NAMM 2024: Vox's dinky amPlug range has been coming to the aid of bedroom guitarists (and their cohabitees) since 2007, and ahead of NAMM 2024, the firm has launched a third iteration of its successful guitar headphone amp range.
Vox claims that amPlug 3 constitutes "not just an upgrade but a complete reinvention”, and while we'll be the judge of that - keep your eyes peeled for a MusicRadar review - they do look as alluringly tempting, collectible even, as ever.
The battery-powered mini-amps, measuring just 86 x 31 x 80 mm, and sitting directly on a 3/4" jack, each have two channels and feature up to four effects including tremolo, chorus, reverb and delay, depending on the model (see below).
Every one of the range, which comprises 5 guitar and 2 bass amps, has in-built rhythm patterns including Rock, Blues, Pop, Funk, Metal, Jazz, and a straight-up Metronome for solo practices, along with (obviously) tempo controls, and smartphone connectivity - as long as you have an AUX on your phone - for play-along fun.
The full Vox amPlug 3 range
The amps on offer are...
AC30
Probably the one we're keenest to try out, this emulates Vox's classic AC30 sound. Channel 1 offers the signature tone, while channel 2 adds a splodge of '60s flavoured top boost.
UK DRIVE
Offering the "raw power of a 100W UK stack", channel 1 is a vintage tone, while channel 2 layers on distortion.
US SILVER
Heading back over the pond, US Silver offers warm, pristine clean tones for "soulful strumming" on 1, and a sprinkle of grit on channel 2.
BOUTIQUE
Channel 1 is "silky, clean" here, and there's bright overdrive waiting on switch 2.
HIGH GAIN
The most obviously aggressive of the range High Gain should do what it says, with "sharp, aggressive, and powerful sounds".
BASS
Time for some low-end. Bass amPlug 3 is a no-nonsense affair, with an uncomplicated classic bass tone, for maximum versatility, plus some overdrive on channel 2.
MODERN BASS
Last up, Modern Bass aims for an edgier, more contemporary experience. Crisp on channel 1, with high-gain distortion on 2.
The amPlug 3 range will hit stores in February, priced around £47/$55/€55. For more info stay tuned to MusicRadar or hit voxamps.com.
