Blackstar amplification have just released the third reiteration of their best-selling amp series, the ID:CORE V3 and we were lucky enough to have a play.
The ID:CORE V3 series consists of small format, digital amplifiers with an array of tones and effects using a very simple but effective control layout. It’s jammed with features that perfectly suit guitarists at any skill level. So, whether you’re practicing, recording, writing or livestreaming from home, these amps are definitely worth checking out.
They come in 10, 20 or 40-watt versions and all share the same layout, with all amps offering the same tones and features. Although, if you are looking for an amp with a small footprint but still want some volume and body, consider going straight for the 40w.
The refined voices and effects sound great and the tonal possibilities you get out of these small amps is amazing. From glassy cleans, to full on high-gain lead tones and everything in between. There is no shortage of sounds which I think is really inspiring.
New features include the TRRS 3.5mm cable input/output for livestreaming. Now you can plug the amp directly into a phone or tablet and stream the amps signal directly, set-up is easy and painless. You can also now take these amps out and use them for busking by powering it with an optional power brick accessory, the PB-1.
While we are stoked with these new features mentioned, it’s the new Architect and Cab Rig software that really takes this series to another level. Architect is Blackstar’s free software that lets you dive deeper in the amps capabilities and lets you edit and store patches in a new fun and easy way. Cab Rig is Blackstar’s next-gen cabinet simulator with controls for microphone selection, placement, and room environments. The sounds you get out of Cab Rig is astounding. Never has an amp at this level offered something so advanced which is exciting to see.
Check out the video below where we have a look at the new Cab Rig Simulator, showing you the different types of tones, you can get by editing the cabinet.
The new ID:CORE V3 amplifiers are in the league of their own with their sound quality and feature set at a great price-point. The refined voices along with new features such as dedicated livestreaming input, the ability for portable power and Blackstar’s brand-new editing and cabinet emulation software, improves on the previous V2 series.
| ID:CORE V3 STEREO 10 | ID:CORE V3 STEREO 20 | ID:CORE V3 STEREO 40 | |
| Power | 10W (2x5W Super Wide Stereo) | 20W (2x10W Super Wide Stereo) | 40W (2x20W Super Wide Stereo) |
| Voices | 6 Voices; Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD1, OD2 | 6 Voices; Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD1, OD2 | 6 Voices; Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD1, OD2 |
| EQ | Patented ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) | Patented ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) | Patented ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) |
| Effects | Delay x 4 Modulation x 4 Reverb x 4 | Delay x 4 Modulation x 4 Reverb x 4 | Delay x 4 Modulation x 4 Reverb x 4 |
| Tap Tempo | Y | Y | Y |
| Patch Locations | 6 Patches | 6 Patches | 6 Patches |
| Cab Rig Speaker Simulator and Headphone Output | Y | Y | Y |
| Line In / Streaming | Y | Y | Y |
| Tuner | Y | Y | Y |
| USB | Y | Y | Y |
| Footswitchable | N | Y | Y |
| Speaker | 2 x Blackstar 3″ | 2 x Blackstar 5″ | 2 x Blackstar 6.5″ |
Expect to pay AUD$239-$339, depending on model.
