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Roland AC-33 Acoustic Chorus Battery-powered 30-Watt Guitar Amplifier, Black
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Roland |
Color | Black |
Compatible Devices | Guitar |
Material | Ac |
Output Wattage | 30 Watts |
About this item
- Runs on AC power or eight AA batteries (accepts rechargeable NiMH types) (Best with Polaroid AA Batteries)
- 30 watts (15W+15W) of natural, stereo acoustic sound through twin speakers
- Runs on AC power or eight AA batteries (accepts rechargeable NiMH types)
- Dual-channel configuration: Guitar and Mic/Line channel
- Reverb, chorus, and ambience effects (Ambience adds spatial, 3D-type depth to the sound)
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This Item Roland AC-33 Acoustic Chorus Battery-powered 30-Watt Guitar Amplifier, Black | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $599.99$599.99 | $289.99$289.99 | $739.99$739.99 | $53.99$53.99 | $599.99$599.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 |
Customer Ratings | |||||
Portability | 5.0 | 4.5 | — | 4.7 | 4.0 |
Sound quality | 4.2 | 4.5 | — | 4.1 | 4.2 |
Value for money | 4.1 | 4.0 | — | 4.4 | 4.6 |
Versatility | — | 4.5 | — | 4.4 | 3.5 |
Sold By | Amazon.com | yangyang777 | Amazon.com | DonnerDirect | Amazon.com |
power source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Electric | Battery Powered,Corded Electric | Corded Electric |
number of bands | — | 6 | 3 | — | 4 |
output wattage | 30 watts | 120 watts | 15 watts | 5 watts | 100 watts |
speaker size | — | — | 12 inches | 8 inches | 12 inches |
connector type | — | usb,wireless | — | USB | rca,xlr |
compatible devices | Guitar | Keyboard, Guitar | Guitar | Guitar | Keyboard |
material | Ac | — | — | Battery | Metal |
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Product information
Item Weight | 13.1 pounds |
---|---|
Product Dimensions | 15 x 11 x 13 inches |
Country of Origin | China |
ASIN | B00H59ZDGU |
Item model number | AC33 |
Batteries | 8 AAA batteries required. |
Customer Reviews |
4.3 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #57,510 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments) #15,108 in Music Recording Equipment |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | January 21, 2010 |
Color Name | Black |
Compatible Devices | Guitar |
Material Type | Ac |
Output Wattage | 30 Watts |
Size | 30 Watt |
Battery type | Alkaline |
Power Source | Battery Powered |
Warranty & Support
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Product Description
Product Description
Rich, deep, stereo sound to go - introducing the AC-33, the world’s first battery-powered amp made specifically for acoustic guitar. Portable yet powerful, the AC-33 provides true stereo sound, Guitar and Mic/Line channels, custom-tailored effects, anti-feedback, and a Phrase Looper. But this amp was made to go places no amp has gone before. Thanks to its battery-power capability, the AC-33 lets you take your act anywhere: into the backwoods, onto the streets, or wherever your imagination leads you. Now the AC-33 is available with beautiful rosewood-look cabinets, offering an alternative to the standard stage-ready black finish. The attractive wood grain styling perfectly matches the atmosphere of your living room or studio, as well as the aesthetic of your acoustic guitars.
From the Manufacturer
Now the AC-33 is available with beautiful rosewood-look cabinets, offering an alternative to the standard stage-ready black finish. The attractive woodgrain styling perfectly matches the atmosphere of your living room or studio, as well as the aesthetic of your acoustic guitars.
From the manufacturer
Trusted Roland quality. On stage, in the studio, and at home.
Since 1972, Roland's innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration for genre-defining creators around the world.
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the sound quality, size, quality and performance of the amplifier. They mention that the beautiful sound, fun features really enhance a small group session, and that it's a really great one man pa. They also appreciate the on board looper, saying it' s fun and easy. They say it' is great for practice and travel, and is useful for outdoor playing.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers generally like the sound quality of the musical instrument amplifier. They mention that it has beautiful sound, fun features, and amazing improvement in clarity and tone. Some say that the reverb is great and the chorus is excellent. Overall, most are satisfied with the sound and volume of the product.
