Description
Experience the ultimate blend of portability, power, and pristine valve tone with the Blackstar St. James 50 EL34. Engineered for guitarists seeking a lightweight yet professional 50 Watt valve amp, St. James delivers rich, dynamic sound in a robust, roadworthy design. Perfect for practice, recording, or live performance, this combo amp combines innovative features with boutique craftsmanship.
Main Features
Ultra-lightweight Design
Crafted from candlenut plywood and featuring a custom 1x12" Celestion G12Z-70 Zephyr lightweight speaker, the amp weighs just 11 kg (24 lbs) – less than half the weight of traditional valve amps without compromising tone or durability.Power Versatility
Switch effortlessly between 50W, 5W, and Sag modes using Blackstar’s patented Dynamic Power Reduction technology. Achieve loud, clean headroom or intimate, vintage-style compression to suit practice, recording, or smaller gigs.Built-in Inductive Load
Play without a speaker connected thanks to a reactive load that perfectly emulates a loudspeaker’s electrical response, allowing you to capture authentic valve power-amp tones in any setting without extra equipment.Cab Rig DSP Cabinet Simulator
Harness Blackstar’s next-generation digital speaker simulation with the Cab Rig technology for ultra-realistic, mic’d guitar cabinet tones. Zero latency and no phase mismatch produce flexible sound shaping via USB, XLR output, or headphones.Professional Connectivity
Equipped with USB audio output for direct recording and an XLR DI output for stage or studio use, providing seamless integration with modern rigs while retaining true valve character.Two Channels with Footswitch Control
Switch between two footswitchable channels and activate Channel II’s ‘Top Boost’ for added tonal versatility, complemented by a master volume, digital reverb, and an effects loop with adjustable effects level.Universal Power Supply
Reliable worldwide operation from 90V to 264V AC with 50/60Hz compatibility simplifies your setup for international gigs.Distinctive Boutique Appearance
Featuring an elegant illuminated logo inspired by Blackstar’s Artisan range, the St. James amp boasts a stylish and commanding stage presence.
Specifications
- Power Output: 50W / 5W / Sag power modes
- Valves: 2 x ECC83 (preamp), 2 x EL34 (power amp)
- Speaker: 1 x 12" Celestion G12Z-70 ‘Zephyr’ custom lightweight 8 Ohm
- Weight: 11 kg (24 lbs)
- Connectivity: USB audio out, XLR DI out, effects loop
- Channels: 2 footswitchable channels with Channel II boost
- Additional Features: Master volume, digital reverb, footcontroller included
Frequently Asked Questions
➤ Can I use the St. James without connecting a speaker cabinet?
Yes. The St. James features a built-in inductive load that simulates a speaker’s electrical response, allowing you to play valve tones without a speaker connected. This is ideal for silent practice or direct recording.
➤ How does the power reduction feature work?
Blackstar’s patented Dynamic Power Reduction lets you switch between full 50W output, a quieter 5W setting for smaller venues or practice, and a Sag mode which mimics vintage amp compression and ‘feel’ by increasing power supply sag.
➤ What types of outputs are available for recording or live sound?
The St. James has a USB audio output for high-quality direct recording, along with an XLR DI output that includes the Cab Rig cabinet simulation, making it suitable for professional live and studio use.
➤ Is the amplifier suitable for touring musicians?
Absolutely. The amp’s lightweight candlenut plywood cabinet, robust construction, and universal power supply ensure it is roadworthy and can be used worldwide.
➤ What speaker is loaded into the amp?
The St. James uses a bespoke 1x12" Celestion G12Z-70 ‘Zephyr’ speaker. It is a lightweight, 8 Ohm ferrite speaker designed exclusively for this amp to deliver top-quality tone with reduced weight.
Delivery
This product is in stock and ready to ship
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