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Table of Contents

Introduction.... 4
Welcome aboard!... 4 Main features... 4 Signal path... 5 Valve Reactor Technology.. 5

Quick Start... 6

Setup.... 6 Checking out the preset programs.. 7 Switching between the channels of a program.. 7 Creating your own sounds... 7
The Guitarists Guided Panel Tour.. 8
A. Top Panel.... 8 B. Rear Panel... 11
About the three operating modes.. 13
Preset mode (selecting a preset program). 13 Channel Select mode (selecting a channel program). 13 Manual mode... 14
Creating and storing your own program.. 15
Creating your own program... 15 Adjusting the noise reduction... 16 Storing your program... 17 Checking the settings of a program (original values).. 17 Restoring the factory settings... 18
Using the VFS2 dual foot switch... 19 Amp models and effects... 20
XL Amp models.... 20 Effects... 25
Troubleshooting.... 29 Specifications... 31 Programmers Cheat Sheet... 32

Introduction

WELCOME ABOARD!
hanks for choosing the VOX AD15VT-XL, AD30VT-XL, AD50VT-XL or AD100VT-XL Valvetronix amp. To ensure a long and trouble-free relationship with your new amp, please read this manual carefully, use the amp as directed and keep the manual for future reference.

MAIN FEATURES

The XL-series uses Valve Reactor technology, and feature a power amp circuit containing a 12AX7 (ECC83) dual triode valve (vacuum tube) that would normally be used in a preamp. This allows the amp to produce the true sound and feel of a bona de all valve (tube) amp. Sophisticated modeling technology is used to provide eleven different amps. They range from classic vintage amps of the past to current expensive high-end valve amps, and are accessible at the turn of a knob. Eleven high-quality effects are built in and seven are multi effects that let you use two effects simultaneously plus Noise Reduction. You can store your favorite amp and effect settings as a program, which contain two different settings (CH1 and CH2). You can switch between these settings from the top panel, or by using the optional VFS2 foot switch connected to the rear panel (Channel Select mode). In addition, theres one preset program for each amp type (Preset mode). In Manual mode the sound you hear will reect the physical settings of the knobs. If you connect the optional VFS2 dual foot switch (sold separately), you can use it to switch programs or bypass effects. The power level control (The AD15VT-XL doesnt have this feature.) lets you adjust the output wattage of the power amp. This means that even when the master volume is turned up to the max to drive the Valve Reactor power amp, you can adjust the volume without losing any tone. The external speaker out jack (AD50VT-XL / AD100VT-XL only) lets you connect a guitar speaker cabinet (8 ohm) of your choice. The effect send/return jacks (AD100VT-XL only) allow you to connect your external effect processor in a loop connection.

SIGNAL PATH

Your guitar sound passes through the following sections. (You can refer to The Guitarists Guided Panel Tour while you read the explanation that follows.)

Power Amp model Effect

OCTAVE / COMP

Speaker

Pre Amp model

Choose one of 11 types

Effect
MODULATION DELAY / REVERB

Master Vol

Class A Class AB
Determined by the Pre Amp selection

VALVE REACTOR TECHNOLOGY

THE POWER (AMP) AND THE GLORY!
Since conventional modeling effects for line recording are not used directly with a speaker, they do not include a power amp circuit, output transformer, or speaker. In other words, they only have a preamp circuit. A real valve amp sound, however, is produced not just by the preamp, but also by the tone and distortion of the power amp, and by the constant changes in impedance that are created by the power amp driving the speakers. The XL-series contains an actual low-wattage valve power amp circuit, a virtual output transformer (patent applied for) that uses solid-state components to simulate an output transformer, and a dummy speaker circuit that simulates the varying impedance of a real speaker. This means that although its lowpower, the power amps used in both the XL-series has the same circuit structure of an actual all-valve (tube) amp. While much of the tone creation and shaping carried out is done in the digital domain, the Valve Reactor power amp is 100% analogue. The resulting journey your guitars signal takes through the analogue world of the power stage plays a major role in providing the all-important feel and tone of the original amps we modelled. The Valve Reactor power stage is, to all intents and purposes, a bona de valve (tube) push-pull power amplier, but in miniature. It utilizes a 12AX7 (ECC83) valve (a dual triode device meaning two valves in one) and is equipped with an output transformer, just like a real valve amp. The power amp output signal is designed to read the constantly changing impedance curve of the dummy speaker circuit system and feed this information back to the virtual output transformer just like an all valve amplier does. This information permits the behavior of the valve stage to vary with the speaker load (impedance), which is another important part of real world valve tone.

TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS This trio of knobs allow you to dial in the exact amount of high, mid, and low frequencies. Also, as youd expect (and hope!), the exact manner in which each one of these controls behaves and also interacts with the others is dependant on the amp model selected. Turn to the Amp models and effects section (page 20) for more information.
NOTE: In keeping with the originals, certain models will produce almost no sound if all of these three tone controls are turned all the way down (counter-clockwise). NOTE: Not all of the original amps that we modeled actually have all three of the Treble, Middle, and Bass controls. In such cases, we allow you to use all three knobs to effectively increase the tonal range of the original. Turn to the Amp models and effects section (page 20) for more information.
MASTER This adjusts the volume that is output from the preamp to the Valve Reactor power amp. This will vary the amount of distortion created by Valve Reactor.
NOTE: The MASTER volume control is NOT programmable. NOTE: The GAIN control also affects the amount of distortion. For some settings, there may be virtually no distortion.

3. EFFECT SECTION

Here you can make settings for effects and noise reduction. For details on each effect, refer to Amp models and effects (page 20). EFFECTS Selects the type of effect. You can use the TAP button, EDIT 1 knob and Bypass button to adjust the parameters of each effect. When you select an effect type, the effect parameters will be initialized and Effect Bypass will be defeated. EDIT 1 Use this to adjust the parameters of each effect. By using this knob in conjunction with the TAP and BYPASS buttons as described below, you can adjust three different parameters. (That is, if the BYPASS LED is dark.) Turn EDIT 1 (without pressing a button) (EDIT 1) Turn EDIT 1 while pressing TAP (EDIT 2) Turn EDIT 1 while pressing BYPASS (EDIT 3) If the BYPASS LED is lit (the effect is bypassed), you can hold down the TAP button and turn the EDIT 1 knob simultaneously to adjust the noise reduction sensitivity.
NOTE: You cant adjust the effect parameters while the BYPASS LED is lit.
TAP (EDIT 2) and LED This button enables you to set the speed of a modulation-type effect (such as CHORUS or FLANGER) the delay time REVERB length; simply press the button twice at the desired interval. The LED blinks at the specied speed or time.

HINT: To set the time to exactly match the tempo of a song, press the TAP button several times along with the song. HINT: You can also adjust the speed or time, by holding down the TAP button and turning the EDIT 1 knob. (This is the EDIT 2 mode) NOTE: If the BYPASS LED is lit, you wont be able to use the TAP switch to set the time. (The TAP LED will be dark.)
BYPASS (EDIT 3) and LED If you dont want to use an effect, press this button to turn the effect off (i.e., bypassed). If the effect is bypassed, this LED will be lit.
NOTE: You cant adjust the effect parameters if the BYPASS LED is lit. HINT: While the effect is bypassed, you can adjust the noise reduction sensitivity by holding down the TAP button and turning the EDIT 1 knob. HINT: The bypass setting is remembered even when you switch modes, switch programs, or turn off the power. HINT: The Bypass button can be used to modify effect parameters (EDIT 3). Press and hold Bypass and simultaneously turn the EDIT 1 knob. See the chart on page 25 for what parameters can be controlled.
4. PRESET/MANUAL/CHANNEL SECTION
PRESET and LED This button puts your Valvetronix amp into Preset mode and you can use the AMP selector to select a typical setting for each amp type. If the PRESET LED is lit, youre in Preset mode! MANUAL and LED This button puts your Valvetronix amp into Manual mode which means the physical position of each knob (except for the EDIT 1 knob) determines exactly what you will hear. This means that the amp will operate just like a conventional guitar amp. If the MANUAL LED is lit, youre in Manual mode. CH (Channel), CH1/CH2 LEDs This button switches between the two channels and The LED of the selected channel will light. In Preset or Manual mode, the CH1 and CH2 LEDs will be dark. If from either of these modes you then press this CH button, youll switch to Channel Select mode, and the channel (1 or 2) that you selected most recently will become active.
WRITE button Use this button to save a new program into CH1 or CH2. Refer to Storing your program (page 17).

5. POWER SWITCH

When the power is on, the indicator located above the switch will be lit.

B. Rear Panel

AD15VT-XL/AD30VT-XL/AD50VT-XL

AD30VT-XL/AD50VT-XL only

AD50VT-XL only

AD100VT-XL

AC power This is where you connect the included power cord. FOOT SW You can connect the optional VFS2 dual foot switch (sold separately) here, and use it to switch programs or bypass the effect while you perform. POWER LEVEL This adjusts the output wattage of the power amp.
AD30VT-XL: less than 0.1 W 30 W AD100VT-XL: less than 0.2 W 100 W NOTE: The AD15VT-XL doesnt have this control. NOTE: The power level setting isnt saved as part of the program. AD50VT-XL: less than 0.15 W 50 W
This control lets you get that highly desirable, fat, warm sound of the Valvetronix power stage being driven hard (a common trait of all great valve power amps), at various levels. This will enable you to play comfortably in a small room or compromising your all-important tone. LINE/PHONE Use this jack if youre plugging directly in to a mixer, recording device, or if youre using headphones. The output from this jack is taken from immediately before the ValveReactor power amp, and the character of the guitar amp cabinet is applied to it.

