BLACKSTARID Core 20 v4 Electric Guitar Combo Amplifier with Built-In Effects/Tuner and Line-In/Streaming Input & Direct USB-C Recording & 1 Watt Power Reduction

Got this for live streaming, but also as part of my recording setup, directlu to a DAW via usb, using phones output, not via the usb-c onboard the amp. Only succeeded in updating the firmware at the third attempt, and now utilise Architect software through a Hosa foot switch. The six sound settings cover pretty much what a lot of pedals offer: from bright to extreme overdrive; you can also change parameters in Modulation, Delay and Reverb. Saving and storing patches is an added bonus, while being able to use a TRRS 3.5 (shown as ‘External Headphones’’ in output) lets you play along with Logic, GarageBand, your DAW and audio files. Handy when songwriting.I’m truly impressed with just how versatile this amp is.

This was my first amp that I ever bought and I do have mixed feelings about it because although sounding terrible with its inbuilt effects and problems working with external pedals, it has made me in the space of 3 months become a tone chaser, whereby after less than a month, I went on to immediately buy the Harley Benton Tube amp, before my most recent upgrade to the Marshall SV20H.

As a beginner, this won’t be a technical review but a personal insight on the practical use of the amp and obviously the sound it makes.The amp itself looks great and is small enough to hide away if needed, also small enough to carry around with you to parties etc.I plugged my guitar in and boom - what a surprise - 20 watts of joyous sound. 1 hour later (and ringing ears) I decided to experiment with a few knobs. Each control did what it said on the tin! Voice - sharp, different tones on the 6 settings. Level knobs responsive. Effects - impressive - loved the reverb, plugged my elec/accoustic in and it sounded like a 12 string.I haven’t got round to all the interface stuff yet, (because I don’t understand it yet) but thoroughly enjoyed the sound this little mighty amp gives out.My only complaint - it could’ve had another input socket for another guitar.

Well first impressions of this are very good. It is quite a complicated beast and it is going to take some time to fully explore all the options because there are a lot of options to explore.It claims to be a serious upgrade to its predecessor but as this is my first Blackstar Amp I can’t really comment on that. What I can say is that it has a fantastic range of features that should satisfy most amateur musicians and probably a few semi pros. It is basically for home use but I could see it being usable in a small venue such as a pub setting.Sound quality is excellent with plenty of volume but can also be turned down enough for home practice at 1W. The V4 comes with a few number designations indicating the power rating. I am using the Core 20 which is a 20W amplifier with 5” speakers. There are also 10W and 40W models.There are six voices and as claimed the tonal range is impressive. You can even connect this to your computer using a USB connection to modify the sound parameters. It’s nice to see a USB C connection being used rather than the older versions that some Amps use.There is a stereo line in allowing you to play along to a backing track should you want to enjoy a spot of instrumental karaoke. It even allows you to live stream to social media sites. This comes with built in modulation, reverb and delay effects. Sound parameters can be adjusted using the free Architecture software. Patches can be saved and you can switch between patches using compatible pedals though these aren’t included.Physically this is a very nice bit of kit. It is not massive so can be left in a room without looking an eyesore. It is light enough to carry around without being so light that it bounces across the floor when in use. The handle is built into the back and is actually very comfy to use.The controls on top are clearly marked and easy to operate. This is a really nice piece of practice kit. It would be worth buying for a beginner as it will allow you to grow and still be suitable when you improve. The huge range of features are going to take a while to get my head around but having them means there is scope to experiment and try new things. The free software is good and not having to pay extra for it is a nice touch from Blackstar.This will satisfy my needs for a long time to come. There are always personal preferences with any equipment but I don’t really have any serious complaints about this. The price is good for something that is going to last many years. Blackstar have produced a great amplifier that should be on every buyers list for consideration.