Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

[XanTron]

Hello there. I'm just entering the world of tube amplifiers, upgrading from solid state amps (finally) because I'm diggin' the vintage vibe and tube tone. I've played a variety of tube amps in stores, but of course, you can't tell until you get it home if it's right for you. So currently I've got an Ibanez TSA15H which has got 2 6V6's and 2 12AX7's and the guts of a TS9 inside. I'm finding it to perhaps be a bit bright for me and I'm thinking of saving for an AC15. I play British rock and blues using chiefly Les Pauls. I dig the distorted blues, stuff like Buddy Guy's recent work, Gary Clark Jr's live stuff, Zeppelin, Hendrix, etc. Will I be pleased with an AC15? More importantly, is the difference between the Ibanez and the Vox large enough to be worth spending the extra money for the AC15? I run the Ibanez through an open back 1x12 Kustom cab which I'll probably stick with the AC15 for the extra headroom (since it was bloody cheap and not worth selling)

Thanks for any suggestions you guys have.

 

[Chickenwings]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

Keep your amp and try out some better speaker cabinets. A speaker like a cannabis rex will fatten the low end and smooth the tops, or if you want loud and punchy with plenty of both low and high end, a celestion g12H30. The g12h30 is probably best for your hendrix tones. Don't overlook the importance of cabinet size and of course the cabinet materials. Also, a closed back will increase your low end response.

 

[Vasshu the humanoid typhoon]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

With the right speaker, that Ibanez is one sweet little amp!
I am getting one as an extra amp!
Love 6v6's.

 

[IM4Tone]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

With the right speaker, that Ibanez is one sweet little amp!............................

Agreed. I have the head and three different 2X12 cabs. I do find it to be a little light on power (volume) compared to other 15 watt amps, which only means something if you play out with it.

 

[Vasshu the humanoid typhoon]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

Dig up some more effecient speakers, it will be loud enough for playing out.
It has a nifty 5/15w mode.

 

[IM4Tone]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

Dig up some more effecient speakers, it will be loud enough for playing out.
It has a nifty 5/15w mode.

I don't know of any more efficient speakers than my 2X12 with a Wizard and a Swamp Thang. Still, I feel it's borderline...makes me uneasy fearing that in certain places it may fall somewhat short.

 

[Vasshu the humanoid typhoon]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

Mic it up
Efficiency and frequency...
Even the org 70/80 Celestion is nice with this amp...
Unless you have a loud drummer and in general have a massive band sound!

 

[GuitarDoc]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

From what I understand from many people that have played the TSA15, it's ok and worth the cost, but it's not great and there's not much headroom.
I have always loved the AC15...very loud, great tones, especially driven hard with an inefficient speaker.

You ask if it's worth the extra money to buy the AC15...my answer would be "absolutely".

But if you already have the TSA, do like everyone is suggesting...get a good speaker for your cab (Swamp Thang would be a great choice, or a WGS G12C, or Celestian G12H) and keep it. If you eventually have issues with the tone/performance, sell it and get the AC15 and you'll already have an excellent cab to add to it.

 

[IM4Tone]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

From what I understand from many people that have played the TSA15, it's ok and worth the cost, but it's not great and there's not much headroom.
I have always loved the AC15...very loud, great tones, especially driven hard with an inefficient speaker.

You ask if it's worth the extra money to buy the AC15...my answer would be "absolutely".

But if you already have the TSA, do like everyone is suggesting...get a good speaker for your cab (Swamp Thang would be a great choice, or a WGS G12C, or Celestian G12H) and keep it. If you eventually have issues with the tone/performance, sell it and get the AC15 and you'll already have an excellent cab to add to it.

Nothing could be further from facts than a TSA15 lacking headroom....Nothing!

 

[kenfoland]

Re: Ibanez TSA15H Head vs. Vox AC15

Nothing could be further from facts than a TSA15 lacking headroom....Nothing!

It is known!