep the sparkle since that is where the AC30 shines. Some tubes will give this in spades by increasing the clean head room of the amp. If you go on most tube web sites, and look for tubes for an AC30, you'll find tons of research and opinions about what tubes increase or diminish which portion of the tone in small amounts to suit your taste.
Cheers mate, yes have been looking at the Tube sites, many of which recommend various packages from cheap to expensive (US$500). I like the sound I get with the stock tubes and the alnico blues, but maybe I am just used to it...?
Greg Hart If you like the sound, then I don't think you'd get much improvement with a tube change… probably notice more of a difference just by changing the strings on your guitar :) I used to change my tubes yearly, but now I only change them in any amp when something no longer sounds right to my ears or the tubes go microphonic which happens now and then.
I have this amp and based on this test I prefer the Chinese stock tubes to be honest ... the stock tubes had more warmth and beef to my ear while the JJ's sounded thin and more brittle. All it takes is for one band to record a killer album using the stock Chinese tubes for everyone to jump of the bandwagon and start loving the Stock Vox tubes ... I go with my ears, not the fashion and whim of the masses ... dare to be different and if it works for you? Who cares ...
+Rikitocker I eventually removed the JJ tubes from the pre-amp section and replaced them with your average Chinese brand. The JJs remain in the power amp section.
The two tunes I played for the sound demo were made up on the spot. I just let a drum machine run an automatic short sequence and then just throw some chords/notes overtop to create a short musical piece.
You've got the idea. I put Mullards in my AC30C2X. HUGE difference. Much more of a 60's Vox tone. Warm Liquid Chime. The new reissue Russian Mullards are as good as anything they ever produced.. and cheaper than J/J at only $117 for the set of 7.
Quick question... how important is the metal shield over the first pre-amp tube for either tone or performance? Reason I ask is that I lost mine and have a few gigs coming up. What purpose does it serve? Thanks
Well I'm listening to a utube vid through a laptop with headphones, so it would be irresponsable of me to judge tone here. That being said, I think I heard the JJ's getting thin during the 1st half. The Strat sounded kinda the same on both. Have you found some good tubes for these amps to date? My understanding is than you not only have to worry about good sounding tubes for these amps, but you also have to get tubes that are built like tanks... Its time for me to replace mine so I'm looking for a little advise on this matter.
IMO the JJ's ECC83 are not very pleasant. I've used them. Too hot and highs gets rolled off prematurely in the signal chain. There are better choices out there. (I've had Tung-Sols ECC83. Retains highs but too thin for my taste.) The JJ's ECC82 for power tubes in small amps are very good. I can recommend them.
Why not take the next logical step since there's not much difference tonally between the stock tubes vs the JJ's? I've had 3 AC30's including the AC30H2 handwired w/the F86 wish I kept that one. Anyway, I agree, change out that cheap Chinese glass! But replace it with some beautiful NOS or close Vintage Mullards, Telefunkens, etc?. On eBay I purchased a matched quad of 1963 Mullard EL84's. (Mullards originally came with AC30's in the early days). Their numbers were close to NOS. In the V-1 pos I put a NOS Mullard ECC83 from 63'. V-2 has a NOS 1959 Berlin Telefunken ECC83 and V-3 has a 1962 Miniwatt (Mullard Holland) ECC83. This cost me approx $175 - $200 and was beyond well worth it! The gain structure is wounderful now. The amp is now touch sensitive just like my 60's AC30. Quieter and serious TONE for days.You can always find smokin deals on ebay. Just do your homework so you don't get burned and make sure seller has a return policy. You can't lose and your ears will thank you! Seriously the change is phenominal to say the least! My band thought I'd gotten another amp!
+joshua harris The tubes were not bias'd. They came closely matched from "The Tube Store" which was a bonus. I should also point out that the AC30 C2 is self biasing.
There is no point really if the Vox AC30 is truly a Class A amp {although there is some controversy as to whether or not they are truly class A} Class A amps should not sag, and that's what rectifier tubes provide. So all a rectifier tube would accomplish is decreasing the amp's headroom. But Vox amps are cathode biased in the power amp section, so you still get 'squish' which sounds the same or nearly the same as 'sag'. If you had a class a/b amp like a fender or marshall - then a rectifier tube would provide some sag.
There wasn't too much difference in overall sound between the tube. JJ makes good vacuum tubes but some of the Chinese made tubes have come a long way in terms of sound and quality. Guess the Russian and Eastern European manufacturers are getting some competition now. =o)
I'm certain the CC2 VOX amps were created by a mad scientist who gave no thought to designing the amp for easy maintenance. It would be too long for me to explain what you need to do here. If you go the VOX Forums under AC30, I'll post a link there.
