Vox Stereo Amplifier VT15 User Manual

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Table of Contents  
Introduction.........................................................................4  
Welcome! ........................................................................................................ 4  
Main features .................................................................................................. 4  
Signal path...................................................................................................... 5  
What is Valve Reactor technology? ................................................................ 5  
Quick start ..........................................................................6  
Setup .............................................................................................................. 6  
Checking out the preset programs.................................................................. 7  
Switching between the user programs............................................................ 7  
Top and rear panels .............................................................8  
A. Top panel .................................................................................................... 8  
B. Rear panel ................................................................................................ 11  
About the three operating modes........................................12  
Preset mode (recalling preset programs) ..................................................... 12  
Manual mode ................................................................................................ 12  
Channel Select mode (recalling user programs) .......................................... 13  
Creating and saving sounds ...............................................14  
Creating a sound .......................................................................................... 14  
Adjusting the noise reduction ....................................................................... 15  
Saving a program ......................................................................................... 15  
Checking the original values saved in a program ......................................... 16  
Restoring the factory settings ....................................................................... 16  
Using a foot switch (VOX VFS5) ..........................................17  
Foot switch operations in Channel Select mode........................................... 17  
Foot switch operations in Preset or Manual modes ...................................... 17  
Explanation of the amps and effects....................................18  
Amp models.................................................................................................. 18  
Effects........................................................................................................... 21  
Reverb .......................................................................................................... 23  
Troubleshooting .................................................................24  
Specifications ....................................................................25  
Song program list ..............................................................26  
Program sheet ...................................................................27  
 
3
Introduction  
Welcome!  
Thank you for purchasing the VOX VT15 or VT30 Valvetronix amp.  
To help you get the most out of your new amplifire, please read this manual care-  
fully.  
Get ready to enjoy the VT15/30’s amazing guitar sounds!  
Main features  
The VT15 and VT30 use Valve Reactor technology, and feature a power amp circuit  
containing a 12AX7 (ECC83) dual triode valve (“vacuum tube”) that would nor-  
mally be used in a preamp. This allows the amp to produce the true sound and feel  
of a bona fide all valve (tube) amp.  
Sophisticated modeling technology is used to provide twenty-two different amps.  
Twelve high-quality effects are built-in. Of these, reverb is available at all times, and  
three of the remaining eleven effects are “multiple effects” that allow you to use up  
to three effects simultaneously. Noise reduction can also be used simultaneously.  
You can create a sound using the desired amp and effect, and save it in memory as  
one of eight programs (two banks x four channels). Programs can be switched while  
you perform, either from the top panel or from a foot switch connected to the rear  
panel (Channel Select mode). For each amp model, three preset programs – Basic  
Effected, and Song – are provided, giving you a total of 66 programs (Preset mode).  
The song programs reproduce the tones of classic hits played by famous guitarists.  
Manual mode lets you use the VT15/30 as a conventional guitar amp. The physical  
positions of the actual knobs will be reflected by the sound.  
An optional VOX VFS5 foot switch (sold separately) can be connected, allowing you  
to switch programs or turn effects on/off with your feet.  
The power level control lets you adjust the output wattage of the power amp. Even  
with the master volume set to the maximum so that the Valve Reactor power amp is  
loaded, you’ll still be able to adjust the volume without impairing the tonal charac-  
ter.  
4
 
Signal path  
Your guitar sound passes through the following sections.  
Refer to “Top and rear panels” (p.8) in conjunction with this illustration.  
GAIN  
VOLUME  
MASTER  
POWER LEVEL  
VALVE REACTOR  
VALVE  
ECC83 (12AX7)  
EFFECT  
PRE AMP  
EFFECT  
COMP  
/OCTAVE  
Select one  
of 22  
MODULATION  
/DELAY  
REVERB  
CLASS A or AB  
FEEDBACK CIRCUIT  
Circuit is determined  
by Pre Amp selection  
VT15/30 Signal route  
What is Valve Reactor technology?  
The Valve Reactor circuit used in the power amp of this VT15/30 combo amp is based  
on new technology. Most of the sound creation and tonal shaping is performed in the  
digital domain, but the Valve Reactor power amp is 100% analog. Passing the guitar  
signal through the analog-domain power amp stage is an important factor in capturing  
the feel and tone of the original amp for that model.  
Valve Reactor’s power stage is a miniature version of a true tube push/pull power  
amp. It uses a 12AX7 tube (dual triode; in other words, two vacuum tubes in one), and  
is similar to a true tube amp with an output transformer. Rather than connecting the  
vacuum tube directly to a speaker via an output transformer, the signal is converted by  
a virtual output transformer in which solid stage components emulate the output trans-  
former, and the final output stage circuit is connected to a specially designed VariAmp  
power circuit. This allows the output of the power stage to be continuously varied  
from minimum output to maximum output.  
This VariAmp power circuit is completely transparent – i.e., it does not modify the  
signal – so the output tone will be the pure sound of a tube amp. The wide dynamic  
range seen in a conventional tube amp is also maintained. This dynamic range is a  
characteristic that is difficult to obtain from a solid-state amp; this is why a tube amp  
sounds more powerful than a solid-stage amp of the same output specifications. The  
output of the Valve Reactor power amp “reads” the constantly changing impedance  
curve of the connected speaker system, and feeds this information back to the vacuum  
tube. In response to this information, the operation of the amp’s tube stage will vary  
according to the speaker load (impedance). This too is an important element in the  
sound of a true tube amp. In addition to producing lively tube sound, “circuitry char-  
acteristics” distinctive of the full-tube power stage in the amp being modeled can also  
be simulated. These characteristics include class-A, class-AB, and power output. By  
adjusting these characteristics (except for the power output, which the user specifies),  
every sound of that amp model can be faithfully reproduced. This power amp technol-  
ogy, for which a U.S. patent has been obtained, is unique to the VOX Valvetronix amps.  
5
 