NOTE: Connecting headphones to this jack will mute the internal speaker.
EXTERNAL SPEAKER OUT jack You can connect a guitar speaker cabinet to this jack.
NOTE: Sound will not be output from the internal speaker if you use the EXTERNAL SPEAKER OUT jack. NOTE: The AD15VT-XL and AD30VT-XL dont have this jack. Important: To ensure that your system works correctly, you must observe the following points. a) Dont use an external speaker whose impedance is other than 8 ohms. b) Dont connect a speaker whose rated input capacity is less than 50 watts (100 watts for the AD100VT-XL). The speaker may be destroyed if you ignore this caution not recommended! c) You must use a speaker cable to connect an external speaker. Dont use a shielded cable like the one you use to connect a guitar to an amp. d) You must turn off the power before connecting the cable. Connecting the cable while the power is turned on may damage your amp.
LOOP SEND jack, RETURN jack These are loop jacks that you can connect to your external effect processor. Connect the SEND jack to the input of your external effect processor. Connect the RETURN jack to the output of your external effect processor.
NOTE: The AD100VT has these jacks.
About the three operating modes
he XL-series contains eleven preset programs. To select one of these, enter Preset mode (which simply means, press the PRESET button) and turn the AMP selector.
There are also two rewritable channel programs which you can select by pressing the CH button or by using the optional VFS2 foot switch.
PRESET MODE (SELECTING A PRESET PROGRAM)
In Preset mode, simply turn the AMP selector to select a preset program that contains typical settings for each amp type. The GAIN, VOLUME, TREBLE, MIDDLE, BASS, and effect settings will switch automatically.

GETTING TO PRESET MODE

If the PRESET LED is dark, youre not in Preset mode. Press the PRESET button to make the PRESET LED light.
NOTE: If the CH1 or CH2 LED is blinking (i.e., when youre in the middle of selecting a writing-destination for the program) the PRESET LED wont light when you press the PRESET button the rst time. In this case, just press the PRESET button once again.
SELECTING A PRESET PROGRAM
With the PRESET LED lit, turn the AMP selector and the preset program for each amp type will be selected. (The physical settings of the top panel control knobs and EFFECTS selector are ignored at this time.)
HINT: If you want to bypass the effect, press the BYPASS button. If the BYPASS LED is lit, the effect is bypassed. Press the BYPASS button once again to cancel bypass and enable the effect once again. The XL-series remembers the bypass setting even if you switch modes or programs, or turn off the power.
CHANNEL SELECT MODE (SELECTING A CHANNEL PROGRAM)
In Channel Select mode you can press the CH button to recall the program saved in each channel (CH1 and CH2), automatically switching all of the amp and effect parameters.

CREATING YOUR OWN PROGRAM
Lets start from scratch. 1. Choose any program in Preset or Channel Select mode, or select Manual mode.
HINT: Since were starting from scratch it doesnt matter what program you choose.
2. Use the BYPASS button to bypass the effect. (The BYPASS LED is lit.) If you want to use an effect, you can add it at the end of this process. 3. Use the AMP selector to select the amp you want to use.
HINT: For details on the amp types, refer to Amp models and effects (page 20).
4. Adjust the top panel GAIN, VOLUME, TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS knobs as desired. 5. Hold down the TAP button and turn the EDIT 1 knob to adjust the noise reduction. This setting is also saved as part of your program. For details, refer to Adjusting the noise reduction (page 16)
HINT: Adjust the noise reduction so that you dont hear noise when youre not playing your guitar.
6. If you want to use an effect, press the BYPASS switch once again to turn bypass off (the BYPASS LED goes dark). 7. Select an effect, and make adjustments. For example if you want to add delay, turn the EFFECT selector to DELAY. If the selector is already set to DELAY, youll have to turn it to a different effect and then back to DELAY. Use the TAP button or EDIT 1 knob to adjust the delay time and delay level (the amount of delayed sound). DELAY TIME: DELAY LEVEL: DELAY FEEDBACK: Press the TAP button twice (at the desired interval), or hold down the TAP button and turn EDIT 1. Turn EDIT 1 (without pressing any button). Turn EDIT 1 while holding down the BYPASS button.
HINT: For details on the effects, refer to Amp models and effects (page 20).
8. When youve come up with a sound you like, store the program.
NOTE: In Preset or Channel Select mode, the changes you made will be lost if you switch to a different program or Manual mode or turn off the power without storing the program rst. NOTE: The effect bypass setting isnt stored as part of the program.
ADJUSTING THE NOISE REDUCTION
Heres how to adjust the noise reduction.
NOTE: The noise reduction setting is part of each program. In Preset and Channel Select modes, your setting will be lost if you switch to a different program or to Manual mode (or turn off the power) without storing your edited program rst.
1. Press the BYPASS button to make the BYPASS LED light. 2. Hold down the TAP button and turn the EDIT 1 knob to adjust the noise reduction sensitivity. Turning the knob toward the right will produce greater noise reduction (less noise). If you turn the knob all the way to the left, noise reduction will be off, and wont do anything (more noise).
NOTE: Depending on the guitar youre using, excessively high noise reduction settings may cause notes to be cut off in an unwanted manner!
3. If you want to use effects, press the BYPASS button to make the BYPASS LED go dark and the effect(s) will be heard.

