I own a Blackstar ID:60 combo amp (solid state - the one showcased in video) and it's a very versatile, modern and affordable amplifier. It's so much fun to switch between all the different "valve amp" modes and experiment with different tones, sounds and effects. I recommend getting the OPTIONAL foot switch so it frees up your guitar playing and CONSTANT experimenting: what Blackstar calls "The Sound in Your Head". One feature that makes this amp even better is that when connected to the free INSIDER software through your computer (via USB) you are able to download FREE "patches" from Blackstar's online community (you must log on). They have infinite amounts of patches meeting any particular sounds from rockabilly to the dirties metal crunches. You can then save and bring them up from the "BANK's library" through your foot switch or the amp itself. The only thing I wish I could do is crank this thing as loud as it was meant to be (60W) but I live in an apartment house and wish to be a good neighbor. BTW, the ID:60 combo amp weights about 47 lbs. and it's very well made and appointed (made in China - higher models made in the UK). I chose this one over a similar Fender Super Champ X2 amplifier (a hybrid amp) ... I thought that one sounded like crap and was poorly made (cheap looking - ugly knobs too) compared to this one. Bonus: Most of the founding guys and staff at Blackstar used to work at Marshall so they know what they are doing and are merging proven past, present and future technologies unto this thing. Ollie (UK based customer service!!!) was great in giving me first hand technical data. Cheers from NYC.
Thanks for that review MegaCrasherMusic! I was about to purchase one. Looks like I wont now. What a shame. I'd got quite excited about it too. I'll stick with my two tube amps. I've just played a gig in a near by town. We went down great, but my back is killing me. I had surgery on it 4 years ago, and having to carry two heavy tube amps in and out of the venue has crippled me. I'll be OK in about 3 days, but it sucks having to endure this discomfort every time I play a gig. Maybe I was born too soon. Maybe 20 years from now they'll have something incredible sounding, but weighing no more than a couple of pounds... Thanks again for your honesty!
@@TheAxe4Ever Yeah, I had bought an ID260 when the first came out, loved it, used it for many gigs, got lots of compliments on the tone, absolutely loved it. Unfortunately due to financial circumstances I had to sell it. About a year ago i bought a Katana because of all the hype and the price was right. Dont get me wrong, its a solid amp and has a crazy amount of features, but it jusy doesnt have the tube tone and especially feel that this amp has. I just always feel like something is missing with the Katana no matter how much i tweak. So as it stands the Katana is for sale so i can buy the id again.
I need one of these. I tried the 60 watt 2x12 in a guitar shop and It was the first time I could get my tone basically where I wanted it without the use of pedals. I've never really been able to do that before with any amp before.
Got one of these - it's awesome... Played live / Rehearsal Studios and at home, It's got real valve like crispness and it comes alive when you find the sweet spot it in a way I've only heard from a valve amp - it might not be valve, but it's flexibility and programmability might just sway you - I heard a guy playing a fender blues deluxe in my local store, sounded amazing, so I went straight home, set 6L6, warm clean and the ISF to about 10 o'clock and it sounds very very close, and I still have the option to go all Marshall or Vox etc if I want to - for a fraction of the price of and equivalent valve amp.
MegaCrasherMusic But.. but... that's your own comment 1 month later on other video... MegaCrasherMusic 1 month ago Avoid the Core series. Go with the ID TVP series. The difference is night and day! Had an ID Core stereo 100 combo and couldn’t get any good tones out of it so I returned it a week later. No low-end and weak volume. Just picked up the ID 60 TVP combo and it’s sounding really nice. I’m debating whether I should keep it or the Katana Artist that I also purchased, having planned on sending one of them back. Right now the Blackstar is winning
My experience of witnessing someone playing metal tones on a Blackstar TVP is well described in this video: ruclips.net/video/_s4DT-Y16tQ/видео.html It was basically what I heard ... it' was a very good metal sound, as in the video. Based on that, I just don't understand how the metal side of the thing may have been what frustrated you
i've tried the ID260TVP in a music store today. the lead tones were KILLER. I didn't even know it didn't have valves in it. they've nailed the valve tone!
I had the privilege of trying out one of these amps today... i A B'ed it again an Orange and a fender.... this thing is ridiculous!!! at under half the price of the other two amps and it sounds the same, you would not have thought it didn't have any valves in! And so much more versatile. I can see these amps selling by the million. Blackstar have done it right. Very, very right.
i see Cap Lee using a t-shirt saying "greeeetings i am chappers, and i am the captain!" i once sent u guys a message asking if u would do a shirt not only with the little "you" but also with these sentences on top of you, and there it is!! very cool! love it! cheers
I've always been a solid state user because of the price given the fact that I'm a hobbyist who plays in his house rather than a pro gigging guitarist, but I always accepted it as fact that tubes are better. We may have to rethink that idea. This amp is awesome!!!!!
I agree with you completely just one small correction, what usually meant by a solid state amp is a transistor based amp, which still an analogue amp. This is a digital amp.