"...ESV powered speaker, and together these units make a gorgeous sound for solo acoustic playing. Easy to set up, light to carry, and superb sound!..." Read more
"This amp is solid..yes, pricey, but the clarity and volume of this little portable (battery optional) amp is unreal...." Read more
"...You can put in cables, and probably a microphone.Sound wise I think it's good, although I haven't listened to it as an audience member...." Read more
"...I was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality. Every bit as good as the 40 pounder I was using as my main acoustic amp...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the musical instrument amplifier. They say it has a great bass sound, is portable, and has excellent quality for the money. Some say that the build quality and versatility are its major strong points.
"...I use this as a very good little monitor, or for very intimate situations. With the preamp, it's great for where there's no power supply...." Read more
"This amp is solid..yes, pricey, but the clarity and volume of this little portable (battery optional) amp is unreal...." Read more
"...And for those two purposes, this is perfect in both price and performance...." Read more
"...Portability, build quality, and versatility are its major strong points. Price and speaker sound are its major weaknesses...." Read more
Customers like the size of the musical instrument amplifier. They say it's half the weight and size of AC-60, and is portable. It's not hard to carry, and it works for a singer. It sounds great and is light, making setting up a breeze. It is great for practice, travel, or casual sessions with a guitar.
"...Easy to set up, light to carry, and superb sound!..." Read more
"...You can run a mics and guitar(s) into it, and is awesome for practice, travel, or casual sessions with friends...." Read more
"...But I like the fact that this is small enough to load into my car and carry into a building. I probably won't carry it for too long...." Read more
"I bought this primarily for its weight and portability, was not disappointed. I was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality...." Read more
Customers like the loop of the amplifier. They say it's a kick, and the simple on-board looper is fun and easy to use.
"...Also, the biggest bonus for me personally was the simple on board looper...just buy a cheap boss FS pedal and you can lay down loops..." Read more
"...On board looper is such a kick. Love all the Roland products down to their accordions...." Read more
"...well as for more tone, great reverb, excellent chorus, and the looper is a major plus. I also bought the Roland FS-6 footswitch which works perfect...." Read more
"...It does have super good tone, and the looper is fun and easy...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the performance of the amplifier. They mention that it performs well with both ukes and guitars plugged in. They also say that it is awesome for practice, travel, or casual sessions, and is great for living room practice or for taking over to someone's. It is battery-powered, so it could be useful for outdoor playing.
"...You can run a mics and guitar(s) into it, and is awesome for practice, travel, or casual sessions with friends...." Read more
"...It is not hard to carry - seems robust enough,and at least works for a reasonable time on batteries...." Read more
"...or depth adjustments like the bigger AC amps but it's great for living room practice or for taking over to someones' house to play...." Read more
"This is my first acoustic guitar mobile amp and it works and sounds great...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the musical instrument amplifier. They mention that it is absolutely gorgeous, well designed, and thought out. Some say that it's a truly thoughtful gift.
"...which I didn't expect to use (being an acoustic purist) is absolutely gorgeous and will be used on some pieces...." Read more
"...Very well designed and thought out. Highly recommended." Read more
"...A truly thoughtful gift." He is known for his discerning nature!" Read more
"It was really cute but it just wasn't loud enough. If you have bad neighbors, this is the one for you!!!!" Read more
Customers find the amplifier easy to use. They mention that it is light, making setup a breeze. Some reviewers also say that it's great for singer and guitar players.
"...Easy to set up, light to carry, and superb sound!..." Read more
"...It performs well with both of the ukes plugged in. Not a problem out of the box." Read more
"This lil amp is awesome. Works great with my ukulele. Easy to use and the sound is amazing." Read more
"This is a really great one man pa. and so light, it makes setting up a breeze.great for singer guitar players ,it amazes me" Read more
Customers are not satisfied with the value of the amplifier. They mention that it is on the pricey side and is less substantial than expected for the money.
"This amp is solid..yes, pricey, but the clarity and volume of this little portable (battery optional) amp is unreal...." Read more
"...I think the amp is already over priced as it is , for what it is . without having to buy necessary accessories on top of that separately...." Read more
"...Yes, it's rather expensive, but you get excellent quality for your money." Read more
"...It is on the pricey side, but I would recommend it to others." Read more
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If the amp didn't have a looper, I would still have bought it, but I was also surprised and impressed by the looper's quality. The automatic start has zero latency, and the sound is exactly what you hear from the amp in normal mode. It will be fun to use this for improvised layering on gigs. I'm buying a double foot pedal on e-bay: this is essential for live use, or any time you have a guitar in your hands.
I bought this device because I sometimes need to play outdoors, away from power: I haven't yet tried it with batteries, so I can't comment on its abilities in this direction: apparently the power (thus, volume) is less, but I suspect there isn't a powerful battery-powered amp out there, and this will probably be adequate.
I connected the 'line out' to an ESV powered speaker, and together these units make a gorgeous sound for solo acoustic playing. Easy to set up, light to carry, and superb sound!
It would be nice if the full range of controls could be used with the 'i-pod in' feed, but I guess I can always get an adapter/connector to allow me to do this.
I have had the amp for one week so far...
I have now used this amp for a couple of years, but only recently discovered that if you use a battery powered preamp plus the amp[ on batteries), it's REALLY Loud. I use this as a very good little monitor, or for very intimate situations. With the preamp, it's great for where there's no power supply. They should mention this in the catalog.
Reviewed in the United States on June 6, 2018
I don't have much experience with other amps of this size, so I have no point of comparison. But I like the fact that this is small enough to load into my car and carry into a building. I probably won't carry it for too long.
The fact that it comes with a bag is a bonus. You can put in cables, and probably a microphone.
Sound wise I think it's good, although I haven't listened to it as an audience member. I'm going to have to ask someone else to play while I sit in the back.
Four Stars: I would likely rate the electronics as worthy of five stars. However, I would also only rate the sound of the speaker system as only worthy of three stars, thereby providing an average or overall rating of four stars. Accordingly, depending on your needs, keep in mind that if you don't need to use the speaker system, the effects, AND the looper, you can buy a headphone amplifier like the Behringer MA400 for around $25 that will allow you to listen to several inputs using headphones. I have even used it for three inputs: two microphones in parallel and my guitar connected to the monitor input.
Background: I purchased my AC-33 around five years ago to practice acoustic guitar and singing. I have always used headphones until recently when I decided to play around with the built-in speaker and concluded that it sounded too boxy, characteristic of the enclosure producing standing waves. I initially tried stuffing towels into the enclosure and observed that it helped a little which lead me to take the next step, to remove the towels and line the inside with half-inch soft, dense foam. Although I have a spectrum analyzer and could have made measurements before and afterward, I decided to save time and effort, not make a science project out of it, and simply trust my ears and observations. Although I made evaluations using my guitar and voice, I also relied on prerecorded music because it allowed me greater freedom to experiment. My observations were that the boxy sound was evident using the guitar, my voice, or the prerecorded music.
Equipment: This information is probably not specifically relevant, but I will include it for those who might think it is. My guitar is a Martin DX1AE with the Fishman Sonitone pickup replaced by a Fishman Matrix Infinity VT. The voice microphone used was a Shure SM58. The headphones were Sony MDR-V6 and MDR-7506. The speaker systems used for comparison were (1) a Microsoft Digital Sound 80 system (that I use on my desktop computer), (2) a Boston Acoustics Micro Media system, and (3) a Boston Acoustics BA635 computer speaker system. I used the two sets of Boston Acoustics systems because they both use a 12-volt, 1500 mA power supply which is nearly the identical voltage that is used by the AC-33 (13 volts). Although the Power supply for the AC-33 is rated at 4 amps, 2.7 times that of the Boston Acoustics supplies, that factor is not significant when dealing in audio power. For example, differences in loudness are generally expressed as 2 to the log of the ratio of power. Based on that relationship, it requires around 10 times the power to provide a change of loudness perceived by the human ear as being twice as loud. Accordingly, assuming reasonably comparable speaker system sensitivities, either of the two Boston Acoustics speaker systems seemed to provide a good reference for not only sound quality, but also a good reference for sound levels from speaker systems using 12-volt supplies.
Instrument Speakers: Instrument speakers are generally distinguished from stereo or audio speakers because they are generally used over a more narrow frequency range. This allows for the design of the speaker (driver) and the design of enclosure to be more efficient in converting electrical energy into sound energy. Traditionally, instrument amplifiers and speakers (including guitar amplifiers and speakers) are designed to somewhat limit the frequency response and thereby do not always provide a full set of harmonics. Historically, this restricted sound became associated with certain instruments, especially electric guitars, and a limited frequency response often became preferred. It may be that you have a similar preference, but for my guitar and for singing and especially when listening to accompanying prerecorded music, I prefer the wider fidelity of full range speakers.
Volume (Loudness) Levels: I did not measure voltages supplied to the speakers (drivers) themselves, so I can't provide any information on sensitivity and efficiency. Also, because all three of the speaker systems that I used for comparisons utilized subwoofers and satellite speakers driven with separate amplifiers, this would likely have been an impossible task anyway. However, I did observe that the maximum sound levels that I was able to achieve from the two Boston Acoustic systems (with the subwoofer controls in the neutral position) appeared to have no deficiency in being able to match that of the AC-33.
