Vintage 1963 Vox AC-4 1x8" Guitar Amp Combo JMI With Original Footswitch Black

In the world of guitar amps, the Vox AC-4 is an all-time classic, known for its unique sound, portability and reliability.  Ever since it debuted in the late 1950's (originally as the AC-2 and changed to the AC-4 in 1962), players have gravitated towards this both for practice and recording.  If you want the famous Vox chime in a small package, this is it.  There have been a lot of variations over the years and Vox still makes this model today.  But a vintage one like this is a rare find, especially one in as great shape as this. 
 
We just took this one in, which was built in the historic year of 1963.  While most think back to JFK, MLK and much more important stuff, let's stay on music - it was the beginning of the British Invasion, surf music was peaking, and "Louie, Louie" was getting banned on some radio stations. Electric guitars were gaining popularity, along with the amps needed for them, and Vox was a big part of the growth of the industry.  From the late 50's to the late 60's, the production was handled by Jennings Musical Industries, a British company that used high quality components and hand-wired the amps.  They were very well-built, which is largely why ones like this have withstood the test of time.

  

There's a reason why players love the AC-4.  The Beatles were early adopters, and of course countless players have gone for one since then because of that.  It's a simple amp - you get a single channel, 2 inputs 4 watts, an 8" speaker and tremolo that is surprisingly robust.  
 
The AC-4 is recognized for its signature Vox "chimey" tone, especially noticeable at lower volume levels. It delivers a rich, warm sound when the volume and tone settings are carefully adjusted. The built-in tremolo effect adds a sought-after dimension for many musicians. Although it isn’t designed for high-gain distortion, pairing it with overdrive pedals can achieve those tones effectively.

 

We got this AC-4 from LA session musician Vudi, who told us where he got it.  This amp came from none other than the tube amp svengali himself, Aspen Pittman, the founder of Groove Tubes and author of the legendary reference material such as the Tube Amp Book.  So, it has a quite the lineage

 
This amp is in excellent condition, considering it's over 60 years old.  It's been vetted, and is in perfectly working order.   The original footswitch is included.  The Vox AC-4 is a special amp, and this vintage one is a prime example of why.  This is a great find for those that know - we have a feeling it won't be here long.