I've just switched from a Laney Ironheart studio tube head to the ID-100TVP head and I prefer it by far, the response is tighter, more manageable gain and great onboard effects. Can't fault it.
Yep, I think you won that. I gig with a Roland Cube at a certain venue my band gigs at that's too small to take my Marshall out. I love it. It's sounds crystal clear, reacts really well and isn't 30 kilograms and doesn't break my back.
This amp blew me off guard. No way digital amp (and with only 1x12") can sound this healthy without any valves! Still some coldness in the sound but this amp is definetly best sounding solid state I've heard in years.
Wow okay after watching this video this is by far the best combo amp I've ever heard, Rob and the captain agree ! If they say it's the best sounding combo you got to believe them after all the gear they review lol
bass like a fat lass, HILARIOUS. Very impressive for a solid state amp, or any amp for that matter. I am sure taht it sounds even better in person. You must really like Brian Adams to always play that one lick.
I don't hear people ever complaining about a truck vs car battle, or a les paul vs SG battle. People seem to accept that they each serve their own purpose, and people prefer one over the other for various personal reasons and circumstances. But tube vs SS amps get people fired up. Childish IMO. I own a Blackstar tube amp and a Behringer SS. I also own a truck and a car. I own pants and shorts. I have beer, wine and liquor in my kitchen. Wish these kids would catch on already! Cheers mate!
I don't know that there was a tube "myth", but SS/digital amps are certainly getting better and better and closer to tube amp sounds. The one area they still lagged significantly behind was replicating that sweet power tube distortion. That compression and clarity. These seem to have at least come very close. I'm going to get one. Obviously, SS/digital amps have a number of other advantages. Lighter, cheaper, more reliable, and programmable.
I bought an ID60 Head recently after my umpteenth valve amp gave up on me before a gig. I can't fault the amp's sound and I can safely say that I will not be turning back to valve amps now I have one. It delivers exactly the sound I need and was very reasonably priced. I paid £329 for mine.
Gotta say, this is a really cool amp, great concept, and you can really hear the difference in the settings, without it just becoming a mush like certain other digital amps. Also, took me a while to notice the Monster-Cock behind you guys!
After having played tube amps for 18 years and going to digital for 6 years and then back to tube amps I would say there are benefits to both technologies. I still use digital amps for some things. I played through an ID series 60 watt 2x12 and it sounded great and very organic on many settings.Still, the missing link is capturing how a tube amp reacts to dynamic picking and nuances when played at stage volume. This amp blows Line6 out of the water.
I already responded to this exact comment - I stopped paying attention to the Spider line at 3. Bought one, got disappointed, got a different amp, never looked back.
I thought that sounded pretty bloody good - in fact a lot better than some of the valve amps they have demo'd recently. Still sticking with my Series 1 but for the money these are well worth a look. Good Job Blackstar.
Definately a winner. I wish they had this in HiDef Im sure the amp sounds better then what we have heard here. It did sound like a Hi Gain Valve amp towards the end. I couldn't tell much on the less distorted channels but man that thing came to life when they used the KT88 out put emulation. The JCM 800 sound i didn't think sounded so good it was mushy but that easily could had been the recording. Im sure the 2x12 version must be a beast I like the stereo sound of 2 speakers My Vypyrs that way.
Blackstar did a great job on this, I was tired of carrying pedals, no use gates od pedals with Marshall jvm and 6505 heads this things rocks great metal tone my sounds great with my genz benz g flex cab got alot if bottom end for the price can't beat it I'm impressed this thing is loud!!! plus sounds good at high volumes doesn't break up OD2 and 6L6 settings \m/ is my favorite cleans are great to. I'm a marshall and mesa fan but I have to tip my hat to Blackstar on this id tvp head great job, you have to try it for yourself I don't know how their cabs are but g flex sounds great with this head no need for pedals:)
Mike C no I don't actually I'm impressed with the gain. I mean for a solid state this thing rocks and quiet feedback wise. I have high gain tube amps but they have hissing hum when there g a in is cranked up. for this price you can't beat it maybe try one out for yourself I like the od 2 and 6L6 setting on the amp. and like I said a good cab works wonders on any amp.
Mike C. Try OD 2 and make sure your TV switch is on and 6L6 and gain on 10 and ISF turned left around 3. with the ISF turned left it will be more American sounding turned right more British sounding. hope this helps for your metal tone.
Mike C smh I'm not sure what would cause that wah sound I just use the delay . . only thing I can think of is try hooking up a lap top computer and use the software to try to find that metallica tone from the data base that your looking for.
Hey Mike C make sure you don't have your effects on your Amp. that might be the reason your getting that wah sound just trying to figure out your issue. mine doesn't do it.
