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When it comes to Vox vs Orange amps, which one is on top? You might’ve heard of both brands and are trying to figure out which one is better. Both companies have been a round for a very long time, so we know they make great products.
Well, I’m here to help! This Killer Rig article compares both amps on sound, features, aesthetics and cost. We will narrow down the more important aspects of finding the right fit for you. But we will do it based on your needs and desires, let’s go!
Brief Summary
- Vox amplifiers are renowned for their chimey and jangly clean tones, Orange, on the other hand, is famous for its thick and growling distorted tones.
- Vox amps are often the go-to choice for pop, indie, and classic rock musicians, providing a vintage vibe and a crisp sound. Orange amps are a staple in the world of doom, stoner rock, and heavy metal, delivering a massive and gritty tone.
- A Look at Popular Models: Vox offers the Pathfinder 10 as a solid-state option, while Orange counters with the Crush 12. In the realm of tube amplifiers, Vox’s AC15 offers an iconic British sound, while Orange’s Thunder 30 provides a robust and aggressive option for those seeking a modern tone.
Vox vs Orange Amps
Vox and Orange amps have been around for many years. But they play in different sandboxes and do not offer the same style or sound.
Vox amps are praised for their classic rock sound. Bands like The Beatles used them for their bright, British sound. On the other hand, Orange Amps offer a modern tone, perfect for metal and alternative rock. They are also British, but have gone in a whole different direction.
In terms of versatility, Orange Amps have the edge, with plenty of tones and effects to play around with. But if you’re looking for a vintage character, Vox amps are a much better option.
Some of the Vox DSP based amps offer good effects and new tones, but the vacuum tube based stuff is pretty old school. Which is exactly what you want for vintage styles.
When it comes to price, they are quite similar, with the tube amps being more expensive than the solid state offerings. Vox, however, offers more combos than heads, which is something to keep in mind.
Here are some of my opinions and suggestions:
- If classic rock is your thing, Vox amps are the ideal choice.
- But if you prefer modern sounds, Orange amps are your best bet.
Comparing the Tones
Vox and Orange amps have very different tonal qualities. Let’s dive into these guitar amplifiers and examine their features.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Tonal Feature | Vox | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Smooth | Raw |
| Gain | Moderate | High |
| Treble | Crisp | Warmer |
| Midrange | Warm | Rich |
| Bass | Full | Punchy |
These two amps differ in sound output. Vox has a smooth, moderate gain tone with crisp treble, warm midrange, and full bass. Orange has a raw sound with high gain, bright treble, rich midrange, and punchy bass.
Let’s explore them further, starting with the clean sounds that each amp brand offers.
Clean Tone
Clean Tone is an important factor of any amplifier. It means the undistorted, pure sound produced by the instrument. When comparing Vox and Orange amps in terms of clean tone, we must consider clarity, warmth, and versatility.
Both Vox and Orange amps offer good clean tones and I enjoy both for different reasons. Vox tube amps excel in clarity and offer higher headroom and a brighter sound. Their DSP models are a bit different, as they are aimed at providing a wider range of tones.
Orange provides a distinct warmth that gives the tone character. But their clean sounds are a bit gritty and have less headroom than Vox. This doesn’t mean the clean tones are bad on an orange, they just have a different focus. The punchy, warm sound is perfect for punk, and rock music.
Distorted Tone
Distorted tone is a critical factor when comparing these amp brands. Both offer unique qualities that affect the sound. While Vox delivers classic and vintage distortion, Orange provides a modern and aggressive tone.
Vox amps are known for their iconic British sound. They have a vintage-inspired overdrive that produces warm and smooth distortion, adding depth to any guitar riff. The combination of their tube technology and circuit design creates a harmonically rich sound.
Orange amps offer a different take on distorted tone. Their amps are known for their high gain capabilities, perfect for metal or hard rock. With an aggressive and punchy tone, they can deliver powerful riffs.
