Thank god you failed that driving test! Your playing inspires me daily to try harder. Thanks. Peace. Normally you have a calm jazzy sound. Today you showed off your ability to play with a southern rock sound. Just great.
I pulled mine out after being in a bag for the last 8 years, I can't believe how amazing it sounds. The ISF knobs really makes worlds of difference. Compared It to Bias FX 2 and while Bias is probably the best guitar sim around, it still just doesn't quite get the warm crunchy tones the dual gets.
I own this unit which was bought brand new about 5-6-7 years ago. (maybe longer I don't remember honestly!). I remember testing it when I first got it and sounded really good through my Mesa Boogie Mark IV Combo amp. I never really used it because the Mesa has a ton of overdrive and distortion. However, I am thinking of using it for alternate voicing lead sound for recording. BTW: I had to run down to my recording studio to find it today because it's been so long I forgot what model number was. : ) Nice video and playing...Well done. Phil NYC Area
@@JonIsJustTooLoud My pleasure. Have you ever used the Line 6 Pod Go (or similar). I was considering that unit so I can program a few of my favorite amp sounds for recording. Just curious. All the best. Phil
I’ve been slobbering over this one for a long time Jon. There’s a lovely crunch in it that may suit my treble rich Kat 100. I’ve seen some people who upgrade the tube upon arrival but that sounds wonderful. Definitely a little gain goes a long way. We’re heading the same way in Ireland but what seems to be happening is drive in gigs are on the way. I really loved the intro - cheers ❤️👍👍👏
What I find missing, in this and some others, is the ability to get all the possible sounds just using your feet. Here, for example, we have two stomp buttons for three sounds. I just don't understand why they limit the use of the clean/crunch to a little button that you have to press with your hands. I don't know if this could be fixed, but imagine we are in channel 1 and we press it AGAIN, it could take us to crunch just as well, and we would have those two sounds (literally) at our feet. And while we are at it, maybe add another "function" to channel 2 on second press, like a secondary gain stage. They are nice, but they could be sooooo much better :/
It's possible but you would have to solder the crunch switch to stereo jack socket and operate with a separate foot switch. Its a relatively easy fix or a local audio electronic or music shop could sort this.
There is no need about clean sound it the unit at all ...You just set your amp clean ,and that's it ...When you don't have engaged any of the channels(green or red) of Blackstar dual ht valve operates in full bypass...So there you have it...3 channels(clean, crunch,solo).
@@plamentherockfella Your missing the point, the unit offers 3 separate tonal options, (a totally clean amp with unit off would be 4) but only 2 of them are available by foot switch! A third foot switch or an output jack to an external foot switch would allow all 4 options while playing! I have one of these and have thought about getting it modified to release its full potential!
@@ces69 I own that unit too ...And guess what? I have never needed that little button on the green channel ...Ever :) I've just set my Marshall JCM 900 on clean channel,with just a bit of break up , and my Blackstar HT goes straight in it :) ...Also , I am using sometimes the boost channel of my Marshall via dedicated pedal switch ,so I have four channel at my disposal instantly...And ,all the rest of the effects go in the loop ....Perfect!
It would be interesting to hear a comparison between this unit and one of the "Amp in a box" things! (There seem to be many of these around at the moment, stomp boxes that emulate amps. I must say that since I play through a vocal P.A. currently using amp sims through a laptop, the idea of just having something robust and portable appeals to me. Thank you Jonathan another great demonstration, and another great tune to go with it.
Love that beautiful tele and your playing with that whammy on a tele is too much..a metal tele guitar is a must have and a stocker one also keeping single pups for each. I bought that pedal for 99 bucks at GC ..couldn't pass that up ..cheaper than buying the amp
It's a great pedal, been using mine for a couple of years now with Blackstar Artisan 30 and G SYSTEM. Amp set clean and I use the pedal for rhythm and lead. Considering modding it with a switch able jack, so I can activate a cleaner overdrive and crunch.
