Blackstar ID: Core 40W Head – Modeling Versatility In Stack Format

Controls:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

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When most guitar players think of amp heads, they usually imagine a good old tube Plexi or something similar. Unfortunately, if you are on a budget, finding an amp head that fits that description is borderline impossible. With that said, crossing over to the modeling side of the market will score you some pretty awesome models. Blackstar ID: Core 40W head is among the most versatile amp heads that can be yours for less than $200. That's what you call bang for the buck deal right there.

Controls

For the most part, if you've ever seen a Blackstar ID: Core amp, you have seen them all. The design doesn't change all that much within the series. This head features the exact same control cluster as we have seen on other ID: Core amps. In other words, you have your voice select knob with a variety of different distortions. That is followed by gain, volume, EQ and FX select knob. Between these, you will see buttons for selecting different presets, tap tempo and more. At the very bottom of the control cluster, there's also a USB port that allows you to download a variety of presets from your computer. The layout and functionality of all these buttons and knobs take some time to get used to, but it's all very intuitive.

Features

While there are numerous solid state amps out there, Blackstar really hit the perfect balance of versatility, power, and innovation with this one. Aside from six different voices, 12 built in effects and an emulated line out, you also get their ISF EQ. This feature allows you to change the color of the tone from a more British style to an all-American one. ID: Core is also one of the few modeling amps in this price range which come with a heavy software support as well. Blackstar's suite enables the user to download various patches and voices to the amp, thus increasing its flexibility and versatility. With all that said, this head is capable of pushing out some 40 Watts of power in 2×20 Watt stereo mode.

Performance

Performance wise, you are looking at a pretty decent tone quality. This being an amp head, allows you to use it both on stage and in your bedroom. Modeling amps, especially the more affordable ones, are not really known for their quality of sound. However, Blackstar's ID: Core series have really put a dent in that stereotype. With over six different types of distortions and overdrives, 12 different types of effects, it is safe to say that you won't need a complicated pedalboard to spice up your guitar's
tone. As much as we like their ISF EQ, having a good old three-band setup would definitely be appreciated. Even so, this thing packs a great amount of heat.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a low profile practice amp to use at home, or something that has enough juice for gigging, Blackstar's ID: Core 40W head has your back. Purely on a bang for the buck level, this thing is a beast. Add the actual quality of tone, its modeling versatility, and software support, and you have a winning combination. Building an affordable, budget stack has never been easier before.

For more info about the Blackstar ID: Core 40W Head, click here.
For more guitar amps under $200, click here.