Blackstar HT-20R MkII 20W Valve Guitar Combo Amplifier, (Used)

The Blackstar HT-20R MkII Valve Guitar Combo is a versatile 20-watt all-valve amplifier designed to deliver everything from sparkling boutique-style cleans and warm British crunch to powerful modern high-gain distortion. Combining a responsive EL84 power stage, four selectable channel voices and Blackstar's patented ISF tone-shaping technology, the HT-20R MkII offers an impressive range of professional guitar sounds in a practical 1x12 combo format.

Featuring two ECC83 preamp valves, two EL84 power valves and a custom-designed 12-inch Blackstar speaker, the HT-20R MkII provides the harmonic richness, natural compression and dynamic response associated with traditional valve amplification. Its two-channel design offers four distinct voicings, allowing players to move between American-inspired cleans, British chime, classic overdrive and aggressive modern distortion.

A particularly useful feature is the switchable 20W/2W power reduction, allowing guitarists to explore the amplifier's valve response at reduced output power. Combined with studio-quality digital reverb, an effects loop, USB recording and speaker-emulated outputs, the HT-20R MkII is equally at home in practice rooms, recording studios and live performance environments.

This particular Blackstar HT-20 MkII Combo is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, offering an appealing opportunity to own a versatile valve amplifier at a pre-owned price.

For guitarists seeking a second-hand Blackstar valve combo that combines classic amplifier character with modern flexibility, recording connectivity and powerful distortion, the HT-20R MkII is an excellent choice.

At A Glance

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Very Good Condition

This Blackstar HT-20R MkII is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership. The amplifier features a traditional black cabinet covering, boutique-inspired styling, clearly arranged control panel and distinctive Blackstar branding.

Its combination of a compact 1x12 cabinet and professional control layout makes it an appealing option for musicians seeking a pre-owned valve combo suitable for regular practice, rehearsals and live performance.

Specific cosmetic marks, scratches or areas of wear have not been individually documented. Please study the product photographs for a closer look at the condition of this particular amplifier.

General Operation & Valve Condition

The amplifier is graded as Very Good. However, a separate item-specific operational report, valve replacement history or details of any previous servicing have not been provided.

The HT-20R MkII uses a traditional valve amplifier design, so the condition of its preamp and power valves is an important consideration during normal maintenance. Valve replacement requirements vary depending on previous use and operating conditions.

What's Included

- Blackstar HT-20R MkII 20W Valve Guitar Combo Amplifier

The manufacturer's original package included an FS-16 footswitch, but the inclusion of a footswitch with this particular pre-owned amplifier has not been confirmed. The mains lead, original packaging, manual and other accessories have also not been individually confirmed.

Fair Deal Music Quality Control Assessment

Fair Deal Music's pre-owned amplifier assessment considers the principal areas of operation and performance, including channel switching, control response, valve operation, speaker performance, input and output connections and general sound quality. For the Blackstar HT-20R MkII, relevant checks include the Clean and Overdrive channels, selectable voices, ISF control, digital reverb, power reduction, effects loop and recording outputs. Individual test results for this particular amplifier have not been supplied.

Service & Setup

Pre-owned valve amplifiers benefit from regular checks of their general operation, valve condition, speaker connections and control functionality. The Blackstar HT-20R MkII should be operated with adequate ventilation and the correct speaker load connected, while any internal servicing, valve replacement or electrical adjustments should be carried out by a qualified amplifier technician. Guitar setups can also change over time due to fluctuations in humidity, temperature and environmental conditions, potentially affecting neck relief, string action and overall playability when using the amplifier with different instruments.

Key Features

• 20-Watt All-Valve Amplification: Rich harmonic response and natural valve compression from two EL84 power valves.

• Switchable 20W / 2W Power: Reduce output power for practice and recording applications.

• Two Channels, Four Voices: American-style Clean, British-style Clean, Classic Overdrive and Modern Overdrive.

• Dual ECC83 Preamp Valves: Traditional valve preamp characteristics with responsive gain and saturation.