I have this unit, took it to have a wide range of sounds. But now I also bought a few overdrive pedals, and a Flamma preamp, and I really don't know anymore how to use this: alone, instead of the other pedals, with them ,should I resell either it or my various clones... Heeeelp! :D
This is very usefull pedal. I always prefered amp drive since I dont like the sound of regular overdrive and distortion pedals. They all sound the same and i just cant find one that can behave like a real amp. Fuzz is another world and I like them cause they dont try to emulate nothing. fuzz is fuzz. This blackstar unit is the only distortion pedal that i found that dont make me want to turn it off. Sometimes we are not able to bring amps to the gig/rehearsal and have to use some transistor amp or whatever available . This pedal can save your gig. It even helps the sound guy with emulated output for the PA. A very usefull piece of gear, and not a fancy overpriced colorfull box with a stupid doodle in it that souds like crap (boutique pedals)
So if i want use this as preamp n direct to mixer through di. Box ? We can do that. ? Only the.clean chanell. ? Your review always great thankyou so much🙏
This pedal is capable of a very wide range of od/distortion. Starting from clean. Clean mode of the first channel ranges from clean and goes up to very light overdrive. OD mode of first channel starts from light od and goes up to lead level overdrive. Second channel is distortion. It has a very complex and natural sound. I have no idea why we don't see this on people's pedalboards.
@@solenelle wish it had 3 foot pedals to switch between those 3 settings. In a live situation, you can use only two settings. Otherwise having two pedals would be needed to get that setting
Me too $120 on stupid deal of the day. Some of the reviews state that is noisy and the knobs are not great. Is this the case? Any opinions on humming noise and knobs. I appreciate it any input.
I’ve had one of these for a while, I personally find it to be a very versatile pedal and 100% reliable but the shiny chrome knobs can be challenging! It’s very difficult to see your settings. I’ve used a “Sharpie” to try and make them easier to read but have been thinking about painting the tops mat black with a white “position” marker! Apart from that I love the unit! There are people on UA-cam who have swapped out the 12AX7 valve for a better one, have been thinking about giving that ago!
Sometimes you can get the sounds and the feeling of my favourite guitarist Michael karoli from the wonderful band CAN..he hits just the right note and holds it ..you and he say so much with so few notes . a special way to strangle the guitars neck for the last few screaming notes and with an intense passion...yet in no angry way Bit like Ive heard emanating from you sir ...several times. Love it Jonathan.
I find the LT Dual better, it doesn't have those horrible unreliable dual pots is more compact and doesn't have that great big Power supply, and it sounds great
I just bought this unit, I am inspired by your review. I heard mine, the volume jump is so big when it switched from clean to crunch mode on channel one. Is it normal or I got a defective unit?
@@JonIsJustTooLoud Yes. That concentric knobs are for level on each channel. What I mean is channel one has clean/crunch switch button. When I pressed that button from clean to crunch mode, the volume jump is so massive. Clean mode is so quiet compared to crunch mode. Is it normal?
Great video Jonathan, but as a clean only player this box is not for me. In clean it sounded thin and gritty, it's clearly designed for metal players who like distortion. I must be an oddity in the world of guitars, as an ex Hi-Fi engineer i spent most of my time trying to eliminate distortion, i just can't stand distorted music.
Metal players? Not at all...They have a “Metal” version for them! This provides from light tube style breakup to rock distortion (think cranked Marshall stack) and everything in between! A great tool for most players who DONT play totally clean 100% of the time!
the best demo of this pedal on youtube
Thanks
Nasty Playing!! The pedal sounds amazing
Thank you
😮
I love this pedal! It's so underrated.
Excellent demo, maybe the best I've heard of this awesome unit
Thanks a lot!✌💚
@@JonIsJustTooLoud
Stacked with the Maxon ROD-881 (Ibanez Tube King inspire)is a great set up I'm enjoying atm.
Nice✌️
Loved that opening riff....very Jeff Beck- ish!!! So many great tones from one unit!!!😎👍🎸
Thank you Chuck ✌️❤️
My reaction as well, very Jeff Beck like.. great playing and thanks for the video! Blessings!
