THE INEVITABLE SEQUEL
The VX II features 11 classic amp models (Deluxe CL, Tweed 4×10, Boutique CL, Boutique OD, VOX AC30, VOX AC30TB, Brit 1959, Brit 800, Brit VM, SL-OD and Double Rec) and eight effects (Chorus, Flinger, Phaser and Trem, Analogy Delay, Tape Echo, Spring Reverb and Hall Reverb). The VX II shares the same control layout as the VX I, however it gives you some extra features on top of those offered in the VX I. For starters it’s a 30-watt amp instead of 15 watts, and the speaker is an 8” 4 ohm unit. You’ll be able to get this amp up to a volume to compete with some of your more enthusiastic garage drummers. In addition to the inputs found on the VX I there’s also a USB Type B port for easy integration with a Mac, PC or even iOS platforms, and the amp comes bundled with VOX’s JamVOXIII and new VOX Tone Room software which allow for deeper editing of your favourite amp models and effects. Crucially, this gives you access to a software-based midrange control along with various other parameters (like noise reduction) that you wouldn’t otherwise have.
IT’S ALL IN THE MIDS
The lack of midrange control isn’t as glaring an issue on the VX II provided you have a USB cable and a device to edit patches. Having access to control over this amp’s mids instantly opens it up to much more precise soundshaping, letting you really dial up the honk for classic VOX cleans or Satch-y leads, or to scoop the mids right out for utter grindcore mayhem. The scooped-mid death tones are great fun, and if you have a foot switch you can go from moody, reverb-drenched clean tones to all-out war and back quite easily indeed.
SO WHO’S IT FOR?
As with the VX I, the sounds run the gamut from sparkly clean to utter bloody filth (in the nicest possible way) and the effects are all very useable. The simple fact that you can go deeper with your presets by editing them externally means this is much more adaptable than its little brother. If you’re an established amp owner looking for something small and functional for around the house, either amp would suit but you’ll probably have more fun with the VX II if you’re an intense tone-tweaker.