• Custom-Designed 12-Inch Speaker: Full-bodied guitar sound from a practical single-speaker combo.

• Patented ISF Control: Adjust the tonal response between American-inspired and British-inspired characteristics.

• Three-Band Overdrive EQ: Independent Bass, Middle and Treble controls.

• Dedicated Clean Tone Control: Shape the response of the Clean channel.

• Master Volume: Convenient control over overall amplifier output.

• Studio-Quality Digital Reverb: Add ambience and depth to clean and distorted sounds.

• USB Recording Output: Direct connection to compatible computer recording systems.

• Balanced XLR Emulated DI: Professional speaker-emulated output for recording and suitable PA equipment.

• Series Effects Loop: Connect delay, modulation and reverb effects after the preamp stage.

• Footswitch Compatibility: Supports remote channel and voice switching using a compatible footswitch.

• Very Good Pre-Owned Condition: A versatile valve amplifier at an attractive second-hand alternative to new.

Why You'll Love It

The Blackstar HT-20R MkII is particularly appealing because it combines the responsive character of traditional valve amplification with the flexibility normally associated with more complicated multi-channel amplifiers.

Its four distinct voices allow players to explore a broad range of clean and distorted sounds without requiring a large collection of external pedals. The Clean channel moves between bright, articulate American-inspired tones and warmer British-style response, while the Overdrive channel provides everything from classic rock crunch to aggressive modern distortion.

The patented ISF control is another significant advantage, allowing guitarists to refine the character of the Overdrive channel to suit different pickups, amplifiers and musical styles.

For home recording and practice, the 2-watt mode and speaker-emulated recording connections offer practical flexibility, while the full 20-watt output and integrated 12-inch speaker make the amplifier suitable for rehearsals and smaller live performances.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Authentic 20-Watt Valve Amplification

The Blackstar HT-20R MkII features a genuine valve amplifier design combining two ECC83 preamp valves with a pair of EL84 power valves. This configuration produces the harmonic richness, dynamic response and natural compression associated with traditional valve amplification, allowing the sound to respond directly to changes in picking strength and guitar volume. Its 20-watt output provides a practical balance between usable clean headroom and expressive overdrive, making the amplifier particularly suitable for guitarists who require professional valve tone without the size and power of a larger 50- or 100-watt amplifier.

Switchable 20W & 2W Power Reduction

One of the HT-20R MkII's most practical features is its switchable power reduction, allowing the amplifier to operate at either 20 watts or approximately 2 watts. The reduced-power setting makes it easier to explore the response of the EL84 power stage in smaller playing environments, although even 2 watts through a guitar speaker can produce considerable volume. The full-power setting provides greater headroom and projection for rehearsals and live performance, allowing the same amplifier to adapt to different musical situations without changing its basic tonal character.

Two Channels with Four Distinct Voices

The HT-20R MkII offers two independent channels, each with two selectable voices, providing a total of four main amplifier sounds. The Clean channel covers bright American-inspired clarity and responsive British-style chime, while the Overdrive channel offers classic rock saturation and more aggressive modern high-gain sounds. This arrangement gives players considerably more flexibility than a conventional two-channel amplifier, making it practical for musicians covering several genres or performing songs that require different levels of gain and tonal character.

American-Inspired Clean Voice

The first Clean voice provides a bright, controlled response with a firm bass character and clear high-frequency detail, making it particularly suitable for articulate chord work and clean rhythm guitar. Its voicing is inspired by the response of traditional American-style amplifiers, providing a useful starting point for players who enjoy sparkling cleans, percussive funk parts and defined country-style picking. The dedicated Clean Volume and Tone controls allow the response to be balanced according to the instrument and playing environment, while the amplifier's reverb adds further depth when required.

British-Inspired Clean Voice

The second Clean voice offers a more resonant and dynamically responsive character, with a looser low-frequency feel and additional upper-midrange chime. Inspired by traditional British Class A-style amplifier sounds, this voice can move naturally towards mild breakup as the channel is driven harder, making it particularly effective for expressive blues, indie and classic rock playing. Its response to changes in guitar volume and picking intensity also makes it appealing to musicians who prefer controlling their sound directly from the instrument rather than relying on frequent channel changes.