STORING YOUR PROGRAM

When youve come up with a sound you like, you should store (write) the program. 1. Press the WRITE button. The CH1 or CH2 LED will blink. 2. Press the CH button to select the channel in which you want to store your program. The program will be stored in the channel whose indicator is blinking.
HINT: If, during this process, you decide that you really dont want to store the program, you can press the TAP button to cancel at this point. The LED will stop blinking, and youll return to the mode in which you were.
3. Press the WRITE button once again. Your program will be saved in the specied channel, and the LED of the destination channel will stop blinking and remain lit.
NOTE: The program that was previously stored in that channel will be overwritten; in other words, the settings that used to be stored in the channel you selected in step 2 will be erased. NOTE: The effect bypass setting isnt stored as part of the program. NOTE: If youre creating your sound in Preset or Channel Select mode, your changes will disappear if you switch to a different program or to Manual mode before storing.
CHECKING THE SETTINGS OF A PROGRAM (ORIGINAL VALUES)
If you want to nd out exactly what settings are saved in a preset or user program, you can use the Original Value function. When youre turning a knob to adjust the value of a parameter, and the value at that moment matches the value that is saved in the program (i.e., the original value), the PRESET LED will blink if youre in Preset mode, or the channel LED will blink if youre in Channel Select mode.
HINT: When youve found a program you like, and want to know just what settings it contains, simply use this Original Value function! NOTE: Since the top panel MASTER volume, the rear panel POWER LEVEL control are not programmed, the original value display will not occur for these settings. Also, the Original Value function doesnt operate in manual mode.
RESTORING THE FACTORY SETTINGS
Heres how you can restore the factory settings.
NOTE: If you do this, the programs you saved in the channels will be completely erased, and will be reset to the factory settings. NOTE: Effect and noise reduction settings made in the Manual mode will also be erased.
1. Turn the power off. 2. While holding down both the CH and WRITE buttons, turn the power on. When the CH1 and CH2 LEDs begin blinking, release these two buttons.

CONTROLLING FACTORS

As already touched on in this manual Guitarists Guide although the top panel of your Valvetronix amp houses controls for TREBLE, MIDDLE, BASS, GAIN, VOLUME, and MASTER, not all of the amps weve modeled have as many controls. In such cases, rather than leave you with knobs that do nothing, weve made full use of all ve Valvetronix amp controls without compromising the accuracy of any of our models. This means youll be able to mimic the full tonal spectrum of each and every one of the originals weve modeled. and then some, thanks to the extra exibility and additional control the ve Valvetronix amp controls give you. For example, if an original doesnt have a Gain Control (FUNCKED, CRUNCHED, BUZZSAW), the Valvetronixs GAIN control will mimic the originals Volume control. This, of course leaves you with three volume controls to use; VOLUME, GAIN, and MASTER. As you already know, MASTER is a universal, non-programmable control that allows you to set the overall volume of the amp. So, the programmable VOLUME control (the knob right next to GAIN) effectively acts as a second Master Volume, allowing you to ensure that the volume of each of your programs compliments the rest. Cool stuff, Im sure youll agree. Also, if an original amp doesnt have a complete 3 band EQ network then well set up the missing tone controls on our model to be neutral (i.e. as the original) when set at 12 oclock thus giving you extra tonal exibility in those EQ areas, if you so wish. Just so you know, the amps we modeled that dont have individual controls for Treble, Middle and Bass are:
Amp CRUNCHED (AC30TB) Original tone controls Treble and Bass controls

TUBE TALK

Us Brits call em valves while our US cousins call em tubes. as the saying goes: England and America are merely two countries divided by a common language! Anyway, call em what you will, these wondrous glass bottles lie at the tonal heart of each of our 11 models. As all the amps weve modeled hail from one of the two countries just mentioned, in honor of their heritage, the descriptions of all English amps will employ the words valve and valves, while the American ones will be tubular!
QUESTION: Whats the difference between an ECC83 preamp valve and a 12AX7 preamp tube? ANSWER: Nothing! Theyre the same exact thing namely the most popular preamp tube in ampland. ECC83 is the British name, 12AX7 (a.k.a. 7025) is the American.

