Blackstar Amplification launches revolutionary ID: Series 22-Mar-12
Blackstar Amplification has announced the first models in their groundbreaking ID: Series of programmable guitar amplifiers. Designed by the same team responsible for the Blackstar tube amps, they tell us that this new series of affordable amps represents the culmination of over seven years of technical research and development to redefine what guitarists can expect from amps at this price point.
Each amp in the Series (60W combo; 2x60W combo; 60W head; 100W head) has a control set like a traditional amp, coupled with versatile programmability and USB connectivity. In addition, new proprietary True Valve Power (TVP) technology ensures that the amps will deliver in a live environment at the same performance level as a tube amp. Here's Blackstar's full description of the new series...
Blackstar's patent-applied-for True Valve Power mode exactly reproduces six distinct power tube responses - EL84, 6V6, EL34, KT66, 6L6, KT88. When engaged, it delivers the response, dynamics, sag and break up characteristics of a tube amp and uniquely delivers the same power output as an equivalent tube power amp. This means that for the first time ever in an affordable programmable series, guitarists will have an amp that can deliver live, with the same loudness and feel as a tube amp.
The Voice control offers a selection of six channels - Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD1, OD2. When used together with Blackstar's patented ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) control and the True Valve Power mode, these amplifiers allow unparalleled flexibility in enabling players to design 'the sound in your head.'
The effects section delivers studio quality modulation, delay and reverb effects that can be used simultaneously and stored with user sounds. Deep editing and storing of up to 128 patches can be easily done using the supplied Blackstar GUI software and USB connector. Patches can then be shared and uploaded/downloaded via the online community. The USB connector also allows for direct recording to a computer, or re-amping guitar tracks. A speaker emulated output, MP3/line input and MIDI footswitching complete the package.
Blackstar Amplification Technical Director, Bruce Keir, told Amped, "I grew up around valve [tube] amps, playing and designing them from an early age. Since then, I've developed amps in all technologies. For me, amp design has always been about applying elegant engineering solutions to enhance the creative experience of musicians. In this way, these amps represent the culmination of my life's work."
The ID: Series of programmable guitar amplifiers includes the following models, with summer 2012 availability, and pricing to be announced shortly:
ID:60TVP - 60W programmable combo
ID:260TVP - stereo 2 x 60W programmable combo with 2x12" speakers