Blackstar ID:Core Guitar Amplifiers

Blackstar targets the entry level market with their new ID:Core series, featuring built-in amp and effects modeling plus stereo sound for music playback.

Blackstar ID:Core

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Three models are currently available – the ID:Core 10, ID:Core 20, and ID:Core 40 – all packed with features and priced competitively.

At first glance, the top mounted controls look simplistic and straightforward, but closer inspection will show that the knobs and buttons were designed to allow for a wide range of tones and effects. The controls are designed to be intuitive to make tone shaping a pleasing experience for both beginners, while offering enough depth for experienced players.

Tone shaping is achieved via two knobs, the Voice, ISF and Gain knob. The Voice control lets you sweep between six different voices that include Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD 1, OD 2. This works in conjunction with Blackstar’s patented ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) knob, that provides pre-configured EQ as you turn the knob. When used together, the two knobs will help you find the sound you want, be it American or British style tones. The Gain knob lets you control the amount of gain which varies depending on your Voice and ISF settings.

The amp’s built-in DSP also allows for 12 stereo effects divided into modulation, delay and reverb sections. There are four reverb types including Room, Hall, Spring and Plate. Delay types include Linear, Analog, Tape Echo and MultiTap. Finally, the Modulation section gives you Flanger, Chorus, Phaser and Tremolo. After picking your effect type, you can then activate all three sections simultaneously.

Each of the three models feature a pair of speakers to create what Blackstar calls as a “Super wide Stereo” effect. This allows the amp to double as a powered speaker for your media player, and at the same time adds stereo sonic flavors to your tone.

Other features of the amp include MP3 line in for playing with your tracks, USB audio interface for direct recording, Speaker-emulated output for headphones and an on-board chromatic tuner. Finally the amp comes with a free downloadable “Insider” software for deep editing, patch management and sharing, and even a phrase trainer that can slow down music!

ID:Core 10($99), ID:Core 20($149) and ID:Core 40($199) will start shipping this March. Head over to Blackstar Amps for more information.

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