Quick start  
This Quick Start section is for those of you who would like to start using your new  
amp right away.  
This manual contains information that will help you take full advantage of your  
Valvetronix amp, so be sure to read the rest of it after you’ve read the Quick Start  
section.  
HINT:Illustrations of the top panel and rear panel are provided in “Top and  
rear panels” (p.8), so refer to them as you try out your amp.  
Setup  
1. Set the VT15/30’s [MASTER] volume to the minimum level.  
2. Connect the included power cable to the rear panel AC power connector, and plug  
the other end into an AC outlet.  
3. Plug the cable connected to your guitar into the top panel INPUT jack.  
4. Turn on the [POWER] switch.  
5. Slowly raise the [MASTER] volume to adjust the volume.  
HINT: The rear panel [POWER LEVEL] control adjusts the output level of  
the power amp. This lets you adjust the volume while preserving the dis-  
tortion of the power amp.  
NOTE: There may be no sound for several seconds until the vacuum tube  
warms up. This is not a malfunction.  
6
 
Checking out the preset programs  
1. Press the top panel [PRESET] switch.  
The PRESET LED will light up(Preset mode).  
2. Turn the [AMP] selector to select an amp model.  
A preset program for a sound that is typical of each amp model will be recalled, and  
the GAIN, VOLUME, TREBLE, MIDDLE, BASS, and effect settings will switch auto-  
matically.  
HINT: The amp models are organized into two banks, each bank contain-  
ing eleven models (a total of twenty-two). Press theAMP switch to change  
banks. Each time you press this, theAMP LED will change to green or red,  
and you’ll alternate between amp banks A and B. Each of the twenty-two  
amp models has three preset programs (a total of sixty-six programs). In  
Preset mode, pressing the [PRESET] switch will cycle the PRESET LED be-  
tween green, orange, and red, switching between preset programs 1 (basic),  
2 (effected), and 3 (song).  
Each song program reproduces the tone of a hit played by a famous guitar-  
ist.  
Switching between the user programs  
1. Press one of the top panel [CHANNEL] switches ([CH1], [CH2], [CH3], or [CH4]).  
The LED of the [CHANNEL] switch you pressed will light, and the user program  
specified for that channel will be recalled (Channel Select mode).  
HINT: The user programs are organized into two banks, each bank contain-  
ing four channels (a total of eight programs). Press the [CHANNELBANK]  
switch to switch banks. Each time you press it, the BANK LED will change  
between green and red, switching between channel banks 1 and 2.  
HINT: You can store your own favorite sounds in a program. For details,  
refer to “Saving a program” (p.15).  
7
 
Top and rear panels  
In this chapter we're going to take a look at the top and rear panels of your Valvetronix  
amp.  
A.Top panel  
2
The illustration shows the VT15.  
1
4
3
5
1. INPUT/PHONES section  
INPUT jack  
This is where you plug in your guitar.  
PHONES jack  
Use this jack if you want to output directly to a mixer or recording device, or when  
you want to use headphones. The signal that is output from this jack is taken from  
directly before the Valve Reactor power amp, and the cabinet response of the guitar  
amp will be applied to it.  
NOTE: If you connect this jack, no sound will be output from the internal  
speaker.  
2. Amp section  
Here you can make settings for the amp. The “chicken head” type knobs reflect the  
tradition of VOX amplifiers.  
[AMP] switch/selector, LED  
Here you can select the amp mode.  
Each time you press the [AMP] switch, the AMP LED will change color between  
green and red, switching between amp banks A and B. Use the [AMP] selector to  
choose a model within the selected amp bank.  
The operation of the pre-amp, power amp (class A or AB), the response of the tone  
controls and their location within the circuit are all switched according to the amp  
model you select here, causing each of these to behave as they do in the original amp.  
8
 
In Preset mode (i.e., when the PRESET LED is lit), you can recall preset programs  
that contain sounds and effect settings that are typical of each amp model.  
[GAIN] control  
This adjusts the pre-amp gain of the selected amp model.  
[VOLUME] control  
This adjusts the volume of the selected amp model.  
[TREBLE], [MIDDLE], [BASS] controls  
These adjust the tone for the high, mid, and low-frequency ranges. The change pro-  
duced by each control will differ depending on the amp model that you’ve selected.  
[REVERB] control  
This adjusts the mix amount for the reverb.  
[MASTER] volume  
This adjusts the volume that is output from the pre-amp to the Valve Reactor power  
amp. This setting will change the amount of the Valve Reactor’s distortion.  
NOTE: The [MASTER] volume setting is not programmed.  
NOTE:The amount of Valve Reactor distortion is also affected by the GAIN  
control. For some settings, there will be almost no distortion.  
3. Effect section  
Here you can make settings for effects and noise reduction. For details on each effect,  
refer to “Explanation of the amps and effects” (p.18).  
[EFFECTS] selector  
This selects the effect type. You can use the [TAP] switch and [EDIT] knob to adjust  
the parameters of each effect. When you switch the effect type, the parameter set-  
tings of the effect will be initialized, and Effect Bypass will be disabled.  
[EDIT] knob  
This adjusts the parameters of each effect. The knob can adjust three different param-  
eters when used in conjunction with the [TAP] or [BYPASS] switches as described  
below (when the BYPASS LED is unlit).  
- EDIT 1: Turn the [EDIT] knob (without holding down a switch).  
- EDIT 2: Turn the [EDIT] knob while holding down the [TAP] switch.  
- EDIT 3: Turn the [EDIT] knob while holding down the [BYPASS] switch.  
When the BYPASS LED is lit (i.e., when the effect is bypassed), you can adjust the  
sensitivity of the noise reduction by holding down the [TAP] switch and turning the  
[EDIT] knob.  
NOTE: You can’t adjust effect parameters while the BYPASS LED is lit.  
9
 
