Blackstar Debut 15E 15-Watt 2x3 inch Stereo Combo Amp with Tape Delay, Black
The Debut 15E is an all-analogue 15-watt practice combo running a pair of 3 inch stereo speakers, which is the detail that separates it from most amps this size. Backing tracks come through the MP3 input in proper stereo instead of collapsing to mono, and the speaker-emulated output turns it into a quiet recording and headphone amp when the room needs silence. Controls are analogue-style and there is nothing to navigate.
- 15-watt all-analogue design with simple analogue-style controls
- Twin 3 inch linear-response stereo speakers
- Patented Infinite Shape Feature sweeping from tight American voicings to woodier British ones
- Built-in digital tape delay, fully off when the control is turned down
- Speaker-emulated output for a miked-cabinet sound at silent volumes
- Headphone-friendly for late-night practice and tracking
- MP3 input for a phone, a tablet or a second instrument source
- Direct recording into an audio interface or straight to a PA system
Blackstar's Debut range is aimed at small rooms, and the 15E is the stereo one. Two 3 inch speakers instead of a single driver, an all-analogue signal path, and a control layout you can learn in a minute.
ISF across the drive range
The Infinite Shape Feature is the tone control that does the heavy lifting. Turned fully counterclockwise it lends an American characteristic to the voice, with a tight bottom end and an aggressive middle. Turned fully clockwise it moves to a British vibe, woodier and less aggressive. Everywhere in between is usable, which is what makes an amp of this size worth keeping on a desk rather than in a cupboard.
Stereo speakers and MP3 input
The twin 3 inch linear-response drivers mean music played through the MP3 input arrives in stereo, the way it was meant to be heard. Run backing tracks from a phone or tablet, or feed in another instrument source, and play over the top. For a 15-watt combo it moves a surprising amount of air.
Quiet practice and recording
The speaker-emulated output delivers the sound of a miked-up cabinet with the volume down. Connect it to an audio interface or a PA system and record direct, or plug in headphones for late-night practice without waking the house. There is also a built-in digital tape delay: leave it fully counterclockwise and the effect is off, wind it up and it adds depth behind the note.