Vox Plug Buying guide
Vox Plug: A Complete Buyer's Guide
A practical buying guide to VOX Amplug units. Understand the different models, key specifications, price ranges, and how to choose the right unit for your needs.
VOX Amplug headphone amplifiers have revolutionised silent practice for guitarists, allowing you to enjoy full amplification through headphones anywhere, anytime. If you're considering buying a VOX Amplug, you're stepping into one of the most practical investments a guitarist can make. This guide walks you through exactly what to look for when choosing a VOX Amplug, from understanding the different models to evaluating tone quality, features, and value for money.
Understanding VOX Amplug Fundamentals
A VOX Amplug is a pocket-sized headphone amplifier that plugs directly into your guitar. Unlike traditional amplifiers, it requires no cabinet, no power outlet, and virtually no space. You plug your guitar in, plug headphones in, and instantly access amp modeling technology that recreates iconic amplifier sounds. The beauty of VOX Amplug units is their self-contained simplicity combined with surprising versatility. When buying a VOX Amplug, you're essentially choosing a particular amp voicing and feature set tailored to your needs.
The VOX Amplug Product Range
VOX Amplug comes in several distinct models, each designed for different genres and needs. The original Amplug 2 provides classic amp simulation in a compact form. Specialised models include the Lead (designed for rock and lead tones), Clean (ideal for jazz and funk), and Bass (engineered specifically for bass guitars). There's also the Amplug Go, a newer version with expanded features and improved technology. Understanding which model suits your playing style is the most important decision when buying a VOX Amplug.
For general purpose use and learning, the Amplug 2 or Amplug Go serves guitarists across all genres. Specialists buying a VOX Amplug specifically for rock, blues, or jazz might prefer the genre-specific models. Bass players absolutely must choose the Bass version, not a guitar Amplug, to ensure proper frequency response and tone shaping for your instrument.
Key Specifications to Evaluate
When buying a VOX Amplug, pay attention to these essential features:
- Built-in effects: Most VOX Amplug models include reverb, delay, and modulation effects. Verify which effects are included in your target model. More effects mean more tonal flexibility; some budget models offer minimal effects.
- Amp models included: Different VOX Amplug versions include different numbers of amp simulations. Entry models might have 3-5; advanced models can include 10+. More models don't guarantee better tone, but they provide more options for experimentation.
- Headphone output quality: This is crucial. Better VOX Amplug models use higher-quality digital-to-analogue conversion, resulting in less digital noise and clearer tone through headphones. Listen to demos or test units in-store if possible.
- Power source: Standard VOX Amplug units run on AA batteries (typically 2-4), offering 4-8 hours of playtime. Newer models like Amplug Go include rechargeable batteries, eliminating battery changes but requiring charging cables.
- Microphone input: Some VOX Amplug models include a microphone input, allowing you to layer vocals or backing tracks during practice. This feature isn't essential for most players, but it's valuable for songwriting and home recording.
The Drive and Overdrive Question
A critical spec when buying a VOX Amplug is whether the unit includes overdrive and distortion options. The original Amplug 2 includes basic overdrive; specialised models offer more sophisticated drive simulation. If you primarily play genres requiring driven tones (rock, metal, blues), ensure your VOX Amplug includes robust overdrive/distortion modeling. For clean jazz or acoustic guitar players, drive capabilities matter less.
Price Tiers and Value Analysis
VOX Amplug pricing breaks down into clear brackets:
| Price Range | Typical Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| £30–50 | Basic amp models, limited effects, AA battery power, simple interface | Students learning the instrument, budget-conscious players, occasional practice |
| £50–80 | Multiple amp models, good effect selection, improved audio quality, standard VOX Amplug 2 features | Regular practicers, hobby musicians, players who value portability without sacrificing tone |
| £80–120 | Genre-specific amp modeling, expanded effects, microphone input on some models, premium build | Specialised players (rock, bass, acoustic), musicians seeking particular tones, regular gigging musicians using Amplug in rehearsal |
| £120–160 | VOX Amplug Go: rechargeable battery, enhanced effects, improved interface, latest technology | Professional musicians, frequent travelers, players wanting latest technology, those who value integrated features and modern design |
Tone Quality Considerations
When buying a VOX Amplug, tone through headphones is paramount. Higher-priced VOX Amplug models generally offer superior digital emulation and clearer headphone output. The difference between a £40 and £80 VOX Amplug is noticeable—the expensive model sounds less "digital" and more "real." However, budget VOX Amplug units sound perfectly respectable and are satisfactory for practice and home recording. The gap between entry and mid-range is significant; the gap between mid-range and premium diminishes considerably.
Battery Life and Practical Considerations
Most AA battery-powered VOX Amplug models provide 4-6 hours per set. If you practice 1-2 hours daily, a fresh set lasts a week. For frequent travelers or musicians playing long studio sessions, the rechargeable Amplug Go eliminates battery hassle. Factor in the cost of AA batteries (roughly £1 per month for regular use) when comparing prices with rechargeable models.
Headphone Pairing Matters
The headphones you pair with your VOX Amplug significantly affect perceived tone quality. VOX Amplug sounds superior through headphones with good low-end response and clear midrange. Budget headphones can make any VOX Amplug sound inferior; quality headphones reveal the unit's true capability. When buying a VOX Amplug, test it through several headphone options to understand how it responds to different configurations.
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Experienced VOX Amplug buyers warn against these errors:
Buying a guitar model for bass (or vice versa): The tone-shaping, amp models, and EQ are fundamentally different. A bass VOX Amplug through a guitar sounds thin; a guitar model through bass sounds bassy and unclear. Always match the instrument type.
Underestimating effect importance: VOX Amplug effects are genuinely musical and essential for many playing styles. Don't dismiss a model because it lacks reverb or delay—verify effects before buying.
Ignoring audio quality in reviews: Watch demo videos with quality headphones. YouTube compression masks the digital quality differences between models. If possible, try before buying.
Buying purely for feature count: A VOX Amplug with 12 amp models isn't automatically better than one with 6 if the 6 are expertly voiced. Focus on whether the sounds in your target model suit your needs.
Storage and Durability
VOX Amplug units are remarkably durable but deserve care. Store in a small pouch to prevent impact damage. Keep away from moisture. Clean the headphone jack occasionally with compressed air if you use it frequently in dusty environments. Battery contacts can corrode; if your VOX Amplug stops working, try cleaning the battery compartment with a dry cloth.
Making Your Decision
Start by identifying which VOX Amplug model genre-matches your primary playing style. Listen to online demos through decent headphones. Read player reviews focusing on tone, not just features. For most players, the mid-range VOX Amplug 2 offers the best value—excellent tone without premium pricing. For more specific information about VOX Amplug history, tech specs, and detailed comparisons, see our complete guide to VOX Amplug, which covers the full landscape.
Buying a VOX Amplug is an investment in flexible, convenient practice. The best model is the one you'll actually use, which means balancing tone quality, features, and price. Trust your ears, focus on your playing needs, and you'll find a VOX Amplug that becomes an essential part of your musical toolkit.
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