Blackstar St James 100 Valve Amplifier Head Overview
The Blackstar St. James 100 Head represents the pinnacle of modern valve amplification, combining the classic warmth and power of valve-driven tones with innovative features designed for today’s musicians. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:
Overview
The St. James 100 Head is the world’s lightest 100-watt valve amplifier, engineered to redefine what a valve amp can offer. Its blend of traditional craftsmanship and advanced technology makes it a versatile and powerful choice for stage and studio alike.
Key Features
1. Versatile Power Valve Configuration
- Equipped with 2x 6L6 and 2x EL34 valves.
- Valve Mix Switch: Choose between:
- 6L6 power stage for modern, clean tones.
- EL34 power stage for vintage British drive.
- Combine both for a full 100-watt powerhouse with a unique tonal blend.
- 50-watt mode available for reduced volume without sacrificing tone.
2. Revolutionary “Cut” Selector
- A three-position PAF Cut Selector fine-tunes the amp’s high-frequency response:
- Aggressive extended highs.
- Balanced clarity.
- Warm, vintage tone.
3. Advanced Connectivity and Tone Control
- CabRig™ Technology: Blackstar’s advanced IR-based speaker simulation for professional-grade direct tones via USB or XLR.
- Reactive Load: Use the amp without a speaker cabinet for silent recording or practice.
- Switchable Effects Loop: Configurable as Series or Parallel with an adjustable level switch.
- Adjustable Solo Boost: Add +2dB to +6dB for solos, controllable via the included footswitch.
- USB Audio Output: Seamless recording interface.
- XLR D.I. Output: Direct output for live or studio use.
4. Modern and Classic Aesthetics
- A sleek design that showcases the internal valves.
- Lightweight construction that dispels the notion that valve amps must be bulky or unwieldy.
- Fits perfectly into the modern St. James series lineup.
5. Comprehensive Footswitch Control
- Comes with a 6-Way Footcontroller, enabling:
- Switching between four distinct channels.
- Controlling the Tight mode.
- Activating the adjustable Solo Boost.
Additional Features
- Digital Reverb: Adds ambiance and depth to your tone.
- Power Reduction: Variable power down to 5%, ideal for home practice or low-volume applications.
- Master Volume Control: Easily balance overall output levels.
- Ultra-Lightweight Design: The lightest 100-watt valve amp on the market.
Specifications
- Preamp Valves: 3 x ECC83
- Power Valves: 2 x EL34, 2 x 6L6
- Output Power: 100 watts (with reduction options)
- Effects Loop: Series/Parallel, switchable levels.
- Outputs:
- USB audio.
- XLR D.I. with CabRig.
- Speaker outputs for 4, 8, and 16 ohms.
