1. Introduction
The VOX VX50AG is a compact and powerful 50-watt acoustic guitar amplifier designed for clear and natural sound reproduction. Featuring a NuTube-equipped preamp, an 8-inch coaxial speaker with a tweeter, and a bass reflex structure, it delivers rich low-end and detailed highs. This amplifier includes dedicated channels for instruments and microphones, each with independent controls and effects, making it suitable for various performance and practice scenarios. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your VX50AG amplifier.
Image 1.1: Front view of the VOX VX50AG amplifier. The amplifier has a brown and black finish with a black speaker grille and the VOX logo.
2. Features
- 50 watts of output power for clear and robust sound.
- NuTube-equipped preamp for warm, tube-like tone.
- 8-inch coaxial speaker with a tweeter for full-range audio.
- Bass reflex structure enhances low-frequency response.
- Independent Instrument and Mic channels, each with dedicated volume, EQ, and effects controls.
- Phase switch on the Instrument channel to reduce feedback.
- Mic channel provides phantom power for condenser microphones.
- Comprehensive input/output jacks including Aux In, Phones Out, and Line Out.
3. Controls and Connections
3.1 Front Panel Controls
The front panel provides access to all primary controls for both the Instrument and Mic channels, as well as master volume and effects.
Image 3.1: Detailed view of the amplifier's control panel, showing knobs and input jacks.
- Instrument Input (1/4" Jack): Connect your acoustic guitar or other instrument.
- Instrument Channel Controls:
- VOLUME: Adjusts the volume of the instrument channel.
- PHASE Switch: Helps reduce feedback by inverting the phase of the input signal.
- BASS, MIDDLE, TREBLE: 3-band equalizer for shaping the instrument's tone.
- EFFECTS (CHORUS, REVERB, DELAY): Select and adjust the intensity of built-in effects.
- Mic Input (XLR Jack): Connect a microphone.
- Mic Channel Controls:
- VOLUME: Adjusts the volume of the microphone channel.
- PHANTOM Power Switch: Activates +48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
- BASS, TREBLE: 2-band equalizer for shaping the microphone's tone.
- REVERB: Adjusts the reverb effect for the microphone channel.
- MASTER: Overall volume control for the amplifier.
- AUX IN (3.5mm Stereo Jack): Connect external audio devices like MP3 players.
- PHONES OUT (3.5mm Stereo Jack): Connect headphones for silent practice.
- POWER Switch: Turns the amplifier on or off.
3.2 Rear Panel Connections
The rear panel houses essential power and output connections.
Image 3.2: Rear view of the VOX VX50AG amplifier, displaying the DC 19V input and LINE OUT jack.
- DC 19V Input: Connect the included AC adapter here. Use only the specified adapter.
- LINE OUT (1/4" Jack): Connect to a PA system, mixer, or recording device.
4. Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the amplifier from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.
- Power Connection:
- Ensure the amplifier's POWER switch is in the OFF position.
- Connect the included AC adapter to the DC 19V input on the rear panel.
- Plug the AC adapter into a suitable power outlet.
- Instrument Connection:
- Connect your acoustic guitar or other instrument to the INSTRUMENT input jack on the front panel using a standard 1/4" instrument cable.
- Microphone Connection:
- Connect your microphone to the MIC input jack on the front panel using an XLR cable.
- If using a condenser microphone requiring phantom power, ensure the PHANTOM power switch is set to ON. For dynamic microphones, leave it OFF.
- Initial Power On:
- Before turning on, set all VOLUME and MASTER knobs to their minimum (counter-clockwise) positions.
- Press the POWER switch to turn on the amplifier. The power indicator will illuminate.
- Gradually increase the MASTER volume and individual channel volumes to a desired listening level.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Adjusting Instrument Channel Sound
- Volume: Use the INSTRUMENT VOLUME knob to set the input level for your instrument. Adjust until the "CLIP" indicator flashes only occasionally during the loudest playing.
- EQ: Use the BASS, MIDDLE, and TREBLE knobs to shape the tonal characteristics of your instrument. Experiment to find the desired sound.
- Phase Switch: If you experience feedback, especially at higher volumes, try pressing the PHASE switch to invert the signal's phase. This can often eliminate or reduce feedback.
- Effects: Turn the EFFECTS knob to select between CHORUS, REVERB, or DELAY. The knob also controls the intensity of the selected effect.
5.2 Adjusting Microphone Channel Sound
- Volume: Use the MIC VOLUME knob to set the input level for your microphone. Adjust until the "CLIP" indicator flashes only occasionally during the loudest vocal or instrument input.
- Phantom Power: If your condenser microphone requires +48V phantom power, ensure the PHANTOM switch is ON. For dynamic microphones, keep it OFF.
- EQ: Use the BASS and TREBLE knobs to adjust the tonal balance of your microphone signal.
- Reverb: Use the MIC REVERB knob to add and adjust the intensity of the reverb effect to your microphone signal.
5.3 Master Volume and Outputs
- MASTER Volume: This knob controls the overall output volume of the amplifier. Adjust it to control the final loudness.
- AUX IN: Connect an external audio player to the AUX IN jack to play along with backing tracks. The volume of the auxiliary input is controlled by the external device.
- PHONES OUT: Connect headphones to this jack for private practice. When headphones are connected, the main speaker output is muted.
- LINE OUT: Use the LINE OUT jack to send the mixed signal of both channels to an external PA system, mixer, or recording interface.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the amplifier's exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
- Storage: Store the amplifier in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
- Transport: When transporting the amplifier, ensure it is powered off and disconnected from all cables. Use the integrated handle for carrying.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the amplifier. Do not block ventilation openings.
- Power Cord: Regularly inspect the power cord for any damage. If damaged, replace it with an authorized VOX replacement.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound |
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| Distorted sound |
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| Feedback (howling sound) |
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| Phantom power not working |
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8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Output Wattage | 50 Watts |
| Speaker | 8-inch coaxial speaker with tweeter |
| Preamp Type | NuTube-equipped |
| Channels | Instrument, Microphone |
| Instrument Channel EQ | 3-band (Bass, Middle, Treble) |
| Mic Channel EQ | 2-band (Bass, Treble) |
| Effects | Chorus, Reverb, Delay (Instrument); Reverb (Mic) |
| Phantom Power | +48V (Mic channel) |
| Inputs | 1/4" Instrument, XLR Mic, 3.5mm Aux In |
| Outputs | 3.5mm Phones Out, 1/4" Line Out |
| Product Dimensions | 8.19 x 12.32 x 13.94 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.02 pounds |
| Color | Brown |
| Material | Wood |
Image 8.1: Diagram showing the dimensions of the VOX VX50AG amplifier: 12.32" height, 8.19" depth, 13.94" width.
9. Safety Information
Please read and follow these safety precautions to prevent damage to the product or injury to yourself and others.
- Do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
- Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the unit.
- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- Unplug this unit during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way.
10. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official VOX website or contact your local VOX distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Official VOX Website: www.voxamps.com
