the vox amplug was first released in three variants: metal, classic rock and ac30. since then more versions have been produced and we plan more to come as amplug continues to spread its wings. other versions currently on the market include classic rock, blues, bass, metal, lead, and clean. this article, however, covers the vox amplug 2 ac30 review.
all versions have the same basic features, but the difference is in the sound the musician is looking for. the concept behind the vox amplug is that you plug the amp directly into your electric guitar and then plug in your headphones.
Reading: Vox ap2ac amplug 2 ac30 guitar/bass headphone amplifier
The AC30 is a guitar headphone amp, basically an extremely small portable amp, which allows you to hear the same sound you would hear from a standard amp when playing with headphones, but in a smaller version.
With this compact amp, you can play your guitar in complete silence when you’re on the go or when you don’t want other people to hear what you’re playing.
who is vox amplug 2 ac30 made for?
beginners
if you always find yourself playing your guitar in crowded rooms, you and possibly the other people sharing the room will love the amplug 2 ac30. the amplifier allows you to practice at any time without interfering with other people, let them watch TV while you dance. Plus, you won’t feel self-conscious because no one else can hear you.
travellers
If you travel a lot, the amp gives you a better way to keep playing your guitar without having to carry a big, heavy traditional amp with you wherever you go.
advanced players
If you’re working on improving or improving your skills, the vox amplug amp gives you the opportunity to play quietly. Your housemates or family members will most likely hate hearing the same sweep selection exercise 200 times, so the ac30 offers a seamless way to practice.
also, if you like simple guitar tones straight through an amp without any effects, the ac30 provides a direct sound suitable for simple rock tones.
ac30 amplifier characteristics
size
The amp will fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. It is made of plastic and easily connects to your electric guitar. It comes with a 6.35mm jack for use with different instruments. but because it plugs directly into the guitar, care must be taken when putting the guitar down. it would be better if you use a guitar stand.
battery
The amp runs on two triple-a (aaa) batteries. There are two types of batteries you can use for your amplifier: zinc-carbon batteries, which can last up to 9 hours, or alkaline batteries, which you can recharge after 24 hours.
See also: Klipsch Heritage Headphone amplifier/DAC at Crutchfield
controls
The power switch is located on the side and comes with two settings: on and standby. however some models have an fx option. three control knobs are available to control volume, gain, and tone. By adjusting these controls, you can get anything from a nice clean tone to medium distortion.
auxiliary input
The auxiliary input allows you to connect different devices, including an mp3 player, a smartphone or an ipod, basically anything that has a 3.5mm jack. this is useful for backing tracks or drum machines.
headphone out
You need to use the 3.5mm output jack to connect to your headphones. you can also connect the amp to any 3.5mm speaker system, such as computer speakers.
ease of use
using the vox amplug 2 ac30 easy. just plug it into your electric guitar and plug in your headphones or speakers. though you may have to adjust the controls from time to time to get the tones you’re after.
if you’re using a strat or any other guitar that has a connector on the face of the body; it will be easier because the amplifier will be located in a convenient position. With a guitar that has a side jack, such as a les paul or telecaster type guitar, the amp will not be visible from a normal standing or sitting position. therefore, you will have to flip your instrument to use the controls.
This is just a minor inconvenience, and once you find the right tone, you won’t have to worry about it. the ac30 produces a simple sound. and because there are no pre-installed effects, you simply tweak the gain and tone settings to your desired sound, and that’s it.
sound
The amplug 2 ac30 amplifier features 100% analog circuitry. So if you’re not into digital modeling technology, the Vox AmPlug AC30 might be right for you. Despite being a compact device, the amp produces an excellent tone.
produces the ac30 style sound. remember that this device is designed primarily for silent practice, and while you could use it for recording, don’t expect the highest sound quality, this is fun, cheap, and cheerful, not studio quality.
The amp doesn’t have enough gain for heavier metal tones, which is why it comes in different models suitable for various styles. if you’re looking for a high gain setup for metal, consider a metal version.
Similarly, if you like playing the lead, a lead version suits you. As stated above, all amplugs share many features and quality, so you can choose the version that suits your style of music.
We found this amp to be perfect for rhythm parts and has plenty of gain for a simple classic rock or pop tone. we felt that the main sound required a slight gain because it was quite thin. however, each player is different. so this shouldn’t put you off.
reliability/quality
Being made of plastic, the AC30 can easily break or get damaged. it would be great to see a version made of metal, although this would make it more expensive. therefore, care must be taken when leaving the guitar while the amp is connected.
see also: pignose legendary 7-100 review
vox amplug 2 ac30 pros & cons
differences between vox amplug 2 ac30 & the vox amplug ac30 standard
When it comes to build and design, both models look and weigh about the same. All amplug amplifiers are super light, but also strong. the plastic casing is solidly built, though it can break if you hit the ground with too much force.
both models use two aaa batteries, but the difference between the ac30 and the normal model is that the former comes with an on/off button while the latter has a switch. although not a huge improvement, it does allow the amp to turn itself off automatically.
other portable options
not sure if you want to go as small as the amplug? No problem, check out our reviews of the best mini amps, best portable guitar amps, best modeling amps, and best guitar amps under $200 currently available.
our review of the fender super champ x2 tube amp might also be of interest.
the final verdict
The vox amplug 2 ac30 is an ideal device for musicians who don’t want to lug around a lot of accessories and makes simple practice incredibly quick and easy. The amp is a built-in device and doesn’t require a separate cable, just plug it into your guitar and play. Advanced analog circuitry produces bright, organic tones that are similar to those produced by a real AC30.
In addition, the modes, settings and effects allow you to experiment as much as you want and find the sound you want. Also, if you’re one of those people who forgets to turn off the amp, the auto power off feature will come in handy.
the vox amplug 2 ac30 is worth every penny!
See also: 5 Easy Ways To Play Electric Guitar With Headphones – Rock Guitar Universe