Wow! Very little difference. That was a HUGE surprise! I'll hear what difference there is in person soon.
Your ears are fine. Most people can't hear much of a difference because it is very subtle. The JJ tubes in the pre-amp section are a touch more "harsh" then the stock tubes.
Great video. Really interesting.
am I the only one who likes the stock tubes better? They sound warmer and more pleasant ;)
Thank you for actually making a tutorial, as well as a comparison. All this details helped a noob myself to understand alot more compared if it was just comparison. I never replaced tubes in an amp before.
I liked the stock tubes better. I thought they were janglier which is what you expect from a Vox. But I might have just been responding to the color of the background. I'm very color sensitive.
Brighter, freezing earlier.
It depends what you're looking for. Both are good. The CHINA Tubes are warmer ??? or not ?
I will make this experiment on my Blackstar HT-1 : TAD / SOVTEK against TELEFUNKEN / VALVO and try to make a video with good sound quality. It's very interesting !
:-)
Thanks.
The JJ sounds better on the normal channel, to me anyway. However, on top boost the stock sounds better. Awesome video and demo man!
Extremely subtle difference and probably not worth the expense. I actually prefer the (very)slightly warmer chinese tubes. Changing tubes in amps is alot of nonsense unless one has gone bad.
It serves as a noise interference shield from any electronic signal such as radio, wireless interference, dirty electricity, etc.
Thanks for your clip, I have Vox AC15C1 and the sound is so nice. In this clip I think original tube is warm but JJ tube is so clear and bright.
They're both great. Honestly, I stopped listening for a difference and just listened to delicious Vox goodness for what it is.
Great video! It's very clear how to do it. But one thing is not clear to me yet: biasing the EL84 tubes? Or is it not needed? My local guitar shop told me it has a build in automatic bias system? Is this true?
The stock tubes sound better, warmer and less brittle and harsh. Maybe the JJ's need to 'burn' in a little? But on this comparison I'd ne putting the stock tubes back in. Just my 2 cents ;-) Thanks for the demo.
No big difference in tone.
Thanks for the excellent video!
@jAMMAN798 p.s. do you know why on the first one is there the silver cover on it?!? I can't understand, so i can put a different tube from the others 2 on this position, fo esemple a Gold Lion and 2 Tung sol?
Changing the tubes did not change the amp sound significantly. In the clean channel, the change may be more noticeable. Probably the change of valves is more noticeable by replacing the 12ax7 with a 12ay7 or a 12au7 of Grove type quality.
In the erly moment from change the same I notice the volume amp has down as in this video, but this happen for one day practice and then could estabilize and now JJ difference litf up the sound don't you worry
@simonfowler81 Thank you. One item you should take note of is that I later changed the JJ pre-amp tubes. Have a look at my details in the Show More section below the video.
ok cool ta. I've changed the power tubes myself PLENTY of times but not the pre-amp tubes so found your video really helpful!
so for me to order replacements, i should get a Groove Tubes Gold Series GT-12AX7-C for position 1, and just a couple of Sovtek 12AX7WA Preamp Vacuum Tubes for pos 2 and 3?
Great video, I liked the valves of china because they seem more controlled, JJ sounds like an explosion
I am trying to replace my tubes but they arent in the same place as yours. mine is a cc2. any idea how i can get to them best?
Vox type amplifiers generally dont require tube biasing, GENERALLY.
Bravo on the video...enjoyable to watch and covered all the bases! The jazz in the beginning was perfect lol. The JJs did have more bell and glassy clarity, which sounded great for certain passages, but the stock did sound more vintage with more hair on the gain, which is cool in the right context. Hmm...
Hmmm...it seems like a speaker change would be more significant. I then will focus my funds on removing the excessive noise from my Telecaster, before worrying about tubes.
I belive the "41" on the box of output tubes stands for the number related to when the tube with distort/saturate: 1 being easily distrorted and 10 being least distorted. Never saw 2 numbers like that maybe it means a "4" and "1" is matching delineation?
Very very good job! congratulations!
Some AC30's do use valve rectifiers...but the current AC30C (Custom) uses solid state rectification. The previous AC30CC (Custom Classic) did use the GZ34 rectifier valve. Older UK made Korg/Marshall AC30/6TB's used the GZ34 also...i'd say more have than haven't in Vox's history. Solid state is more efficient though hence why in most valve modern amps is by far the most common means. Valve rectifiers are said to give a different response/playing feel due to their inefficiency...that spongy feel.