[TAP] switch, LED  
This sets the speed of modulation-type effects such as Chorus or Flanger, or the time  
of Delay or Tape Echo effects. The interval between two presses of the switch will be  
set as the time. The LED will blink at intervals of the specified speed or time.  
HINT: To set a precise time that matches the tempo of a song, press the  
switch several times in rhythm with the song.  
HINT: You can also adjust the speed or time setting by holding down the  
[TAP] switch and turning the [EDIT] knob (EDIT 2).  
NOTE:You can’t use the [TAP] switch to set the time while the BYPASS LED  
is lit. The TAP LED will be unlit.  
[BYPASS] switch, LED  
If you don’t want to use an effect, press this switch to turn off (bypass) the effect. This  
LED will be lit if the effect is bypassed.  
NOTE: Pressing this switch will not bypass the reverb. If you don’t want to  
use reverb, turn the [REVERB] knob all the way to the left so that the mix  
amount is 0.  
NOTE: You can’t adjust effect parameters while the BYPASS LED is lit.  
HINT: When the effect is bypassed, you can adjust the noise reduction sen-  
sitivity by holding down the [TAP] switch and turning the [EDIT] knob.  
HINT: The bypass setting is remembered even when you switch modes or  
programs, or when you turn off the power.  
4. Preset/manual/channel section  
[PRESET] switch, LED  
Use this to switch to Preset mode, and to select preset programs (P1: basic, P2: ef-  
fected, P3: song). In Preset mode you can use the [AMP] switch/selector to select  
typical sounds (preset programs) for each amp model. The LED will be lit green,  
orange, or red when you’re in Preset mode.  
[MANUAL] switch, LED  
Use this to switch to Manual mode. In Manual mode, the sound will reflect the physical  
position of all of the knobs except for the [EDIT] knob. This lets you use the VT15/30  
just as if it was a conventional guitar amp. The LED will be lit when you’re in Manual  
mode.  
[BANK] switch, LED  
Use this to select the channel bank. In Channel Select mode, the bank LED will be lit  
green or red. If you want to save a new program in a different bank, hold down the  
[BANK] switch for 0.5 seconds or longer (until the BANK LED starts blinking) and  
select the desired writing-destination bank (p.15 “Saving a program”).  
10  
 
[CHANNEL] switches, LEDs  
Use these to select channels. The LED of the selected channel will be lit. To save a  
new program, hold down the desired [CHANNEL] switch for one second or longer.  
5. Power switch  
[POWER] switch  
When the power is on, the indicator located above the switch will be lit.  
B. Rear panel  
VT15/VT30  
The illustration shows the VT15.  
1
2
3
1. AC power connector  
This is where you connect the included power cord.  
2. FOOT SW (foot switch) jack  
You can connect an optional foot switch (VOX VFS5: sold separately) here and use it  
to switch programs while you perform.  
NOTE: You must connect or disconnect the foot switch while the power is  
off. Malfunctions or damage may occur if you connect or disconnect the foot  
switch while the power is on.  
3. POWER LEVEL control  
This adjusts the output wattage of the power amp.  
VT15: less than 0.2W – 15W  
VT30: less than 0.2W – 30W  
NOTE: The power level setting is not saved in the program.  
This allows you to output at a range of volume levels without impairing the fat and  
warm sound (distinctive of classic tube amps) that is produced when you raise the  
drive of the Valvetronix amp’s power stage. Even when you’re practicing in a small  
room, you can play without damaging the listener’s eardrums or compromising the  
great tone.  
11  
 
About the three operating modes  
The VT15/30 contains three preset programs – basic, effected, and song – for each of  
its amp models (giving you a total of 66 programs). You can select these simply by  
switching the VT15/30 to Preset mode and using the [AMP] selector.  
There are also eight channel programs (user programs) that you are free to rewrite;  
use the [BANK] switch and [CHANNEL] switches or foot switch to switch between  
these.  
Preset mode (recalling preset programs)  
In Preset mode you can use the [AMP] switch/selector to recall programs for each  
amp model: “basic” programs containing typical sounds for that amp model, “ef-  
fected” preset programs, and “song” preset programs that replicate tones from hit  
songs. Each program will automatically switch the settings for GAIN, VOLUME,  
TREBLE, MIDDLE, BASS, and effects.  
Switching to Preset mode  
If the PRESET LED is dark, you’re not in Preset mode. Press the [PRESET] switch; the  
PRESET LED will light, and you’ll be in Preset mode.  
Recalling a preset program  
With the PRESET LED lit, operate the [AMP] switch/selector. The preset program  
specified for each amp model will be selected, regardless of the position of the top  
panel control knobs or [EFFECTS] selector.  
HINT: Each of the twenty-two amp models contain three preset programs:  
“basic,” “effected,” and “song” (a total of sixty-six programs). In preset mode,  
pressing the [PRESET] switch will make the PRESET LED cycle through green,  
orange, and red, switching between preset programs P1:Basic, P2:Effected, and  
P3:Song. The song presets recall programs that reproduce the tones of hit songs  
played by famous guitarists. For details on the hit songs that are programmed  
for each amp model, refer to the table at end of this owner’s manual.  
Manual mode  
When the VT15/30 is in Manual mode, it will behave like a conventional guitar amp.  
In other words, the sound will reflect the actual position of all the top panel selectors  
and control knobs (except for the [EDIT] knob).  
12  
 
