Crayon Sky Music

Guitar mod or new amp?

i currently play at my church with a 72 fender thinline with 2 humbuckers. i was wondering should i invest money into 500k pots and orange drop caps or get a vox ac15 with a celestian blue speaker? i currently play through a boss me-50 multi fx pedal through a pa, which option should i go through to improve tone?

Hi, Roel! Given the two choices available, the new amplifier would definitely be the one to offer a significant improvement in tone. Switching potentiometers and capacitors will only produce a very subtle change (maybe even not to your liking!), and should be left for future experimentation (although pots and caps would only be about $20 for the parts, as compared to $600 for the amp!). The Vox AC15 is an amplifier that has received many positive reviews, and should serve you well; however, as is the case with many (arguably, most) amplifiers, the on-board effects leave a lot to be desired. Once you get into using effects as part of your signature sound, that is where the pedals and multi-effects processors have the edge. Since you already have a decent processor, you are covered! You may still want to play through the PA if there are other instruments involved, using a microphone in front of the cabinet. You would not be able to use a direct-box interface, since the Vox AC15 does not have a “preamp out” connection (no effects loop). Try to find a music store where you can try out the amplifier with your guitar, before you make the plunge! Best regards, Dana

Fender Thinline Telecaster plus Guytron GT 100