Classic & Modern Overdrive Voices

The Overdrive channel provides two distinct gain characteristics, allowing the HT-20R MkII to cover everything from traditional British rock distortion to more aggressive modern sounds. Voice 1 emphasises natural compression, rich harmonics and a responsive classic rock character, while Voice 2 introduces a tighter low-frequency response and greater high-frequency aggression for more heavily distorted playing. Combined with independent Gain and Volume controls, these options make the amplifier suitable for expressive blues-rock leads, powerful rhythm guitar, sustained solos and modern high-gain styles.

Patented ISF Tone Shaping

Blackstar's patented Infinite Shape Feature, commonly known as ISF, is designed to alter the tonal character of the Overdrive channel's EQ network. Turning the control towards one extreme produces a more American-inspired response with a comparatively tight, aggressive character, while moving towards the other provides a warmer, more pronounced British-style midrange response. The ISF control works alongside the three-band EQ, allowing guitarists to fine-tune the amplifier's character without changing channels or adding additional effects, making it particularly useful when switching between guitars with different pickup types.

Three-Band Overdrive EQ

The HT-20R MkII features dedicated Bass, Middle and Treble controls for its Overdrive channel, giving players detailed adjustment over the amplifier's distorted sounds. The Bass control shapes low-frequency weight, the Middle control influences body and how clearly the guitar cuts through a band mix, and the Treble control adjusts brightness and attack. Combined with the ISF control, this arrangement provides considerable flexibility for matching the amplifier to different guitars, effects pedals and speaker responses, whether seeking warm classic rock distortion or tightly defined modern high-gain tones.

Studio-Quality Digital Reverb

The amplifier incorporates a studio-quality digital reverb circuit designed to complement its clean and overdriven sounds. The dedicated Reverb control allows players to introduce anything from subtle ambience to more spacious effects, helping add depth to clean chords, melodic lead playing and atmospheric arrangements. Having reverb built into the amplifier is particularly convenient for guitarists who prefer a straightforward setup without an additional pedal, while the effects loop remains available for players who want to incorporate more elaborate delay or modulation effects.

USB & Speaker-Emulated Recording Outputs

The HT-20R MkII includes USB audio output and a balanced XLR speaker-emulated DI connection, making it particularly useful for recording and integration with suitable external audio equipment. The USB connection allows the amplifier's processed guitar signal to be captured by compatible computer recording software, while the emulated DI provides an alternative connection for recording interfaces and mixing desks. These features give guitarists additional recording options without always requiring a microphone positioned in front of the speaker, although the amplifier's normal speaker-load requirements must still be followed.

Series Effects Loop & Pedal Compatibility

A series effects loop allows compatible external pedals and processors to be connected between the amplifier's preamp and power amplifier stages, providing a useful alternative to placing every effect directly into the guitar input. This is particularly beneficial for delay, reverb and modulation effects when using the amplifier's higher-gain settings, allowing these effects to operate after the main distortion-generating circuitry. The HT-20R MkII also works with conventional overdrive, boost and distortion pedals, making it a flexible choice for musicians who want to combine built-in amplifier sounds with an existing pedalboard.

Custom-Designed 12-Inch Speaker & Compact Cabinet

The HT-20R MkII features a custom-designed 12-inch Blackstar speaker housed in a compact combo cabinet, providing the familiar projection and frequency response associated with full-size guitar amplification. The cabinet incorporates Blackstar's distinctive slightly angled front design, helping direct the sound upwards towards the player while retaining a relatively manageable footprint. Its traditional black covering and stage-friendly controls create a professional appearance, making the amplifier equally suitable for a home music room, rehearsal space or performance venue.

Who Is It For?

Beginner & Developing Guitarists: A worthwhile step up from basic practice amplifiers for players who want genuine valve response and a broad selection of sounds.

Intermediate Guitarists: Ideal for musicians exploring different genres, amplifier gain structures and more detailed tone shaping.