Switching to Manual mode  
If the MANUAL LED is dark, you’re not in Manual mode. Press the [MANUAL]  
switch; the MANUAL LED will light, and you’ll be in Manual mode.  
NOTE:In Manual mode, adjusting a parameter whose setting is not determined  
by the position of a knob (i.e., the effect parameters and the noise reduction  
setting) will save that setting automatically. Those settings will be recalled the  
next time you enter Manual mode. However if the [EFFECT] selector is set to  
a different position than before, the default settings for that effect type will be  
loaded for the effect parameters.  
Channel Select mode (recalling user programs)  
In Channel Select mode you can use the [BANK] switch and [CHANNEL] switches  
to recall the programs that are saved in each channel of the bank; all of the amp and  
effect parameters will switch automatically.  
Switching to Channel Select mode  
If the BANK and CHANNEL LEDs are dark, you’re not in Channel Select mode.  
Press the [BANK] switch or a [CHANNEL] switch; the BANK and CHANNELLEDs  
will light, and you’ll be in Channel Select mode.  
Switching channels  
Press a [CHANNEL] switch to change channels. The program specified for that chan-  
nel will be selected, regardless of the position of the top panel selectors and control  
knobs. If you press the [BANK] switch, the bank will change, and the channel of the  
same number that had been selected in the previous bank will be selected.  
HINT: If you connect the optional foot switch (VOX VFX5: sold separately) to  
the rear panel, you’ll be able to switch banks/channels using your foot. For  
details, refer to “Using the foot switch (VOX VFS5)” (p.17).  
HINT:If you want to disable the effects, press the [BYPASS] switch. The BYPASS  
LED will light and the effect will be bypassed (except for reverb). If you press  
the [BYPASS] switch once again, bypass will be cancelled and the effect will be  
enabled. The bypass setting is maintained even if you switch modes or pro-  
grams, or turn off the power.  
13  
 
Creating and saving sounds  
You can create a sound either by starting with an existing program that’s close to  
what you have in mind and then editing it, or by creating the sound “from scratch”  
(i.e., from an initialized state).  
Creating a sound  
Here’s how to create a sound from scratch.  
1. Either select a program in Preset mode or Channel Select mode, or put the VT15/30  
in Manual mode.  
HINT: It doesn’t matter which program you select, since you’re creating the  
sound from scratch.  
2. Use the [BYPASS] switch to bypass the effect (the BYPASS LED will be lit). Turn the  
[REVERB] knob all the way to the left to disable the reverb. If you want to use an  
effect, you’ll add it last.  
3. Use the [AMP] switch/selector to select the amp that you want to use.  
HINT: For details on the amp models, refer to “Explanation of the amps and  
effects” (p.18).  
4. Adjust the top panel knobs such as [GAIN], [VOLUME], [TREBLE], [MIDDLE], and [BASS].  
5. While holding down the [TAP] switch, turn the [EDIT] knob to set the noise reduc-  
tion. This setting is also saved in the program. For details, refer to “Adjusting the  
noise reduction” (p.15).  
HINT:Adjust the noise reduction so that there’s no unwanted noise when you’re  
not playing your guitar.  
6. If you want to add an effect, press the [BYPASS] switch once again to defeat bypass  
(the BYPASS LED will be dark).  
7. Select the desired effect, and adjust it as desired.  
For example if you want to add delay, turn the [EFFECT] selector to “DELAY.” If the selec-  
tor is already at “DELAY,” turn it to some other effect type and then back to “DELAY.”  
Use the [TAP] switch and [EDIT] knob to set the delay time or delay mix (the amount  
of delay sound that is added).  
DELAY TIME:  
Press the [TAP] switch twice (at the desired timing interval), or turn  
the [EDIT] knob while holding down the [TAP] switch. (EDIT 2)  
Turn the [EDIT] knob (without holding down a switch). (EDIT 1)  
DELAY MIX:  
DELAY FEEDBACK: Turn the [EDIT] knob while holding down the [BYPASS] switch.  
(EDIT 3)  
14  
 
HINT: For details on the effect types, refer to “Explanation of the amps and  
effects” (p.18).  
8. If you want to use reverb, turn the [REVERB] knob to adjust the reverb mix amount.  
Adjusting the noise reduction  
Here’s how to adjust the way in which noise is suppressed.  
NOTE:Noise reduction is specified individually for each program. In Preset mode  
or Channel Select mode, the noise reduction setting will be lost if you switch to  
a different program or to Manual mode or turn off the power before saving.  
1. Press the [BYPASS] switch to make the BYPASS LED light.  
2. While holding down the [TAP] switch, turn the [EDIT] knob to adjust the sensitivity  
of the noise reduction. Turning the knob toward the right will produce stronger noise  
reduction. If the knob is turned all the way to the left, noise reduction will be off and  
will have no effect.  
NOTE: Depending on the guitar you’re using, raising the noise reduction too  
high may cause notes to be cut off.  
3. If you want to use an effect, press the [BYPASS] switch to make the BYPASS LED go dark.  
Saving a program  
When you’ve created a sound you like, here’s how to save (write) it.  
HINT: If you’re saving to a channel in the same bank, proceed from step 3.  
1. Hold down the [BANK] switch for 0.5 seconds or longer. The BANK LED will blink.  
2. Press the [BANK] switch to select the save-destination bank.  
HINT: If you decide to cancel the Write operation, press [TAP] at this point. The  
LED will stop blinking, and you’ll return to the previous mode.  
3. For two seconds or longer, hold down the [CHANNEL] switch of the channel in  
which you want to save the sound. The program will be saved in that channel, and  
that bank and channel will be selected.  
NOTE: The program that was previously in that location will be overwritten;  
i.e., the program that had been in the channel you selected in step 3 will be lost.  
NOTE: The setting of the [BYPASS] screen is not saved in the program.  
NOTE: If you’re creating your sound in Preset mode or Channel Select mode,  
the changes you made will be lost if you switch to another program or to  
Manual mode or turn off the power before saving.  
15  
 