Jonathan !! you are ON FIRE !!!! GREAT playing 💥💥
Yes I had to call the fire department!! Lol
@@JonIsJustTooLoud 😂
Best review I have seen on this tube 'pedal'
Thank you ✌️❤️
Thank god you failed that driving test! Your playing inspires me daily to try harder. Thanks. Peace. Normally you have a calm jazzy sound. Today you showed off your ability to play with a southern rock sound. Just great.
lol!!! you remembered!!!! Thanks Josh!✌😆
Now this is a rockin' intro :) Awesome play !
Thanks a lot!✌♥
Thanks! Bought one today after seeing this! I was looking for some real tube goodness for my DI recording setup. God Bless!
Wow... cool ✌️❤️
I pulled mine out after being in a bag for the last 8 years, I can't believe how amazing it sounds. The ISF knobs really makes worlds of difference. Compared It to Bias FX 2 and while Bias is probably the best guitar sim around, it still just doesn't quite get the warm crunchy tones the dual gets.
Great sounding little thing - Thx for showing ☮️
You're welcome Guenter! 🤓
Nice sound. Reminds me of my old Radial Tonebone Hot British but with more presence.
Nice!!!✌️❤️
Your playing makes all pedals sound sweet. Something that is missing in many artists. How easy is it to swap tubes in this?
pretty easy..Thank you!
Sounds great 👍
✌️❤️
Love your mood!
❤✌
I own this unit which was bought brand new about 5-6-7 years ago. (maybe longer I don't remember honestly!).
I remember testing it when I first got it and sounded really good through my Mesa Boogie Mark IV Combo amp. I never really used it because the Mesa has a ton of overdrive and distortion. However, I am thinking of using it for alternate voicing lead sound for recording. BTW: I had to run down to my recording studio to find it today because it's been so long I forgot what model number was. : ) Nice video and playing...Well done.
Phil
NYC Area
Cool!!! Thanks Phil✌️❤️
@@JonIsJustTooLoud My pleasure. Have you ever used the Line 6 Pod Go (or similar). I was considering that unit so I can program a few of my favorite amp sounds for recording. Just curious. All the best.
Phil
You´re a STAR, Jo!
Nice review. Thank you
My pleasure
I made my last music (rythm and solo channel) with that pedal. It sounds great and versatil.
Cool ✌️❤️
I think a dual ISF control would’ve made the two channels more versatile as a unit. Otherwise, very nice.
✌️❤️
I’ve been slobbering over this one for a long time Jon. There’s a lovely crunch in it that may suit my treble rich Kat 100. I’ve seen some people who upgrade the tube upon arrival but that sounds wonderful. Definitely a little gain goes a long way. We’re heading the same way in Ireland but what seems to be happening is drive in gigs are on the way. I really loved the intro - cheers ❤️👍👍👏
Thank you Tom!!! Drive in gigs sounds interesting!!✌♥
Look on eBay, I found mine used some time ago for £80!
@@ces69 I will Cecil - Cheers 😀👍
What I find missing, in this and some others, is the ability to get all the possible sounds just using your feet. Here, for example, we have two stomp buttons for three sounds.
I just don't understand why they limit the use of the clean/crunch to a little button that you have to press with your hands.
I don't know if this could be fixed, but imagine we are in channel 1 and we press it AGAIN, it could take us to crunch just as well, and we would have those two sounds (literally) at our feet. And while we are at it, maybe add another "function" to channel 2 on second press, like a secondary gain stage.
They are nice, but they could be sooooo much better :/
And you my dear brother... is absolutely correct!! I totally agree! ✌️❤️
It's possible but you would have to solder the crunch switch to stereo jack socket and operate with a separate foot switch. Its a relatively easy fix or a local audio electronic or music shop could sort this.
There is no need about clean sound it the unit at all ...You just set your amp clean ,and that's it ...When you don't have engaged any of the channels(green or red) of Blackstar dual ht valve operates in full bypass...So there you have it...3 channels(clean, crunch,solo).
@@plamentherockfella Your missing the point, the unit offers 3 separate tonal options, (a totally clean amp with unit off would be 4) but only 2 of them are available by foot switch!
A third foot switch or an output jack to an external foot switch would allow all 4 options while playing!
I have one of these and have thought about getting it modified to release its full potential!
