BLACKSTAR DEPT. 10 DUAL PEDALS

We know from the last 14 years that Blackstar can deliver world class valve-based amplification, but here they’re pairing that engineering reputation with their more recently developed cab modelling technology. The Dept. 10 Dual Drive and Dual Distortion represent a meeting of those worlds. It’s a showcase of valve technology and modelling working together as a versatile solution for players, with a superb range of tube tones that we found transferred equally well to stage and studio. Both pedals come into their own on a pedalboard, utilising the FX loop for time-based pedals, and the XLR out to go to the mixing board at gigs. But you could even use it in your amp’s FX loop. Blackstar have delivered a world class and accessible package here. For usability, value and quality of tones, these are two of the best gear releases of 2021.