VOX AC30 Hand-Wired Amplifier Head

Timeless Tone for Today

Few amplifiers have shaped music history like the VOX AC30. With the AC30 Hand-Wired Head, that legacy lives on, reborn with painstaking attention to vintage accuracy and updated with modern refinements that make it stage- and studio-ready.

Whether paired with VOX matching V212HWRX cabinet or your own favorite speaker setup, this amplifier delivers authentic British tone in a flexible head format built for professional use.

A Vintage Legend Reconstructed

This is more than a reissue. It is a complete reconstruction of a vintage icon, hand-wired and fine-tuned to bring the sound of the 1960s back to life. Hand-wired circuitry and custom transformers form the foundation of the AC30 Hand-Wired Head.

Modern refinements include a master volume that is removed from the circuit when fully engaged, a transparent effects loop, and a custom-voiced spring reverb that enhances the classic VOX voice without compromising authenticity.

Vintage Tone Meticulously Recreated

At the core of the AC30 voice lies its EL84 power section, but the defining character comes from how the phase inverter begins to distort when pushed. This subtle distortion adds complex harmonics that differ from preamp overdrive, creating openness and musical depth that pedals cannot replicate.

The AC30 Hand-Wired Head recreates this behavior by analyzing an original 1963 copper panel AC30 and carefully mapping its electrical response. A newly designed power circuit reproduces the classic voltage sag, delivering natural compression, sustain, and touch sensitivity.

Custom Transformers for Authentic Response

A custom-wound output transformer was developed through extensive prototyping to capture the bell-like highs and rich harmonic layering of the original amplifier. Subtle winding variations shape midrange character and saturation, ensuring every note blooms with vintage accuracy.

Unlike vintage originals, the AC30 Hand-Wired Head delivers this feel while remaining quiet, stable, and reliable for modern performance environments.

Two Channels Iconic VOX Voice

• Normal Channel: Midrange warmth with a Bright switch for added top-end clarity, ideal for single-coils or humbuckers.
• Top Boost Channel: Classic VOX chime and drive with independent Treble, Bass, and Volume controls for precise tonal shaping.

True to its heritage, the amplifier remains touch-sensitive, expressive, and harmonically complex whether played clean or driven hard.

Tube-Driven Spring Reverb Refined

The onboard spring reverb is powered by a dedicated tube circuit, delivering depth and character that integrates naturally with the amplifier tone. It enhances ambience without overpowering the core signal.

Transparent Pedalboard Ready FX Loop

The FET-buffered effects loop is engineered for transparency, preserving the amplifier core tone while integrating modulation and time-based effects cleanly. Even when pushed into overdrive, clarity is maintained.

For purists, the loop can be fully bypassed to maintain a direct signal path.

Flexible Power for Any Cabinet

Delivering 30 watts through four EL84 power tubes, the AC30 Hand-Wired Head provides ample headroom for stage use while achieving rich breakup when driven. Multiple speaker outputs allow pairing with a wide range of cabinets.

It pairs perfectly with the VOX V212HWRX cabinet for a vintage-inspired stack configuration.

Timeless Craftsmanship and Style

From the copper control panel to the brass vent grills and classic VOX badge, the AC30 Hand-Wired Head reflects VOX unmatched heritage. Every detail contributes to durability, tone integrity, and unmistakable visual identity.

Plug in, turn up, and experience the legendary sound of VOX.

Specifications

Dimensions

• Size: 27.76 in x 10.35 in x 11.89 in / 705 x 263 x 302 mm

Weight

• Weight: 43.43 lb / 19.7 kg

Output Power

• Power: 30W RMS into 8 or 16 ohm

Tube Complement

• Preamp Tubes: ECC83 12AX7 x 4, ECC81 12AT7 x 1
• Power Tubes: EL84 x 4
• Rectifier: GZ34 x 1

Inputs

• Normal: High and Low 1/4" jacks
• Top Boost: High and Low 1/4" jacks
• Footswitch: 1/4" jack
• Return: 1/4" jack

Outputs

• Speaker Outputs: 1/4" jacks x 2
• Send: 1/4" jack

Included Items

• Accessories: Power cable, owner manual, VFS1 footswitch, speaker cable