Blackstar artist 15 - User Manual

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Summary

Safety Instructions and Warnings

General Safety Guidelines

Essential safety instructions covering usage, placement, cleaning, and electrical connections.

Electrical and Fire Hazard Prevention

Critical warnings to prevent electric shock, fire, and damage from liquids, moisture, or improper use.

Detailed Operational Precautions

In-depth safety advice on operation, maintenance, environment, and potential hazards like high volume.

Health and Environmental Safety

Noise Exposure Limits and Hearing Protection

Details OSHA permissible noise levels and recommends hearing protection during operation.

Product Disposal Guidelines

Instructions for the environmentally responsible disposal of electrical and electronic products.

Product Features Overview

Channel 1 Functionality

Details the simplified design and controls of Channel 1 for optimal signal integrity.

Channel 2 Functionality

Explains Channel 2's flexibility, including the ISF control for tonal shaping.

Front Panel Controls

Input and Channel 1 Controls

Input jack and controls for Channel 1, including Volume and Tone settings.

Channel Indicators and Selectors

LED indicator for channel selection and a switch to toggle between Channel 1 and Channel 2.

Channel 2 Controls

Controls for Channel 2, covering Gain, Volume, and Bass/Middle EQ adjustments.

Additional Front Panel Controls

Treble, ISF, Reverb, Master Volume, Power Indicator, and Power switch.

Rear Panel Connections and Features

Mains Fuse and Input

Location and importance of the mains fuse and the connection for the power lead.

H.T. Fuse and Speaker Outputs

High Tension fuse details and critical information on connecting external speaker cabinets.

Speaker Emulated Output and Effects Loop

Output for recording devices and connections for external effects units (Send/Return).

Effects Loop Level and Footswitch

Effects Loop Level Setting

Switch to select effects loop level (+4dBV/-10dBV) for different equipment.

Footswitch Connection

Port for connecting the supplied footswitch for channel switching.

The Blackstar Artist 15 is a guitar amplifier combo designed to deliver a wide range of classic tones with an emphasis on simplicity, purity, and flexibility. It is the result of extensive research and development by Blackstar Amplification Ltd., a team of experienced musicians and engineers based in Northampton, UK, dedicated to providing guitarists with tools for self-expression.

Function Description:

At its core, the Artist 15 features a unique power amplifier design that leverages the tonal qualities of the revered 6L6 valve. This design is optimized to provide the outstanding dynamics typically associated with USA 6L6 amplifiers, while also incorporating the chime and shimmer characteristic of classic British Class A amplifiers. This blend allows for a versatile sonic palette, catering to various playing styles and preferences.

The amplifier is equipped with two distinct channels, each offering a unique tonal character and flexibility. Both channels can be configured for either a clean sound or a classic overdrive, providing the widest possible range of classic tones. This dual-channel architecture, combined with Blackstar's innovative technical features, aims to deliver unparalleled sonic performance.

The Artist 15 also includes professional features such as footswitching for seamless channel changes, an integrated reverb effect for adding depth and ambience to the sound, a master volume control for overall output level management, and an effects loop for integrating external effects units. These features ensure the amplifier is fully equipped to meet the demands of modern performance and recording environments.

Usage Features:

Front Panel Controls:

Input: This is where you connect your guitar using a good quality screened guitar lead.
Channel 1 (Clean/Mild Overdrive):
- Volume: Controls the output level of Channel 1. Turning it clockwise increases the volume. At lower settings, the amplifier remains clean, while increasing the volume will gradually introduce a natural, mild overdrive.
- Tone: Adjusts the balance between treble and bass frequencies. Counter-clockwise settings produce a warmer, darker sound, while clockwise rotation makes the sound brighter.
Channel Indicator: A red LED indicates when Channel 2 is active. When the LED is off, Channel 1 is in operation.
Channel Select: A push-button switch to toggle between Channel 1 and Channel 2. For the footswitch to function, this button must be engaged ('in').
Channel 2 (Clean/Medium Overdrive with ISF):
- Gain: Controls the amount of drive in Channel 2. Lower settings (counter-clockwise) provide a clean sound, while increasing the gain clockwise adds harmonic richness, leading to a classic overdrive response.
- Volume: Controls the output level of Channel 2. Turning it clockwise increases the volume.
- Bass: Adjusts the amount of low-end frequencies. This advanced tone-shaping circuit allows for a range from tight and cutting (counter-clockwise) to warm and thumping (fully clockwise).
- Middle: Controls the middle frequencies, which are crucial for the 'body' of your tone. Minimum settings (fully counter-clockwise) accentuate highs and lows, creating a 'scooped' sound. Increasing the middle control clockwise adds 'body' for a fatter, more vocal mid-range.
- Treble: Allows for precise adjustment of treble frequencies. Counter-clockwise settings result in a warm, darker sound, while clockwise rotation makes the sound brighter, glassier, and more dynamic.
- ISF (Infinite Shape Feature): This patented control works in conjunction with the Bass, Middle, and Treble controls to allow you to choose your preferred tonal signature. When set fully counter-clockwise, the tone stack is configured for a more American response, characterized by a tight bottom-end and accentuated presence and treble. As the control is moved clockwise, the tone continuously shifts towards a more British response, which emphasizes low-mids for a warm, 'woody' clean or crunch sound reminiscent of classic British amplifiers. Unlike conventional contour or parametric EQ systems, the Bass, Middle, and Treble controls remain interactive, providing a familiar and musical response.
Reverb: Sets the overall level of the built-in reverb effect. Fully counter-clockwise means no reverb, while turning it clockwise increases the amount of reverb.
Master Volume: Controls the overall output volume of the entire amplifier. Turning it clockwise increases the volume.
Power Indicator Light: Illuminates when the amplifier is switched on.
Power Switch: Used to turn the amplifier on and off.

