Vox AC30 amps have great tone, however they don't fulfil the role of an all-round amp for me. I was playing with one a few days ago and, although I could appreciate what it did, I found it lifeless. I just didn't feel it respond to me. I can imagine it working well for other guitarists though.

I went home and played on my own guitar amp and that put a smile on my face. The difference between the two was incredible. Very few amps have had that effect. In fact, only 3 amps have had that effect on me that I can think of.

• Fender Twin
• Engl Powerball (and to a lesser extent, the Engl Screamer combo)
• Matamp 1224GT

My New Rule

If I ever need another guitar amp, then it must put a smile on my face while I'm testing it out in the shop or factory. I think I've always followed that rule but have never vocalised it before today.

Happy Face image by Gaetan Lee