Description
Experience the classic British valve tone with the Blackstar HT-20R MK III, expertly designed around EL84 power valves and a finely tuned preamp stage. This 20 Watt valve amplifier delivers richly textured sounds, from pristine boutique cleans to warm, controllable overdrive and thick, saturated distortion. Whether for studio recording or live performance, the HT-20R MK III provides the authentic valve character you envision.
Main Features
- 20 Watts valve power with EL84 power amp valves
- Dual ECC83 preamp valves for articulate tonal response
- Two independent channels with two footswitchable voices each
- Power reduction down to 2 Watts for low-volume practice
- USB-C audio output for direct recording to your DAW
- CabRig™ IR-based DSP cabinet simulator with extensive tone options
- Balanced XLR Direct Output with premium cabinet simulation
- Newly voiced studio-grade reverb for atmospheric depth
- Included 2-button footswitch for seamless channel and voice switching
Valve Tone at Any Volume
The EL84 valves form the tonal core of the HT-20R MK III, delivering lush, warm valve sounds that respond dynamically to your playing style. Use the power reduction feature to push the valves hard at 2 Watts, perfect for home or studio use without sacrificing tonal richness. When it’s time to perform live, switch back to full power for a commanding 20 Watt output. The XLR DI out with Blackstar’s CabRig™ technology gives you authentic amp tones directly to the mixing desk.
Seamless Recording and Practice
Record directly and effortlessly via the USB-C output, which provides stereo signals to your computer or DAW. The amp’s built-in load protection allows silent operation without a speaker cabinet, ideal for quiet practice and recording sessions. The integrated effects loop offers further tone-shaping possibilities with external pedals and processors.
CabRig™ IR-Based Speaker Simulator
CabRig™ offers hundreds of realistic cabinet and microphone simulations, enabling you to tailor your sound precisely. Save your three favourite presets for instant recall, giving you premium studio and stage tones through headphones, monitors, or PA systems.
Specifications
- Power Output: 20 Watts (switchable to 2 Watts)
- Valves: 2x ECC83 preamp valves, 2x EL84 power valves
- Channels: 2 channels, 2 voices per channel (footswitchable)
- Reverb: Yes, studio quality
- Cabinet Simulation: CabRig™ IR speaker simulator (USB-C, XLR and jack outputs)
- Effects Loop: Yes
- USB Recording: Yes (USB-C stereo out)
- Footswitch: Included (2-button)
- Weight: 9.6 kg
- Dimensions: 473 x 244 x 222 mm
Frequently Asked Questions
➤ What types of tones can I achieve with the HT-20R MK III?
You can dial in a broad range of sounds, from clear, boutique-style cleans and mild overdrive to intense, saturated distortion, all with authentic EL84 valve character.
➤ How does the power reduction feature work?
The power reduction allows you to drop the amp’s output to 2 Watts without losing tonal quality, making it ideal for low-volume practice or recording at home.
➤ Can I record directly from the amplifier to my computer?
Yes, the HT-20R MK III features a USB-C output that sends stereo signals directly to your digital audio workstation for high-quality, plug-and-play recording.
➤ What is CabRig™ and how does it benefit me?
CabRig™ is Blackstar’s IR-based cabinet simulator, offering hundreds of mic and speaker emulations that deliver premium cabinet tones for recording, headphone use, or direct PA connection.
➤ Is a footswitch included with the amplifier?
Yes, the amp comes with a two-button footswitch that lets you switch channels and voices easily during performances.
Delivery
This item is normally sent to Mainland UK addresses by DPD who generally provide a one-hour window of delivery on the morning of delivery by email or text message.
FREE delivery within mainland UK
UK Non-Mainland: from £12.99
Rep. of Ireland and Mainland Europe: from £35 (calculated at checkout). Please see our international delivery page or contact us for details.
Warranty Information
Blackstar Warranty Information: 1 Year extendable to 3 years except for valves which are 90 days
Please note this information is provided for guidance only as manufacturer warranties may be updated from time to time. For full please visit the manufacturer's website here.
3 years warranty for VIP members