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Average Price: $524
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$300
$701+
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Description
EL84s are at the tonal heart of the HT-20R MkII combo and head. We have used our decades of valve amp design experience to combine the response and character of this classic British valve with a carefully voiced preamp to create wonderfully lush valve tones. From pure boutique cleans, to mild overdrive that cleans up by backing off the guitar volume control, right up to saturated distortion, this amp does it all. For at home or in the studio the Power Reduction switch takes you down to 2 Watts without any compromise in tone: perfect for driving the EL84 power stage. Simple and intuitive controls, combined with pro features like our patented ISF control, studio quality reverb, effects loop, XLR D.I. out and USB speaker emulated output, make them perfect for any performance situation – whether you’re in the studio, gigging in front of a small crowd, or playing to thousands. From chiming ‘boutique’ cleans, to on the edge crunch, or full-on distortion, HT-20 MkII deliver ‘the sound in your head’
Product specs
| Brand | Blackstar |
| Model | HT-20R MKII 2-Channel 20-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo with Reverb |
| Finish | Black, Candy Apple Red, Surf Green, Trafalgar Blue |
| Year | 2019 - 2025 |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Guitar Combo Amps |
| Built-In Effects | Built-In Effects |
| Color Family | Black |
| Electronics | Tube |
| Number of Channels | 2 Channels |
| Number of Inputs | 1 Input |
| Output Power (Watts) | 20 |
| Power Tube Type | EL84 |
| Reverb | Digital Reverb |
| Speaker Configuration | 1x12" |
FAQs
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What are the core tonal characteristics of the Blackstar HT-20R MKII?
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The Blackstar HT-20R MKII offers a versatile range of tones, from warm, clean sounds to high-gain overdrive. Its two channels and ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) control allow you to shape your tone from British to American voicings, making it suitable for various music genres.
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Is the Blackstar HT-20R MKII loud enough for gigging?
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Yes, the 20-watt output of the Blackstar HT-20R MKII is sufficient for small to medium-sized gigs. Its 1x12" speaker configuration provides ample volume and clarity for live performances, especially when mic'd through a PA system.
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Does the Blackstar HT-20R MKII take pedals well?
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The Blackstar HT-20R MKII is designed to work well with pedals, featuring an effects loop that allows you to integrate your favorite effects seamlessly. Its tube-based circuitry ensures that pedals sound dynamic and responsive.
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What type of reverb does the Blackstar HT-20R MKII have?
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The Blackstar HT-20R MKII is equipped with a digital reverb, offering lush and ambient soundscapes that can be adjusted to suit your playing style.
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Can the Blackstar HT-20R MKII be used for home practice?
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Yes, the Blackstar HT-20R MKII is suitable for home practice, thanks to its manageable 20-watt power and built-in reverb. It also features a speaker-emulated output for silent practice with headphones or direct recording.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
The all-new Blackstar HT-20 MKII Head and Combo are here!
The all-new Blackstar HT-20 MKII Head and Combo are here!
Andertons Music Co
Blackstar HT-20R MkII - In-Depth Demo
N Stuff Music
HT-20R MkII and HT-20RH MkII | Don't get the blues, junior? | Blackstar
Blackstar Amplification
Blackstar HT-20R MkII Combo Valve Guitar Amplifier Review
PMTVUK
Blackstar HT-20 MkII Head & Combo Amp | NAMM 2019
Guitar Center
HT-20R MkII | Boutique Cleans | Blackstar
Blackstar Amplification
Blackstar HT-20R MKII : Demo & Review (Fender & Marshall tone in a box)
Leo Gibson
Blackstar HT-20R MkII - Demo
Musiker TV
Blackstar HT-20R MKII Demo
Express Music
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent clean and lead tones, versatile for different music genres
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Built-in effects loop enhances sound shaping capabilities
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Dual wattage settings (2 and 20 watts) suitable for both practice and gigs
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Emulated output and direct recording options add convenience
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Comparatively lightweight, making it easier to transport
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Positive comparisons to higher-end amps like Fender and Princeton
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Includes a handy footswitch for easy tone changes
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Sturdy build quality perceived as durable by users
CONS
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Some users find the gain too heavy for recording
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USB functionality considered almost useless by some
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Concerns over durability and repairability due to surface mount PCBs
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Effects loop is not foot-switchable, limiting on-the-fly adjustments
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Blackstar HT-20R MKII.
Features and functionality
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The ISF knob and EQ offer a wide range of tones, providing flexibility in achieving both clean and gain sounds.
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It's suggested to use the clean channel with gain slightly breaking up for optimal pedal integration, enhancing compatibility with pedals like the Boss DS1.
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The USB audio output's effectiveness for headphone use remains uncertain, with no clear consensus on sound quality changes when used for late-night practice.
Source
Comparisons
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The Blackstar HT-20R MKII is described as bass-heavy compared to the Vox AC15, making it potentially more suited for bedroom use rather than band settings.
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The Blackstar HT-20R MKII produces a warm, aggressive tone suitable for classic rock styles, akin to AC/DC or Rose Tattoo, rather than modern metal.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The amp's 20W/2W configuration is noted to be ideal for home practice, with the 2W setting avoiding excessive volume while still engaging the tubes.
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Owners note that the amp excels in home environments but may struggle with band settings due to tonal imbalance between channels.
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Owners successfully use the HT-20R MKII with Gibson and Telecaster guitars, highlighting its compatibility with various guitar types for distinct tonal outputs.
Source
User experience
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It’s suggested that the amp may sound better at full 20W with reduced volume rather than using the 2W setting with the master volume turned up.
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Mixing a Tube Screamer with the amp can result in undesirable tones, as reported by a user who struggled to balance the bass-heavy nature.
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Users transitioning from setups like the Bugera 1960 find the HT20's sound warm and aggressive without requiring additional pedals for classic rock tones.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Blackstar HT-20R MKII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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