It seems that the JJ's are a tad bit more articulate and chimier. I also think I heard more sustain out of the JJ's as well.
I noticed a pleasant difference between the Gold Pin replacement option, but not so much with these. That's disheartening, because I preferred the cost of the standard option and there is hardly any difference (save for a crisper and more present bite). Then again, I've blown a tube, so that's sort of moot.
I think people WANT to like JJ because they are saving $$. In this comparison, the originals sounded as good if not better in some cases. I wish that you just had done the comparison right though. ... Use a looper pedal and play the exact same tones twice, and isolate the guitar track. The other stuff just makes it hard to hear the nuances of the difference.
apologies i was panicking a bit yesterday :) it's a 1998 AC30/6 TB which is why i've got 5 pre amp tubes not 6.
should still be self biasing.
Best instructional video I've seen... ✔
I have the same Amp and will be putting in a complete set Tung-Sol tubes. Wasn't sure how V1 came out. Just pull like the rest of them. Question for ya... why does V1 have the metal tube around it?
Ducati Dude It reduces outside interference (required to produce the cleanest of signal as a starting point). Always put your best pre-amp tube in this location.
jAMMAN798 --> Thanks for the reply... should I leave in the Ruby, or put in the new Tung-Sol 12AX7? I'm just a newb and don't know what tubes are best. Thank you for your help... ☺
It is up to you, both would work
Pulled all the tubes... V1 was not a 'Ruby', it was a 12AX7B China. Same as V2/V3. Replaced all 3 with the new Tung-Sol 12AX7's... along with new matched Tung-Sol EL84 power tubes. The Amp sounds good now. No snap, crackle'n pop. Thanks again for your hepful advice.
One of the 3 preamp tubes is the phase inverter which should be the tube that is made of good quality so vibrations don't affect it. Sovteck or Shuguang tubes are very close to VOX stock tubes for the other two positions.
Wow what a great comparison. To me I think the stock tubes sound a little "brighter" and the JJs seem to have a little more gainish warmth to them. Very subtle but it's there.
@jAMMAN798 I bet you'd like the sound then if you ran that ruby in V1 and then the rest as JJ's.
To make a really nice difference switching tubes, using el84m power tubes make the cleans really clean and bell like. I like them a lot better than regular el84
Hi there I am new with amp tubes, when changing tubes do u need to have the same brand for the power n pre amp or u can have them dofferent like the pre amp being jj's n power tubes electro harmonix? I know its a silly question but better b safe than sorry right?
Erick Hernandez Hi. You can mix and match brands as much as you wish. Many people do this so that they obtain a sort of unique tone to their ears.
Thank you! Nice instruction
+Unifono2012 You're very welcome. Thanks for watching!
GhettoGinny, check the notes under the video and you'll see I did change out the JJ pre-amp tubes. The tone I have now is much more pleasing to the ears.
If they are the correct model of tube (i.e., EL84 and 12AX7) then they will fit. However, they are designed to only fit one way, so if you're not exactly bang on with the pins fitting in the holes, they won't go in. Also if you keep trying you may bend the pins slightly... just straighten then back with your fingers.
can you upload a new video with the changes, thanks
I have an AC15C1 and my tubes will not go in. If you could please help me, or anyone!!! I have the right tubes but still will not go in. First time replacing. Thanks!
@zzmoore Thanks! I do like the current AC30 model (CC2), very easy to maintain.
They were a year old & I wanted to see what all the fuss was about JJ tubes.
JJs all the way!
Thanks! I prefer a mixture between the stock and JJs... seems to give a nice tone.
Groovy piano music.
Thank you so much!!!! You helped me a lot!!!!!! I've the same amp and i will go for JJ too!!!!
fab video
+Ruben Trevino Thanks Ruben!
Simple, perfectly understandable, perfect! jAMMAN798, you are a genius!
PS: I can't hear any diference on the tubes... I must be deaf!
ok i pulled my AC30 apart and the chassis doesn't look anything like yours - it looks like i have 5 pre amp tubes not 3? and none in a silver case?
how do I work out what model i have?
Certainly an older edition VOX AC30. You would most likely have to bias your tubes, which means it's best to take it to a shop. The new model AC30s are designed to self bias tubes.
i run a matched quad of jj's as my power section, a tung-sol as my crossover, and EHG gold-pins in my two pre-amp slots. granted i have an older model AC30CC2 with Warehouse Guitar Speakers in it, ( vet 30 and ET65) but i love the tonal difference my jj power section provides. switched back to the old stock tubes a while back to see how they sound and they just sounded muddy and flimsy.
