Vox Introduces ToneLab Amp Modeler
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(Click for a close-up) |
March 6, 2003Vox has packed the modeling technology of Valvetronix amplifiers into a portable, desktop box - the new VOX ToneLab amp modeler.
The power amp section on the ToneLab features the VOX Valve Reactor circuitry that was introduced in the Valvetronix amplifiers. The Valve Reactor circuit uses a 12AX7/ECC83 dual triode vacuum tube, a virtual output transformer and a dummy speaker circuit that simulates impedance changes of a real speaker. In other words though the output power
(level) is low, it has the same power amp circuit as an actual full-tube amp, and reproduces the response of the power amp circuits of the original amp that is being modeled. It reconfigures itself so that its characteristics are the same as the amps it's modeling (class A, class AB, negative feedback circuit, etc.) This means that all of the nuances of the original amp model including sound, feel, distortion and presence can be
reproduced.
Starting with VOX's own AC30, the 16 types of historic amp sounds range from hard-to-obtain vintage amps to costly high-end amps. From clean sounds to extreme high-gain distortion, these models cover a wide range of tonal possibilities. Cabinet modeling reproduces the acoustical character of ten different types of cabinet shapes and speaker types.
Each one of the ToneLab's 22 effects is a carefully crafted model of one of a variety of sought after classic and popular effects. These are organized into categories of Drive, Modulation, Delay, and Reverb. From standard effects such as compressor, overdrive, chorus, and tremolo, through effects like rotary speaker, acoustic simulator, tape echo, and auto wah, this unit can create a rich variety of effect sounds.
A combination of amps, cabinets, and effects can be set up as one of 96 programs, so you can recall all your favorite settings instantly. The 48 preset programs cover a wide range of sounds, and let you start experiencing the ToneLab right away.
Ready for recording and live performance, ToneLab includes everything you need for proper guitar sound. The ToneLab's LINE/AMP switch lets you send the ideal signal to any connected device, so you can enjoy the ToneLab's real tube sound whether it is connected it directly to a mixer or MTR for direct line recording or to another amp for live performance on stage. The digital output is indispensable for recording in a digital
environment, and the headphone out is just what you need for late-night practicing.
ToneLab's design incorporates heavy-duty metal construction and control knobs that make operation easy and intuitive. Program names, parameter values, and original values are displayed in the LCD screen, which is backlit. Valve icons show the number and model of the power tubes used in the original amp being modeled.
Dedicated editor software for ToneLab is provided, and will be downloadable from the Vox website. This software enables you to be in complete control of your sound, so that you can tweak it to a level beyond what is available on ToneLab's front panel. The software also lets you manage an unlimited number of programs.
You can use an optional VC-4 foot controller to switch programs, control the volume or effect parameters, switch effects on/off, set the delay time, or access the tuner --- a great convenience for live performances.
Specifications
- Amp Models: 16 types
- Cabinet Models: 10types
- Effects: 22 types (Drive:10 types, Modulation: 5 types, Delay: 3 types, Reverb: 3 types, Noise Reduction:1 type)
- Programs: 96 (24 Bank x 4 Channel)
- In/Outputs: Guitar Input, 2 x Output (1/4" Phone Jack), 1 x Digital Out (S/P DIF), 1 x VOX Bus, 1 x Headphone, MIDI IN/OUT
- Tuner Measurement Range: 27.5 Hz-2,093 Hz (A0-C7)
- Calibration: A = 438-445 Hz
- Signal Processing: A/D Conversion 20bit, D/A Conversion 20bit, Sampling Frequency 44.1KHz
- Accessories: AC/AC Power Supply
- Options: VC-4 VOX Foot Controller
(Specifications and features are subject to change without notice.) For more information, visit their web site at www.voxamps.co.uk. |