@@ces69 I own that unit too ...And guess what? I have never needed that little button on the green channel ...Ever :) I've just set my Marshall JCM 900 on clean channel,with just a bit of break up , and my Blackstar HT goes straight in it :) ...Also , I am using sometimes the boost channel of my Marshall via dedicated pedal switch ,so I have four channel at my disposal instantly...And ,all the rest of the effects go in the loop ....Perfect!
There are more and more little cool gadgets!
🤓
It would be interesting to hear a comparison between this unit and one of the "Amp in a box" things! (There seem to be many of these around at the moment, stomp boxes that emulate amps. I must say that since I play through a vocal P.A. currently using amp sims through a laptop, the idea of just having something robust and portable appeals to me. Thank you Jonathan another great demonstration, and another great tune to go with it.
Glad you liked it ✌️❤️
I'm here because of Musician's Friend Stupid Deal of The Day. 🤩
Lol! What!??!
As am I haha, great deal on this pedal. Great playing in this video too
Their link is broken and currently takes you to the HT drive, but you can get around that...
@@JonIsJustTooLoud They have it on sale today for about $120
@@JonIsJustTooLoud Musician's Friend has this pedal on sale for $119 they call it their Stuppid Deal of The Day.
Love that beautiful tele and your playing with that whammy on a tele is too much..a metal tele guitar is a must have and a stocker one also keeping single pups for each. I bought that pedal for 99 bucks at GC ..couldn't pass that up ..cheaper than buying the amp
✌️❤️
It's a great pedal, been using mine for a couple of years now with Blackstar Artisan 30 and G SYSTEM. Amp set clean and I use the pedal for rhythm and lead. Considering modding it with a switch able jack, so I can activate a cleaner overdrive and crunch.
Nice! Go for it✌️❤️
You can kinda glue a long stick right on the little switch. If you stomp gently, it works.
Can you show us that blackstar setting you use..
Too bad.. I can’t.. the unit has gone back to the shop✌️❤️
I have this unit, took it to have a wide range of sounds. But now I also bought a few overdrive pedals, and a Flamma preamp, and I really don't know anymore how to use this: alone, instead of the other pedals, with them ,should I resell either it or my various clones... Heeeelp! :D
its your call...
@@JonIsJustTooLoudsure but what would you do? Do you think it can be complementary or redundant with (clones of) TS, Centaur, Timmy etc?
This is very usefull pedal. I always prefered amp drive since I dont like the sound of regular overdrive and distortion pedals. They all sound the same and i just cant find one that can behave like a real amp. Fuzz is another world and I like them cause they dont try to emulate nothing. fuzz is fuzz. This blackstar unit is the only distortion pedal that i found that dont make me want to turn it off. Sometimes we are not able to bring amps to the gig/rehearsal and have to use some transistor amp or whatever available . This pedal can save your gig. It even helps the sound guy with emulated output for the PA. A very usefull piece of gear, and not a fancy overpriced colorfull box with a stupid doodle in it that souds like crap (boutique pedals)
I agree ✌️❤️
"overpriced colourful box with a stupid doodle on it" 😂 I can't imagine who you're referring to!
What time is Sunday live stream?
ua-cam.com/video/M3vnafLYADc/v-deo.html 12pm EST 4pm GMT 🤓✌
Great demo as always! Is it a actual preamp pedal or just an overdrive? Could I use it as a preamp?
I guess you can if you want to✌️❤️
i like the sound, but i like more the Playing :), keep it up
Thank you ✌️❤️
So if i want use this as preamp n direct to mixer through di. Box ? We can do that. ? Only the.clean chanell. ? Your review always great thankyou so much🙏
Yes you can ✌️❤️
hello sir...what type ac adapter for this effect you use..
22v 1.1A DC
It should come with it, but if buying used, make sure it does as can be difficult and expensive to acquire!
I like the sound of it, but not too sure how I'd use it. Thanks Jonathan 😊.
It's not that hard Leo...:)
Have you tried connecting this pedal as a preamp to an amplifier? and what noise gate kind of analogue or digital from line 6 are you using?
nope..I have not. I used the built in Noise gate on my Helix.✌♥
What model Harley Benton is that?