Checking the original values saved in a program  
The original value indication lets you check the parameter values that are saved in a  
program.  
When you turn a knob to change the value of a parameter, the PRESET LED (if you’re  
in Preset mode) or the LED of the selected channel (if you’re in Channel Select mode)  
will momentarily go dark when the edited value matches the value that’s stored in  
the program.  
HINT:When you’ve found a program that you like, and are interested in know-  
ing the actual settings, you can use this original value indication to find out.  
NOTE:The top panel [MASTER] volume and rear panel [POWER LEVEL] con-  
trols are not programmable, so the original value indication is not available for  
these controls. Nor will the original value indication appear when you’re in  
Manual mode.  
Restoring the factory settings  
Here’s how to restore all settings of the VT15/30 to their factory-set state.  
NOTE: This operation will erase all programs that had been saved to channels,  
and will initialize the factory-set programs.  
NOTE: This will also initialize the effect and noise reduction settings that you  
made in Manual mode.  
1. Turn off the power.  
2. While holding down the [CH1] and [CH4] switches, turn on the power. When the  
BANK and CHANNEL LEDs start blinking, release the two switches you had been  
holding down.  
HINT: If you decide to cancel initialization at this point, press the [TAP] switch.  
3. Press the [BYPASS] switch. The BANK and CHANNELLEDs will change from blink-  
ing to lit, and initialization will begin. In one or two seconds, initialization will be  
completed, and you will switch to Preset mode.  
NOTE: Never turn off the power while initialization is in progress.  
16  
 
Using a foot switch (VOX VFS5)  
If you connect an optional foot  
switch (VOX VFS5: sold sepa-  
rately) to the rear panel [FOOT  
SW] jack, you’ll be able to switch  
banks/channels and turn effect  
bypass on/off using your foot.  
NOTE: You must connect or disconnect the foot switch while the power is off.  
Malfunctions or damage may occur if you connect or disconnect the foot switch  
while the power is on.  
NOTE: Do not press two or more foot switches simultaneously. Doing so may  
cause malfunctions.  
Foot switch operations in Channel Select mode  
Switching banks/channels (BANK, CH1–4 switches)  
In Channel Select mode, you can press the VFS5’s switches to change the bank or  
channel.  
NOTE: You can’t change to Channel Select mode by pressing the VFS5’s  
switches in Preset or Manual modes. Nor can you save a program by holding  
down the VFS5’s CH1–4 switches.  
NOTE: Operations of the top panel will not be reflected by the VFS5’s LEDs.  
Foot switch operations in Preset or Manual modes  
Tap to set the speed/time (CH2 switch)  
In Preset or Manual modes, you can set the speed of a modulation-type effect or the  
time of a delay-type effect by pressing the VFS5’s CH2 switch. The time will be set to  
the interval between two presses of this switch.  
NOTE: If the effect is bypassed (i.e., when the top panel BYPASS LED is lit), the  
CH2 switch will have no effect.  
Effect bypass on/off (CH3 switch)  
In Preset or Manual modes, you can press the VFS5’s CH3 switch to turn effect by-  
pass on/off.  
Reverb on/off (CH4 switch)  
In Preset or Manual modes, you can press the VFS5’s CH4 switch to turn reverb on/off.  
NOTE:The reverb will turn on when you switch modes, switch programs, turn  
the power off, or operate the [REVERB] control.  
NOTE: If you save (write) a program with reverb turned off, the program will  
be saved with the reverb mix amount at 0.  
17  
 
Explanation of the amps and effects  
This section explains the twenty-two amp models and the effects.  
Amp models  
Here we will explain the twenty-two amp models that were specially selected for the  
Valvetronix amp from numerous great-sounding amps. Much time was spent on  
selecting the amps to be modeled, and there were repeated consultations between  
staff members, much advice obtained from pro musicians and guitar specialists, and  
countless hours of listening and auditioning. The amps we ended up selecting are  
the best of the best, and cover a broad range of sounds from pristine clean to incred-  
ibly overdriven.  
Bank A  
A-1: BOUTIQUE CL  
This models the clean channel of a high-quality amp that was produced only on  
special order, and was known as the overdrive special. With a beautifully rounded  
low range, a sharp mid-range attack, and a sweet treble register, this is ideal for  
single coil pickups.  
A-2: DELUXE TWEED  
This American-made 1x12" hand-wired tube combo amp is one of the most loved  
club/studio amps in history. Its 12W of warm sound that responded sensitively to  
the player’s touch was projected from a tweed-covered cabinet made of solid pine.  
A-3: SUPER 4X10  
This American-made combo amp containing four 10" speakers was produced from  
1963–1968, and noted for its big clean sound and its warm, husky sound when driven.  
A-4: AC15TB  
This is a modern amp that combines the ideally sweet tone of theAC15’s low-output  
power amp with the highly-flexible tones of the AC30’s top boost channel.  
A-5: AC30HH  
The AC30HH is a hand-wired all-tube amp head sold to commemorate VOX’s fifti-  
eth anniversary. This amp has no rival in its ability to create sparkling chime-like  
clean sounds and creamy warm overdrive sounds.  
A-6: EXPRESS TRAIN  
This models a wood-finished 30W boutique amp head that cost more than $25,000. It  
delivers sparkling glassy clean tones, and raising the gain will produce overdrive  
sounds that are startlingly sweet in a musical way.  
18  
 
