Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $2,513

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern innovation with the Carr Telstar 17-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo. This versatile amplifier is crafted for guitarists who cherish classic tones but desire the flexibility of contemporary features. At its core, the Telstar offers a variable power control circuit that seamlessly transitions from 1.5 to 17 watts, allowing you to tailor your sound for any setting—from quiet home practice to powerful stage performances. This unique power scaling feature ensures that you can coax the best tones at any volume, without sacrificing clarity or warmth.

The Telstar is equipped with a custom 12" speaker, designed to deliver rich, dynamic sound with a tight bass response and sparkling highs. Its all-tube design, featuring a 6SJ7 preamp tube and a 6L6 or EL84 power tube, provides a broad palette of tones, from smooth cleans to gritty overdrive. The Carr Telstar's classic aesthetics, combined with its durable construction, make it not only a reliable choice for gigging musicians but also a piece of art that complements any setup.

With intuitive controls including volume, treble, and bass knobs, the Telstar makes it easy to dial in your ideal sound. Whether you're a blues aficionado or a rock enthusiast, this versatile amp adapts to your unique playing style.

Key Features:

  • Variable power control from 1.5 to 17 watts
  • Custom 12" speaker for dynamic sound
  • All-tube design with 6SJ7 preamp and choice of 6L6 or EL84 power tube
  • Classic aesthetic with durable build
  • Intuitive controls for easy tone shaping

Product specs

Brand Carr
Model Telstar 17-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
Year 2019 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Combo Amps
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Electronics Tube
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 17
Power Tube Type 6L6 / EL84
Reverb Spring Reverb
Speaker Configuration 1x12"

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the Carr Telstar 17-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo?

The Carr Telstar offers a unique blend of tones due to its combination of 6L6 and EL84 power tubes, providing a range from warm, smooth cleans to rich, harmonically complex overdrives. Its single-channel design and spring reverb further enhance its versatile sound profile.

Is the Carr Telstar 17-Watt Combo suitable for gigging with a drummer?

With its 17-watt output and 1x12" speaker configuration, the Carr Telstar can deliver enough volume for smaller venues and gigs with a drummer, especially when mic'd through a PA system for larger spaces.

Does the Carr Telstar 17-Watt Combo take pedals well?

Yes, the Carr Telstar is known for its excellent pedal compatibility, maintaining clarity and responsiveness when used with effects pedals, making it a versatile choice for pedal enthusiasts.

What type of built-in effects does the Carr Telstar 17-Watt Combo feature?

The Carr Telstar includes a built-in spring reverb, which adds depth and dimension to your sound, enhancing both clean and overdriven tones without needing additional external effects.

How does the Carr Telstar's tube configuration affect its sound?

The Carr Telstar's combination of 6L6 and EL84 power tubes allows for a distinct tonal range, blending the warmth and headroom of the 6L6 with the chime and midrange presence of the EL84, offering a versatile sonic palette.

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

First Look - Carr Telstar

Video thumbnail for First Look - Carr Telstar by Premier Guitar

First Look - Carr Telstar

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Carr Amps Telstar by Greg Vorobiov by Carr Amplifiers

Carr Amps Telstar by Greg Vorobiov

Carr Amplifiers

Carr Amplifiers

Video thumbnail for Carr Telstar Combo Amp | CME Gear Demo | Steve Carr & Alex Chadwick by Chicago Music Exchange

Carr Telstar Combo Amp | CME Gear Demo | Steve Carr & Alex Chadwick

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for The New CARR TELSTAR by Austin Guitar House

The New CARR TELSTAR

Austin Guitar House

Austin Guitar House

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - Carr Telstar by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - Carr Telstar

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for Carr Telstar Demo - Vintage Tones with Simple Control Layout by MooreMusicGuitars

Carr Telstar Demo - Vintage Tones with Simple Control Layout

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Video thumbnail for Carr Amplifiers Presents the Telstar by Carr Amplifiers

Carr Amplifiers Presents the Telstar

Carr Amplifiers

Carr Amplifiers

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Carr Telstar 17-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo.

Features and functionality

  • The Carr Telstar's built-in attenuator offers versatile volume control for various playing environments, from bedroom practice to small bar gigs.

    Source
  • Carr Telstar lacks an effects loop, as its designer Steve Carr does not incorporate them, contrasting with other amps like the Mesa Mark Five that include this feature.

    Source
  • The Carr Telstar utilizes two different power tubes which can be tapered, offering a unique touch sensitivity and tonal versatility.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners highlight the Carr Telstar's simplicity and excellent tonal quality, making it a favorite for those seeking straightforward operation without complex settings.

    Source
  • Owners emphasize the Telstar's effectiveness as a pedal platform, particularly appreciating how it handles overdrive pedals.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Despite its 17-watt rating, the Carr Telstar is noted for producing volume levels much louder than expected, suitable for both home and live settings.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the Telstar for its ability to deliver a wide range of tones, making it suitable for genres from blues to classic rock.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Carr Telstar is noted for its tonal similarities to both Tweed and British-style amps, blending characteristics from both sound profiles.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Carr Telstar is praised for its robust construction and attention to detail, particularly in its cabinetry and component choices.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Carr Telstar Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

Carr Telstar's mix of vintage Fender warmth and Vox sparkle makes it a standout for tone purists, offering rich, articulate sounds and stunning touch response. Its minimalist design belies a complex, innovative interior packed with top-notch components. The amp's simple controls, complemented by unique features like a lean/lush switch, allow for effortless tonal shaping. While its $2,450 price tag places it firmly in the luxury segment, the Telstar's build quality, versatility, and distinct voice justify the investment for those seeking an exceptional vintage-inspired amp with modern flair.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Carr Combo Guitar Amplifiers

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides