The Evolution of Vox Amps: A Brief History

When it comes to guitar amplifiers, few brands have as rich a history as Vox. Founded in London in 1957, Vox has been at the forefront of guitar amp design and innovation for over six decades. From its humble beginnings to the present day, Vox amps have captured the hearts of countless musicians around the world.

Early Years

The story of Vox began in the late 1950s when Tom Jennings, a British entrepreneur, set out to create an amplifier that would rival the popular American-made Fender Tweed amplifiers. Jennings teamed up with Dick Denney, a talented engineer and guitarist, to design and build the first Vox amps.

The Birth of the AC30

In 1962, Vox introduced its most iconic amp model, the AC30. This powerful, versatile amplifier quickly gained popularity among British Invasion bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who. The AC30's distinctive chimey tone and durability made it a staple of rock music.

The Emergence of Solid-State Amps

In the 1970s and 1980s, Vox began to transition from valve amps to solid-state designs. This new technology allowed for more reliability and maintenance-free operation. However, many guitarists lamented the loss of tone quality that came with these changes.

The Revival of Valve Amps

By the 1990s and early 2000s, there was a renewed interest in valve amps among musicians. Vox responded by releasing new models like the AC4TV and the TV112 combo amp. These amps combined modern features with vintage tone and design.

Modern Era

Today, Vox amps continue to evolve, incorporating advanced technologies and materials while maintaining their commitment to quality and tone. The company's latest offerings include the MV50, a portable, battery-powered amp that's perfect for practice and small gigs.

From its early days as a small London-based company to its current status as a global leader in guitar amplification, Vox has been a constant innovator in the music industry. With its rich history of designing and building iconic amps like the AC30, Vox continues to inspire generations of musicians with its commitment to quality, tone, and style.

History of vox amps