POWER AMP ACCURACY

As already touched on a couple of times, what happens in the power stage of any good tube amp is of paramount importance to the way the amp sounds, feels and behaves. The way the power amp operates (Class A or Class AB), the power tubes used (EL84s,EL34s, 6L6s), the exact nature of the negative feedback loop circuitry, and how the power stage interacts (a relationship called damping) with the speaker(s) it is driving all these things play a vital role in the creation of tone. And, thanks to our patented in USA Valve Reactor Technology all these important bases are faithfully and accurately covered. For example: if you choose the amp model CRUNCHED an amp with a Class A power stage and no negative feedback thats exactly what your Valve Reactor power amp recongures itself to emulate. And, as an added bonus, thanks to our rear panel POWER LEVEL control you can adjust the output power (Wattage) to best suit the size of the room youre playing in. (The AD15VT-XL doesnt have this feature.)

TURN IT UP!

Truly great, all-valve amps have one thing in common they invariably sound at their best when theyre cranked to the max! Its got nothing to do with eardrum shattering decibels either; its just that when the power valves are driven hard, they denitely impart a unique tone and width to the overall sound. Thanks to the awesome accuracy of our Valve Reactor power amp, the same is also true of your Valvetronix combo. For this reason, we heartily recommend that you crank the sucker up as often as possible. And, as already pointed out, thanks to our unique POWER LEVEL control (not provided on the AD15VT-XL), you can adjust the output Wattage to suit every occasion from bedroom, to garage, to gig. and all points in-between. So, what are you waiting for select, crank and enjoy! This all said, lets take a look at each of our amp models.
For this amp type, we modeled the Clean channel of a very rare, very expensive and respected 100 Watt head named the Overdrive Special. We auditioned several top-shelf boutique amps for this model but this amp was the clear winner. Its beautifully rounded low-end, delightfully transient mid-range attack and sweet treble make it the perfect clean sound to complement the high gain destruction that will ensue further down this sound list. Originals tube compliment: 3 x 12AX7s in preamp, 4 x 6L6s in power amp.

FUNKED

This dual channel, black-faced beauty is considered a must- have 2x12 combo for many professionals. Its celebrated clean sound is very tight n twangy, with a deep, taut, piano-like bass. This hot-rodded clean sound was inspired by the glassy clean sounds used by a famous funk metal band. In keeping with the original, when pushed hard the bass tends to crumble so raise the MIDDLE and lower the BASS. Because the EQ network of the FUNKED model lies before the main gain stage of its preamp, pushing the mids results in a singing clean tone. Originals tube compliment: 4 x 12AX7s & 2 x 12AT7 (a.k.a. ECC81) in preamp, 4 x 6L6s in power amp.

BUZZSAW

Fire up the BUZZSAW! This sound was inspired by the pioneering sounds of '70s hard rock and metal. Based on a British-made 50-watt head, this sound churns out a dark, grinding tone perfect for any aspiring prince of darkness! To create this sound, we started with the High Treble channel of a 1971, 50 Watt, four input, allvalve head then we cranked the gain and boosted all bands of the original's EQ. As this amp has no master volume facility, the way to use it to its full potential is to crank the Volume. To achieve the same response as the original, turn the VOLUME to maximum and use the Master Volume to set your desired volume level. Wind the GAIN control all the way up and immerse yourself in an instantly recognizable, organic, driving overdrive. Originals valve compliment: 3 x ECC83s in preamp, 2 x EL34s in power amp.

PHASER

A model of a much respected and popular analogue phaser, housed in a banana yellow box! TAP SPEED Sets the modulation speed in a range of 0.1.10 [Hz]. EDIT2 SPEED This lets you use the knob to make ne adjustments [TAP+EDIT 1] to the parameter. EDIT3 RESONANCE Adjusts the amount of resonance. [BYPASS+EDIT 1]

CHORUS

This models the rich sound of an analog chorus unit. TAP EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT 1] SPEED SPEED Sets the modulation speed in a range of 0.1.10 [Hz]. This lets you use the knob to make ne adjustments to the parameter.
HINT: In the CHORUS+DELAY combination effect, the SPEED parameter is already set to the optimal value.
EDIT3 MIX [BYPASS+EDIT 1]
Adjusts the mix amount of the effect.

FLANGER

A model of a truly classic anger that unchained a highly inuential modern guitarist who many hail as the godfather of two-handed tapping. TAP SPEED Sets the modulation speed in a range of 0.1.10 [Hz]. EDIT2 SPEED This lets you use the knob to make ne adjustments [TAP+EDIT 1] to the parameter. EDIT3 RESONANCE Adjusts the amount of resonance. [BYPASS+EDIT 1]

TREMOLO

This effect is based on the highly acclaimed tremolo circuit found in an amplier modeled for one of our amp models, FUNKED. TAP SPEED SPEED EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT 1] EDIT3 DEPTH [BYPASS+EDIT 1] Sets the tremolo speed in a range of 2.5.10 [Hz]. This lets you use the knob to make ne adjustments to the parameter. Adjusts the tremolo depth.