This amp sounds ridiculously good. I also love the fact that it's stupid simple to get a good sound out of. My Vetta II appears to have shit the bed (firmware crash) and the ID260TVP is likely waiting on deck if I can't it running again. The wide stereo on the ID260 is crazy. I'm thinking about pairing it with a PODHD as a midi controller and for some additional front end FX. I'm starting to get a real bad case of GAS but gotta check myself, as the Vetta was a major investment in terms of cash and time wasted getting the sounds I needed out of it.
Some nice tones in the video. I was looking for a modelling amp and the guy at the local pointed me to the blackstars. Gee they sound good. I'll be checking them out a bit more now.
Nope, never have. It certainly seems more responsive than any SS amp I've tried. I'm going to buy the 60 watt head, but it doesn't mean I'm getting rid of my tube amps. This is just a good thing to have IMO. Great tone, light, and versatile.
Only one complaint I didn't hear the effects demoed ? I would had liked to hear the quality of the effects for sure. I love delay. That button to turn the tube emulation off is funny!! I actually like that feature and its just like Lee said its to show people what other digital amps sound like LOL!!.
Yeah, I actually record bass with the direct out on a cube. Sounds a lot better than any other attempt I've made to record bass. I suppose there are a fair few pretty terrible solid state amps out there, so I can understand misconceptions. But there are some great ones, like the Roland Cubes, Fender Mustangs and the Vox Pathfinders. I would prefer using my Marshall, but sometimes it's just too impractical.
I agree with you I have several high end tube amps including a 100 watt Blackstar head. When the 100 watt Head comes available in Canada i am getting one
I'd never heard of the ID series until this video, then I started looking seriously at them. The difference between the ID and the ID core is huge. I'd never even consider the core and just save my cash longer for a proper amp. I was intrigued by the mention of the 260 so I found it at a local CG and played it. Sweet baby Jeebus what an incredible amp. This video is no fucking joke about the sounds and power of this amp, especially in a 2x12. I ordered it from Sweetwater simply because they offered an extra year of warranty for free and the douche at GC was trying to push crap on me that was double the 600 I was already going to spend. I already had a valve amp, I wanted something different. Unless this amp absolutely shits itself, I don't see me ever getting rid of it. The Fender Champion 100 it replaced is long gone.
Can you comment on the difference in tone and fullness (in the room) btw the Core 100/150 you tried and the TVP 260? Also, how is the stereo on the TVP 260? Lots of online reviews talk about the impressive stereo on the Core 100/150 - how is it on the TVP 260? Blackstar spec sheet says it's programmable stereo...what does that mean? And lastly (thank u!), how is the 260 at low volume at home? Can you go low volume?
I wish Captain was my uncle who ignored me all year brought me like one bad ass bitchin Christmas present like this amp lol love your guys videos never get old even after so long keep on rockin dudes
If you look at most rockstar's rig/gear. MOST use axe fx for their sound and not to mention what Mr.Collision said, Roland JC is the most famous clean sound you can find out there. Even marshall/fender cleans are in most people's opinion "better" than the JC. Anyways, personal preference but you shouldn't hate and if you dont like it, dont watch it.
Blackstar ID Floorboard :D Proud owner of the ID260, ID60H, and HT20 (versatile, small, valve, awesome ) :D ID floorboard... the idea being to get rid of the speaker box, and offer the ID TVP or Core engine in a more transportable format. The response from Blackstar UK was 'no R&D in this department'... which is cool... I can see Blackstar are busy making awesome stuff. Roll on 2018... The ID Core range kicks a*se (let's be honest... it leaves the M@rsh@ll Code and F@nder M@stang for dead... plus B@ss K series have plainly ripped this concept)... Can the brains trust @ Blackstar R&D foresee an ID Core or TVP floorboard?... light in weight, hardy chassis, dual inputs (switchable), stereo out, dual expression pedals built in, loop (sampler), tap tempo, freeze/hold effect on the reverb...all the super, super, extra super cool stuff a working muso can use... Blackstar ID series has supported me in live gig situations since it hit Australia... because it sounds good, and is lighter than a valve amp. I'd pay for, and would love the support of the ID features in a floorboard, that let's me DI to the desk, and decide on how big (if any) an on-stage speaker box I need. Keep on building guys... you're an asset to the industry. Regards Robert
My ears pricked up (yes I said *prick* Rob) when Blackstar mentioned they were issuing a stereo 60 watt version. That model could be a decent updated replacement for the Roland JC120. Particularly if the F styled lush reverb emulations are up to scratch.
I've never been one for having a go at L6, but I have to say there's a lot more for your money these days with respect to the spider (not as much the valves, they're pretty sound.)
It would be really cool to see a demo video of the Blackstar ID100 compared with the HT100. Same cab, same mic in the same position, all the eq settings at noon... I would really like to hear them side by side.
I just bought a Blackstar Stage 60 and it is WAYYYYYYYYYYY louder that my solid state 100 watt mosfet Marshall. Its no myth, every pro guitar player uses tube amps in the studio because they do sound alot better and thicker. Solid state always sounds thin.
