Blackstar unveils new ID-X series amplifiers - boasting six amp tones, over 35 effects, CabRig IR technology, and an OLED display, offering the most authentic-sounding models available currently.
Blackstar Amplification has introduced a new digital guitar amp called the ID:X, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional tube amps and modern digital technology. The ID:X is designed to accommodate a wide range of playing environments, from home practice to live performances.
## Key Features and Benefits of Blackstar ID:X
The ID:X digital guitar amp offers versatile power options, including a 1-watt setting for quiet, late-night playing, making it suitable for both home and stage use. It boasts an extensive effects suite with over 35 editable effects (overdrives, distortions, modulation, delays, and reverbs) accessible directly from the amp via real-time encoders, allowing instant tone shaping and switching.
The ID:X also includes Blackstar's patented ISF dial, which adjusts the overall EQ voicing from UK to US style, and a 3-Band EQ, with Gain, Volume, and Treble knobs serving as Gate, Resonance, and Presence respectively. The amp's features are designed to be familiar to tube amp purists, with an OLED display screen for editing and an effects loop for easy integration with a hardware pedalboard.
In addition, the ID:X includes onboard CabRig technology, allowing for virtual cabinet swapping, room size adjustment, and direct playback for live or recording. The amp supports up to 99 user patches, which can be recalled from the front panel or via compatible footswitches, and is integrated with Blackstar’s Architect software for deep editing and online community patch sharing.
The ID:X also includes modern connectivity options, such as balanced XLR out (on the 100-watt model), USB-C for direct recording, a 1/4-inch line out, headphone output, MIDI in and thru (on the 100-watt model), and an auxiliary input—making it suitable for silent practice, studio use, and live performances.
## Comparison to Traditional Tube Amps
While tube amps like the Blackstar Series One 100 offer a pure analog signal path and classic tube dynamics, the ID:X uses DSP modeling to replicate a wide range of tube amp tones and behaviors, including customizable valve response and advanced speaker simulation. The ID:X stands out with its extensive built-in, editable effects and seamless software integration, features rarely found in traditional tube amps unless paired with external pedals or processors.
The ID:X models have power scaling options, allowing reduction to 10-watts or 1-watt for domestic practice, similar to modern tube amps that offer power reduction features to achieve “real” amp tones at lower volumes. However, tube amps rely on variable power reduction hardware to maintain tube tone at reduced volume, while the ID:X uses digital modeling to simulate low-power operation.
In terms of convenience and portability, digital modeling amps like the ID:X offer greater portability, lower maintenance, and more features in a single unit compared to tube amps. On the other hand, traditional tube amps continue to be favored for their organic response and classic sound, but lack the flexibility and features of digital modeling solutions.
## Summary Table
| Feature | Blackstar ID:X (Digital) | Traditional Tube Amp (e.g., Series One 100) | |------------------------|----------------------------------|---------------------------------------------| | Power Reduction | Digital modeling (1W mode, etc.) | Hardware (e.g., DPR, switchable wattage) | | Effects | 35+ built-in, fully editable | Requires external pedals/processors | | Patch Management | 99 patches, Architect software | Not available | | Channel Switching | Digital, MIDI, footswitch | Analog (footswitch, MIDI on some models) | | Speaker Simulation | IR-based CabRig, In The Room | None (physical cab/speaker mic’ing) | | Connectivity | USB-C, XLR, MIDI, aux, phones | Typically 1/4", FX loop, sometimes MIDI | | Maintenance | Minimal | Tube replacement, biasing | | Tonal Authenticity | Advanced modeling, customizable | Classic analog harmonics, touch dynamics |
Blackstar’s ID:X amps offer modern convenience, extensive tonal shaping, and advanced connectivity, making them a strong alternative for guitarists seeking versatility and ease of use. Traditional tube amps, by contrast, continue to be favored for their organic response and classic sound, but lack the flexibility and features of digital modeling solutions. The ID:X is available in two versions: a 50-watt and a 100-watt 1x12 combo, with prices set at £349 for the ID:X 100 and £269 for the ID:X 50 (US prices TBC). The FS-12 and FS-18 footswitches are sold separately for a more performance-friendly setup.
The ID:X digital guitar amp, with its versatile power options and extensive effects suite, provides an ideal use in both home and stage environments, blending technology and entertainment for various music settings. With over 35 editable effects and Blackstar's patented ISF dial, the ID:X allows musicians to shape and switch tones instantaneously, combining technology with the enjoyment of music.