Blues & Classic Rock Players: The EL84 power stage, dynamic Clean voices and traditional Overdrive settings offer expressive response and warm, harmonically rich tones.

Hard Rock & Metal Guitarists: The Modern Overdrive voice, three-band EQ and ISF control provide the gain and definition needed for heavier guitar styles.

Recording Musicians: USB audio, speaker-emulated DI and the reduced-power mode make the amplifier attractive for home and project studios.

Performing Guitarists: The 20-watt output, integrated speaker, effects loop and footswitch compatibility offer useful flexibility for rehearsals and smaller live venues.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Blackstar HT-20R MkII is particularly well suited to blues, blues rock, classic rock, hard rock, heavy metal, indie, alternative rock, pop, funk and progressive music.

Its American-inspired Clean voice provides an excellent foundation for articulate rhythm guitar, while the British-inspired setting offers greater chime and natural breakup. The two Overdrive voices allow players to move between expressive classic rock sounds and modern high-gain distortion.

For recording, the combination of USB output, speaker-emulated DI and selectable 2-watt operation provides a useful range of options for different recording environments.

The amplifier's effects loop and conventional guitar input also make it practical for players using overdrive, distortion, delay, reverb and modulation pedals.

How It Compares

Blackstar HT-20R MkII vs Marshall DSL20CR

The Marshall DSL20CR offers traditional British valve amplifier character, with Classic Gain and Ultra Gain channels and the familiar Marshall approach to overdrive. The Blackstar HT-20R MkII provides additional tonal variation through four selectable voices and its patented ISF control, alongside USB recording and balanced speaker-emulated output. Guitarists seeking a particularly traditional Marshall sound may prefer the DSL20CR, while musicians who value broader tonal shaping and recording flexibility may favour the Blackstar.

Blackstar HT-20R MkII vs Blackstar HT-5R MkII

The Blackstar HT-5R MkII provides a lower-powered alternative with a similar emphasis on versatile valve tones and convenient recording features. Its smaller output stage makes it attractive for players who primarily practise or record in more compact environments, while the HT-20R MkII offers greater available power, increased clean headroom and stronger projection for rehearsal and live use. Players requiring a more adaptable all-round amplifier may find the 20-watt model particularly appealing.

Blackstar HT-20R MkII vs Fender Blues Junior

The Fender Blues Junior focuses on a relatively simple, vintage-inspired valve amplifier experience, with a single-channel design and traditional clean-to-crunch tonal character. The Blackstar HT-20R MkII offers greater built-in gain versatility through its two channels and four voices, together with modern recording connections and power reduction. Players prioritising classic clean and blues tones may prefer the Fender, while those requiring modern distortion and a broader range of sounds may favour the Blackstar.

Understanding Blackstar's ISF Technology

Traditional guitar amplifier designs often have distinctive EQ responses that contribute significantly to their sound. American-inspired amplifier voicings are commonly associated with a tighter low end and particular midrange characteristics, while British-style amplifiers are frequently valued for their pronounced midrange response and expressive overdrive.

Blackstar developed its patented Infinite Shape Feature (ISF) to give guitarists greater control over these tonal characteristics.

Rather than switching between just two fixed voicings, ISF allows gradual adjustment of the EQ network's response, making it possible to explore sounds between American-inspired and British-inspired amplifier characteristics.

When used alongside the Bass, Middle and Treble controls, ISF provides a useful way to adapt the HT-20R MkII to different guitars, pickups, cabinets and musical styles.

Blackstar Amplification Heritage

Blackstar Amplification was established in Northampton, England, in 2007 by a team of experienced amplifier designers with a shared interest in developing innovative guitar amplification.

The company built its reputation around combining traditional amplifier design principles with features intended to give musicians greater control over their sound.

Blackstar's patented ISF technology became one of its most recognisable innovations, providing a flexible alternative to the fixed EQ characteristics associated with many traditional guitar amplifiers.

The HT Venue and HT Series amplifiers have played an important role in establishing Blackstar's reputation for versatile valve amplification, particularly among musicians who need both classic and modern guitar sounds.

