Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (7)
$1,649.99 $1,489.00 $160.99 · All time low
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$1,649.99
Amazon
5.0 (3)
$1,649.99 $1,489.00 $160.99 · All time low
Reverb
5.0 (4)
$1,033.78 New
$783.65 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (4)
$1,649.99 $1,489.00 $160.99 · All time low
zZounds
$1,649.99
B&H
$1,649.99
Thomann
4.6 (22)
$983.00 $975.00 $8.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£964.00

Average Price: $1,357

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Vox AC30H". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* 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

Unleash the Power of the Vox AC30H

The Vox AC30H is not just an amplifier; it's a piece of music history. Known for powering the British Invasion, it's an iconic sound machine that's trusted by the world's most accomplished artists. The AC30H doubles the wattage of its predecessor, employing a quartet of EL84 power tubes to pump out 30 watts of remarkable tone.

Whether you're looking for enchanting clean sounds or raucous overdriven tones, the AC30H's signature chime adjusts seamlessly to your playing style, creating a sound that is uniquely yours. The VOX Reactive Attenuator is a newly designed feature that optimizes the interaction between the speaker and the amp at any volume. Whether you're on stage or in your bedroom, this feature ensures a powerful tone that conventional attenuators can't match.

A nod to its historical lineage, the AC30H continues to define the British sound with its complex grind and classic chime. This 30-watt design is versatile enough for both stage and studio, delivering a full, driven sound that cuts through the mix without overpowering other instruments.

Key Features:

  • 30-watt, all-tube amplifier head
  • Quartet of EL84 power tubes
  • Reactive Attenuator for optimized speaker-amp interaction
  • 3 x 12AX7 preamp tubes
  • 4 Inputs: Normal (Hi / Lo), Top Boost (Hi / Lo)
  • Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone Cut, Tremolo Depth, Tremolo Speed, Reverb Level, Top Boost Bass, Top Boost Treble, Top Boost Volume & Normal Volume
  • FX loop for added versatility
  • Compatible with Vox VFS2 footswitch (not included)

Product specs

Available since February 2016
Powerrate in W 30 W
Power Amplifier Tubes EL84
Channels 2
Reverb Yes
Footswitch Yes

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Vox AC30H amplifier head?

The Vox AC30H is known for its bright, chimey tone with a pronounced midrange and sparkling high-end frequencies. It excels at cutting through mixes, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recordings.

Is the Vox AC30H suitable for gigging with a band?

Yes, the Vox AC30H's 30-watt output and robust build make it suitable for gigging. It offers enough volume to stay clean at higher levels, which is beneficial in live band settings.

What type of tubes does the Vox AC30H use?

The Vox AC30H utilizes EL84 power amplifier tubes, which contribute to its distinct British tone and dynamic response.

Does the Vox AC30H amplifier head include built-in reverb?

Yes, the Vox AC30H comes with built-in reverb, allowing you to add depth and space to your guitar sound without needing an external pedal.

Can I use a footswitch with the Vox AC30H?

Yes, the Vox AC30H is compatible with a footswitch, enabling you to switch channels or activate effects hands-free during performances.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Vox AC30 Handwired Heritage, Fender Telecaster

Video thumbnail for Vox AC30 Handwired Heritage, Fender Telecaster by ProGuitarShopDemos

Vox AC30 Handwired Heritage, Fender Telecaster

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for Vox AC15 & AC30 Custom Head demo by Guitarist

Vox AC15 & AC30 Custom Head demo

Guitarist

Guitarist

Video thumbnail for Guitar Paradiso - Vox AC30CH & AC15CH Heads by Andertons Music Co

Guitar Paradiso - Vox AC30CH & AC15CH Heads

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Vox AC15CH Custom Guitar Amplifier Head Demo with Freddy DeMarco by Kraft Music

Vox AC15CH Custom Guitar Amplifier Head Demo with Freddy DeMarco

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for VOX AC15CH Amplifier Head Review by intheblues

VOX AC15CH Amplifier Head Review

intheblues

intheblues

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile sound, works well with various guitars

  • Built-in attenuator allows for great tones at lower volumes

  • Offers iconic "Vox chime" and heavy tones

  • Compatible with a range of cabinets for diverse soundscapes

  • Modern features like reverb, tremolo, and effects loop enhance playability

  • Less heavy than the combo version, easier to transport

  • Reactive attenuator preserves tone at bedroom levels

  • Can bridge input channels for more sound options

  • Massive spring reverb tank provides rich reverb

CONS

  • Some cabinets may not match well, affecting tone quality

  • Hard to achieve a pure clean sound at high volumes

  • Effects loop usage can alter amp tone

  • Normal channel can sound dark and muddy with some cabinets

  • Heavy and bulky, despite being lighter than the combo

  • Design lacks some original AC30 features like tube rectifier

  • Requires a speaker cabinet, adding to the setup cost and complexity

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Vox AC30H.

Features and functionality

  • The Vox AC30H can operate in EF86 mode and has a triode mode that allows it to function similarly to an AC15.

    Source
  • The Vox AC30’s reverb and tremolo are praised, with one owner noting the amp's ability to shake the whole block when cranked.

