Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $670

Standard/Professional

$300

$701+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Crate VFX5212 is a powerhouse of a combo guitar amplifier, designed to deliver a rich and responsive sound that suits a wide range of musical styles. This amp is ideal for guitarists who crave the warm, organic tones of vintage tube amps, complemented by the flexibility of modern digital effects. At its core, the VFX5212 features two 12-inch Celestion speakers, providing a robust and full-bodied sound that can fill any room. Its dual-channel design allows for seamless switching between clean and overdriven tones, catering to both rhythm and lead guitarists alike.

What sets the VFX5212 apart is its integration of digital effects that include reverb, delay, chorus, and more, all while maintaining the authentic sound quality that Crate is known for. The amplifier's all-tube circuitry ensures a dynamic and rich tonal palette, ideal for both studio recordings and live performances. With its user-friendly interface, musicians can easily dial in their desired sound, making it a versatile addition to any guitarist’s gear collection.

Key Features:

  • Two 12-inch Celestion speakers for a full-bodied sound
  • All-tube circuitry for warm, responsive tones
  • Dual-channel design for easy switching between clean and overdriven sounds
  • Integrated digital effects including reverb, delay, and chorus
  • User-friendly controls for easy sound customization
  • Suitable for both studio recordings and live performances
Picking and Flipping

Picking and Flipping

Crate vfx 5212 Tube Amp

Video thumbnail for Crate vfx 5212 Tube Amp by Picking and Flipping

Crate vfx 5212 Tube Amp

Picking and Flipping

Picking and Flipping

Reviews

PROS

  • Designed with input from Billy Gibbons, ensuring high-quality sound

  • Offers a Marshall-ish overdrive and Voxy clean channel for versatile tones

  • High headroom on the clean channel for clarity at high volumes

  • Includes DSP built-in effects for added sound layering

  • Can achieve classic metal hi-gain with OD1 boosting

  • Noted to be loud, suitable for performances

  • Cabinet design praised, even recommended for use as an extension cabinet

CONS

  • Original stock speakers often need replacement

  • PCB mounted tube sockets may deter purists

  • Reports of output transformer issues in early models

  • Switch mode power supply (SMPS) known for failures, affecting reliability

  • Lack of effects loop limits pedal integration for some users

  • SMPS design criticized for compromising tone and durability

  • Repairing can be challenging due to obsolete SMPS replacements

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Crate VFX5212.

Comparisons

  • It's advised to consider the Boss Katana 50, a solid-state alternative, over a tube Crate for better reliability and tonal versatility in rock and metal genres.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The amp's suitability for rock and metal is contrasted with other solid-state options known for their reliability and pedal compatibility.

    Source
  • Some owners use the Crate VFX 5212 primarily as a cabinet after disconnecting the amp, highlighting its aesthetic appeal.

    Source

User experience

  • Known issues with Crate amplifiers include reliability concerns, which can lead to unexpected repair costs, making them less ideal for beginners seeking hassle-free use.

    Source
  • A buyer found a Crate amp for $40 at a thrift shop, noting it only performs well if the gain isn't maxed out.

    Source
  • Despite criticisms, the amp is appreciated for its reliability as a backup option that consistently works when needed.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Crate amps, while sometimes sounding decent, are often overshadowed by solid-state amps that serve as robust pedal platforms, especially for high-gain music styles.

    Source
  • The VFX 5212 is often used without its built-in effects, as users prefer to rely on pedals for better sound.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Swapping the original speaker for one from a broken Ampeg combo can improve sound quality significantly.

    Source

Critic Reviews

VFX5212 Review: A good match for rock & fair match for blues. | Crate | Guitar Amplifiers | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Crate VFX5212 delivers solid clean tones and impressive durability, but it stumbles with its digital effects and a somewhat underwhelming gain channel. While some users highlight its rich sound and versatility, others find the built-in effects uninspiring, leading them to bypass them entirely. Maintenance issues surfaced early on, with tube replacements and repairs needed to unlock its true potential. Overall, this amp has its merits, especially for rock enthusiasts, but potential buyers should be wary of its limitations and the need for extra care. A mixed bag that might satisfy some while leaving others wanting more.

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
metal_messiah

My amp that's full of brutality

I've had this VFX5212 combo since 2003. This 50 watt amp is loud as fuck!! \m/ The only thing I don't like is that it doesn't have a effects loop for my pedals. I guess I need a attenuator and put it between the amp head & speakers so I can crank it loud. I think I'll upgrade to a Budda SuperDrive 80 with a 2x12 cab.

From Gear Setup

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Crate VFX5212, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Washburn Dime 333 Dimebolt
Washburn Dime 333 Dimebolt Extended Range Guitars
1
Gibson Explorer 2016 T
Gibson Explorer 2016 T Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

Community setups

Show yours
metal_messiah

metal_messiah

Gear IQ 656

More Crate Combo Guitar Amplifiers

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Similar

Gear Guides