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Average Price: $2,400

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$300

$801+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

For guitarists seeking a blend of raw power and tonal precision, the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head is a game-changer. This amp head builds on Blackstar's iconic Series One lineage, renowned for its high-gain overdrive channels, offering the modern metal guitarist an expansive tonal palette and uncompromising durability. With four footswitchable channels—Clean, Crunch, OD 1, and OD 2—each designed to capture the essence of your music, you can effortlessly switch between searing leads and rich, clean tones. The inclusion of Blackstar's patented ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) allows you to sculpt your sound from American grit to British warmth with intuitive ease.

A standout feature of the Series One MK2 is its Dynamic Power Reduction (DPR), which lets you harness the amp's full tube-driven character at any volume, from a thunderous 100 watts down to a manageable 10 watts. This makes it versatile enough for both stage performances and home practice sessions. Furthermore, its rugged construction, featuring a 1.6mm steel chassis and finger-jointed birch ply cabinet, ensures it can endure the road's rigors without missing a beat.

Whether you’re recording in the studio or performing live, the Series One MK2 seamlessly integrates into any setup with its MIDI functionality and speaker-emulated outputs. This amp head is engineered for guitarists who demand both power and flexibility, making it the ultimate tool for those who refuse to compromise on their sound.

Key Features:

  • 100-watt tube head with Dynamic Power Reduction down to 10 watts
  • Four footswitchable channels: Clean, Crunch, OD 1, OD 2
  • ISF control for tonal customization from American to British sounds
  • Dual 3-band EQs and dual ISF controls for versatile tone shaping
  • MIDI-capable with 5-pin MIDI Thru/In jacks
  • Speaker-emulated outputs for silent recording
  • Rugged 1.6mm steel chassis and finger-jointed birch ply cabinet
  • Effects loop with built-in pad for stompbox integration
  • Over 30 circuit modifications for enhanced performance and tone

Product specs

Type Tube
Number of Channels 4
Output Power 100W RMS (10W setting)
Preamp Tubes 4 x 12AX7, 1 x 12AU7
Power Tubes 4 x 6L6
EQ 2 x 3-band EQ, 2 x ISF control, Resonance, Presence
Inputs 1 x 1/4" (instrument)
Outputs 2 x 1/4" (4 ohms, 8 ohms, 16 ohms), 1 x 1/4" (emulated out), 1 x XLR (emulated out)
Effects Loop Yes
MIDI I/O 2 x 5-pin DIN (In, Thru)
Footswitch I/O 1 x 9-pin DB45 (channel)
Footswitch Included Yes, Blackstar FS-3 footswitch
Construction Material Black Tolex, 1.6mm Seam Welded Steel Chassis
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 10.82"
Width 27.55"
Depth 10.51"
Weight 48.28 lbs.

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 amplifier?

The Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 offers a versatile tonal palette, with four channels that deliver everything from pristine cleans to aggressive overdrives. The ISF control allows you to shape the amp's response from British to American voicings, making it adaptable for various genres.

Is the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 is well-suited for live performances with its powerful 100-watt output and robust construction. It also features an emulated output for direct connection to PA systems, making it versatile for different stage setups.

Does the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 work well with guitar pedals?

The amplifier includes an effects loop, allowing you to integrate your favorite pedals seamlessly. Its clean channel provides a solid foundation for pedal use, and the amp's robust power section handles effects well, maintaining clarity and dynamic range.

Can the output power of the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 be adjusted?

Yes, the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 features a power reduction option that allows you to switch from 100 watts to 10 watts. This feature makes it suitable for both large venues and smaller practice environments without compromising tone.

What kind of footswitch comes with the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2?

The Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 includes the Blackstar FS-3 footswitch, which enables convenient channel switching during performances, enhancing your control over the amp's versatile sound options.

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Introducing the Series One MK II | Blackstar Amps

Video thumbnail for Introducing the Series One MK II | Blackstar Amps by Blackstar Amplification

Introducing the Series One MK II | Blackstar Amps

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head.

Build quality

  • The use of surface mount parts in Blackstar amps can complicate repairs; if a board fails and is discontinued, a replacement is costly and may be unavailable.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Blackstar amps are often compared to Marshall DSLs; owners find Blackstars sound better but choose Marshall for easier repairs.

