I went to my local dealer today to compare the Boss RE-201 Space Echo with the newly released Blackstar Echo unit and was introduced to the Blackstar HT1 1 Watt valve amp. I ended up buying the amp as it is that good and has 'that tone'. It can also be DI'd, as well as having an external speaker socket that when plugged into a 12" cabinet trebled the volume - I love it. I tested the DI as well and will be using it in my act with the Bose system.
For those who don't know, Blackstar is a British firm which was started by a former Marshall employee and I wish him luck.The gear is designed here in the UK but built in China.
As for the two echo machines, I could make a living with either of them but one can't get the 'Wonderful Land' patterns beacause of the limited 'taps', though I got a passable substitute sound. That said, I achieved a great 'Apache' pattern each of them and they both have a lovely 'non digital' warmth to their sound. Both feature 'varispeed' and the Boss is identical in sound to the Roland RE-201 - which it is supposed to be . . . . . The Blackstar features a valve and gives more 'warmth' to the sound as you dial it in with the control knob. All in all, three great pices of kit!