What sets these brands apart are details of their amp designs. For example, Vox uses EL84 tubes, contributing to their unique sound. Orange amps use EL34 tubes, giving them beefier and more saturated distortion. This also contributes to the reason why the mid-range is so different between them.
Jimmy Page used both Vox and Orange amps during his time with Led Zeppelin. Recording “Whole Lotta Love,” Page used Vox amps to capture the song’s famous riff with its warm yet gritty distortion. Onstage, he often switched to his Orange rig for its raw power and aggressive tones.
Functions and Controls
When it comes to the controls and functionality, this is where things can be quite different. But this also depends on the technology being used in the amplifier model.
Tube Amps
When it comes to the tube amps made by each company, things are pretty similar. You will find the usual gain, treble, mids and bass controls along with some spring reverb or tremolo effects.
Some models also offer a second channel and the addition of a foot control to switch the functions. Some Vox amps don’t have a mids control, like the AC30, for example. Otherwise, they are pretty similar control wise.
Solid State and DSP
When it comes to solid state models, Vox offers a greater range of functionality and control. DSP models come with build in emulation, which can provide a greater range of sounds. They also feature tuners, effects, and other peripherals that can shape your tone.
Orange amps on the other hand don’t get into a large range of functions, even with their solid state models. They tend to keep it simple by offering a tuner and maybe some effects at the most..
If you want to learn more about the amp settings of these two brands, check out these articles I wrote that goes a lot deeper:
Design and Aesthetics
Vox and Orange amps also compete in design and aesthetics. Both brands show off unique features and styles. Let’s look closer at their design and aesthetics.
Vox amps have a vintage-inspired design with a classic logo. Their grill cloth is specific to their look and hasn’t changed in decades. This means you will always recognize the vintage look of a Vox amplifier. It’s a very good-looking unit and one any guitarist would appreciate owning.
Orange amps have a modern look with a distinctive color scheme and minimalistic control layout. They also offer a black tolex for those who don’t want the flashy orange look from their rig.
It’s also worth nothing that Orange typically doesn’t use text on their control panels. They are symbols instead. So when you go to tweak your sound, you will have to turn knobs to see what they do first. At least until you learn what the symbols mean.
Both brands prioritize quality craftsmanship. Vox amps are known for their attention to detail and high-quality build materials. Orange amps use top-notch materials for precision and performance.
The Different Types of Vox Amps
Vox amps are a great option for musicians looking to get creative. From vintage-style classics to modern innovations, there’s something for everyone. Let’s take a peek at the different types of Vox amps:
| Type | Description | Power Output |
|---|---|---|
| AC15C1 | All tube 2 channel combo amplifier with effects | 15W |
| AC30 | 2 channel tube amplifier with effects and footswitch | 30W |
| VTX40 | Hybrid modeling amplifier with effects | 40W |
| VX50AG | Compact and portable acoustic amplifier | 50W |
| Pathfinder 10 | 1 channel solid state combo amp | 10W |
Plus, special models like the MV50 that are a hybrid tube head that uses Nutube technology. It’s a tiny package with 50 watts of power.
The Pros and Cons of Vox Amps
When it comes to Vox amps, there are certain upsides and downsides to keep in mind. Let’s explore them in detail.
Pros:
- Vintage sound: A timeless quality that harkens back to the golden age of rock.
- Classic design: Aesthetically pleasing and often imitated but never duplicated.
- Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of the road and the passion of performance.
- Tube-driven: Offering a warm and rich sound that solid-state amps can only dream of.
Cons:
- Limited amp models: A smaller selection that might not cater to every musical taste.
- Not suited for all genres: May not be the best fit for some modern or heavier styles.
- Pricey compared to other brands: Quality comes at a cost, and these amps are an investment.
- Heavy and bulky: Not the easiest to lug around, especially when you’re on the move.
Vox amps have a unique tone that’s sought after. However, due to their limited amp models, they may not work for all musical genres. But this is by design, and exactly where they shine as a brand.
Before you decide, remember this: Vox amps have been used by famous musicians throughout history, adding to their iconic status. Don’t miss out on crafting your own legendary sound with a Vox Amp.
