VOX AC15C1X vs Fender Blues Jr III
VOX AC15C1X vs Fender Blues Jr III
The Fender Blues Jr III and VOX AC-15 amplifiers are two of the most popular and sought after 15 watt EL84 valve combos on the market today. Even in 2016, these amplifiers continue to be the standard for most musicians in the World. I’ve owned both a Vox AC15C1 and Blues Junior and both have their own unique pros and cons. Let’s take a look at both amps and I’ll let you know my thoughts on them both.
Fender Blues Jr III
Pros: Good price, small, lightweight, and good overdrive tones, FSR amps have a notable speaker upgrade added.
Cons: Cabinet can be too small for some people, no tremolo, stock speaker (the Eminence) is not very good.
VOX AC15C1X
Pros: Good price, larger cabinet than the Blues Jr III, great stock speaker, loud, great on board tremolo.
Cons: Heavier than the Blues Junior, stock valves can be less than brilliant, no mids control.
Below is a video between the VOX AC-15 and the Fender Blues Jr III amplifiers.
Overall: Both amps are great so it’s up to you which one you like the best. It’s all personal choice. For me either amp can do blues and classic rock. The Fender has more mids which might work better in the mix of a band context but it’s not as loud and big sounding due to the smaller cabinet size. If Fender boxed it up in a cabinet the same size as the Vox it would probably improve the overall live experience. Playing at home or jamming the Fender will do the job and you could always mic it up. The VOX sounds fantastic with a Telecaster and will be better for a dirtier sound thanks to the great gain control. I like the physical size of the VOX a lot more because the cabinet size really improves the overall throw of the amp. These are both great amps and I would go for the one you like the sound of the best because that’s what it comes down to. If you’re a country player and use a Telecaster – go for the Vox. ;-).