    Source
  • S1 amps are likened to a modern JCM 800 with multiple channels, while HT MKII amps compare more to Marshall DSLs in terms of affordability and sound.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The HT series has two voiced clean channels: one Fender-style for clean tones, and another Vox-style that breaks up earlier, offering tonal versatility.

    Source
  • S1 amps include MIDI control and a unique DPR that adjusts headroom/compression on a knob, unlike HT MKII's fixed power settings.

    Source
  • The Dynamic Power Reduction (DPR) feature doesn't seem to affect volume stability issues according to some users' experiences.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Blackstar Series One MK2 100-watt head is favored for stereo and wet/dry rig setups, allowing experimentation with sound dynamics.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate that the HT series amps have a safe, usable EQ range, making it difficult to dial in a bad tone, suitable for various genres.

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  • Owners find S1 amps heavy, with shipping costs potentially increasing due to their weight.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Swapping speakers in Blackstar cabs with higher-quality alternatives from other brands significantly enhances sound quality for many users.

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Value and pricing

  • S1 amps have poor resale value, making them affordable on the used market despite being discontinued.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Volume fluctuations may indicate power tube failure; watching tube glow for consistency can help diagnose this issue.

    Source
  • Applying contact cleaner to master volume pot and 'send and return' jacks might resolve volume inconsistencies.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Blackstar Series One MkII 100 review: just how modern is it?

guitar.com

Despite offering excellent tonal versatility and powerful sounds, the Blackstar Series One MKII 100-watt tube amp struggles to justify its hefty price tag of £2,000. While it retains classic Blackstar qualities, the lack of significant modern upgrades and features makes it feel dated, especially in an era where lighter, more portable options are preferred. Its weight and absence of side handles are notable drawbacks, and the direct output is disappointingly poor. Ultimately, while it delivers solid tones for metal enthusiasts, the overwhelming cost and limited appeal may leave many potential buyers looking for alternatives.

“The ultimate weapon for metal guitarists who demand the ultimate amplifier”: Blackstar unveils the Series One MK II, a four-channel 100W fire-breathing tube amp with “world-class” tone | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Blackstar’s Series One MK II is a heavy-duty, high-gain tube amp that promises to deliver the crushing metal tones players crave, thanks to its powerful 100-watt output and extensive channel options. The four-channel design includes features like MIDI connectivity, power scaling, and a zero-fizz overdrive that preserves note clarity even at high gain. While the amp excels in delivering rich tones and versatility, the price point at nearly £2,000 for the head alone might deter some budget-conscious musicians. Overall, it’s a compelling tool for serious metal guitarists, but the investment may not appeal to everyone.

positive

“The pinnacle of high-gain performance”: Blackstar gives its brand-defining Series One amp an extensive modern reboot for the first time in nearly 20 years | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Blackstar's Series One MK II 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head is a powerhouse, showcasing over 30 circuit modifications that enhance its already celebrated high-gain tone. With four distinct channels and an innovative Dynamic Power Reduction feature, it excels in delivering rich, defined sounds even at lower volumes. However, while the amp shines with its tonal versatility and build quality, its price point may deter some potential buyers. Overall, for those serious about their tone, this amp is a worthy investment.

positive

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Artist usage

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See how Louis Borlase uses Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head

Louis Borlase

Guitarist

Squid

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Paddling | Squid at SXSW Online 2021," Louis Borlase is shown using the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head at 0:21, and it can be seen again paired with the Blackstar 4x12 cab at 2:46. The performance is part of the British Music Embassy showcase at SXSW, as documented by SXSW on YouTube.

See how Patrick Rondat uses Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head

Patrick Rondat

Guitarist

The G3 Jam

...
Verified via Photo

In a post on Instagram, Patrick Rondat is seen using the Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head, as indicated by his caption: “Qq tests avec mon AZ la S1 MKII et la dual drive!”

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Blackstar 100 Series One MK2 100-watt Tube Amplifier Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ibanez AZ2204NW Prestige
Ibanez AZ2204NW Prestige Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

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