Great! Glad you found it helpful.
@bushibayushi Actually I prefer the stock tubes in the pre-amp section over the JJs. I agree, they did sound warmer.
Stock tubes sounded much warmer.
i have a vox ac30c2 and have not changed the tubes since i bought it. i love the tone it puts out (which means i probally shouldnt change it at all) lol. But i feel it could better idk... should i change the preamp tubes the power tubes or all of them for the best results? thank you.
If you love the tone you have now… don't change a thing.
mmmm think it would have been better to record per line with IR's more reliable to compare results
Hi what drive pedal are you using ? Thanks J
I don't believe I was using any pedals. It's all from the amp.
Very nice video. You forgot to mention a very important step 9 though: re-bias the new tubes! I trust you did that, didn't you?
does it matter what pins go in the holes? do the tubes have to be aligned the same way, in other words?
How much for the tubes? I think the difference is barely noticable..
On the other hand, i prefer the greenbacks over the alnico blues..
@simonfowler81 The cover over the pre-amp tube is just for noise interference reduction. Try to place your best pre-amp tube in this position.
Cool. One last thing, I thought the AC30s had a GZ34 rectifier as well? Is it only in some reissues?
Does anybody can ask on my question?
if I will install Celestion Blue Alnico into ac30cc2 instead of regular vox speakers, will it give me 100% the same sound like on ac30cc2x or ac30c2x ?
Yes, it will give you almost exactly that sound.
Question - one of my pre-amp tubes have gone microphonic so i'm going to replace all 3 of them.
I live in Australia & can find the original Ruby tube online but Can't find the other 2 tubes online to buy.
I like my JJ power tubes but want to keep close to the original for the preamps.
Can you give me some advice on why i need 1 type for pos1 and another type for pos 2 and 3, and suggestions on what tubes to get?
The jjs sound amazing I'm actually about to put those bad boys in my ac15 tonight !
Tried once NOS Philips in a Koch and a Hook amp (both from Holland), but the Tung Sols were better ... Well, I suppose its all very subjective ... :-)
I have an AC30 HW (one of the newer ones), if you were to replace the tubes and money was no options, what would your call be?
Greg Hart The AC30 HW is a sweet amp! When it comes to tubes for amps it is hit and miss. Some New Old Stock (NOS) tubes sound great in certain amps and in others, not so great. The AC30 is a straight ahead work horse amp, like the Fenders of the past which means that NOS tubes should sound very nice in them as the amps design was made around the capabilities and limitations of the limited variety of tubes on the market over 60 years ago. You'll want a tube that ensures you keep the sparkle since that is where the AC30 shines. Some tubes will give this in spades by increasing the clean head room of the amp. If you go on most tube web sites, and look for tubes for an AC30, you'll find tons of research and opinions about what tubes increase or diminish which portion of the tone in small amounts to suit your taste.
Cheers mate, yes have been looking at the Tube sites, many of which recommend various packages from cheap to expensive (US$500). I like the sound I get with the stock tubes and the alnico blues, but maybe I am just used to it...?
Greg Hart If you like the sound, then I don't think you'd get much improvement with a tube change… probably notice more of a difference just by changing the strings on your guitar :) I used to change my tubes yearly, but now I only change them in any amp when something no longer sounds right to my ears or the tubes go microphonic which happens now and then.
I retubed one amp with jjs and the tone is awesome. the quality and variation of sounds socks in this video.
I have this amp and based on this test I prefer the Chinese stock tubes to be honest ... the stock tubes had more warmth and beef to my ear while the JJ's sounded thin and more brittle. All it takes is for one band to record a killer album using the stock Chinese tubes for everyone to jump of the bandwagon and start loving the Stock Vox tubes ... I go with my ears, not the fashion and whim of the masses ... dare to be different and if it works for you? Who cares ...
+Rikitocker I eventually removed the JJ tubes from the pre-amp section and replaced them with your average Chinese brand. The JJs remain in the power amp section.
Did you not need to re-bias your amp for the change?
It seemed to let the strat sound more "strat-like" with the new tubes. God I hope that is a strat or I'll look dumb, sure sounds like one
Yup, that was a Strat. A made in Mexico Road House Deluxe Strat.
@simonfowler81 Yes, but i want to put on mine 3 tung sol and 4 electro harmonics :D
The two tunes I played for the sound demo were made up on the spot. I just let a drum machine run an automatic short sequence and then just throw some chords/notes overtop to create a short musical piece.
