Artisan A15 combo | musicradar.com

Blackstar Artisan A15 combo £799

The eagerly awaited Artisan series doesn't disappoint...

The MusicRadar Team, Tue 29 Jan 2008, 2:05 pm UTC

UK design, Korean manufacture, top-drawer performance

Manufacturer's description

The ARTISAN 15 – beautiful looks and beautiful tone. Two channels, one based on an EF86 Pentode and the other an ECC83 Triode, touch base on a multitude of legendary vintage and boutique reference tones.

The EL84 based power section is switchable between 5W singleended Class A and a more dynamic push-pull 15W Class A configuration, for the ultimate in low power valve amplifier flexibility.

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MusicRadar rating

4.5 of 5

Pros

Great tone and response from this beautifully made combo ensures Blackstar’s credibility as one of the world’s top new amp brands. It really does sound as good as it looks.

Cons

The amp's a weighty beast. A pair of carry handles would be nice.

Verdict

If you are looking for a high-quality, low-powered valve combo that's up there with the very finest American boutique amps, don't hesitate to audition the A15.

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All MusicRadar’s reviews are by independent product specialists, who are not aligned to any gear manufacturer or retailer. Our experts also write for renowned magazines such as Guitarist, Total Guitar, Computer Music, Future Music and Rhythm. All are part of Future PLC, the biggest publisher of music making magazines in the world.

Specification Show

Artisan A15 combo

Price:: £799
Country of Origin:: UK
Device Type:: All valve, two-channel combo.
Additional Features:: Ouput Switchable, between 15W push-pull and 5W single-ended. 1 x EF86, 3 x ECC83/12AX7 preamp, 2 x EL84 power amp, 1 x EZ81 rectifier valves.
Available Controls:: 2 x Tone, 2 x Volume
Cabinet Material:: 18mm Ply
Description:: Device has two, non-switching but linkable with dual high- and low-sensitivity inputs
Options:: The 2 x 12 A30 combo costs £1,199; the A100 head costs £1,099 with 4 x 12 cabs set to retail at £499