Doug Aldrich’s signature Blackstar amp is getting a smaller sibling. Following the success of the stage-focused DA100 Ruby, Blackstar has unveiled the DA5 Ruby, a compact 5-watt all-valve combo that delivers the same signature voicing in a format designed for home practice, studio recording, and lower-volume performance.
Built upon Blackstar’s award-winning HT-5R MK III platform, the DA5 Ruby combines traditional valve response with contemporary flexibility.
“I’ve always believed that great tone shouldn’t be reserved for the big stage,” said Aldrich. “The DA5 Ruby changed everything for me – all the character, all the punch, all the attitude of my live rig, but something I can plug in at home and just play.”
Despite its modest power rating, the DA5 Ruby aims to deliver a surprisingly large sound. The combo is loaded with a custom-designed 12″ Aldrich 50 speaker, developed specifically with Doug Aldrich. Rated at 50 watts, the oversized speaker provides considerably more headroom than typical low-wattage combos.
The amp itself features two independent channels with four selectable voices, covering everything from sparkling American-style cleans to classic British crunch and saturated high-gain lead tones.
At the heart of the DA5 Ruby is a valve complement consisting of one ECC83 preamp tube and a 12BH7 power tube.
Blackstar’s push-pull power section is designed to preserve the dynamics, compression, and feel of a driven tube amplifier, while an onboard 5W/0.5W power reduction mode lets players dial the output down to roughly ten percent without dramatically altering the amp’s character.
Beyond traditional speaker output, the DA5 Ruby is equipped with Blackstar’s CabRig speaker simulation technology.
The IR-based system offers hundreds of virtual cabinet, microphone, and room combinations, with three user presets accessible directly from the amplifier. Players can record directly into a computer via USB-C, connect straight to a PA through the balanced XLR output, or practice silently using headphones.
Visually, the DA5 Ruby mirrors its larger counterpart with an eye-catching Ruby finish, premium tolex covering, cast alloy logo plate, and high-quality toggle switches.
Each amplifier also includes a selection of Doug Aldrich’s Dunlop picks and a hand-signed certificate of authenticity. Get the Blackstar DA5 Ruby here via Sweetwater for $849.99.
