Vox MV50-BM Brian May Limited Edition Set review: a tiny 50W Nutube head fit for Queen

A signature version of Vox’s unique Nutube micro head that’s instant Queen at Wembley – and nearly as loud

Vox MV50-BM Brian May Limited Edition Set
(Image: © Future / Phil Barker)

Guitar World Verdict

A version of the MV50 that nails the classic Queen sounds, and it is super compact and portable.

Pros

  • +

    Jaw‑dropping volume and tone.

  • +

    Built-in KAT treble booster.

  • +

    Keenly priced.

  • +

    Compact.

  • +

    Ideal small gig and practice solution for Brian May fans.

Cons

  • -

    Can get a bit noisy at higher gain settings.

You can trust Guitar World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing guitar products so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

If you’re talking signature guitar tones, we’d wager there’s none more instantly recognisable than that of Brian May. Ever since Queen’s debut album five decades ago, a whole industry has grown up around ‘that sound’, with guitars, amps and effects all vying for the attention of hordes of Queen enthusiasts who want to replicate it. 

Aside from the ‘Red Special’, May’s unique homemade guitar, the other main component is, of course, the Vox AC30, which May plugs into via a variety of treble boosters. 

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Nick Guppy

Nick Guppy was Guitarist magazine's amp guru for over 20 years. He built his first valve amplifier at the age of 12 and bought, sold and restored many more, with a particular interest in Vox, Selmer, Orange and tweed-era Fenders, alongside Riveras and Mark Series Boogies. When wielding a guitar instead of soldering iron, he enjoyed a diverse musical career playing all over the UK, including occasional stints with theatre groups, orchestras and big bands as well as power trios and tributes. He passed away suddenly in April 2024, leaving a legacy of amplifier wisdom behind him.