AWESOME!...I have the HT-60 Soloist and lovit to death!! I also have a fender mustang........I think it is going to go bye bye so I can get one of these ID series amps!! Thanks for the Demo!
Very nice review. You people put out some fine review videos. I always search an equipment review on you tube looking to see if you had done a review on that item first.
I can play a bit and I don't have an expensive amp. I play mainly my acoustic guitar. The point I want to get across, though, is that I'm neither crusading for tube amps nor for solid state amps. If your thing is solid state amps then get one by all means. Get whatever sounds best to you, but putting either one down simply doesn't make sense to me because sound lies in the ear of the beholder.
Have you heard one of these in person? I think they have, or at least down to an insignificant level. Bruce Keir talks about how they designed the TVP to produce different voltages across the speaker coil. Just search Blackstar ID Bruce Keir on RUclips and you can watch him talk about it.
I would love to see a new 'ultimate practice amp shootout'. including the blackstar id amps (15 or 30 Watt), the new vypyr vip and the roland cube lite.
You know what makes guitar center suck it doesnt have 2 guys like you to rep the company. I know there are other UK stores, but none of them have the name recognitiion that Andertons has. If someone asked me what store to go to in the UK, Id tell them to go to Andertons. Why? Cause you guys do a great job of marketing and it works great. I live in the states and even I know about Andertons. Very Cool Guys!
I had an HT5R and sold it as I didn't like the lack of headroom on the OD channel and was lacking in features. Sounded fine as far as it went. Depends if you want to use loads of pedals to get what you want and play high gain. Not had a go at the ID:60w yet but it's does more the kind of setup I'm looking for and got Guitarist mag gold rating... so probably the best digital amp on the market. I've bought a few amps on reviews. Now of the mind that I don't buy anything until I've tried it.lol.
i like how lee was complaining about footswictches using Cat5 cables and saying how if you break it nobody has extras, but i would have to say i have more extra Ethernet cables than i do guitar cables.
I can see starting a song with the "True Valve" button off for the opening riff, then clicking it on while the rest of the band kicks in. That would have to be foot or MiDi switchable, though. Overall, sounds pretty good. Blackstar and Marshall having an amp war? good for business :D
I'm getting the 100 Watt head version, with a 4×12,only thing I think I'll get a few pedals univibe,wah,strymon delay so I can have PRECISE control of effects but the amp sounds killer!!!
![[DOKKAN BATTLE] Worldwide Campaign Announcement Video Part 2!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JpT5Voak6WA/mqdefault.jpg)
It never fails, EVERY time I want a review of a product you guys have it! By far my favorite you tube channel.
Brandon Witherspoon Amen to that!
+Brandon Witherspoon its the go to channel for amps hands down
I own a Blackstar ID:60 combo amp (solid state - the one showcased in video) and it's a very versatile, modern and affordable amplifier. It's so much fun to switch between all the different "valve amp" modes and experiment with different tones, sounds and effects. I recommend getting the OPTIONAL foot switch so it frees up your guitar playing and CONSTANT experimenting: what Blackstar calls "The Sound in Your Head".
One feature that makes this amp even better is that when connected to the free INSIDER software through your computer (via USB) you are able to download FREE "patches" from Blackstar's online community (you must log on). They have infinite amounts of patches meeting any particular sounds from rockabilly to the dirties metal crunches. You can then save and bring them up from the "BANK's library" through your foot switch or the amp itself.
The only thing I wish I could do is crank this thing as loud as it was meant to be (60W) but I live in an apartment house and wish to be a good neighbor. BTW, the ID:60 combo amp weights about 47 lbs. and it's very well made and appointed (made in China - higher models made in the UK). I chose this one over a similar Fender Super Champ X2 amplifier (a hybrid amp) ... I thought that one sounded like crap and was poorly made (cheap looking - ugly knobs too) compared to this one.
Bonus: Most of the founding guys and staff at Blackstar used to work at Marshall so they know what they are doing and are merging proven past, present and future technologies unto this thing. Ollie (UK based customer service!!!) was great in giving me first hand technical data. Cheers from NYC.
Nice post buddy!
Thanks for that review MegaCrasherMusic! I was about to purchase one. Looks like I wont now. What a shame. I'd got quite excited about it too. I'll stick with my two tube amps. I've just played a gig in a near by town. We went down great, but my back is killing me. I had surgery on it 4 years ago, and having to carry two heavy tube amps in and out of the venue has crippled me. I'll be OK in about 3 days, but it sucks having to endure this discomfort every time I play a gig. Maybe I was born too soon. Maybe 20 years from now they'll have something incredible sounding, but weighing no more than a couple of pounds... Thanks again for your honesty!
sold, so many tones & built in effects and that has to be one of the best sounding combo amps ive ever heard
+Paul wright Just picked up a 15 - amazing sounds. Can't believe how good this amp is.
that was in 2012 now we are in 2016 going on 2017 and no other company has come close to this amazing amp. \m/
Look at the Yamaha THR10X. It's TINY but it sounds absolutely amazing.