Fusion pro T Roasted Maple
Killer tones, i'm searching a tube pedal for cleans mostly...do you recommend it? maybe over the vox mv50 clean?
Yes ✌️❤️
This pedal is capable of a very wide range of od/distortion. Starting from clean. Clean mode of the first channel ranges from clean and goes up to very light overdrive. OD mode of first channel starts from light od and goes up to lead level overdrive. Second channel is distortion. It has a very complex and natural sound. I have no idea why we don't see this on people's pedalboards.
@@solenelle Really; I believe because of the many influences (youtubers) guitarists who do not know this pedal
@@solenelle wish it had 3 foot pedals to switch between those 3 settings. In a live situation, you can use only two settings. Otherwise having two pedals would be needed to get that setting
Me too
$120 on stupid deal of the day. Some of the reviews state that is noisy and the knobs are not great. Is this the case? Any opinions on humming noise and knobs. I appreciate it any input.
Not that I know of when I was reviewing the unit❤️❤️
I’ve had one of these for a while, I personally find it to be a very versatile pedal and 100% reliable but the shiny chrome knobs can be challenging!
It’s very difficult to see your settings. I’ve used a “Sharpie” to try and make them easier to read but have been thinking about painting the tops mat black with a white “position” marker!
Apart from that I love the unit!
There are people on UA-cam who have swapped out the 12AX7 valve for a better one, have been thinking about giving that ago!
So...excuse my ignorance....is this an amp ? That you just connect to a speaker cabinet ?
No...It camt drive a cab. You can run it straight to a PA or to an amp.🤓✌
You can run it in front of an Amp or as Preamp (FX Return of the loop).. great vid and sounds Jonathan!
Sometimes you can get the sounds and the feeling of my favourite guitarist Michael karoli from the wonderful band CAN..he hits just the right note and holds it ..you and he say so much with so few notes .
a special way to strangle the guitars neck for the last few screaming notes and with an intense passion...yet in no angry way
Bit like Ive heard emanating from you sir ...several times.
Love it Jonathan.
Mask ? Don't ask.
If you have a power amp pedal or power amp section after this pedal, yes!
is it analog pedal ?
Yes it is
Wammy bar!
✌♥
I find the LT Dual better, it doesn't have those horrible unreliable dual pots is more compact and doesn't have that great big Power supply, and it sounds great
✌️❤️
I just bought this unit, I am inspired by your review. I heard mine, the volume jump is so big when it switched from clean to crunch mode on channel one. Is it normal or I got a defective unit?
Did you adjust the dual level knob on the right?
@@JonIsJustTooLoud Yes. That concentric knobs are for level on each channel. What I mean is channel one has clean/crunch switch button. When I pressed that button from clean to crunch mode, the volume jump is so massive. Clean mode is so quiet compared to crunch mode. Is it normal?
@@beniosue depending on the gain, the knobs on the left, yes there might be differences✌️❤️
But if you are still unsure, talk to the store that sold you. I can’t help as the unit is not with me. It went back to the store after the review✌️❤️
@@JonIsJustTooLoud Thank you. 😎👍
these go very cheap ,buy two and you have yourself 4 channels at your feet and using your volume on guitar great versatility
✌❤
Great video Jonathan, but as a clean only player this box is not for me.
In clean it sounded thin and gritty, it's clearly designed for metal players
who like distortion.
I must be an oddity in the world of guitars, as an ex Hi-Fi engineer i spent
most of my time trying to eliminate distortion, i just can't stand distorted music.
haha no worries...not for everyone...I totally get it ✌🤓
@@JonIsJustTooLoud Thanks for your reply, i keep hoping that a clean only amp will be made someday.
Metal players? Not at all...They have a “Metal” version for them!
This provides from light tube style breakup to rock distortion (think cranked Marshall stack) and everything in between!
A great tool for most players who DONT play totally clean 100% of the time!
@@Barbarapape Try a Roland Jazz Chorus!
It’s what most “clean” players lust after!
@@ces69 Thanks for your tip, when the guitar shops fully re-open i will try one.
Iam sold 🫡
✌️❤️
The problem is channel 2, noisy
✌️