AC-33 Drivers: The AC-33 has two 4-ohm 5-inch drivers with wizzer cones. It is possible that replacing these drivers with other drivers could in itself provide improved frequency response. It is also possible, however, that the frequency response could be worse. And, it is also possible that seemingly higher quality speakers could be less efficient and thereby lower the maximum volume level. I did take a brief look at possible replacements and found that although the speakers are designated as 5 inch, they are smaller than normal. Also, 5.25-inch drivers are too large for the existing 4-inch openings, so installing 5.25-inch drivers would require enlargement of the openings or possibly the use of extension rings. (See update below.)
Bass Port: The speaker enclosure uses a 1-1/2-inch diameter unloaded bass port. When designed properly, bass ports are sized to extend the bass below the resonate frequency of the drivers. However, they also allow an opening into the enclosure that can allow standing waves to be audible. To check it out, I removed the front grill and did some simple experimenting with the port. First, I tried plugging the port. As expected, there was likely a slight improvement in vocals at the expense of a slight drop and alteration of the bass. I also applied several different lengths of 1-1/2 -inch tubing to the port, but found no obvious or significant changes or improvements. Obviously, to evaluate and tune the port correctly, this should be performed with test equipment. Also, one can probably assume that Roland engineers likely would have sized the port to match the speakers. In the end, I was inclined to leave it open, but concluded that the port did not provide an obvious major effect. Also, one should be aware that lining the enclosure with foam may slightly decrease the effective volume of the enclosure and could affect the operation of the port, as well. It is also possible to add a fill material that can increase the effective volume.
Choice of Lining Material: Standing waves in an enclosure are likely to be in the lower frequency midrange. Regarding lining material, I have read that egg-crate foam is mostly effective at higher frequencies and that high quality carpet foam was supposed to be more effective. I used foam from an exercise mat which appeared superior in that it was closed cell foam yet very soft and flexible to the touch.
Installation: I covered all interior surfaces except the upper surface where the electronics are located. Accordingly, you need to avoid foam on the rear 4-1/2 inches of the top and 4 inches on each side below that. I also installed foam on the inside of the battery holder and a 3/4 inch strip on the brace between the electronics unit and the battery holder. I also notched the foam to accommodate the four edge braces.
Access: To gain access, remove the battery, remove the eight screws that retain the battery holder, remove the four screws that retain the electronics unit, remove the two screws that retain the carrying handle, disconnect the four speaker wires from the speakers, slide the electronics to the rear, and pass the battery holder through the rear opening and out through the upper opening. To gain access to the drivers simply and carefully pry the grill forward. I used a plastic trim removal tool with rounded edges.
Update - Speaker Replacement: I just found the boxy sound a little too annoying so I eventually decided to shop for other speakers. As I mentioned above, the existing speakers are listed as being 5 inch, but are also non-conventional in that their size does not appear to conform to other 5-inch speakers. The cone diameter is 4-1/8 inches and has a functional diameter of about 3-7/8 inches. Mounting hole spacing of opposite holes (which is often used to indicate speaker size) is 4-13/16 inches. Also, as I mentioned above, the existing mounting hole cutout is 4 inches, and I preferred to not enlarge the hole in case a possible future owner might wish to reinstall the original speakers. Accordingly, that decision eliminated a lot of potential 5-1/4 inch speakers. I eventually found two pairs that had the appearance that they would fit if I also incorporated extension rings. The two pairs are Kicker 46CSC54 and Rockford Fosgate R1525X2. I attempted to make a selection from these two pairs by choosing the pair with the more desirable technical parameters (sensitivity, Fs, Qts, and Vas). However, although all four of the parameters are provided by Rockford Fosgate, only sensitivity is provided by Kicker, and even after several emails and phone calls, I still was unable obtain the remaining three. I eventually discovered that Crutchfield has a nifty speaker selection tool that allows the listener to simulate the listening of their speaker inventory using popular headphones (your headphones are also included in the compensation). Both pairs sounded very close in volume (reflective of similar sensitivity) and I slightly preferred the Rockford Fosgate in sound quality. Although I also purchased extension rings, the Rockford Fosgate speakers fit without them making the replacement a 15-20 minute process. I did have to carefully bend the protruding electrical