NORTHAMPTON, UK — Blackstar Amplification introduces the next iteration of the Jared James Nichols Signature Amp, the JJN 50 and JJN 212 VOC. Building on the decades-long relationship with Jared James Nichols, the much-revered blues rock powerhouse, the JJN 50 amplifier and JJN 212 VOC speaker enclosure are designed to capture and deliver all of Nichols blues-powered tones. Road-tested across stages in the U.K. and Europe, this amplifier packs a wallop, all in a lightweight package. In fact, this is the lightest 50-watt valve amp in the world.
The JJN 50 amplifier is based on Blackstar’s St. James 50 EL34 and takes it one giant step further by opening the top end and allowing a wide array of frequencies in to suit Nichols’ renowned playing style. It starts with our proprietary CabRig IR-based speaker simulator technology. The JJN 50 comes pre-loaded with 3 custom CabRig patches specifically developed with Nichols to create his most used tones: the ‘JJN Classic Muscle’, the ‘JJN Modern Grit’, and the ‘JJN Nashville Basement’. CabRig is better than earlier IR-based technology as it simulates a speaker cabinet and room with no latency reproducing the sound of a mic’d up guitar cab with incredible detail. Over 250 mic and cab combinations can be saved into one of three onboard slots. Each cab has a choice of room type, mic type and axis, and master EQ. For deeper options, connect to the free Architect software. The JJN 50 also includes a low-to-mid gain pedal platform with a Blues Power boost circuit kicking the amp into overdrive to release Nichols’ signature sound. The amp features built-in reactive load, and a power reduction switch with 50-Watt, SAG and 2-Watt options. Connectivity options include low latency USB for recording and an XLR D.I. for live settings.
The JJN 212 VOC enclosure features Nichols’ speakers of choice, the Celestion G12T-75 in the top position, and the exclusive Celestion Zephyr lightweight speaker on the bottom. Blackstar worked closely with Celestion to create a speaker based on the Vintage 30 that packs a sonic punch at a fraction of a traditional speaker weight. Speaking of lightweight, the JJN 50 & JJN 212 VOC is constructed out of Candlenut plywood. Known for its strength, lightness, and sound, it perfectly suits this signature amp. The amp is then wrapped in Nichols iconic British Racing Green livery and is adorned with our classic St. James illuminated Blackstar logo. Each Jared James Nichols Signature Amp comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity and a collectible postcard.
As Nichols himself says, “…Packing all the power, tone, versatility, and inspiration I could ever ask for, this one can truly do it all. I proudly worked closely with the engineers on every single facet of this amp; we put our heart and soul into it. I am absolutely blown away by the final product and I think you will be, too.” High praise coming from one of the modern-day greats. Blackstar continues to work tirelessly with artists to create amplifiers worthy of gracing the world stages night after night.
Pricing:
STJ50ELHJJN (Head) $1,399.99
STJ212VOCJJN (Cabinet) $899.99
For more information on the Jared James Nichols JJN 50/JJN 212 VOC Signature Amp, go to www.blackstaramps.com.