Richard Collier Boss Katana
@@TheAxe4Ever i have had both amps, and in my opinion the katana has more features but doesnt compare in overall real tube tone to the id.
bigmac2785 Really? Hmm...I guess I’m going to have to take a closer look at the ID.
@@TheAxe4Ever Yeah, I had bought an ID260 when the first came out, loved it, used it for many gigs, got lots of compliments on the tone, absolutely loved it. Unfortunately due to financial circumstances I had to sell it. About a year ago i bought a Katana because of all the hype and the price was right. Dont get me wrong, its a solid amp and has a crazy amount of features, but it jusy doesnt have the tube tone and especially feel that this amp has. I just always feel like something is missing with the Katana no matter how much i tweak. So as it stands the Katana is for sale so i can buy the id again.
Prior to seeing this, bought the ID:30 after spending a few minutes with one at a guitar shop. Love it, great tones, very versatile.
I need one of these. I tried the 60 watt 2x12 in a guitar shop and It was the first time I could get my tone basically where I wanted it without the use of pedals. I've never really been able to do that before with any amp before.
Got one of these - it's awesome... Played live / Rehearsal Studios and at home, It's got real valve like crispness and it comes alive when you find the sweet spot it in a way I've only heard from a valve amp - it might not be valve, but it's flexibility and programmability might just sway you - I heard a guy playing a fender blues deluxe in my local store, sounded amazing, so I went straight home, set 6L6, warm clean and the ISF to about 10 o'clock and it sounds very very close, and I still have the option to go all Marshall or Vox etc if I want to - for a fraction of the price of and equivalent valve amp.
if it sounds good, it is good. If it sounds bad to you, it's not your kind of amp. Move along. There's nothing to see here.
MegaCrasherMusic But.. but... that's your own comment 1 month later on other video...
MegaCrasherMusic
1 month ago
Avoid the Core series. Go with the ID TVP series. The difference is night and day! Had an ID Core stereo 100 combo and couldn’t get any good tones out of it so I returned it a week later. No low-end and weak volume. Just picked up the ID 60 TVP combo and it’s sounding really nice. I’m debating whether I should keep it or the Katana Artist that I also purchased, having planned on sending one of them back. Right now the Blackstar is winning
But what YT shows me (dates) is that you said it was garbage and LATER posted you was liking it...
My experience of witnessing someone playing metal tones on a Blackstar TVP is well described in this video: ruclips.net/video/_s4DT-Y16tQ/видео.html It was basically what I heard ... it' was a very good metal sound, as in the video. Based on that, I just don't understand how the metal side of the thing may have been what frustrated you
i've tried the ID260TVP in a music store today. the lead tones were KILLER. I didn't even know it didn't have valves in it. they've nailed the valve tone!
watched this video like 5 times a day since ordering just waiting like a kid for christmas :)
I had the privilege of trying out one of these amps today... i A B'ed it again an Orange and a fender.... this thing is ridiculous!!! at under half the price of the other two amps and it sounds the same, you would not have thought it didn't have any valves in! And so much more versatile. I can see these amps selling by the million. Blackstar have done it right. Very, very right.
this is probably the best solid state amp that i've ever heard, the tube emulation just sound really amazing!
The 60 version is amazing...and I have been a Mesa fan for over 25 years!
7:57 I love Rob just sitting there cracking me up while i hear the details of a great new amp!!
LOL at Robs face at 5:42, had me in tears haha
Wow for a digital amp that thing sounds fucking fantastic. Dayum
this video got me to buy the 100 watt 4×12. I couldn't be happier. thanks guys really.
i see Cap Lee using a t-shirt saying "greeeetings i am chappers, and i am the captain!" i once sent u guys a message asking if u would do a shirt not only with the little "you" but also with these sentences on top of you, and there it is!! very cool! love it! cheers
the accent of the blackstar guy is just so amazing :-D totally love it!
I wanted this amp before. Now I HAVE to have it!
I've always been a solid state user because of the price given the fact that I'm a hobbyist who plays in his house rather than a pro gigging guitarist, but I always accepted it as fact that tubes are better. We may have to rethink that idea. This amp is awesome!!!!!
that is probably the best solid state amp i have EVER heard!
I agree with you completely just one small correction, what usually meant by a solid state amp is a transistor based amp, which still an analogue amp. This is a digital amp.
I've just switched from a Laney Ironheart studio tube head to the ID-100TVP head and I prefer it by far, the response is tighter, more manageable gain and great onboard effects. Can't fault it.
Damn! Even when Blackstar makes digital amps, they rock at it
I FINALLY got a chance to try one of these. They seem scarce here in the USA. Fantastic sounding amp. I really love the TVP options.
no, i want the 2x12...so your not the only one!! these amps are sweet, the whole computer part of it is a sick bonus too
holy shit...Blackstar, doing it right. Always. Seems like the perfect house amp short of a baby valve amp.
Yep, I think you won that.