A-7: AC50CP2  
The VOX AC50CP2 classic plus combo is VOX’s new concept in all-tube amps. This  
amp models the more high-gain channel 2 with the “Fat Switch” turned off.  
A-8: UK 25TH  
Based on a UK-made 100W head, this amp was created for a famous guitarist known  
for his amazing tone, slash rhythms, and liking for silk hats. If you have a desire for  
ultimate metal tones, this amp will be the perfect choice.  
A-9: US ‘90S  
This two-channel 120W head manufactured in Mississippi was designed for a leg-  
endary guitar hero known for his “brown sound.” This amp models features a high-  
gain sound that’s ideal for the tapping performance technique.  
A-10: UK MODERN  
This models an English-made 100W amp head released in 2007 and boasting a four-  
channel design with powerful tone. On the VT15/30, we’ve used the “Overdrive 1”  
channel that produces a tight low-end and transparent high-gain metal sound.  
A-11: BOUTIQUE METAL  
This models the crushing high-gain sound emanated from a German-made 100W  
four-channel amp head. On the VT15/30, we chose the “Heavy” channel that deliv-  
ers a startling tightness when played with a dropped-D metal tuning.  
Bank B  
B-1: MODDED CL  
This modifies an American-made black-paneled amp that has been modified. With  
this modification, an already-superb amp gains even greater smoothness and addi-  
tional warmth.  
B-2: TWEED 2X12  
This American-made tweed-covered 2x12" combo amp made in 1957 is known for  
its rich and clean tone that’s ideal for classic rock, blues, and country. By raising the  
volume you can also produce a powerful and punchy overdrive sound.  
B-3: TWEED 4X10  
This models a 4x10" combo amp from 1959 that was originally designed for bass  
guitar. Its smooth and crisp overdrive sound will respond sensitively to your pick-  
ing dynamics and to the volume of your guitar.  
B-4: AC15  
This models channel 2 of the VOX AC15 (1x12," 15W), which was manufactured in  
1962 and was a big hit for its compact cabinet, power, and great tone – along with  
then-popular British bands.  
19  
 
B-5: AC30TB  
This models anAC30 amp with the “top boost” circuit that was included as standard  
starting with units produced in 1964. It delivers a smooth and refined top end, ma-  
jestically deep overdrive, and a rich and brilliant clean sound.  
B-6: BOUTIQUE OD  
This models the overdrive channel of a 100W high-quality amp that was produced  
only on special order, and known as the overdrive special. The wonderful sustain  
obtained by raising the [GAIN] control is smooth and soulful.  
B-7: AC30BM  
This models the AC30BM Brian May signature model which faithfully reproduces  
every nuance of the legendary original AC30 from the 1950’s. On the VT15/30, this  
setting provides the screaming sound of the amp being overdriven with the treble  
booster turned on.  
B-8: UK ‘80S  
This models a UK-manufactured 100W single-channel head with master volume  
made in 1983. Turn the gain control all the way up to get that thick, snarling hard  
rock and heavy metal sound that dominated the 80’s.  
B-9: CALI METAL  
This models the modern high-gain channel from a wild beast of a high-gain amp. Its  
deep and loose low-end, sparkling highs, and monstrous gain are ideal for guitars  
tuned as low as possible, or for metal acts wielding seven-string guitars.  
B-10: UK ‘90S  
This models the high-gain channel of a modern 100W amp. While individual notes  
are clearly defined, it delivers a monster sound that’s quite aggressive and arrogant.  
B-11: METAL BULL  
This models a California-made amp head with a three-channel design and versatile  
gain switches that produce a wide variety of sounds. On the VT15/30, we’ve mod-  
eled the lead channel that produces the ultimate high-gain tone.  
20  
 
Effects  
The VT15/30 provides eleven of the most popular effects (including multiple ef-  
fects) in addition to reverb. You can set the SPEED parameter of the modulation  
effects or the TIME parameter of the delays simply by pressing the [TAP] switch  
twice at the desired interval. Use the [EDIT] knob to set the most important param-  
eters, and make additional detailed settings by turning the [EDIT] knob while hold-  
ing down the [TAP] switch or [BYPASS] switch.  
TYPE  
DELAY  
TAP  
TIME  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
MIX  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] EDIT3 [BYPASS+EDIT]  
TIME  
FEEDBACK  
TAPE ECHO  
TIME  
MIX  
TIME  
FEEDBACK  
CHORUS+DELAY DELAY TIME  
DELAY MIX DELAY TIME  
DELAY FEEDBACK  
COMP+CHORUS  
OCTAVE+CHORUS CHORUS SPEED  
CHORUS SPEED  
COMP SENS CHORUS SPEED CHORUS MIX  
OCTAVE MIX CHORUS SPEED CHORUS MIX  
CHORUS  
FLANGER  
PHASER  
ROTARY  
TREMOLO  
PITCH  
SPEED  
SPEED  
SPEED  
SPEED  
SPEED  
DEPTH  
DEPTH  
DEPTH  
DEPTH  
DEPTH  
SPEED  
SPEED  
SPEED  
SPEED  
SPEED  
PITCH  
MIX  
RESONANCE  
RESONANCE  
----  
----  
----  
PITCH –12, –7, –5, DT, 5, 7, 12 MIX  
HINT: In order to edit the effect parameter settings, effect bypass must be  
off (the BYPASS LED must be dark). If bypass is on (BYPASS LED lit), hold-  
ing down the [TAP] switch and turning the [EDIT] knob will adjust the noise  
reduction sensitivity instead of an effect parameter.  
HINT:If you don’t want to use an effect in a user program, set the effect type  
to DELAY or TAPE ECHO. Then turn the [EDIT] knob all the way to the left  
to minimize the MIX setting.  
DELAY  
This models an analog delay that uses a bucket brigade device (BBD) as its de-  
lay circuit. Although its audio quality is lo-fi, it is favored for its warmth. The  
parameters are the same as TAPE ECHO, below.  
TAPE ECHO  
This models a popular analog tape echo. Originally, the echo was produced by  
the playback head, and the delay time was adjusted by changing the speed of  
the motor.  
TAP  
“TIME”  
Specifies the delay time in a range of 23...1460  
[ms].  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] “TIME”  
“MIX”  
Adjusts the mix amount of the delay sound.  
Lets you use the knob to make fine adjustments  
in the delay time.  
EDIT3 [BYPASS+EDIT] “FEEDBACK”  
Adjusts the amount of feedback.  
21  
 
