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REVIEWS

Best foot forward:
the VOD-50 comes
with a footswitch for
changing channels and
engaging the boost

On demand: the rear
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loop send and return,
as well as a line/
instrument level switch

That aside, the VOD-50 feels like a IN USE expect the kind of dry and lifeless response
lightweight but well-made bit of kit, though Our first flick of the power switch is greeted that used to characterise almost anything
it’s not on the same plane as the very best with an electrical buzz that may be audible powered by transistors, but it’s still a relief
and most expensive amps in its class in enough to cause minor distractions when to hear those first clean chords ring out
terms of craftsmanship and aesthetics. If playing at bedroom levels. But it doesn’t with genuine depth and sparkle.
its essential frumpiness bothers you, you’ll get any louder when we turn up the master In terms of voicing, we’re broadly in
be pleased to know that you can take the volume, so we’ll take that as an incentive to tweed-style territory, with a solidity to
edge off by specifying your choice of vinyl give our eardrums a battering. the lower mids that nicely balances the
and grille cloth, and Rajani even offers the Testing begins, then, with the volume crispness of the treble. Humbuckers push
VOD-50 as an uncovered hardwood cabinet. cranked for the full 50 watts and everything those preamp valves into pleasing breakup
Mind you, humdrum stylings never seemed else set to halfway. We’ve heard enough even with the clean channel’s level set
to trouble Alexander Dumble too much. hybrid and solid-state amps to know not to to just shy of the 12 o’clock position,

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