The VOX AC15HWR1 handwired guitar combo amp distills the unmistakable VOX sound into a responsive 15W 1x12" format built for players who value feel as much as tone. Handwired in the UK using a vintage-inspired circuit, this VOX electric guitar amp pairs an EL84 power section with a Celestion Greenback speaker to deliver classic British chime, natural compression and harmonically rich breakup at practical volumes. With Normal and Top Boost channels, tube-driven spring reverb and carefully integrated modern features, the AC15HWR1 offers an authentic AC15 experience that fits seamlessly into today’s studios and stages.
Handwired Construction With Immediate Dynamic Response
The AC15HWR1 is built using traditional handwired techniques based on early 1960s VOX designs, preserving the amp’s organic response to pick attack and guitar volume changes. A direct signal path and hand-wound output transformer contribute to the amp’s lively feel and harmonic complexity, while the EL84 power tubes deliver the familiar growl and shimmer that define the AC15 voice. This construction keeps the amp expressive and touch-sensitive across clean and driven settings.
Normal and Top Boost Channels With Flexible British Character
Two channels form the tonal foundation of the AC15HWR1. The Normal channel delivers a thick, warm voice with a Bright switch that adds clarity when needed, making it well suited for both clean tones and edge-of-breakup sounds. The Top Boost channel provides the signature VOX chime and drive, voiced with smoother highs for better control as gain increases. Meanwhile, a Boost switch adds extra gain and midrange push, allowing quick transitions from articulate cleans to saturated British crunch.
Modern Features That Respect the Core Tone
While firmly rooted in vintage design, the AC15HWR1 includes modern refinements that enhance usability without compromising feel. A global master volume allows the preamp to be pushed into natural breakup at more manageable levels, ideal for smaller rooms or recording environments. The tube-driven spring reverb adds depth and dimension while maintaining clarity, and a transparent effects loop lets time-based and modulation pedals sit cleanly after the preamp even when the amp is driven.
Classic Cabinet and Greenback Speaker Pairing
The amp is housed in a robust 11-ply birch plywood cabinet designed to enhance resonance and long-term durability. Its closed-back construction reinforces low-end response, while the Celestion Greenback speaker emphasizes punchy mids and smooth highs that complement the amp’s early breakup character. Vintage details such as the copper control panel and woven grille cloth complete the look with a nod to VOX’s golden era.
A Handwired VOX Combo Built to Be Played
The VOX AC15HWR1 handwired guitar combo amp is designed for players who want classic VOX tone with the responsiveness and control required for real-world use. Its handwired circuit, Greenback speaker and flexible channel layout make it equally effective in the studio or on stage. For guitarists seeking a 15W VOX electric guitar amp that rewards dynamics, breaks up musically and stays expressive at usable volumes, the AC15HWR1 delivers a sound and feel that remain unmistakably authentic.