Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation of your Blackstar HT-5RH MK III 5-watt guitar tube amp head. Please read thoroughly before use.
Safety Information
To ensure safe operation and prevent damage, please observe the following safety guidelines:
- Always ensure the amplifier is connected to a grounded power outlet.
- Do not expose the amplifier to rain or moisture.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the amplifier to prevent overheating. Do not obstruct ventilation grilles.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Risk of electric shock. Do not open the amplifier chassis.
- Disconnect the mains power cable before cleaning or servicing.
Setup
Follow these steps to set up your HT-5RH MK III amplifier head.
Connecting to a Speaker Cabinet
The HT-5RH MK III requires an external speaker cabinet. Ensure the speaker cabinet's impedance matches the amplifier's output.
Image: Rear panel of the Blackstar HT-5RH MK III amplifier head, highlighting the speaker output jacks.
- Connect a speaker cable from one of the SPEAKER OUTPUTS on the rear panel to your speaker cabinet.
- The amplifier offers 1 x 8 OHM OR 2 x 16 OHM and 1 x 16 OHM outputs. Match the impedance of your cabinet to the correct output jack.
- Ensure a speaker is connected before powering on the amplifier to prevent damage.
Power Connection
Connect the supplied mains power cable to the MAINS INPUT on the rear panel and to a suitable power outlet.
Image: Rear panel of the Blackstar HT-5RH MK III amplifier head, showing the mains input.
Controls and Functions
The front panel of your HT-5RH MK III features intuitive controls for shaping your tone.
Image: Front panel of the Blackstar HT-5RH MK III amplifier head, displaying all controls.
Front Panel Controls
- POWER Switch: Toggles the amplifier on or off.
- 5W / 0.5W Switch: Selects between 5-watt and 0.5-watt output power for different volume requirements.
- REVERB Level: Adjusts the amount of built-in reverb effect.
- OD EQUALISATION (ISF, TREBLE, MIDDLE, BASS): Tone stack for the Overdrive channel. The ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) control shifts the tone from a classic British sound (counter-clockwise) to a more aggressive American sound (clockwise).
- OVERDRIVE (VOLUME, GAIN, VOICE, SELECT): Controls for the Overdrive channel. VOLUME adjusts the output level, GAIN controls the amount of distortion, VOICE selects different overdrive voicings, and SELECT switches between Clean and Overdrive channels.
- CLEAN (VOLUME, VOICE): Controls for the Clean channel. VOLUME adjusts the output level, VOICE selects different clean voicings.
- INPUT: 1/4" jack for connecting your guitar.
Rear Panel Connections
Image: Rear panel of the Blackstar HT-5RH MK III amplifier head, displaying all connections.
- USB Audio: Connects to a computer for direct recording.
- SEND/RETURN (Effects Loop): For connecting external effects pedals. The LEVEL switch adjusts the effects loop sensitivity (+4dBu/-10dBV).
- FOOTSWITCH: Connects an optional footswitch for channel switching.
- LINE IN: 3.5mm input for connecting external audio sources like MP3 players.
- CABRIG OUTPUT (LINE OUT / PHONES): Emulated output for direct recording or headphones, with selectable cabinet simulations.
- SPEAKER OUTPUTS: Connects to external speaker cabinets (1x8 Ohm or 2x16 Ohm, 1x16 Ohm).
- MAINS INPUT: Power cable connection.
Operating Instructions
Basic Operation
- Ensure the amplifier is connected to a suitable speaker cabinet and power supply.
- Connect your guitar to the INPUT jack.
- Turn the POWER switch to ON. Allow a few moments for the tubes to warm up.
- Select your desired power output using the 5W / 0.5W switch.
- Use the CLEAN channel controls (VOLUME, VOICE) or OVERDRIVE channel controls (VOLUME, GAIN, VOICE, SELECT) to achieve your desired tone.
Using the Effects Loop
The effects loop allows you to integrate external effects pedals into your signal chain.
- Connect the SEND jack to the input of your effects pedal.
- Connect the output of your effects pedal to the RETURN jack.
- Adjust the LEVEL switch (+4dBu for rack effects, -10dBV for stompboxes) to match your pedal's output.
Recording and Silent Practice
- USB Audio: Connect a USB cable from the amplifier to your computer. The amplifier will appear as an audio interface, allowing direct recording.
- CABRIG Output: For silent practice, connect headphones to the CABRIG OUTPUT. This output also provides emulated cabinet tones for direct recording to a mixer or audio interface.
- MP3/Line Input: Connect an external audio device (e.g., MP3 player, phone) to the LINE IN jack to play along with backing tracks.
Power Reduction
The 5W / 0.5W switch allows you to reduce the amplifier's output power, making it suitable for lower volume practice or recording while retaining tube tone.
Maintenance
- Keep the amplifier clean by wiping with a dry, soft cloth.
- Avoid exposing the amplifier to extreme temperatures or humidity.
- Regularly check all cable connections for secure fit.
- Tube replacement should be performed by qualified service personnel.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Sound | Power not on, speaker not connected, guitar cable faulty, volume low. | Check power switch, ensure speaker is connected, test guitar cable, increase volume controls. |
| Weak or Distorted Sound | Faulty tubes, incorrect impedance match, effects loop issue. | Consult qualified technician for tube check, verify speaker impedance, bypass effects loop to test. |
| Hum or Noise | Ground loop, faulty cables, proximity to interference. | Try different power outlets, use shielded cables, move away from electronic devices. |
Specifications
- Model: HT5RHMK3
- Output Wattage: 5 Watts RMS
- Tubes: 12BH7 (Power Amp)
- Channels: 2 (Clean, Overdrive)
- Controls: Power, 5W/0.5W Switch, Reverb Level, ISF, Treble, Middle, Bass, Overdrive Volume, Gain, Voice, Select, Clean Volume, Voice.
- Inputs: Guitar Input, MP3/Line Input.
- Outputs: USB Audio, Effects Loop (Send/Return with Level), Footswitch, CabRig Output (Line Out/Headphones), Speaker Outputs (1x8 Ohm or 2x16 Ohm, 1x16 Ohm).
- Dimensions: 12.36 x 10.2 x 22.32 inches
- Item Weight: 19.94 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Material: Stainless Steel
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Blackstar Amplification website or contact your local dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Product Videos
Blackstar HT-5 Guitar Amplifier Sound Review
Video: A sound review of the Blackstar HT-5 Guitar Amplifier, demonstrating its tonal capabilities.
OriPure 15W Tube Guitar Amplifier Head OA-H15 (Seller Video)
Video: A demonstration of the OriPure 15W Tube Guitar Amplifier Head OA-H15, showcasing its features and sound. Note: This is a seller-provided video for a related product.