Rear Panel Connections:

Mains Input: Connects the supplied detachable mains lead. Ensure the power outlet is compatible with the voltage, power, and frequency requirements specified on the rear panel.
Speaker Outputs:
- '1x16 Ohm' output: For connecting a single 16 Ohm extension speaker cabinet or the internal loudspeaker of the Artist 15 combo.
- '1x8 Ohm or 2x16 Ohm' outputs: For connecting either a single 8 Ohm extension cabinet or two 16 Ohm cabinets. The internal loudspeaker can also be plugged in here if used with a 16 Ohm extension cabinet.
- Important Note: The '1x16 Ohm' output should never be used simultaneously with the '1x8 Ohm or 2x16 Ohm' outputs. Incorrect impedance matching can damage the amplifier.
Speaker Emulated Output: Provides a simulated guitar speaker cabinet tone, offering a natural valve overdrive sound for direct connection to recording devices or mixing desks. For silent recording, set the Master Volume to zero.
Effects Loop Return: Connect the mono output of an external effects unit here.
Effects Loop Send: Connect the mono input of an external effects unit here.
Effects Loop Level Switch: Sets the effects loop to either +4dBV (for professional equipment) or -10dBV (for guitar level effects pedals).
Footswitch Input: Connect the supplied footswitch here to switch between Channel 1 and Channel 2.

Maintenance Features:

Safety First: Always read and follow all safety instructions provided in the manual. Keep these instructions for future reference.
Internal Voltages: The amplifier contains high internal operating voltages. Do not open the equipment case. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. All servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
Cleaning: Clean the amplifier only with a dry cloth.
Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings to prevent overheating. Install the amplifier according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Heat Sources: Avoid installing the amplifier near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing apparatus.
Power Cord Protection: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, especially at plugs, convenience receptacles, and where it exits the apparatus.
Attachments/Accessories: Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Lightning Storms/Long Periods of Disuse: Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when it will be unused for long periods.
Liquid and Moisture: Do not expose the apparatus to rain, liquids, or moisture of any type. Avoid placing vessels filled with liquid on top of the amplifier.
Stability: Do not place the product on an unstable trolley, stand, or table, as it may fall and cause damage or injury.
Condensation: If the amplifier is moved from a cold to a warmer environment, condensation may form inside. Allow the unit to reach room temperature before switching it on.
Unauthorized Modification: Any unauthorized modification of this equipment is strictly forbidden by Blackstar Amplification Ltd.
Fuses: The values for the Mains Fuse and H.T. Fuse are specified on the rear panel. Always replace damaged fuses with the correct rating and type. Never attempt to bypass a fuse.
Earth Connection: Never disconnect the protective mains earth connection.
Loudspeaker Connection: Before switching the unit on, ensure the loudspeaker is connected as described in the handbook, using the manufacturer-recommended lead.
Hearing Protection: High loudspeaker levels can cause permanent hearing damage. Avoid direct vicinity of loudspeakers operating at high levels and wear hearing protection if continuously exposed to high levels.
Troubleshooting: If the product does not operate normally when following the operating instructions, refer it to a qualified service engineer.
End-of-Life Disposal: All electrical and electronic products should be disposed of separately from municipal waste streams via designated collection facilities appointed by the government or local authorities.

Blackstar artist 15 Specifications

General

Power	15W
Channels	2
Speaker	1 x 12" Celestion V-Type
Preamp Tubes	2 x ECC83
Power Amp Tubes	2 x EL84
Reverb	Yes
Effects Loop	Yes
EQ	Bass, Middle, Treble
Footswitch	Included
Type	Tube
Inputs	1 x 1/4"
Outputs	1 x 1/4" (Speaker)