Blackstar unveils the Debut 30E – a 30-watt analog amp with a built-in tape echo and custom-designed 1x10” speaker

Blackstar has added to its celebrated line-up of affordable combo amps with the Debut 30E.

Its feature-loaded Debut series launched in 2020 with the 10E and 15E, and the line's newest addition builds on that same successful template, albeit with a more powerful 30-wattage output.

The newcomer also features two amp channels, a Clean and an Overdrive, tweakable via a three-band EQ and controls for Gain and Volume.

The inbuilt tape echo also makes the jump across to the Debut line's newest addition, with its delay time adjustable on the amp's control panel.

Unlike its smaller counterparts, however, the Debut 30E is compatible with any of Blackstar’s two-button footswitch units, allowing users to change channels on the fly – especially useful for the gigging musician.

The catch, though, is that these are sold separately, and cost upwards of $49.99.

As is the standard for Blackstar amps, its patented ISF – Infinite Shape Feature – setting is also included. Turned to 10, a British flavor reigns, with an American setting – said to be “tighter, more focused, and percussive” than the British tones – coming out of the 30E's 1x10" custom-designed speaker when the dial is at zero. Sweet spots can be found anywhere in between.

The amp’s speaker can also be used as part of home entertainment systems, says Blackstar, for music playback, and improving film and gaming audio.

Other features include a series effects loop, line in, and headphone/emulated line outs for listening to music and silent practice and recording, respectively.

The 30-watt analog amplifier delivers a speaker-emulated output for “true Blackstar tones” crafted by the same R&D team in charge of concocting the firm's most high-end valve and tube amps . Their expertise has been stuffed into this much smaller and cheaper unit, priced at a humble $209.

“The features of the Debut 30E have been carefully selected to cover all the needs of an aspiring guitarist,” its creators say. “The Debut 30E delivers the ultimate playing experience for any guitarist wanting an easy-to-use amp that delivers great tone. Simple in use, dynamic in practice, and classically analog.”

The amp is available in two finishes – cream covering with oxblood fret, or black and ‘biscuit’ basketweave – and both are bestowed vintage aesthetic appointments.

The Blackstar Debut 30E costs $209, and is available now.

Head over to Blackstar for the full lowdown.