In this video, I take a closer look at a Vox VT40X that someone ask me to repair and explain what’s going on inside the amp. Vox markets the VT40X as a tube amplifier, but in reality, it’s a hybrid modelling amp with a single 12AX7 used in a very limited role. Since I like to build full tube amps, I curious on what makes this amp tick.
I fix a common issue with the power jack and discuss how the tube is actually being used, and why calling this a “tube amp” can be misleading, especially for players expecting traditional tube amp behaviour, tone, and serviceability.
At the end of the day, for the price, it’s a perfectly usable modeling amp but understanding what it is matters for tone expectations, repairs, and long-term reliability.
Wanna build a Tweed Harvard:
https://youtu.be/FE2AkSKTMRUhttps://leeselectronic.com/en/product/22550-dc-power-jack-43-x-65-x-14mm-pc-mount.htmlhttps://www.mouser.ca/ProductDetail/Adam-Tech/ADC-039-6?qs=HoCaDK9Nz5eHYV4ngoZERA%3D%3Dhttps://www.digikey.ca/en/products/detail/adam-tech/ADC-039-6/9831616?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23158240004&gbraid=0AAAAADrbLlhy1hzGLwInfokkCiWmLyQs8&gclid=CjwKCAiA3fnJBhAgEiwAyqmY5Wl-uxzw-AU4LGWiHZxKHQfYgzR-5O_auS8sSYw1chrIGZyoHrUtWBoCE8gQAvD_BwEhttps://www.partsisparts.net/catalog/korg-sp280-pa300-vt40x-dc-power-jack-5103745220290:00 Intro
0:43 Trouble shooting
4:47 The FIx
6:27 Deep Dive
10:12 Thoughts
13:57 Closing
If you enjoyed this video and if you downloaded the build documents, please consider buying me a coffee. I would appreciate your support:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MikeFredaWARNING: Tube amplifiers contain very high and potentially lethal voltages! Drain all filter caps and check voltages before commencing work.
Discharge tool:
https://youtu.be/KkBxXtCThNgLight Bulb Current Sink:
https://youtu.be/v66dY6djBlkDisclaimer: Some of these links may be affiliated where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
About This Channel:
This channel has a wide variety of content. I’m interested in many things and topics. I create videos on things I like and what I feel my subscribers would like as well.
This channel is basically about two things:
1.) Show you how to MAKE things, FIX things, TIPS on how to do things and to give you IDEAS on how to make your life a bit easier! I encourage you to use your hands the to learn something new!
2.) People say I do fun and interesting things and have interesting hobbies. I like to share that with you and I hope this inspires you to do things and to get out there as well!