The Blackstar Dept. 10 Dual Drive is much more than just a dual overdrive pedal. Besides its first-class drive character thanks to the integrated ECC83 tube, the pedal from the Dept. 10 series offers extensive possibilities for integration into existing setups and can even be used as a USB audio interface for recording purposes. For this purpose, Blackstar provides the Cab Rig DSP Speaker Simulator software, which comes up with detailed impulse responses of the most popular guitar cabinets and microphones and acts almost latency-free.
The Blackstar Dept. 10 DualDrive at a glance:
Dual overdrive pedal for electric guitar
ECC83 dual triode
Internal operating voltage of 200 volts
Two channels
Two modes per channel (clean/crunch in channel 1, crunch/overdrive in channel 2)
Global 3-band equalizer
Infinite Shape feature (ISF)
Cab rig output with integrated cabinet simulation
Three internal cab sim presets switchable for cab rig output
USB port for use as an audio interface and for Blackstar Architect editing software
Serial effects loop
Line Out in XLR format
Integrated buffer
Operation via 9V DC power supply (included)
Real tube sounds on two channels
The starting point for the Blackstar Dept. 10 DualDrive's premium tones is clearly its iconic ECC83 dual triode, which is used in most classic amplifier circuits and, thanks to its internal operating voltage of 200 volts, amazingly accurately implements both the dynamic response and the 'break-up ' of traditional tube amps. The first channel of the DualDrive offers a choice of clear CleanBoost or lush crunch tones, while the second channel features a dynamic crunch or overdrive mode for added saturation with a slight boost in the highs.
Patented Infinite Shape Feature
Of course, the Blackstar Dept. 10 Dual Drive features the innovative Infinite Shape Feature (ISF), well-known from classic Blackstar circuits, which combines an enormous range of different amp characteristics. Controlled via a knob, the ISF knob offers the full range from distinctive US voicing with tight basses and solid trebles to classic Brit sounds with warm and present mids.
Cab Rig Output
In addition to the traditional connections for Gitarre and amplifier, the DualDrive offers an additional Cab Rig Out. This is specifically designed for recording purposes and offers three switchable Cab Rig presets. Using the additional Architect software and the pedal's front-panel USB port, all three presets can be customized with extreme precision and saved to the effects pedal for later use. The Cab Rig Out also features a headphone driver, allowing the output to be used as a headphone jack.
Klon KTR Centaur
DSM & Humboldt Simplifier DLX
Aclam Dr. Robert
Gamechanger Audio Plasma Pedal
Friedman BE-OD Deluxe