Vox Valvetronix AD120VTX plus stomp EQ (US High Gain)

[faunoram]

the real way to take all the juice out of gear like this or any other is to experiment an use imagination !

nothing sounds like this out of the box ... you must use whatever you got to get that elusive tone that rings in your mind !

cheers !!

[Voxman5]

@faunoram Hi - Of course the EQ helps enormously, which is the point of the vid. Although I wasn't being too fussy about the tone for this demo, you're quite right in that it does take time to really learn about the different amp models, effects, the amps own EQ, and the interaction of volume & master volume (the latter controls tube saturation) to get the best out of it. Many of the presets are good though, but creating your own tones in manual mode & saving them is the way to go. Rich

[faunoram]

@Voxman5

i agree

and your videos are the best ones i see in youtube of the vox modeling amps !

you really know how to get the best out of this gear !

keep em comin and congrats !

saludos !

[Voxman5]

Yes, IMHO the original blue series were the best Valvetronix made - especially the AD120VTX. Just my view, others may disagree. Designed from outset as full gigging amps with great tone, independent effects sections, full stomp box flexibility with the VC12, excellent Celestion Neodog speakers, closedback birch ply cabs, 32 fully programmable patch memory, FX loop, line-outs, extn cab outs that leave internal speakers on, tuner, Hi & Lo inputs, & pedal FX section.

[gfspillers]

@Voxman5, do you still recommend the ad120vtx line over the newer VT models? I know in several forums over the last few years you've really championed the ad120vtx. Just wondering if you're opinion had changed.

[Voxman5]

There's little point in buying a modeling amp with amp models & effects, only to use it for a clean tone to play external distortion pedals. If you prefer to use stomp pedals my advice is to buy a straight all-valve amp to play them through. The Valvetronix, like any amp, will 'like' some pedals but not meld quite so well with others - trial & error I'm afraid. I would recommend an EQ &/or BBE sonic stomp in the FX loop (via a mono Y cable - see the Valvetronix forum FAQ section for details)

[italianobaiano]

great man!

[Voxman5]

@italianobaiano Thanks for looking in & glad you liked it.

[italianobaiano]

@Voxman5 u'r welcome! Please I have a question: probably I'm going to buy a used ad120vth, the head one, but I want to use my pedals...you think if I put a clean sound in the amp and use pedals for distorsion / overdrive my sound will be ok? I mean: does this amp accept well pedals? I hope the sound will be better than my english...;-)

[Voxman5]

Thanks, glad you liked it. Probably wouldn't come across too different to the EQ. But I'll see what I can do to show the EQ & BBESS separately and together.

[norumba]

fabulous playing and great demo as well! Would love to see a similar demo for the sonic maximizer, if you think it would translate well to you tube vid.

BTW, i have a soft spot for your guitar -- i had that exact guitar and finish years ago...

[Voxman5]

Hi - glad you liked it. I now tend to use a 'W' formation. See previous response to comments for settings used in the vid.

[ThePowrWithn]

Awesome vid!! What settings do you use for the EQ?

[MultiScoffer]

Excellent playing Voxman5. Tell me, what makes this amp different from the Vox VT100 other than the VT120+ being 120watts? Also, I'm sure you played the VT100. Which one do you like better? I'm thinking about getting a used VT100

[Voxman5]

@MultiScoffer Thanks for looking in; glad you enjoyed the vid. You're confusing V'x amp models. I'm playing an original 'Blue series' AD120VTX (not the VT120+ which is a new version of the VT100 with more amp models and a pedal section). It's very different to the new V'x amps; designed as a gigging amp, it's VC12 floor controller compatible. IMHO these were the best V'x amps ever made (no longer in production socan only be bought second-hand). The VT100 is still a nice amp though.

[thechrisnovak]

I'm amp hunting and this is #1 on my list. How is its durability? that is my only concern? btw youve got some skilllls there. very nice job

[Voxman5]

@thechrisnovak Hi, thanks for the kind comment. The AD120VTX, AD212, VC12 combination has been my main gigging rig for 6 years & it's been the most reliable rig I've ever had.

[moseseseseses]

I'm going to start searching to see if he has any other videos out there, he is just to good to pass up, I want to see everything this gent can do. I just love to see such great talent in a humble personality. People like this gent are meant to be here on this planet, to shame those who only think they are good, until they hear someone like him. He played those fast riffs as though he was on auto pilot, no stress and strain about it, his whole decorum was just as calm while he rocked.

[moseseseseses]

Seeing this video reminds me of the old adage: YOU CAN'T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER. Who in their wildest imagination would conceive , or could conceive that just by seeing this fellow anywhere out in public or behind closed doors, that he could actually pick up a guitar and rock the way he does? Usually, people see long hair and tattoos and nose rings and such , behind the guitars that are playing these type of riffs. Amazing, just amazing.

[Voxman5]

@moseseseseses You're very kind thank you - I was just mucking around to demo the EQ difference, but glad you liked it.

