Vox Cambridge 50
The Vox Cambridge 50 is a 50w 1x12 modelling amplifier.
Small in size but loud and packed with very easy and useable effects.
It features a power level knob which acts as an attenuator to raise or lower the output wattage from 0 – 50, this is a great feature as it allows smooth transition from top to bottom giving more range than some amps which only have a 5w – 25w & 50w predefined setting.
I like this feature as the higher the setting the more headroom, so you can get more out of your amp in settings where you need reduced volume.
You can connect it to your computer and use it as an audio interface for recording which is always useful.
There is also a tap tempo button for setting the timed effects, a tuner although this is just to give an ‘E’ reference and not individual notes.
LOOKS
The Vox Cambridge 50 has a relatively simple look, but the traditional Vox style grille clothe has a very nice subtlety to it being plain black with silver vox badge.
The control knobs are traditional chicken head style so a vintage look here.
You get blue LED lights on top which are more design than a function, I have read that some people think is the Nutube technology, but I think they are just for show.
Overall, its clean and tidy with no complications.
SOUNDS & TONES
There are 11 models of amp to choose from and are all very useable and noticeably different, ranging from traditional fender styles and really clean Vox AC30’s to heavy Soldano high gain!
So, without any complications you can go from clean chimey chords and riffs to heavy power chords in the turn of a dial!
On the tone control side of things, you have Gain, Bass, Treble and Volume.
Mids are available via the tone room app if you connect to a computer or tablet plus a Noise reduction control too.
Onboard modulation effects include Chorus, Flanger, Orange Phaser & Twin tremolo and all sound great and you can change the modulation speed by tapping the tap tempo and the mix by turning the dial.
Same with the Reverb and Delay effects, you have Spring & Hall reverbs along with Tape echo & Analogue Delay.
Hardcore effects fans may not like the onboard effects if you’re used to a favourite pedal etc however for onboard effects they will suit beginners or those who are doing a small gig or practice.
There is a footswitch input on the back of the amp, this will allow you to switch between pre-sets made within the tone room app so you can change your rig on the fly.
The Nutube technology which is designed to give you tube amp like response and feel works for me.
I notice it especially on a clean AC30, it’s hard to explain but it definitely makes a difference.
From my video you will hear how nice the clean sounds are.
WHO IS THIS AMP FOR?
This amp is really suited to players looking for a small amp at home or practicing at a small venue and who want a basic selection of effects which are easy to use and control with little or no knowledge of setting them up.
For the price you get a lot included, other digital amps with really deep customisation are available for a similar price but for those who find that overwhelming then this may well be a great alternative.
VERDICT
For home users or casual players this amp is a must, so simple yet gives you all you need to cover probably any genre.