tabs used for the tweeters slightly inward using two pair of needle-nose pliers, but otherwise the concentric rings on the back of the frames allowed the frame to mount in the existing 4-inch cutout hole (though extended outward around 1/4 inch). I drilled new mounting holes precisely 1/4 inch radially outward of the existing holes and when installing the mounting screws, I was careful to not over tighten the screws and bend the mounting tabs on the speakers. The speaker replacement can be performed entirely from the front after removing the grill. The wire connections use the same size spade type connectors, so you can't get them reversed. I found the improvement in sound quality significant. There is more bass, clearer treble, and a reduction in the boxy sound. However, there is also a reduction in sound volume output at a given volume setting which I expected due to the nominally low (88 dB) sensitivity rating of the replacement speakers. Accordingly, there is likely some overall loss in maximum possible sound volume though the amount is likely highly dependent on the type of music or sound. I did not expend the time to make sophisticated sound measurements before and after and I did not have access to a second AC-33 for a side-by-side comparison after the replacement. Obviously, high sensitivity was a major consideration in the speaker selection by Roland, especially in a battery-powered device. And, in general, technical things that improve speaker sound quality also decrease sensitivity. My suggestion is: if you are using an AC-33 at maximum volume and are reasonably content with the sound quality, then do not make the modification. However, I am quite pleased with the improvement. Also, if you do the replacement and for whatever reason change your mind, it only takes ten minutes to reinstall the original speakers.
Top reviews from other countries
今まで、G社のエレキ用でしょうか使っていたのですが、アコーステックには合わない機械的な音なので、原音に近い音が出るのもをさがしていました。本体は小さく、軽く、持ち運びも便利、マイクの拾えるので一人でいろいろやるには良いと思います。買って正解でした。
It's meant to be an acoustic amp, but I play a National Reso-lectric through it. And it is marvellous, bringing out the 'banjo' in the resonator cone in the guitar, if you see what I mean. An amplified banjo ... my cup runneth over. Mind you, people often stop and say, That's too much like a banjo ... Well, never mind, there's an opera singer just around the corner ...
I use Ansmann rechargeable batteries in it (8 AAs), and I get hours of use from one charge. If you were playing close to full volume though, I think you'd go flat a lot sooner.
Strictly speaking it's portable. I find though that carrying it and my guitar is just about doable. For about half a mile. But then I'm an old man and I usually have my dog with me, and she pulls a bit on her lead, so get one of these (not necessarily with a dog) when you're young and fit. It weighs around 9 or 10lbs. A great carrier 'bag' is the Accucase AS-AC-130, slightly too big for the Roland, but that leaves room for bits and pieces ... and only £15.
I don't have an acoustic guitar with a pick up so I can't comment on how well it performs the task for which the amp is actually made, but going on how well it does whatever I ask of it, I imagine it would be the perfect thing for bringing out the best in an acoustic. And you could use it to perform in a not too noisy venue.
I thank the other reviewers who pointed out how good it is for busking. I might never have discovered that otherwise. There's a fancy loop thing on it and you can set up backing tracks (lasting about 40 seconds, but you can make them repeat as often as you want) for you to play like Peter Green over. I never use it since it's all I can do to lurch through what I'm actually 'playing' and I've no idea how I'd ever be able to work up a 'backing'.
My only complaint is that I sit when I play, and my guitar lead is short, so the amp is quite close and I sometimes get quite loud feedback. This happens, for whatever reason, mostly when I'm busking. Perhaps someone will tell me how to cure this (without advising me to stop busking ... I've heard all the 'jokes' by now).
The other downside, strangely, is that this amp is very well known to the busker's greatest torture ... yes, the pub gigging muso. Wherever you play, these maestros find you, and are drawn inevitably to the well respected amp and my beautiful National. It is hard for these undiscovered Claptons to listen to such a wonderful instrument being played as ineptly as only a busker like me can. Their faces say it all: wonderful guitar, great amp, but you are crap ... ! I inwardly sympathise with them and hope they will leave it at that. Mostly they do. But the odd underrated superstar among them cracks and says something ... you're doing ok (ie god, you are terrible) ... just a little out (ie you can't even tune it) ... I've never played a National, can I just do a quick piece on it (ie I'm going to show people how wasted that guitar is on you) ... and so on. I have found that the best response to these could-have-beens is maximum effing off instantaneously. It's not my fault that no one in the pub listens to them after the first drink ...
Other than that, it's five stars for this fantastic amp.