Engl E658BO Steve Morse 20 Blackout

Overview: Engl E658BO Steve Morse 20 Blackout Amp Head

The Engl E658BO Steve Morse 20 Blackout is a tube amplifier head designed in collaboration with Steve Morse and built in Germany. This model targets guitarists seeking both traditional tube power and a versatile modern feature set. Its compact enclosure (13.4 x 8.7 x 5.5 inches, weighing 15.4 lbs) holds a generous range of controls and connectivity that stand out in this wattage class.

Tube Architecture and Power Management

The power section employs two EL84 vacuum tubes, offering classic compression and touch sensitivity associated with lower-wattage British-style outputs. The preamp is loaded with four ECC83 (12AX7) tubes, ensuring high headroom and substantial gain on tap. Power scaling allows selection between 20, 5, and 1 watt operation, or speaker-off mode for silent recording, which is accessed via the Power Range Selector switch. This adjustment provides practical options, from full-voice rehearsals or gigs down to late-night practice or DI use, keeping the feel of pushed tubes at any level.

Channel Layout and Tone Controls

The E658BO features two independent channels and a broad EQ palette. Each channel offers separate gain controls (Clean Gain, Lead Gain), while a shared three-band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble) shapes the overall frequency response. Additional controls include Clean Presence, Lead Volume, and a global Master for fine adjustment of dynamics and projection. The Lead channel enables heavier distortion, with a Gain Boost available via the onboard switch or compatible footswitch (not included).

Integrated Effects and Signal Routing

Integrated digital effects include reverb and a stereo delay, each with dedicated controls (Reverb, Delay Mix, Delay Time, Delay Feedback). The FX loop is accessible with Send and Return jacks, switchable on the panel, and allows easy integration of external pedals. The onboard noise gate, adjustable by a Threshold knob, helps clean up high-gain settings. The inclusion of an IR loader (Impulse Response Cabloader) sets the E658BO apart in its segment. This is managed via USB, letting users upload custom speaker cabinet simulations for direct output recording or live scenarios. The amp provides a balanced IR output for streamlined cab-less setups, along with standard 1x 8, 16 ohm and 2x 16 ohm speaker outputs (all 6.3 mm jack). Headphone volume is independently controlled for silent practice or monitoring.

MIDI, Footswitch, and Advanced Utilities

The amp includes a MIDI input, which allows for comprehensive channel and effect switching within a larger setup. Physical switches for key functions are present on the front panel, including Standby, Store, M.V.B (presumably Master Volume Bypass based on typical Engl terminology), Reverb, Delay, Clean/Lead, Gain Boost, FX Loop, Noise Gate, IR selection, Phantom Power, and ground lift options (Ground Lift, Ground to Pin 1). Phantom Power, uncommon at this price point, offers added flexibility for certain pedalboards or devices.

• Footswitch: Connection available for switching between Clean/Lead Gain or engaging the Boost, but the footswitch itself is not included.
• IR Management: IRs can be loaded via USB, providing significant sonic flexibility without external processor reliance.
• Grounding Options: Ground lift and dedicated pin ground management help minimize noise in complex stage setups.

Build and Physical Design

The chassis uses an all-black finish with understated branding typical of the 'Blackout' naming. At just 7 kg, the unit remains portable, balancing sturdy German build quality with gig-ready mobility. All controls are laid out clearly on the front panel, designed for quick adjustments.

Technical Summation

The Engl E658BO Steve Morse 20 Blackout merges classic all-tube architecture with modern digital integration, offering players 20 watts of EL84 power and a host of studio and stage-oriented features. Power scaling, direct IR output, built-in digital effects, and MIDI control position it among the most flexible heads in its class. While it does not include a footswitch and is priced at the higher end for a 20-watt head, the comprehensive connectivity and control justify its standing as an all-in-one solution for contemporary players who demand silent recording, programmable rig integration, and traditional tube response. For those prioritizing versatility without compromising analog tone, the E658BO stands out as a technically advanced, purpose-built option.