The Blackstar Dept. 10 Dual Drive is a two-channel valve overdrive pedal and recording preamp built around an ECC83 valve that runs at 250 V. Channel 1 switches between Clean and Crunch, Channel 2 between Crunch and Overdrive, and together they can turn a single-channel amp into a three-channel rig. Cab Rig speaker simulation with XLR, USB and headphone outputs means it also works as a direct recording preamp or a backup amp.

Tone Shaping

Each channel has its own Gain and Level. Channel 1 runs from clean through crunch and works as a clean boost with the level high and the gain low. Channel 2 goes from a dynamic light crunch to an overdrive with more gain, saturation and a slight lift in presence. Both channels share Bass, Middle and Treble along with Blackstar's patented ISF control, which moves the voicing from a tight American character to a woodier British one. A built-in buffer/line driver keeps the signal strong over long cables and large pedalboards.

Cab Rig and Connectivity

Cab Rig simulates a miked guitar cabinet, with three presets on a switch and deep editing in Blackstar's free Architect software. The simulated sound goes out the balanced XLR, the USB audio output for recording, and a stereo 1/4" Cab Rig output that also drives headphones for silent practice. An effects loop keeps reverb, delay and modulation pedals clean.

Features

• ECC83 / 12AX7 valve running at 250 V
• Two channels: Clean/Crunch and Crunch/Overdrive
• Patented ISF tone control with Bass, Middle and Treble
• Cab Rig speaker simulator with 3 presets, editable in Architect
• XLR line/DI output and USB audio output for recording
• Stereo 1/4" Cab Rig output with headphone driver
• Effects loop
• Built-in buffer/line driver
• 9V DC power with adapter included

Specifications

• Valve: 1 x ECC83 / 12AX7
• Channels: 2 (Channel 1 Clean/Crunch, Channel 2 Crunch/Overdrive)
• Controls: Gain 1, Level 1, Gain 2, Level 2, Bass, Middle, Treble, ISF, Cab Rig selector, 2 footswitches
• Inputs: 1/4" instrument input, effects loop return
• Outputs: 1/4" output, 1/4" stereo Cab Rig/headphone, XLR line/DI, USB audio, effects loop send
• Input impedance: 1 Mohm
• Output impedance: Under 1 kohm
• Power: 9V DC, 500 mA maximum, tip negative
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 157 x 76 x 117 mm (6.2 x 3.0 x 4.6 in)
• Weight: 0.63 kg (1.39 lbs)

In the Box

• Blackstar Dept. 10 Dual Drive
• PSU-500 9V DC power adapter