CHORUS  
This models a standard rich-sounding analog chorus unit.  
TAP  
“SPEED”  
Adjusts the modulation speed in a range of  
0.1...10 [Hz].  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] “SPEED”  
“DEPTH”  
Adjusts the depth of modulation.  
Lets you use the knob to make fine adjustments  
in the delay time.  
EDIT3 [BYPASS+EDIT] “MIX”  
Adjusts the mix amount for the effect sound.  
HINT: The CHORUS+DELAY combination effect does not allow you to  
adjust the SPEED, DEPTH, or MIX parameters (these are set to appropri-  
ate values). The COMP+CHORUS and OCTAVE+CHORUS combination  
effects do not allow you to adjust the DEPTH parameter (it is set to an  
appropriate value).  
COMP  
This models a compressor pedal that is popular for its percussive, clean sound.  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
“SENS”  
Adjusts the sensitivity. Turning the knob to-  
ward the right will increase the amount of com-  
pression and sustain. Turning the knob all the  
way toward the left will turn off the effect.  
HINT: For the COMP+CHORUS combination effect, turning the EDIT 3  
knob [BYPASS+EDIT] all the way to the left will turn CHORUS off, letting  
you use COMP by itself.  
OCTAVE  
This models a pedal that adds a sense of weight by generating an octave below  
the input, and adding this lower octave to the original sound.  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
“MIX”  
Adjusts the mix amount for the octave-lower  
sound.  
NOTE:This type of effect is useful only for single notes. Unexpected results  
may occur if you play chords.  
HINT: For the OCTAVE+CHORUS combination effect, turning the EDIT 3  
knob [BYPASS+EDIT] all the way to the left will turn chorus off, letting you  
use OCTAVE by itself.  
FLANGER  
This models a truly classic analog flanger that gave birth to one of today’s great  
guitarists considered by many to be “the godfather of dual-handed tapping.”  
TAP  
“SPEED”  
“DEPTH”  
Adjusts the modulation speed in a range of  
0.1...10 [Hz].  
Adjusts the depth of modulation.  
Lets you use the knob to make fine adjustments  
in the speed.  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] “SPEED”  
EDIT3 [BYPASS+EDIT] “RESONANCE” Adjusts the amount of resonance.  
22  
 
PHASER  
This models a popular analog phaser that was packaged in a banana-yellow  
box.  
TAP  
“SPEED”  
Adjusts the modulation speed in a range of  
0.1...10 [Hz].  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] “SPEED”  
“DEPTH”  
Adjusts the depth of modulation.  
Lets you use the knob to make fine adjustments  
in the speed.  
EDIT3 [BYPASS+EDIT] “RESONANCE” Adjusts the amount of resonance.  
ROTARY  
This models a rotary speaker.  
TAP  
“SPEED”  
Adjusts the modulation speed in a range of  
0.8...10 [Hz].  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] “SPEED”  
“DEPTH”  
Adjusts the depth of modulation.  
Lets you use the knob to make fine adjustments  
in the speed.  
TREMOLO  
This models a popular tremolo circuit that was built into US-made amps.  
TAP  
“SPEED”  
Adjusts the modulation speed in a range of  
2.5...10 [Hz].  
EDIT1 [BYPASS+EDIT] “DEPTH”  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] “SPEED”  
Adjusts the depth of tremolo.  
Lets you use the knob to make fine adjustments  
in the speed.  
PITCH  
This is a pitch shifter that allows chords to be input, and provides a maximum  
pitch change of one octave upward or downward.  
TAP  
“PITCH”  
Specifies the pitch. Each time you press TAP,  
the pitch shift amount will cycle between –12,  
–7, –5, DT, 5, 7, and 12 (DT: detune).  
Adjusts the balance between the direct sound  
and effect sound.  
EDIT1 [EDIT]  
“LEVEL”  
EDIT2 [TAP+EDIT] “PITCH”  
Lets you adjust the pitch in semitone steps in a  
range of –12 to 12.  
Reverb  
This simulates the spring reverb that is built into guitar amps. Use the [REVERB]  
knob to adjust the mix amount for the reverb sound. If you don’t want to use  
reverb, turn the [REVERB] knob all the way to the left so that the mix amount is 0.  
NOTE: The VT15/30’s reverb operates independently of the other effects.  
Pressing the [BYPASS] switch will not bypass the reverb.  
23  
 
