I'm new to Blackstar amps. This is my first, but I've got several other amps, tube and solid state. Ranging from Orange "Brit Darkness", to Randall "Screaming Red White and Blue." I've heard several regular line Club 40 mk2's and was always impressed with their chugga chugga, but kinda found their cleans wanting. That said, this thing has it all. The brighter tubes offer BIG headroom on the clean channels. Especially thru this speaker they selected. While I still find all the beautiful nastiness in the overdrive side. The voicings are really a nice touch. Giving all kinds of range. I can see this amp being equally loved by the Hee Hawers, as well as any players just looking for raw horsepower, and everything in between. Only had it a few days, so I can't really comment on the way it'll handle mileage, but everything seems solid and well built. The three stars on my ratings are just for things that only time will tell. The red tolex is a sweet touch. Almost demands attention on sight. Beautiful amp with lots of tone options. My collection would probably be smaller had I encountered this kinda amp before.No matter what kind of music you're into, I would have to recommend this amp. Especially in it's price range. Everyone always ends these reviews with, "great for metal", or "great for open cleans"... I'll just end it with, "there's tones in this red monster for any and all modern guitarists."The revolution is over and both sides have shook hands." It's God Save the Queen in the… read more Home of the Brave.

Musical Background:
Been in bands at different times for years as a singer and guitarist.

Musical Style:
Rock, some metal, but the heart of a blues man. read less