The HT-20R MkII builds on this heritage by combining EL84 valve amplification, multiple selectable voices and contemporary recording features in a practical combo format.

Technical Specifications

Power Requirements

The Blackstar HT-20R MkII is a mains-powered valve amplifier designed to operate from a suitable AC electrical supply. UK-market examples are configured for the appropriate UK mains voltage, and the rating shown on the individual amplifier's rear panel should always be checked before connecting it to power.

The amplifier uses two EL84 power valves and features a switchable 20W/2W power reduction, allowing the output stage to operate at different power levels without changing the mains supply.

The integrated 12-inch speaker provides the appropriate speaker load during normal combo operation. External speaker cabinets may also be connected using the amplifier's designated speaker outputs, provided the speaker impedance and connection configuration follow Blackstar's specifications.

The amplifier must not be operated without a correctly connected speaker load. Always use an appropriate speaker cable when connecting an external cabinet, rather than a standard guitar instrument cable.

Adequate ventilation should be maintained during use, and any internal repairs, valve replacement or electrical servicing should be undertaken by a qualified amplifier technician.

🎵 Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict ★★★★★

The Blackstar HT-20R MkII Valve Combo is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking genuine valve amplifier character with considerably more versatility than a conventional two-channel amplifier.

Its combination of EL84 power valves, four selectable voices and patented ISF technology provides an impressive selection of clean, crunchy and heavily distorted sounds, making it suitable for everything from blues and classic rock to modern high-gain music.

The 20-watt output provides plenty of flexibility for rehearsals and smaller performances, while the 2-watt setting offers a useful alternative for home practice and recording.

The integrated USB recording output, balanced XLR DI, studio-quality reverb and series effects loop make the HT-20R MkII particularly attractive to modern guitarists who want professional features without sacrificing the playing response of a valve amplifier.

This particular example is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, offering an appealing opportunity to purchase a versatile Blackstar valve combo.

Best Suited For: Intermediate, experienced and professional guitarists seeking an adaptable valve amplifier for blues, rock, hard rock, metal and recording.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Smaller practice amplifiers, entry-level modelling combos, solid-state amplifiers and lower-powered valve amplifiers.

Most Commonly Paired With: Overdrive pedals, boost pedals, delay and modulation effects, compatible footswitches and suitable recording equipment.

Our Tip: Start with the Overdrive channel's Classic voice and place the ISF control near its midpoint. Adjust Gain to achieve your preferred saturation, then experiment with ISF to hear how the amplifier moves between American-inspired and British-inspired tonal characteristics.

Showroom Advice: The HT-20R MkII is particularly worth considering for players who want one valve amplifier capable of delivering both expressive clean sounds and convincing modern distortion. Its built-in recording connections also make it especially practical for musicians combining regular performance with home recording.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a pre-owned Blackstar HT-20R MkII from Fair Deal Music provides an opportunity to experience genuine valve amplification and professional recording features at an attractive alternative to purchasing new.

Our experienced team understands the importance of clear condition descriptions, accurate specifications and practical buying advice when choosing second-hand guitar amplifiers.

This particular HT-20R MkII is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, making it an appealing option for players upgrading their existing guitar amplification setup.

For musicians looking to move from solid-state or smaller practice amplifiers into a more expressive valve design, our team can help explain the advantages of the HT-20R MkII's different channel voicings, power settings and recording connections.

Choosing pre-owned equipment can also offer excellent value while extending the useful life of quality musical equipment.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

As Birmingham's largest independent music store, Fair Deal Music has spent nearly four decades helping musicians find the right guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals and musical equipment.

Our family-run business combines knowledgeable musician-led advice with competitive pricing and personal service, helping customers make informed decisions about their equipment.

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you benefit from:

• Family-run independent music retailer established in 1987

• Birmingham's largest independent music store

• Over 6,000 Trustpilot customer reviews

• Experienced, knowledgeable musician staff

• Extensive selection of new, used and vintage equipment

• Competitive pricing

• Secure online ordering

• Fast UK delivery options

• Large Birmingham showroom

• Advice available by phone, online and in-store

• Pre-owned amplifier expertise

• Part-exchange and trade-in services

For an amplifier such as the Blackstar HT-20R MkII, our team can advise on the different voicings, compatible accessories, effects and recording connections to help you get the most from your purchase.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Looking to upgrade your existing guitar amplifier?