Troubleshooting  
1. Power does not turn on when you turn the [POWER] switch on  
- Is the power cable connected to the rear panel AC power inlet?  
- Is the power cable connected to an AC outlet?  
- Could the AC outlet be malfunctioning?  
- Could the power cable be damaged?  
2. No sound from the amp  
- Could your guitar’s volume be turned down?  
- Is your guitar cable connected correctly?  
- Could your guitar cable be broken?  
- Could the top panel [MASTER] volume be turned down?  
-
-
Could headphones be connected to the top panel PHONES jack? If so, disconnect them.  
Check the settings of the [GAIN], [VOLUME], [TREBLE], [MIDDLE], and [BASS] controls.  
For some amp models, there may be no sound from the amp if the [TREBLE], [MIDDLE],  
and [BASS] controls are turned down, just as for the circuitry of the original amp.  
- If the VT15/30 is in Manual mode (MANUAL LED lit), could the [GAIN], [VOL-  
UME], [TREBLE], [MIDDLE], and [BASS] controls be set to 0 or the minimum value?  
3. Insufficient volume from the amp  
- Could your guitar’s volume be turned down?  
- Could the [MASTER] volume be turned down?  
- Could the rear panel [POWER LEVEL] be turned down?  
- Check the settings of the [GAIN], [VOLUME], [TREBLE], [MIDDLE], and [BASS]  
controls. For some amp models, there may be no sound from the amp if the [TREBLE],  
[MIDDLE], and [BASS] controls are turned down, just as for the circuitry of the origi-  
nal amp.  
- If the VT15/30 is in Manual mode (MANUAL LED lit), could the [GAIN], [VOL-  
UME], [TREBLE], [MIDDLE], and [BASS] controls be set to 0 or the minimum value?  
4. No sound from the PHONES jack  
- Could the top panel [MASTER] volume be turned down?  
- Check whether sound is output from the amp.  
To do this you must disconnect the PHONES jack, since sound will not be output  
from the internal speaker if headphones or a cable are connected to the PHONES jack.  
If no sound is produced from the amp, check the items listed in “No sound from the  
amp,” above.  
If there is sound from the amp, check whether your headphones or cable might be  
broken or malfunctioning.  
5. Effects are not applied  
- Could the BYPASS LED be lit?  
If it is lit, the effect is bypassed. Press the [BYPASS] switch to defeat bypass. The  
BYPASS LED will go dark.  
- Could the [EDIT] knob be set to the minimum value?  
Adjust the [EDIT] knob.  
24  
 
Specifications  
Number of amp models:  
22  
Number of effects  
Effect types:  
Noise reduction:  
Reverb:  
11  
1
1
Number of programs  
Preset:  
66  
User:  
8 (two banks x four channels)  
Input/output jacks  
Top panel:  
INPUT jack x 1, PHONES jack x 1  
FOOT SW jack x 1  
Rear panel:  
Power amp output  
VT15:  
maximum 15W RMS @ 4 ohms  
maximum 30W RMS @ 4 ohms  
VT30:  
Speaker  
VT15:  
VT30:  
VOX original (8 inch 4 ohm) x 1  
VOX original (10 inch 4 ohm) x 1  
Signal processing  
A/D conversion:  
D/A conversion:  
Sampling frequency:  
Power supply requirements:  
Power consumption  
VT15:  
24-bit  
24-bit  
44.1 kHz  
AC, local voltage  
28W  
40W  
VT30:  
Dimensions (W x D x H)  
VT15:  
428 x 224 x 395 mm (16.9 x 8.8 x 15.6 inches)  
456 x 224 x 430 mm (18.0 x 8.8 x 16.9 inches)  
VT30:  
Weight  
VT15:  
VT30:  
10 kg (22.1 lbs.)  
12 kg (26.5 lbs.)  
power cable  
Included items:  
Options (sold separately):  
Foot switch (VOX VFS5)  
Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice for im-  
provement.  
25  
 
Song program list  
Preset Mode P3: Red  
Amp A: GREEN  
Boutique CL  
Deluxe Tweed  
Super 4x10  
AC15TB  
Song Title  
Message In A Bottle  
Sultans Of Swing  
Pride And Joy  
Smoke On The Water  
Still Got The Blues  
Tush  
AC30HH  
Express Train  
AC50CP2  
Paranoid  
UK 25th  
Sweet Child O'Mine  
Hot for Teacher  
Surfing With The Alien  
For The Love Of God  
US ’90s  
UK Modern  
Boutique Metal  
Amp B: RED  
Modded CL  
Tweed 2x12  
Tweed 4x10  
AC15  
Song Title  
Pride (In The Name Of Love)  
Crossroads  
Jessica  
Day Tripper  
AC30TB  
Layla  
Boutique OD  
AC30BM  
Free Bird  
Tie Your Mother Down  
Walk This Way  
The Trooper  
UK ’80s  
Cali Metal  
UK ’90s  
Smells Like Teen Spirit  
Enter Sandman  
Metal Bull  
* The equipment used in the song by the actual guitarist may differ.  
26  
 
Program sheet  
When you come up with a sound you like, you can use this sheet to make a note  
of your settings. We suggest that you make photocopies of this program sheet,  
and make your notes on the photocopies.  
Remember to note the NR setting and POWER LEVELcontrol setting (rear panel).  
PROGRAM NAME  
EDIT2(TAP + EDIT):  
/TAP  
EDIT3(BYPASS + EDIT):  
NR (NOISE REDUCTION):  
POWER LEVEL  
NOTE:  
PROGRAM NAME  
EDIT2(TAP + EDIT):  
/TAP  
EDIT3(BYPASS + EDIT):  
NR (NOISE REDUCTION):  
POWER LEVEL  
NOTE:  
PROGRAM NAME  
EDIT2(TAP + EDIT):  
/TAP  
EDIT3(BYPASS + EDIT):  
NR (NOISE REDUCTION):  
POWER LEVEL  
NOTE:  
27  
 
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.  
8
 

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