ROTARY

This models a rotary speaker. TAP SPEED Sets the rotational speed of the speaker in a range of 0.8.10 [Hz]. This lets you use the knob to make ne adjustments to the parameter. By adjusting this parameter you can make the rotational speed change automatically in response to the volume of your guitar. If you use this function, set the SPEED to a slow setting.
EDIT2 SPEED [TAP+EDIT 1] EDIT3 SENS [BYPASS+EDIT 1]
This is a model of one of the most respected analogue tape echo machines ever made. In the original the echo is produced by a playback head and the exact delay time is set by varying the motor speed. Many professionals prefer these lo- units because of the warm, dark echoes they produce. TAP TIME EDIT1 MIX EDIT2 TIME [TAP+EDIT 1] EDIT3 FEEDBACK [BYPASS+EDIT 1] Sets the delay time in a range of 1.1486 [ms]. Adjust the mix amount of the delayed sound. This lets you use the knob to make ne adjustments to the parameter. Adjusts the amount of feedback.
HINT: In the CHORUS+DELAY combination effect, the FEEDBACK parameter is already set to the optimal value. WARNING! If you crank up the FEEDBACK too much, an uncontrollable, cascading runaway of echoes will occur. So, use your ears and your common sense when setting this!

REVERB

A model of the most popular spring reverb system used in guitar amps. TAP TIME EDIT1 MIX EDIT2 TIME [TAP+EDIT 1] HI DAMP EDIT3 [BYPASS+EDIT 1] Sets the reverb time in a range of 0.8.8 [seconds]. Adjusts the mix amount of the reverb sound. This lets you use the knob to adjust the reverb time. Adjusts the dampening of the high-frequency range.
HINT: In combination effects, the TIME and HI DAMP parameters are already set to optimal values.

Troubleshooting

1.The amp isnt powering up when the POWER switch is ON. Is the power cable plugged into the AC power connector on the rear panel of the amp? Is the power cable plugged into an AC outlet? Is the AC outlet switched on and actually working? Does the power cable work? 2. Theres no sound coming from the amp Is your guitar turned up? Are both ends of your guitar cable plugged into where they should be? Is your guitar cable working? Is the top panel MASTER volume turned up? Do you have headphones or anything else plugged into the amps rear panel LINE/PHONE jack? If yes, unplug! (If youre using the AD50VT-XL/AD100VT-XL) Could a cable be connected to the rear panel [EXTERNAL SPEAKER OUT] jack? Disconnect this jack if youre not using an external speaker. If you dont hear sound from a connected external speaker, make sure that your speaker cable and external speaker are not broken or malfunctioning. Check the settings of the GAIN, VOLUME, TREBLE, MIDDLE and BASS. On certain amp types, if the TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS controls are all turned down, there will be little or no sound coming from the amp due to the way the circuit of the original works. If youre in Manual mode (the MANUAL LED lit), turn the following controls above their minimum setting: GAIN, VOLUME, TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS. (AD100VT-XL users) Could a cable be connected to only the LOOP [RETURN] jack of the rear panel? Connect the cable from the LOOP [SEND] jack to your external effect unit, and connect the output of that effect unit to the LOOP [RETURN] jack. Adjust the output level of your external effect unit to an appropriate volume.
3. The amp doesnt seem very loud Is your guitar turned up? Is the amps MASTER volume turned down low? (If youre using the AD30VT-XL/AD50VT-XL/AD100VT-XL) Is the POWER LEVEL knob on the rear panel turned down?
Check the settings of the GAIN, VOLUME, TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS controls. On certain amp types, if the TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS controls are all turned down, there will be little or no sound coming from the amp due to the way the circuit of the original works. If youre in Manual mode (the MANUAL LED lit), turn the following controls above their minimum setting: GAIN, VOLUME, TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS.

4. Theres no sound heard from the LINE/PHONE jack when you use it. Check that the top panel MASTER volume isnt turned all the way down. Make sure sound is coming from the amp. IMPORTANT NOTE: Youll need to unplug your headphones or cable from the LINE/PHONE jack to do this, since plugging something into this jack automatically mutes the amps speakers. If theres still no sound from the amp, go to page 29 Theres no sound coming from the amp. If you do hear sound, check the headphones or cable you are hooking up to this jack.
5. You cant hear any effects. Check that the BYPASS LED isnt lit. If it is lit, the effect is bypassed. Press the BYPASS button to disengage it; the BYPASS LED will go off. Is the EDIT 1 knob turned down too low? Adjust the EDIT 1 knob.