I gig with a Roland Cube at a certain venue my band gigs at that's too small to take my Marshall out. I love it. It's sounds crystal clear, reacts really well and isn't 30 kilograms and doesn't break my back.
This amp blew me off guard. No way digital amp (and with only 1x12") can sound this healthy without any valves! Still some coldness in the sound but this amp is definetly best sounding solid state I've heard in years.
Wow okay after watching this video this is by far the best combo amp I've ever heard, Rob and the captain agree ! If they say it's the best sounding combo you got to believe them after all the gear they review lol
The power tube emulation is incredible!
bass like a fat lass, HILARIOUS. Very impressive for a solid state amp, or any amp for that matter. I am sure taht it sounds even better in person. You must really like Brian Adams to always play that one lick.
I don't hear people ever complaining about a truck vs car battle, or a les paul vs SG battle. People seem to accept that they each serve their own purpose, and people prefer one over the other for various personal reasons and circumstances. But tube vs SS amps get people fired up. Childish IMO. I own a Blackstar tube amp and a Behringer SS. I also own a truck and a car. I own pants and shorts. I have beer, wine and liquor in my kitchen. Wish these kids would catch on already! Cheers mate!
I don't know that there was a tube "myth", but SS/digital amps are certainly getting better and better and closer to tube amp sounds. The one area they still lagged significantly behind was replicating that sweet power tube distortion. That compression and clarity. These seem to have at least come very close. I'm going to get one. Obviously, SS/digital amps have a number of other advantages. Lighter, cheaper, more reliable, and programmable.
I bought an ID60 Head recently after my umpteenth valve amp gave up on me before a gig. I can't fault the amp's sound and I can safely say that I will not be turning back to valve amps now I have one. It delivers exactly the sound I need and was very reasonably priced. I paid £329 for mine.
Gotta say, this is a really cool amp, great concept, and you can really hear the difference in the settings, without it just becoming a mush like certain other digital amps.
Also, took me a while to notice the Monster-Cock behind you guys!
After having played tube amps for 18 years and going to digital for 6 years and then back to tube amps I would say there are benefits to both technologies. I still use digital amps for some things. I played through an ID series 60 watt 2x12 and it sounded great and very organic on many settings.Still, the missing link is capturing how a tube amp reacts to dynamic picking and nuances when played at stage volume. This amp blows Line6 out of the water.
I already responded to this exact comment - I stopped paying attention to the Spider line at 3. Bought one, got disappointed, got a different amp, never looked back.
You're one hell of a guitar player and got a kick ass band to boot.
I thought that sounded pretty bloody good - in fact a lot better than some of the valve amps they have demo'd recently. Still sticking with my Series 1 but for the money these are well worth a look. Good Job Blackstar.
Definately a winner. I wish they had this in HiDef Im sure the amp sounds better then what we have heard here. It did sound like a Hi Gain Valve amp towards the end. I couldn't tell much on the less distorted channels but man that thing came to life when they used the KT88 out put emulation. The JCM 800 sound i didn't think sounded so good it was mushy but that easily could had been the recording. Im sure the 2x12 version must be a beast I like the stereo sound of 2 speakers My Vypyrs that way.
Blackstar did a great job on this, I was tired of carrying pedals, no use gates od pedals with Marshall jvm and 6505 heads this things rocks great metal tone my sounds great with my genz benz g flex cab got alot if bottom end for the price can't beat it I'm impressed this thing is loud!!! plus sounds good at high volumes doesn't break up OD2 and 6L6 settings \m/ is my favorite cleans are great to. I'm a marshall and mesa fan but I have to tip my hat to Blackstar on this id tvp head great job, you have to try it for yourself I don't know how their cabs are but g flex sounds great with this head no need for pedals:)
Mike C no I don't actually I'm impressed with the gain. I mean for a solid state this thing rocks and quiet feedback wise. I have high gain tube amps but they have hissing hum when there g a in is cranked up. for this price you can't beat it maybe try one out for yourself I like the od 2 and 6L6 setting on the amp. and like I said a good cab works wonders on any amp.
Mike C what cab are you using
Mike C. Try OD 2 and make sure your TV switch is on and 6L6 and gain on 10 and ISF turned left around 3. with the ISF turned left it will be more American sounding turned right more British sounding. hope this helps for your metal tone.
Mike C smh I'm not sure what would cause that wah sound I just use the delay . . only thing I can think of is try hooking up a lap top computer and use the software to try to find that metallica tone from the data base that your looking for.
Hey Mike C make sure you don't have your effects on your Amp. that might be the reason your getting that wah sound just trying to figure out your issue. mine doesn't do it.
Getting the ID30, no questions needed...
wow i can't believe how nice this sounds!
What's the name of the song he jams on at around 20:10 mins? I recognise it but I can't get the name :/
He took his dreads out!