[sanQ]

@moseseseseses Yeah I never would have thought he'd be so good either. I like that when that happens!

[moseseseseses]

@sanQ Yes, it just thrills me to get my mind blown to the moon and back with the un-exspectible. I mean, this guy can just burn the neck up, and just think, he said he is just mucking around, what would he be doing beyond this on a more serious note? He is cool as ice , isn't he? Very humble , and that will elevate his greatness even more so, to be that good, and yet act as if it is nothing. A far cry from some of these obnoxious arrogant young kids who only think they can rock and roll.

[roojunk]

@moseseseseses I'm with ya, he blew me away with that style, not expecting those kind of riffs from that appearance!

[LeftyF2003]

Thanks so much for this! I hooked up the Berringer as you suggested and it sounds amazing. I found that the package that they ship the EQ in (clear plastic vacuum pac with cardboard backing) makes a great cover for the sliders. I just drilled holes in the side of the plastic for the cables and adapter and I can just leave it in the package behind the amp and the settings won't get mucked with. Thanks again for the great suggestion - it really makes a huge difference!

[Voxman5]

@LeftyF2003 What a novel way to use the blister pack! Glad you liked the tonal enhancement it gives, & thanks for looking in.

[LeftyF2003]

Ah, I see. Got it. I can work that out. Thanks for the extra info!

[LeftyF2003]

I'm sold - ordered the EQ to run on my AD120 VTH. Great advice!

[Voxman5]

@LeftyF2003 If EQ is mono, with stereo AD120 you'll need a mono Y cable Connect a regular guitar lead as normal from your (mono) external EQ 'input' to the LEFT SEND in the stereo FX loop (do NOT use both SENDS). Use a MONO (not stereo) Y cable to connect your EQ's 'output' to the AD120's two RETURN jacks in the FX loop. This will give u EQ through BOTH channels (ie both speakers). See the article on Valvetronix . net in the FAQ section: - IMPORTANT UPDATE TO USING AN EQ WITH 'Stereo' AD120 AMP

[Glockenator]

Nice. What model Les Paul is that?

[Voxman5]

@Glockenator Hi - it's a 1990 Gibson Les Paul Custom, tobacco sunburst, gold fittings, double bindings, ebony fingerboard, with a 50's neck profile.

[Glockenator]

@Voxman5 Sweet. I love Les Pauls and I love VOX.

[masterfunk214]

its it worth getting couse im thinking about it i use a squire bullet and a peavey viper combo amp 30 wat with the um 300

and wha id like to know plz

[Voxman5]

I'm sorry, but I don't understand what you're asking!?

[masterfunk214]

sorry i want to get this i was wondering if its worth buying

[Voxman5]

Youkeep referring to 'it' & 'this' - are you talking about the Valvetronix AD120VTX (which is no longer made, and you'd have to buy 2nd hand) or an EQ? I suggest you pop into the forum to discuss as youtube isn't a discussion board.

[masterfunk214]

the EQ peddle sorry

[psychicpowerless]

I was really considering getting the Behringer EQ700 pedal for my vt50, but now im not so sure, will it be at all worth it without the effects loop?

Appreciate the vid.

[Voxman5]

No, don't waste your money - an EQ is no good direct, it must be in the loop. See the FAQ section on the forum for a fuller explanation why.

[psychicpowerless]

Ah right will do, cheers for the info

[lowa91]

wow!!!! I have a vox vt and it never sounded like that!!!!

great tone and great playing, keep rockin'

[Voxman5]

Thanks Iowa91 - an EQ in the FX loop makes all the difference (you need a Y cable with the stereo AD120VT/VTX/VTH - see the FAQ section on the forum for details).

[daveireland27]

Hi Rich,

Great video demo! I just bought myself a VT100 2x12 combo and after seeing this vid I will definately invest in an equalizer... I'll prob go with a Behinger as you recommeded on the forum... I was wondering what settings you have your Eq set at? Also, when using the Eq in the effects loop, do I just set the onboard Eq to the 12 o'clock position? thanks in advance!

Dave

Ireland .

[Voxman5]

Thanks Dave. Use the external & onboard EQ together - the external is to enhance your tone by working WITH not against your onboasrd EQ. There's some settings in the comments of one of my demo vids & the forum - but just experiment.

[MbM20100]

Hi Rich !

Great demo, thanks !!

Ciao !

Marco

[Voxman5]

Glad it helped Marco!

[sirflipper]

thank you, I just ordered a vox this afternoon and now I'll have an EQ waiting when she arrives!

[Voxman5]

Go for it sirflipper - but remember, it's only effective in the FX loop - not direct!

[sirflipper]

thats where I have it, made all the difference!

[PPPOOONNNEEEYYY]

People talk about the "IT" factor....you have got "IT"

EXCELLENT!!!!

[Voxman5]

Thanks for looking in Poney and for your very kind comment. Rich

[StupidEarthlings]

nice.