Specications

Number of amp types: Number of effects: Noise reduction: Number of programs: Input/output jacks Top panel: Rear panel: preset, 2 channel 1 x INPUT 1 x FOOT SW jack, 1 x LINE/PHONE jack (AD50VT-XL/AD100VT-XL only) EXTERNAL SPEAKER OUT jack x 1 (AD100VT-XL only) LOOP SEND jack x1, LOOP RETURN jack x 1 maximum 15W RMS @ 8 ohms maximum 30W RMS @ 8 ohms maximum 50W RMS @ 8 ohms maximum 100W RMS @ 8 ohms 1 x VOX original (10 inch 8 ohm) 1 x VOX original (12 inch 8 ohm) VOX original (12 inch, 16 ohm) x 2 VOX original (12 inch, 16 ohm) x 2 24-bit 24-bit 44.1 kHz AC, local voltage AD15VT-XL: 23W AD30VT-XL: 45W AD50VT-XL: 52W AD100VT-XL: 100W Dimensions (W x D x H): AD15VT-XL: 428 x 224 x 430 (mm)/16.85" x 8.82" x 16.93" (inches) AD30VT-XL: 456 x 224 x 483 (mm)/17.95" x 8.82" x 19.02" (inches) AD50VT-XL: 673 x 265 x 485 (mm)/26.50" x 10.43" x 19.95" (inches) AD100VT-XL: 684 x 268 x 553 (mm)/26.93" x 10.55" x 21.77" (inches) Weight AD15VT-XL: 11 kg/24.25 lbs. AD30VT-XL: 13.5 kg/29.76 lbs. AD50VT-XL: 23 kg/50.71 lbs. AD100VT-XL: 29 kg/63.93 lbs. Included items: Options (sold separately): * power cable VFS2 dual foot switch
Power amp output AD15VT-XL: AD30VT-XL: AD50VT-XL: AD100VT-XL: Speaker AD15VT-XL: AD30VT-XL: AD50VT-XL: AD100VT-XL: Signal processing A/D conversion: D/A conversion: Sampling frequency: Power supply requirements: Power consumption
Appearance and specications of this product are subject to change without notice. URL = http://www.voxamps.co.uk

Programmers Cheat Sheet

Wanna remember how you set up your favourite programs? Well this is the place to do it! Simply do as follows:

1. 2. 3.

Indicate where all the knobs are set by drawing a line in the empty circles. Indicate which MODULATION, DELAY & REVERB effects are being used by colouring in the relevant LED Don't forget to make notes on NR, TAP TEMPO and POWER LEVEL in the areas indicated!
WORD TO THE WISE: Theres only four panels you can ll out here so do

yourself a favor by photocopying it and then keep a blank master so you can make more copies whenever you like

PROGRAM NAME:

EDIT2[TAP+EDIT 1]: /TAP NOTE:

EDIT3[BYPASS+EDIT 1]:

NR (NOISE REDUCTION):

POWER LEVEL

AD15VT-XL/AD30VT-XL/ AD50VT-XL/AD100VT-XL
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO CONSUMERS
This product has been manufactured according to strict specifications and voltage requirements that are applicable in the country in which it is intended that this product should be used. If you have purchased this product via the internet, through mail order, and/or via a telephone sale, you must verify that this product is intended to be used in the country in which you reside. WARNING: Use of this product in any country other than that for which it is intended could be dangerous and could invalidate the manufacturer's or distributor's warranty. Please also retain your receipt as proof of purchase otherwise your product may be disqualified from the manufacturer's or distributor's warranty.

SOUNDC

PARKWOOD HYBRID PWHELECTRO-HARMONIX SOUL PREACHER 172 BOSS ME-20 MULTIPLE EFFECTS 174 GUYATONE ULTRON & ULTREM 176

HEART AND DARKNESS

Vox AD50VT-XL 50-watt 2x12 combo
tions like a Class A power amp, depending on which preamp model is chosen.) This, coupled with a virtual output transformer and a dummy speaker circuit, provides the feel and responsiveness of a 100 percent analog tube amp by duplicating the constant impedance changes that a tube circuit produces. The preamp section offers 11 models that provide the tone and character of numerous high-gain amps. The first two models deliver the first-class clean tones of a Dumble and Fender Twin Reverb amp, respectively, but the remaining nine offer varying levels of overdrive and distortion insanity. The Crunched model starts with an AC30 Top Boost tone but adds higher levels

BY CHRIS GILL

AC30 model, Vox amps enjoy a reputation for delivering some of the greatest classic rock tones ever recorded. The sound of Vox amps can be heard on albums by the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, U2, Stone Temple Pilots, Radiohead and countless other highly regarded bands. Examine most musical genresrock, country, funk, punk, even jazz and bluesand youll easily find guitarists using a Vox amp. Rarely, though, will you find a metal guitarist playing through a Vox, and with good reason. During the Eighties and Nineties, when amp designers built bigger stacks and pursued the highest extremes of gain for metal maniacs, Vox remained focused on its timeless, refined Class A designs. With the introduction of the new Valvetronix XL Series, Vox is finally making the headlong leap into the wild-and-woolly world of high-gain amp madness. From its none more black styling to its surprisingly diverse selection of heavy tones, the Vox AD50VT-XL combo offers all the metalapproved appeal of spiked wristbands, Grinders Mitre boots and a skull ring.

