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Award-Winning Big-Rig Valve Tone and Signal Architecture Transferred to a Studio-Ready 5-Watt Format
Blackstar Amplification announces the DA5 Ruby, a new signature tube guitar amplifier combo developed with world-renowned guitarist Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake, Dio, The Dead Daisies). Designed to bring the character of his award-winning 100-watt DA100 Ruby head into a package refined for home and studio environments, the DA5 Ruby bridges the gap between high-powered stage performance and low-volume utility. Built on Blackstar’s award-winning HT-5R Mk III platform, this release addresses the modern player’s need for authentic tube feel, tactile response, and advanced direct-recording integration without requiring massive stage volumes.
The core architecture of the DA5 Ruby centers around a genuine push-pull tube power stage using a single 12BH7 power tube alongside an ECC83 preamp tube. Unlike typical low-power single-ended tube designs, this configuration replicates the specific physical response and feel of a traditional 100-watt amplifier. Delivering 5 watts of total output, the combo includes a built-in power reduction switch that transparently drops the output down to 0.5 watts for low-volume playing. Acoustic projection is managed by a custom 12-inch Aldrich 50 loudspeaker rated at 50 watts, which was co-developed with Aldrich to provide enhanced headroom, authority, presence, depth, and projection.
The amplifier features an internal signal path derived directly from the original DA100 Ruby, laid out across a highly versatile two-channel configuration. Guitarists can navigate between dedicated Clean and Overdrive channels, with each channel hosting two distinct, selectable voices for a total of four voice options. Comprehensive tone-shaping is managed via independent control sets, including a dedicated Volume and Tone knob for the Clean channel, alongside Gain and Volume controls for the Overdrive channel. Furthermore, the Overdrive section incorporates a comprehensive EQ with Bass, Middle, Treble, and Blackstar’s patented Infinite Shape Feature (ISF) control.
Engineered for seamless modern tracking and quiet exploration, the DA5 Ruby comes equipped with Blackstar’s advanced CabRig IR-based speaker simulation technology. This onboard digital processing emulates the interaction of cabinets, microphones, and rooms, allowing players to instantly access three user-configurable preset slots directly from the hardware. The software works in tandem with built-in, studio-quality digital reverb and a comprehensive load protection system, ensuring the internal valve circuitry remains completely safe when the speaker is disconnected for silent practice and recording sessions.
The control layout is designed for easy workflow integration across live, rehearsal, and digital audio workstation (DAW) environments. For direct connectivity, the rear and top-panel interfaces include a USB-C stereo audio output for high-quality direct recording, an XLR CabRig DI output, and a 1/4-inch TRS stereo headphone output. For hands-free performance adjustments on the fly, the amplifier ships with the FS-22 two-way footswitch, which enables immediate remote switching between the amplifier’s dual channels and four onboard voices.
Visually, the DA5 Ruby sports premium aesthetic appointments that mirror Doug Aldrich’s iconic 100-watt rig. The cabinet is wrapped in Deep Ruby Red tolex, accented by matching deep ruby red “chicken head” control knobs and a brushed black control panel. Premium toggle switches govern the operation, while a rugged cast alloy metal Blackstar plate completes the classic presentation. Adding collector-grade value to the package, each individual amplifier includes a signed certificate of authenticity and a selection of Doug Aldrich’s personal Dunlop picks.
“It’s killer!” says Doug Aldrich about the new combo. “It’s got all the tones from the original DA100 Ruby but in a 5 Watt combo and I love it so much!”
The limited-edition Blackstar DA5 Ruby is available now through authorized retailers. For full specifications, pricing, and purchasing information, please visit www.blackstaramps.com.
Street Price: $849.99 USD
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