Blackstar DA5 Ruby Brings Doug Aldrich Tone to 5 Watts

Blackstar Amplification has introduced the DA5 Ruby, a limited-edition 5-watt tube guitar amplifier developed with Doug Aldrich. The new signature combo adapts the sound and signal architecture of Aldrich’s 100-watt DA100 Ruby head for home, studio and lower-volume playing.

Known for his work with Whitesnake, Dio and The Dead Daisies, Aldrich collaborated with Blackstar on the amplifier’s circuit, speaker and visual design. The DA5 Ruby is built on the company’s HT-5R Mk III platform while drawing its internal signal path directly from the larger DA100 Ruby.

Push-pull valve power in a compact format

At the heart of the Blackstar DA5 Ruby is a genuine push-pull power stage featuring a single 12BH7 power tube and an ECC83 preamp tube. According to Blackstar, this design is intended to reproduce more of the physical response and playing feel associated with a traditional high-powered amplifier than a conventional low-wattage, single-ended circuit.

The combo delivers 5 watts of output and includes a built-in power reduction switch that lowers the output to 0.5 watts. This gives players the option of driving the valve circuit at more manageable volume levels during home practice or recording.

A custom 12-inch Aldrich 50 loudspeaker handles the amplifier’s output. Rated at 50 watts, the speaker was co-developed with Aldrich to provide additional headroom, authority, presence, depth and projection.

Two channels and four selectable voices

The DA5 Ruby uses a two-channel configuration with dedicated Clean and Overdrive channels. Each channel offers two selectable voices, giving players four distinct voicing options from the front panel.

The Clean channel includes independent Volume and Tone controls. The Overdrive channel adds Gain and Volume controls alongside a four-part tone-shaping section with Bass, Middle, Treble and Blackstar’s patented Infinite Shape Feature, or ISF.

The ISF control allows players to adjust the overall character of the amplifier’s EQ response, complementing the more conventional three-band controls in the overdrive section.

Blackstar DA5 Ruby Doug Aldrich Signature Amp

CabRig speaker simulation and direct recording

For studio use, silent practice and direct recording, the Blackstar DA5 Ruby includes the company’s CabRig IR-based speaker simulation technology. CabRig models the interaction between guitar cabinets, microphones and recording rooms, with three user-configurable presets accessible directly from the amplifier.

The onboard system is paired with studio-quality digital reverb and a load protection circuit. The protection system allows the internal valve circuitry to operate safely when the speaker is disconnected, enabling silent recording and headphone practice.

Connection options include a USB-C stereo audio output for direct recording, an XLR CabRig DI output and a 1/4-inch TRS stereo headphone output. These connections are designed to integrate the amplifier with recording interfaces, mixing systems and digital audio workstation setups.

FS-22 footswitch included

Blackstar supplies the DA5 Ruby with its FS-22 two-way footswitch. The controller provides hands-free switching between the amplifier’s two channels and four available voices during performances and rehearsals.

Deep Ruby Red finish and signature accessories

The amplifier’s appearance references Aldrich’s 100-watt signature rig. Its cabinet is finished in Deep Ruby Red tolex and fitted with matching deep ruby red “chicken head” control knobs.

Additional details include a brushed black control panel, premium toggle switches and a cast-alloy Blackstar badge. Each amplifier also comes with a signed certificate of authenticity and a selection of Doug Aldrich’s personal Dunlop guitar picks.