    Source
  • The AC30's heat output can be significant, potentially affecting comfort in small, enclosed spaces.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • An attenuator like the Two Notes Captor X is recommended for managing volume levels in smaller spaces, as the amp can be extremely loud even at low settings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Bridging the input channels can enhance tonal options, allowing experimentation with channel volume and tone controls for a varied sound palette.

    Source
  • The amp's weight and size make it less ideal for frequent gigging, with users suggesting a road case with wheels for easier transport.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users note the Vox AC30H's volume punches above its wattage, being louder than a 40W Marshall, making it challenging for use in small venues or apartments.

    Source
  • The AC30 is frequently compared to the AC15, with owners suggesting the latter for smaller venues due to its lower volume and similar tone.

    Source
  • The Night Train 15 head is recommended for accessing Vox tones at lower volumes, offering a more practical option for home use.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Running a pedal board in front of the amp, including a Marshall Guv'Nor II and Boss RV-5, achieves good sounds at low volume without needing amp overdrive.

    Source
  • One user highlights the use of multi RAT pedals with a circuit switcher to diversify tonal options.

    Source
  • Swapping the stock tubes for Tung Sol tubes is noted to enhance the Vox AC30's performance, though it increases the weight.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Vox AC30H's original retail was comparable to current hardwired editions, around $2,000, suggesting a potential 20-30% depreciation from original value.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the AC30's clean tones excellent and note it takes pedals well, with a RAT pedal providing great heavy metal tones.

    Source
  • The Vox AC30's high-end "chime" may not suit all overdrive pedals, with transparent overdrives generally performing better.

    Source

Build quality

  • The amp is heavy, but features side handles which make it easier to transport compared to some other combo tube amps.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Noel Gallagher uses Vox AC30H

Noel Gallagher

Singer, Guitarist

Oasis

...
Verified via reverb.com

Noel Gallagher owned this Vox AC30H, a workhorse amplifier known for its robust performance despite lacking a case and its front badge. This particular amp, from the Rose Morris era of the 1990s, has a storied history, similar to the ones used by other British legends like Paul McCartney. Its history and usage are documented on Reverb.com.

See how Tony Iommi uses Vox AC30H

Tony Iommi

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Black Sabbath

...
Verified via Photo

The photo states Tony used a vintage Vox AC30 head on the Fused album.

See how Chris Wolstenholme uses Vox AC30H

Chris Wolstenholme

Singer, Guitarist

Muse

...
Verified via Photo

Seen in Chris' home studio

See how J Mascis uses Vox AC30H

J Mascis

Singer, Guitarist

Dinosaur Jr

...
Verified via Photo

J Mascis's AC30 head can be seen in a photo of his live pedal board from September 2014 on Other Bands' Stuff

See how Frank Iero uses Vox AC30H

Frank Iero

Guitarist, Bassist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via YouTube

Used during this concert at vintage vinyl with the cellabration.

See how Mick Mars uses Vox AC30H

Mick Mars

Guitarist

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified via Woodytone

In the studio he blends amps: “I use a Vox AC30, a Hiwatt and a Marshall, and hook them all togtether. This is old-school, using all the tones from each different amp and using them [in] different combinations. Pro Tools plugins don’t sound the same.”

See how Brendon Urie uses Vox AC30H

Brendon Urie

Singer, Guitarist

Panic! at the Disco

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see in this video that there are 2 Vox AC30 heads in the rack. The reason for this is probably because it's easier for them to take on tour and use it in big stadiums and arena's

See how Deryck Whibley uses Vox AC30H

Deryck Whibley

Singer, Guitarist

Sum 41

...
Verified via reverb.com

This Vox Head and Cabinet is owned by Deryck Whibley Of Sum 41

Used heavily on Screaming Bloody Murder, 13 Voices and Order In Decline records. The Amp in the external cabinet is the original head that goes with the speaker cabinet. I had the head cabinet made so I can have the head inside the control room and the speakers out in the studio." - Deryck

This is a cabinet loaded with a Vox Silverbell and a Weber Blue Dog speakers. This is a 1962 Vox AC30 combo that was refitted inside of a head. There are 6 inputs but the top three are capped. Each input corresponds to 1 of the volume knobs. Each one of those is affected by a single tone knob.

See how John Reis uses Vox AC30H

John Reis

Singer, Guitarist

Drive Like Jehu

...
Verified via The Gear Page

Sometime during Hot Snakes' run, he recorded with a '60s Vox AC30 head and fell in love, eventually acquiring his own '67 head. All the guitars on Jericho Sirens were recorded with this head and a closed-back cabinet.

See how Toshio Uchida uses Vox AC30H

Toshio Uchida

Guitarist

...
Verified via Twitter

Toshio Uchida describes using a Vox AC30 in the linked tweet. Footage from the K-ON!! "Come With Me" live event shows him performing with this amplifier, which is actually a head and not a combo.

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 Vox AC30H, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
diogo_valerio

diogo_valerio

Gear IQ 105

More Vox Guitar Amplifier Heads

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    luxiu
    luxiu

    Gear IQ 44626