Yo where do the pointy screws go into? Because I took all mine out and realised the pointed ones dont all go in the top.
You've got the idea. I put Mullards in my AC30C2X. HUGE difference. Much more of a 60's Vox tone. Warm Liquid Chime. The new reissue Russian Mullards are as good as anything they ever produced.. and cheaper than J/J at only $117 for the set of 7.
Quick question... how important is the metal shield over the first pre-amp tube for either tone or performance? Reason I ask is that I lost mine and have a few gigs coming up. What purpose does it serve? Thanks
Tubes will only fit one way no matter how hard you try.
What's the title of the piano music at the beginning?
What if I put kt88s in an ac30?
You're welcome. I was hoping for a big tone difference, but in the end... really nothing much.
Well I'm listening to a utube vid through a laptop with headphones, so it would be irresponsable of me to judge tone here. That being said, I think I heard the JJ's getting thin during the 1st half. The Strat sounded kinda the same on both. Have you found some good tubes for these amps to date? My understanding is than you not only have to worry about good sounding tubes for these amps, but you also have to get tubes that are built like tanks... Its time for me to replace mine so I'm looking for a little advise on this matter.
There is a noticeable difference on youtube. I'm sure it's even more apparent in person.
The JJ tubes didn't really make that much of a difference. I would have stayed with the vox tubes.
No need to bias on the AC30C2 (it is self biasing).
IMO the JJ's ECC83 are not very pleasant. I've used them. Too hot and highs gets rolled off prematurely in the signal chain. There are better choices out there. (I've had Tung-Sols ECC83. Retains highs but too thin for my taste.) The JJ's ECC82 for power tubes in small amps are very good. I can recommend them.
can anyone tell me how much vox ac30c2 costs in chicago? thank yoou
Agree, the word on JJ Tubes, at least in my experience, is over hyped.
Why not take the next logical step since there's not much difference tonally between the stock tubes vs the JJ's? I've had 3 AC30's including the AC30H2 handwired w/the F86 wish I kept that one. Anyway, I agree, change out that cheap Chinese glass! But replace it with some beautiful NOS or close Vintage Mullards, Telefunkens, etc?. On eBay I purchased a matched quad of 1963 Mullard EL84's. (Mullards originally came with AC30's in the early days). Their numbers were close to NOS. In the V-1 pos I put a NOS Mullard ECC83 from 63'. V-2 has a NOS 1959 Berlin Telefunken ECC83 and V-3 has a 1962 Miniwatt (Mullard Holland) ECC83. This cost me approx $175 - $200 and was beyond well worth it! The gain structure is wounderful now. The amp is now touch sensitive just like my 60's AC30. Quieter and serious TONE for days.You can always find smokin deals on ebay. Just do your homework so you don't get burned and make sure seller has a return policy. You can't lose and your ears will thank you! Seriously the change is phenominal to say the least! My band thought I'd gotten another amp!
hi man,the bias needs to be made on this amp? or only with the replacement of the valves is enough?. Thanks!
+nahuel eduardo vazquez janin The VOX AC30 is a Class A amp, no bias required. Just plug in the tubes and play.
Thanks!! great video
did you bias these tubes?
+joshua harris The tubes were not bias'd. They came closely matched from "The Tube Store" which was a bonus. I should also point out that the AC30 C2 is self biasing.
so id assume the cch the head model would as well
Right, it would be the same.
thanks jamman
No your not allone, I definitely like the stock tubes better, they sound much warmer
No GZ34?
AC30c2 has a solid state rectifier.
There is no point really if the Vox AC30 is truly a Class A amp {although there is some controversy as to whether or not they are truly class A} Class A amps should not sag, and that's what rectifier tubes provide. So all a rectifier tube would accomplish is decreasing the amp's headroom. But Vox amps are cathode biased in the power amp section, so you still get 'squish' which sounds the same or nearly the same as 'sag'. If you had a class a/b amp like a fender or marshall - then a rectifier tube would provide some sag.
Can't get the damn back panel off!
There wasn't too much difference in overall sound between the tube. JJ makes good vacuum tubes but some of the Chinese made tubes have come a long way in terms of sound and quality. Guess the Russian and Eastern European manufacturers are getting some competition now. =o)
Prefer the stock ones
The VOX AC series doesn't need a tube rectifier. Because of it's design, it doesn't has any difference at all
I'm certain the CC2 VOX amps were created by a mad scientist who gave no thought to designing the amp for easy maintenance. It would be too long for me to explain what you need to do here. If you go the VOX Forums under AC30, I'll post a link there.