This thing keeps its clarity at low volumes which is great to practice with at home, but is plenty loud to be heard in the mix while playing with others. The DI out means you have the option of using it at large shows as well as smaller venues. The cab extension option is another great feature which would really push this thing in to monstrous bass territory. The onboard effects are pretty sweet and straight forward to use, though I would say the included foot pedal isn't always the most cooperative to use. I wouldn't let that give you pause though this amp is the business and I will sing blackstar's praises loudly.

Love this amps tone and design. Amazing. It's really nice. My problem lies with the power. For a 500 watt it's really quiet. Maybe it's my drummer. We play heavy metal and he just bashes that kit. Gets really loud. This amp doesn't cut it. Really unfortunate as I loved the price and sound. You'd think for a 500 watt this thing would cave in your room but nope. Played for a few hours and did a lot of tweaking of the voicing and all the cool options. Just can't get it to go loud.

I play out at small venues with..My only con is the weight at my age, but after all it is 500w