[sw3210]

thanks again, yet another excellent demo of a pedal. its quite a pronounced change. wow! i will be following your wise advice

[Voxman5]

Glad it was helpful SW3210 - I posted to your other comment too, re your 'muddy' tone.

[Beatbot]

Thanks Voxman! I bought a Harley Benton (a store brand of Thomann) equalizer and tried your posted settings. I just fell in love with that tone. It's incredible how an equalizer can affect this amp's sound - now i can get any sound from crisp to scooped, just how i like it.

Greetings from Germany

[Voxman5]

Hi Beatbot - the difference is pretty phenomenal isn't it! Glad the concept & demo of an EQ in the FX loop helped you find your tone! Thanks for looking in - best, Rich

[everestman7]

oh yeah i can hear the difference

[kristoffer1989]

So how is the eq pedal set?

[Voxman5]

It's on here!

[upnorthbacon]

I just finished the FX loop mod from the valvetronix site, kicks serious ass now!!!!!

[upnorthbacon]

I have the XL version that doesn't come with an effects loop. Do you think an eq in front of the amp would help at all? I have the same muffled sound and it's driving me crazy!

[JeezoozeChrysler]

holy shit,i hear the blanket thing !! great playing man

[mcbjf]

O O >

(=)

*thats me being surprised cause you arent a signed artist*

[eatpeople13]

what eq do you have?

[Voxman5]

Behringer EQ700 (as per the 'tags') . I also have a Boss GE-7. Both the same sonically - if anything the Behringer is even a little quieter.

[psimoes79]

Hello Rich,

How did you set the onboard EQ in this video?

[Voxman5]

Can't recall - but I often max the whole EQ - typically with Marshalls & Recto model - might have been the same here. Just use both internal & external EQ in harmony, experiment, & see what you like.

[robfisher1]

holy shit! man thats some frantic playing. amazing stuff

i tried an eq in the loop of my ad120vtx and i just couldnt get a sound i prefered more than a without the eq. i was using a pretty awful guitar at the time though. may have to try it again with my new axe.

[Voxman5]

Heh..yeah, I was in a frantic mood!! lol For the stereo AD120's you need a Y cable (Both L&R FX return, Left Send) - otherwise you'll get EQ through one channel only! If you're not getting a much better sound EQ'd, your settings are wrong. Try these settings on a 7-band EQ: 100 .........3 200 .........10 400 .........-5 800 .........0 1.6k.........-5 3.2k.........8 6.4k.........3 Level........2 Don't forget to use the external EQ in conjunction with your on board EQ. Rich

[robfisher1]

I've generally just been maxing the onboard EQ as it seems to enhance the sound. mostly i just roll back the bass knob to where i see fit.

will those settings work just as well for clean settings like the blackface amp model?

i seem to remember i was boosting around 1.6k when your settings are cutting it. i'll have to have a relook at it.

currently the amp has gone away for repairs, i blew the left speaker on the last day of my warranty...lucky

[Voxman5]

Ouch! Sorry to hear about your speaker. Re EQ, make sure you're using a Y cable or it won't sound good. I tweak settings depending on amp model. I use the 800HZ to scoop/raise mids, and with a bright amp model such as the Blackface, I may nudge the lower frequencies up a tiny bit, and the high frequencies down a smidgeon. But in general,my EQ settings are pretty consistent!

[Voxman5]

Cheers skwiskaar!

[skwiskaar]

sounds great keep rockin

[chadwebster2]

ur soooooo good!!! omfg i want ur skills!

[Voxman5]

Thanks CW; most kind

[GuitarEd48]

Fantastic! great playing and nice sound!Beautiful Les Paul :D

[Voxman5]

Thanks G-Ed

[lousyGuitarists]

I think where the eq really helps is with the on board pedals. I think the amp models of the amp are great but the pedel sims, just don't have it. Add the eq and you can shape them perfectly. Even the amp models can be ajusted in a huge way.

[doufeel]

Thanks Rich, you helped alot.

I am now going out this weekend to pick one up.

[doufeel]

Wow it sounds great!

I've got a nice Fender tube amp and I am very pleased with my sound as is, but I was wondering if an EQ would make my sound/tone go from great to glorious, and how would I set it up if I got one for that to happen?

[Voxman5]

An EQ can really help lift your tone with any amp. I have a separate Boss BCB60 pedalboard that I use at the front end containing a Boss GE-7 EQ for use with my Laney VC30 2x10 (class A, all-valve) and an original 1x12 Marshall Valvestate 8080 Mk1 (hybrid, with 12AX7 tube in the pre-amp stage). Once again, the EQ makes a huge difference with both amps. Try an EQ at the front end & in the effects loop(if your Fender has one) to see which way you prefer. Best, Rich

[TIMGTV6]

Night and day stuff there. Thanx Rich, I'm converted.

[jaharris1001]

this video does demonstrate a little better I think, the value of an EQ in the effects loop, switching while playing,, I added mine, which I already had, and it does make a sizeable difference,, thanks for the tip Voxman !! and nice playing here