The Different Types of Orange Amps
Orange amps is a renowned brand that offers a range of amplifiers. Each type has its own features and capabilities to cater to the different needs of guitarists and musicians.
Let’s take a look at this comprehensive overview:
| Type | Description | Power Output |
|---|---|---|
| Rockerverb | Versatile and iconic tone shaping capabilities | 50W/100W |
| AD30 | Vintage British tones with classic simplicity | 30W |
| OR Series | Wide range of tonal options with distinguished clarity | 20W/35W/50W |
| Tiny Terror | Compact and portable with impressive power | 15W/7W |
| Crush Pro | High-gain enthusiasts seeking aggressive tones | 120W |
It’s worth noting that Orange amps prioritize quality craftsmanship and attention to detail in their product designs. They use high-quality components for durability and optimal performance.
Innovative amp design is another hallmark of Orange amps. Cutting-edge technology is coupled with vintage aesthetic, resulting in modern functionality and timeless appeal.
Orange also provides speaker cabinets and accessories to complement their amps. This gives musicians the flexibility to create their ideal setup.
The Pros and Cons of Orange Amps
Orange amps are famed for their unique sound and cool style. Let’s look at the pros & cons of these amps.
Pros:
- Powerful sound: They are known for delivering strong and robust sound.
- Distinctive look: The design is unique and easily recognizable.
- Durability: They are constructed to be long-lasting.
Cons:
- Limited tonal options: The range of tones may not be as diverse as other brands.
- Price: They can be more expensive compared to other amplifiers.
- Weight and size: They can be heavy and cumbersome to transport.
Price Comparison
These two companies are experiences builders. As such, they both offer a premium product but do have many price tiers. To get a better idea, we will look at both solid state and tube offerings to see how they compete.
Solid State Models
| Model | Wattage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vox Mini Go 10 | 10W | $229.99 |
| Orange Crush 12 | 12W | $109.00 |
| Vox VT20X | 20W | $279.99 |
| Orange Crush 20 | 20W | $199.00 |
| Vox VT40X | 40W | $349.99 |
| Orange Crush 35 | 35W | $299.00 |
| Vox VT100X | 100W | $599.99 |
| Orange Crush CR60 | 60W | $599.99 |
Tube Models
| Model | Wattage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vox AC10C1 | 10W | $579.99 |
| Orange Dark Terror | 15W | $649.00 |
| Vox AC15C1X | 15W | $1299.99 |
| Orange Rocker 15 | 15W | $699.00 |
| Vox AC30C2X | 30W | $1799.99 |
| Orange OR30 | 30W | $1799.00 |
Which Amp is Right for You?
Choosing an amp is a critical decision for any musician. In this comparison, we’ll look at Vox and Orange amps to help you make an informed choice.
Vox Amps:
- Tone: Classic and versatile, suitable for various genres.
- Power: Offers a variety of wattage options to suit different needs.
- Durability: Known for solid and reliable construction.
- Features: Provides lots of control options for fine-tuning your sound.
- Price: Generally more affordable, catering to different budgets.
Orange Amps:
- Tone: Punchy, with a strong and aggressive sound, ideal for heavier music styles.
- Power: Known for robust power that can drive a bold sound.
- Durability: Built with sturdy construction to last.
- Features: Simple design with fewer controls, focusing on core sound quality.
- Price: Tends to be in a higher price range, often with premium features.
Considerations:
- If you’re looking for iconic clean tones, Vox might be the way to go. Famous musicians like Brian May and Jimmy Page have used Vox amps in their live performances.
- If you prefer a bold and gritty sound, especially for genres like hard rock and metal, Orange could be your choice.
Conclusion
Choosing between Vox and Orange depends on your musical style, budget, and specific needs in terms of tone, power, durability, features, and price.
Think on what matters most to you, and don’t be nervous to test both out in a store to figure out which one suits your playing style. Finding the amp that enhances not just your sound, but also your musical spirit!