And yes you can open dreads. just "nit" them out
saw this demo, ordered it all the way from england 30 minutes later :)
I have been waiting sooooo long for you guys to get one of these :3
This amp sounds ridiculously good. I also love the fact that it's stupid simple to get a good sound out of. My Vetta II appears to have shit the bed (firmware crash) and the ID260TVP is likely waiting on deck if I can't it running again. The wide stereo on the ID260 is crazy. I'm thinking about pairing it with a PODHD as a midi controller and for some additional front end FX. I'm starting to get a real bad case of GAS but gotta check myself, as the Vetta was a major investment in terms of cash and time wasted getting the sounds I needed out of it.
I used to have a Vetta. I don't miss it.
I was ready to hate, but .. you know, it does does sound really good
Just wanted to say thanks, I've waited a very long time for this video :-)
Some nice tones in the video. I was looking for a modelling amp and the guy at the local pointed me to the blackstars. Gee they sound good. I'll be checking them out a bit more now.
I own the ID:60 and it is a most unusual monster. plugged in a Fender Mustang floor pedal and it became ATOMIC!
Nope, never have. It certainly seems more responsive than any SS amp I've tried. I'm going to buy the 60 watt head, but it doesn't mean I'm getting rid of my tube amps. This is just a good thing to have IMO. Great tone, light, and versatile.
Only one complaint I didn't hear the effects demoed ? I would had liked to hear the quality of the effects for sure. I love delay. That button to turn the tube emulation off is funny!! I actually like that feature and its just like Lee said its to show people what other digital amps sound like LOL!!.
I could not believe how cheap this amp is. I also could not believe I had to go and look it up because you didn't tell us! Sounded interesting.
Yeah, I actually record bass with the direct out on a cube. Sounds a lot better than any other attempt I've made to record bass.
I suppose there are a fair few pretty terrible solid state amps out there, so I can understand misconceptions. But there are some great ones, like the Roland Cubes, Fender Mustangs and the Vox Pathfinders.
I would prefer using my Marshall, but sometimes it's just too impractical.
I agree with you I have several high end tube amps including a 100 watt Blackstar head. When the 100 watt Head comes available in Canada i am getting one
I'd never heard of the ID series until this video, then I started looking seriously at them. The difference between the ID and the ID core is huge. I'd never even consider the core and just save my cash longer for a proper amp. I was intrigued by the mention of the 260 so I found it at a local CG and played it. Sweet baby Jeebus what an incredible amp. This video is no fucking joke about the sounds and power of this amp, especially in a 2x12. I ordered it from Sweetwater simply because they offered an extra year of warranty for free and the douche at GC was trying to push crap on me that was double the 600 I was already going to spend. I already had a valve amp, I wanted something different. Unless this amp absolutely shits itself, I don't see me ever getting rid of it. The Fender Champion 100 it replaced is long gone.
Can you comment on the difference in tone and fullness (in the room) btw the Core 100/150 you tried and the TVP 260? Also, how is the stereo on the TVP 260? Lots of online reviews talk about the impressive stereo on the Core 100/150 - how is it on the TVP 260? Blackstar spec sheet says it's programmable stereo...what does that mean? And lastly (thank u!), how is the 260 at low volume at home? Can you go low volume?
the Captains face at 18:00. That jogging scene. haha!
Love Lee's amp product knowledge
I wish Captain was my uncle who ignored me all year brought me like one bad ass bitchin Christmas present like this amp lol love your guys videos never get old even after so long keep on rockin dudes
If you look at most rockstar's rig/gear. MOST use axe fx for their sound and not to mention what Mr.Collision said, Roland JC is the most famous clean sound you can find out there. Even marshall/fender cleans are in most people's opinion "better" than the JC. Anyways, personal preference but you shouldn't hate and if you dont like it, dont watch it.
Blackstar ID Floorboard
:D Proud owner of the ID260, ID60H, and HT20 (versatile, small, valve, awesome ) :D
ID floorboard... the idea being to get rid of the speaker box, and offer the ID TVP or Core engine in a more transportable format.
The response from Blackstar UK was 'no R&D in this department'... which is cool... I can see Blackstar are busy making awesome stuff.
Roll on 2018...
The ID Core range kicks a*se (let's be honest... it leaves the M@rsh@ll Code and F@nder M@stang for dead... plus B@ss K series have plainly ripped this concept)... Can the brains trust @ Blackstar R&D foresee an ID Core or TVP floorboard?... light in weight, hardy chassis, dual inputs (switchable), stereo out, dual expression pedals built in, loop (sampler), tap tempo, freeze/hold effect on the reverb...all the super, super, extra super cool stuff a working muso can use...
Blackstar ID series has supported me in live gig situations since it hit Australia... because it sounds good, and is lighter than a valve amp.
I'd pay for, and would love the support of the ID features in a floorboard, that let's me DI to the desk, and decide on how big (if any) an on-stage speaker box I need.
Keep on building guys... you're an asset to the industry.
