Blackstar Expands TV-10 Series with New Boutique-Style Valve Heads and Cabs

The “Atlantic Divide” of tone just got a lot smaller. Blackstar officially launches the TV-10 A and TV-10 B heads, bringing the boutique character of their hit 2024 combos to a versatile head-and-cab format.

Following the massive success of the TV-10 combo amplifiers last year, Blackstar has answered the call of tone-chasers worldwide. The British amp giants have unveiled the TV-10 A and TV-10 B—two compact, 10-watt, Class A tube heads designed to offer the definitive “American” and “British” playing experiences, respectively.

Paired with matching 1×12 cabinets, these heads aim to provide professional-grade valve response at volumes that work for the modern guitarist—whether in the bedroom, the studio, or on a small club stage.

Blackstar TV-10 A: The American Dream

The TV-10 A is a love letter to the classic “US” sound. Wrapped in a premium beige aesthetic, this head utilizes an ECC83 preamp valve and a 6L6 power valve.

The result? Shimmering, glassy cleans and a wide-open dynamic range. The 6L6 tube is famous for its “chime” and smooth low-end, making this head the perfect platform for pedal enthusiasts. With a footswitchable Drive mode, it transitions effortlessly from boutique clean to a rich, mid-scooped crunch that captures the spirit of vintage California-made amps.

Blackstar TV-10 B: The British Invasion

For those who prefer their tone with more grit and “growl,” the TV-10 B delivers the iconic British sound. Dressed in a striking dark olive green with a grey grill cloth, this version swaps the 6L6 for a roaring EL34 power tube.

The TV-10 B is mid-forward, punchy, and aggressive. It features a footswitchable Boost that pushes the front end into harmonically saturated distortion. It is designed to bark when you dig in and clean up beautifully when you roll back your guitar’s volume knob.

Modern Features for the Classic Player

Despite their retro styling, both heads are packed with modern utility:

• Post-Power Amp Emulated Output: Unlike many amps that take a signal from the preamp, Blackstar taps the signal after the power amp and transformer. This means your headphones or interface capture the actual saturation of the 6L6 or EL34 valves.

• Series Effects Loop: A must-have for modern players using delays and modulation.

• Custom Digital Reverb: A specially voiced reverb inspired by vintage spring tanks, offering depth without muddying the signal.

Matching 1×12 Cabinets

To complete the rig, Blackstar has released matching enclosures:

1. TV-10 A Cabinet: Loaded with a Celestion A-Type speaker for that smooth American response.

2. TV-10 B Cabinet: Loaded with a Celestion V-Type speaker to accentuate the British mid-range punch.

Comparison Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are these amps loud enough for gigging?

A: At 10 watts of Class A valve power, these are surprisingly loud. They are perfect for home practice, studio recording, and small- to medium-sized club gigs. For larger venues, the emulated output or a mic on the cab will be necessary.

Q: Can I use the TV-10 A head with the TV-10 B cabinet?

A: Absolutely. Both heads and cabs are compatible. Mixing the American-voiced 6L6 head with the V-Type British speaker can produce a unique “best of both worlds” tone.

Q: Does it come with a footswitch?

A: Yes, both heads include the Blackstar FS-4S single-button footswitch to toggle between Clean/Drive or Clean/Boost modes.

Q: Can I play silently?

A: Yes. The Cabinet Emulated Output doubles as a headphone jack, allowing you to enjoy cranked tube tones without waking the neighbors.

Verdict: Our Thoughts

The Blackstar TV-10 Series heads are a masterclass in “less is more.” By stripping away complex menus and infinite knobs, Blackstar has focused entirely on the purity of the signal path.

The TV-10 A is a standout for blues, jazz, and indie players who want a sparkling clean foundation. Meanwhile, the TV-10 B is a rock-and-roll machine that captures the essence of 1970s British arena tones in a lunchbox-sized format. If you’re looking for a “forever” amp that looks as good as it sounds, these heads are a formidable choice for 2026 and beyond.

Pros:

• Authentic Class A valve feel.

• Superb emulated output for recording.

• Stunning boutique aesthetics.

Cons:

• Single Tone knob might feel limiting for those used to 3-band EQs.

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