THE AD50VT-XL is a 50-

HANKS MAINLY TO the legendary

ON DISC

of gain and a broader EQ palette. Most of the other models are based on modified Marshall tones, with a high-gain Soldano model thrown in for variety. Like Voxs previous Valvetronix Series amps, the AD50VT-XL has a variety of useful effects, including compression, octave, phasing, flanging, chorus, delay, reverb, tremolo and rotary. These are arranged in 11 programs, seven of which are multieffect settings that contain two effects plus noise reduction. A streamlined control section consisting of a tap button and variable edit knob lets you adjust up to
Voxs traditional tartan speaker cloth is replaced with a metal-approved black grille.

FEATURES

watt combo based on what Vox calls Valve Reactor technology. Basically, it combines a digital-modeling preamp with a specially designed analog power amp circuit that uses a dual-triode 12AX7 tube to provide a miniature version of a Class AB push-pull power amp. (It also func-

GU I TA R WOR L D

DCHECK
X2 XDS95 & XDR95 WIRELESS SYSTEMS 178 GRETSCH VARIETY COMBO 182 KUSTOM GROOVE BASS AMP 184 LAGUNA LG6CE-RW ACOUSTIC 188
The 11 amp models range from clean (Glass) to devastating distortion (Damaged). The Channel Select section lets you store two custom settings. The effect section includes a variety of multieffect settings.
four effect parameters. The AD50VT-XL operates in either Preset or Manual mode. When you select a model in Preset mode, the amp automatically switches gain, volume, treble, middle and bass settings regardless of where the controls are physically set. You can also write and save two of your own custom presets in Channel Select mode. If you want to make any tweaks to these presets, switch over to Manual mode; here, the control knobs become fully functional. Note that the settings of the master volume and power level control (a unique feature that adjusts the power amps output wattage) are not stored in any of the presets. Like an AC30, the AD50VT-XL comes equipped with a pair of Vox original

12-inch speakers, but they are housed in a closed-back cabinet to provide the big, focused bass that metal players demand. Theres also an eight-ohm external speaker jack, but note that if you use the AD50VT-XL with an external cabinet, the internal speakers are bypassed. A line output sends the effect and preamp signals (but not the power amp output) to a mixer, recorder or headphones.
LET ME JUST CUT to the chase and
VOX AD50VT-XL 50-WATT 2X12 COMBO
LIST PRICE: $670.00 MANUFACTURER: Vox Amplification, voxamps.com OUTPUT: 50 watts SPEAKERS: Two Vox original 12-inch AMP TYPES: 11 EFFECTS: 11, plus noise reduction PROGRAMS: 11 preset, two via Channel Select SIGNAL PROCESSING: 24-bit A/D and D/A with 44.1kHz sampling rate TOP PANEL CONTROLS: Amp select; gain; volume; treble; middle; bass; effects select; master; Preset, Manual and Channel Select mode buttons; write button; effects tap, edit and bypass REAR PANEL: Footswitch jack, power level control, line/phone output, eight-ohm external speaker output

PERFORMANCE

say no one has ever heard tones this heavy coming from an amp with the Vox logo on its faceplate The AD50VT-XL doesnt just go to 11it starts there and goes well beyond,
into some of the most grungy, gritty and girthy tones youve ever heard. The bass from its two 12-inch speakers kicks absolute ass, and when the amp is connected to a 4x12, it sounds absolutely devastating. While this amp emphasizes highgain sounds, its clean and overdrive tones are impressive, too. The Glass (Dumble) model can summon the overdriven bark and bite that blues players love, while the Funked (Twin Reverb) model has the tight, shimmering, crystalline punch that defines great clean tone. The Valve Reactor technology really shines here, allowing players to ride the tightrope between overdrive and clean just by altering playing dynamics. The effect section provides a good meat-and-potatoes selection of textures, but the amps ability to save settings only within the two Channel Select presets will be insufficient for effect-crazy players. Still, the effects are a welcome addition, especially when considering this amps absurdly low street price.

THE AD50VT-XL is inexpensive enough

THE BOTTOM LINE

Two Vox original 12-inch speakers deliver the goods. (Cabinet back removed to show speakers.)
to make it an excellent first choice for aspiring metal gods, but it also has the versatility to satisfy seasoned gigging guitarists who want to streamline their live rigs and recording musicians who need instant access to killer high-gain tones. The Vox engineers may have taken their sweet time to produce a metal-approved high-gain amp, but they really got it right.
AGGRESSIVE HIGH-GAIN TONES; RESPONSIVE VALVE REACTOR TECHNOLOGY; INEXPENSIVE
EXTERNAL SPEAKER JACK DISENGAGES INTERNAL SPEAKERS; EFFECT PRESET LIMITATIONS