Regards
Robert
My ears pricked up (yes I said *prick* Rob) when Blackstar mentioned they were issuing a stereo 60 watt version. That model could be a decent updated replacement for the Roland JC120. Particularly if the F styled lush reverb emulations are up to scratch.
Well said. If you don't like my choice of dinner don't eat at my house, if you don't like my choice of amp don't jam at my house.
That's some serious ampage right there!
I've never been one for having a go at L6, but I have to say there's a lot more for your money these days with respect to the spider (not as much the valves, they're pretty sound.)
It would be really cool to see a demo video of the Blackstar ID100 compared with the HT100. Same cab, same mic in the same position, all the eq settings at noon...
I would really like to hear them side by side.
I think a sole poweramp with this TVP thingie would be a nice idea.
Gave this amp a go today ..Gotta say it does exactly what this VID shows , Always been a Valve guy .Not so sure anymore .
haha yeah that is my feeling about it aswell! really fucks with your head haha =)
In every Chappers video I ask myself if I like the gear that's been demoed or just the awesome that he plays.
Ive wanting one of these since 2014 or something like that its a fucking great amplifier
Brutal amp.
We need the captain to give us a lick lesson!!!
Was just about to order a HT-5 now thinking i need to have a play with one of them bad boys first.
I just bought a Blackstar Stage 60 and it is WAYYYYYYYYYYY louder that my solid state 100 watt mosfet Marshall. Its no myth, every pro guitar player uses tube amps in the studio because they do sound alot better and thicker. Solid state always sounds thin.
Yeah, thanx... looks that way. Just wanted to be sure it isn't a custom shop or anything like that.
AWESOME!...I have the HT-60 Soloist and lovit to death!! I also have a fender mustang........I think it is going to go bye bye so I can get one of these ID series amps!!
Thanks for the Demo!
sounds pretty good im impressed. was expecting a choppy sound.
Yep, it's direct Line6 amps competitor. Software updates, GUI, patches etc.
At 00:46 LMFAO...A Blackstar ID15 1x10 15W Programable Guitar Combo Amp w/ Effects is roughly $299.99 dollars...Captain Lee's expression with that sound effect is PRICELESS..... ..... ..... ; - )
Very nice review. You people put out some fine review videos. I always search an equipment review on you tube looking to see if you had done a review on that item first.
The 60w TVP60 is a great amp you can't go wrong with. But at the end all i needed was a HT-Dual with some pedals.
I can play a bit and I don't have an expensive amp. I play mainly my acoustic guitar. The point I want to get across, though, is that I'm neither crusading for tube amps nor for solid state amps. If your thing is solid state amps then get one by all means. Get whatever sounds best to you, but putting either one down simply doesn't make sense to me because sound lies in the ear of the beholder.
Have you heard one of these in person? I think they have, or at least down to an insignificant level. Bruce Keir talks about how they designed the TVP to produce different voltages across the speaker coil. Just search Blackstar ID Bruce Keir on RUclips and you can watch him talk about it.
I would love to see a new 'ultimate practice amp shootout'. including the blackstar id amps (15 or 30 Watt), the new vypyr vip and the roland cube lite.
You know what makes guitar center suck it doesnt have 2 guys like you to rep the company. I know there are other UK stores, but none of them have the name recognitiion that Andertons has. If someone asked me what store to go to in the UK, Id tell them to go to Andertons. Why? Cause you guys do a great job of marketing and it works great. I live in the states and even I know about Andertons. Very Cool Guys!
Nice Solid State Amp. I'll have to try this out in person.
it looks and sounds AWESOME!!! :D
George Lynch, Michale Angelo Batio, and Dimebag Darrell are probably the most recognizable
I had an HT5R and sold it as I didn't like the lack of headroom on the OD channel and was lacking in features. Sounded fine as far as it went. Depends if you want to use loads of pedals to get what you want and play high gain. Not had a go at the ID:60w yet but it's does more the kind of setup I'm looking for and got Guitarist mag gold rating... so probably the best digital amp on the market. I've bought a few amps on reviews. Now of the mind that I don't buy anything until I've tried it.lol.
i like how lee was complaining about footswictches using Cat5 cables and saying how if you break it nobody has extras, but i would have to say i have more extra Ethernet cables than i do guitar cables.
Man that amps a little beast :)
Brilliant video chaps!!!
Seriously considering trading in my Series One 45 combo for one of these after playing through one for 30mins in my lunch hour today!
I can see starting a song with the "True Valve" button off for the opening riff, then clicking it on while the rest of the band kicks in. That would have to be foot or MiDi switchable, though. Overall, sounds pretty good. Blackstar and Marshall having an amp war? good for business :D
on the table in the middle
...I don't think that monster can and pumpkin placement was accidental 😂
my next amp for sure.
Bought a Fender Mustang about a month ago, Already may sell it if this is really as awesome as it sounds.
I'm getting the 100 Watt head version, with a 4×12,only thing I think I'll get a few pedals univibe,wah,strymon delay so I can have PRECISE control of effects but the amp sounds killer!!!