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including valve amplifiers, solid-state amplifiers, electric guitars, basses, effects pedals and keyboards.

Your existing amplifier or other musical equipment could help towards the cost of this Blackstar HT-20R MkII.

Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation and discover what your current gear could be worth towards your next amplifier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this Blackstar HT-20R MkII in?

This amplifier is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

Is the Blackstar HT-20R MkII a valve amplifier?

Yes. The amplifier features two ECC83 preamp valves and two EL84 power valves.

How powerful is the HT-20R MkII?

The amplifier provides a maximum output of 20 watts RMS, with a reduced-power setting of 2 watts.

Can the amplifier be used at home?

Yes. The 2-watt power setting makes the amplifier more adaptable for home practice, although even at reduced power it can produce significant volume through its 12-inch speaker.

How many channels does the HT-20R MkII have?

It features two channels, Clean and Overdrive, with two selectable voices on each channel.

What are the four amplifier voices?

The Clean channel offers American-inspired and British-inspired voicings, while the Overdrive channel provides Classic and Modern distortion sounds.

What does the ISF control do?

Blackstar's patented ISF control adjusts the tonal character of the Overdrive channel between American-inspired and British-inspired EQ responses.

Can the HT-20R MkII produce clean sounds?

Yes. Its dedicated Clean channel offers bright, articulate American-style cleans and a more responsive British-style voice.

Is the amplifier suitable for heavy metal?

Yes. The Modern Overdrive voice provides substantial gain and a tight low-frequency response suitable for hard rock, metal and aggressive lead guitar.

Does it have built-in reverb?

Yes. The amplifier features studio-quality digital reverb with an adjustable level control.

What speaker is fitted?

The original factory specification features a custom-designed 12-inch Blackstar speaker.

Does it use EL84 valves?

Yes. The power amplifier uses two EL84 valves.

Does it have a three-band EQ?

Yes. The Overdrive channel features dedicated Bass, Middle and Treble controls alongside Blackstar's ISF control.

Does the amplifier have an effects loop?

Yes. It features a series effects loop with selectable operating level.

Can I use delay and reverb pedals with it?

Yes. Compatible delay, reverb and modulation effects can be connected through the effects loop or through the amplifier's main input, depending on the desired sound.

Can I record directly from the amplifier using USB?

Yes. The HT-20R MkII features USB audio output for connection to compatible computer recording software.

Does it have an XLR DI output?

Yes. The amplifier provides a balanced XLR speaker-emulated DI output suitable for compatible recording and sound reinforcement equipment.

Can I use headphones?

Yes. The amplifier includes a speaker-emulated headphone output. Follow the manufacturer's speaker connection and operating instructions when using it.

Does it have an auxiliary input?

Yes. The HT-20R MkII features an MP3/Line input for connecting a suitable external audio source.

Can the channels be switched with a footswitch?

Yes. The amplifier supports a compatible Blackstar footswitch for remote channel and voice operation.

Does this particular amplifier come with a footswitch?

The factory package originally included an FS-16 footswitch, but a footswitch has not been confirmed as included with this pre-owned example.

Can an external speaker cabinet be connected?

Yes. The amplifier supports compatible external speaker cabinets through its designated speaker outputs, provided the correct impedance configuration is used.

How much does the amplifier weigh?

The manufacturer's published weight is approximately 15.9kg.

What are its dimensions?

The HT-20R MkII measures approximately 513mm wide, 487mm high and 270mm deep.

Is this the same as the HT-20R MkIII?

No. The HT-20R MkII is an earlier generation, with its own recording connections and voicing design. The later MkIII introduces updated features, including Blackstar's newer CabRig technology.

Can I part-exchange another amplifier towards this Blackstar?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers amplifiers, guitars, effects pedals and other musical equipment for part exchange. Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation.