Blackstar ID:Core Stereo 20 V4 20W Guitar Amp Combo Owner’s Manual

June 16, 2024
Blackstar

Blackstar ID:Core Stereo 20 V4 20W Guitar Amp Combo

Blackstar-ID-Core-Stereo-20-V4-20W-Guitar-Amp-Combo-
product

Product Information

Specifications

  • Model: ID:CORE STEREO 10 V4, ID:CORE STEREO 20 V4, ID:CORE STEREO 40 V4
  • Designed and Engineered by: Blackstar Amplification UK

Important Safety Instructions

  1. Read these instructions.
  2. Keep these instructions.
  3. Heed all warnings.
  4. Follow all instructions.
  5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
  6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
  7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
  8. Install by the manufacturer’s instructions.
  9. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
  10. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
  11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
  12. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
  13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
  14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.

WARNING:
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall not be placed on the apparatus.

  • This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operation and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
  • This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

Product Usage Instructions

Warning
Important safety information! READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY. SAVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE! Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product!

Danger! High internal operating voltages.

ALL

  • Do not open the equipment case. There are no user-serviceable parts in this equipment. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
  • Clean only with a dry cloth.
  • Condensation can form on the inside of an amplifier if it is moved from a cold environment to a warmer location. Before switching the unit on, it is recommended that the unit be allowed to reach room temperature.
  • Unauthorized modification of this equipment is expressly forbidden by Blackstar Amplification Ltd.
  • Never push objects of any kind into ventilation slots on the equipment casing.

FAQ

  • Q: Can I use the ID: CORE STEREO amplifier near water?
    A: No, it is important not to use this apparatus near water to ensure safety.

  • Q: Can I clean the amplifier with a wet cloth?
    A: No, you should only clean the amplifier with a dry cloth.

  • Q: Can I modify the ID: CORE STEREO amplifier?
    A: No, unauthorized modification of this equipment is forbidden for safety reasons.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Read these instructions.
  2. Keep these instructions.
  3. Heed all warnings.
  4. Follow all instructions.
  5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
  6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
  7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
  8. Install under the manufacturer’s instructions.
  9. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
  10. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
  11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
  12. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
  13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
  14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

“TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THIS APPARATUS FROM THE AC MAINS, DISCONNECT THE POWER-SUPPLY CORD PLUG FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE.”

WARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. THE APPARATUS SHALL NOT BE EXPOSED TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING AND OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, SHALL NOT BE PLACED ON THE APPARATUS.

  • This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operation and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
  • This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

Warning!

Important safety information!
READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY. SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!

  • Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product!
  • Danger! High internal operating voltages.
  • Do not open the equipment case. There are no user-serviceable parts in this equipment. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
  • Clean only with a dry cloth.
  • Condensation can form on the inside of an amplifier if it is moved from a cold environment to a warmer location. Before switching the unit on, it is recommended that the unit be allowed to reach room temperature.
  • Unauthorised modification of this equipment is expressly forbidden by Blackstar Amplification Ltd.
  • Never push objects of any kind into ventilation slots on the equipment casing. Do not expose this apparatus to rain, liquids or moisture of any type.
  • Avoid placing vessels filled with liquid on top of the amplifier.
  • Do not place this product on an unstable trolley, stand or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product or to persons!
  • Do not cover or block ventilation slots or openings.
  • This product should not be placed near a source of heat such as a stove, radiator, or another heat-producing amplifier.
  • Use only the supplied power cord which is compatible with the mains voltage supply in your area.
  • Power supply cords should always be handled carefully and should be replaced if damaged in any way.
  • Never break off the earth (ground) pin on the power supply cord.
  • The power supply cord should be unplugged when the unit is to be unused for long periods.
  • Before the unit is switched on, the loudspeaker should be connected as described in the handbook using the lead recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Always replace damaged fuses with the correct rating and type.
  • Never disconnect the protective mains earth connection.
  • High loudspeaker levels can cause permanent hearing damage. You should therefore avoid the direct vicinity of loudspeakers operating at high levels. Wear hearing protection if continuously exposed to high levels.
  • If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed, then refer the product to a qualified service engineer.

The U.S. Government’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified the following permissible noise level exposures:

Duration Per Day In Hours Sound Level dBA, Slow Response
8 90
6 92
4 95
3 97
2 100
102
1 105
½ 110
¼ or less 115

According to OSHA, any exposure above the above permissible limits could result in some hearing loss.

An ear plug protector in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating this amplification system to prevent permanent hearing loss if exposure is more than the limits set forth above. To ensure against potentially dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels such as this amplification system be protected by hearing protectors while this unit is in operation.

All electrical and electronic products should be disposed of separately from the municipal waste stream via designated collection facilities appointed by the government or the local authorities.

Introduction

  • Thank you for purchasing this Blackstar ID: CORE V4 amplifier. Like all our products, this amp is the result of countless hours of painstaking Research and Development by our world-class design team. Based in Northampton (UK), the
  • Blackstar team are all experienced musicians themselves and the sole aim of the development process is to provide guitarists with products that are the ultimate tools for self-expression.
  • All Blackstar products are subjected to extensive laboratory and road testing to ensure that they are truly uncompromising in terms of reliability, quality and above all TONE.
  • ID: CORE represents a truly ground-breaking achievement, combining unique innovations, an intuitive, traditional control set and the versatility of programmability. ID: CORE is one of the world’s best-selling digital amplifiers which has set the modern standard for compact, powerful, versatile amps.
  • Please read through this handbook carefully to ensure you get the maximum benefit from your new Blackstar product.
  • If you like what you hear and want to find out more about the Blackstar range of products please visit our website at www.blackstaramps.com.

Thanks!
The Blackstar Team

Features

  • Since 2007, Blackstar has led the way in the innovation of guitar amplification. ID: CORE represents the culmination of years of technical Research and Development. These amps have an intuitive control set like a traditional amp but have the versatility of programmability. The unique controls allow you, the guitarist, to custom-design your sound.
  • The Voice control has six different settings – Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD 1, and OD 2. When used together with Blackstar’s patented ISF, ID: CORE V4 amplifiers allow unparalleled flexibility and ease of use, enabling you to design the sound in your head and deliver it at home, in the studio or rehearsal.
  • The effects section delivers studio quality Super Wide Stereo modulation, delay and reverb effects simultaneously that you can store with your sound.
  • Deep editing and storing of patches is simple using the Blackstar Architect software. Patches can be shared, uploaded and downloaded via the online community. By connecting a USB-C cable, you can simultaneously send both direct and processed audio to a computer for recording purposes.
  • Blackstar’s Architect software also includes its CabRig™ Lite platform, which is a next-generation advanced speaker simulator that reproduces the sound and feel of guitar speaker cabs in incredible detail.
  • The LINE IN/STREAMING input allows you to connect your ID: CORE V4 to a music device such as a mobile phone or drum machine to play along with. You can also use a suitable TRRS 3.5mm cable for easy input/output Live Streaming with a compatible device.

ID: CORE
V4 now has power reduction down to 1W, allowing you to play at lower volumes without sacrificing tonal quality.

Factory Reset

  • The default factory patches and settings can be restored to your amplifier at any time. Simply hold down the MOD, DLY and REV switches simultaneously, whilst switching on the amplifier.
  • The voice LED will count down to indicate that a factory reset is imminent. If any of the MOD, DLY and REV switches are released before the Voice LEDs have switched off, then the operation is cancelled and the amplifier will remain unaffected.
  • Finally, switch the amplifier power off to complete the process. When powered on, your amplifier will be restored to the factory default settings.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
This process will overwrite any user-saved patches and settings.

Front Panel

ID: CORE STEREO 10 V4 Front Panel

Blackstar-ID-Core-Stereo-20-V4-20W-Guitar-Amp-Combo-fig-
5

ID: CORE STEREO 20 V4 Front Panel

Blackstar-ID-Core-Stereo-20-V4-20W-Guitar-Amp-Combo-fig-
6

ID: CORE STEREO 40 V4 Front Panel

Blackstar-ID-Core-Stereo-20-V4-20W-Guitar-Amp-Combo-fig-
7

  1. Input

    • Plug your guitar in here.
    • Always use a good-quality screened guitar lead.
  2. Voice
    The Voice control changes the preamp voicing, ranging from ultra-clean to extremely overdriven.

    • Clean Warm – Classic clean
    • Clean Bright – Boutique Clean, will break up when pushed hard
    • Crunch – Classic Crunch sound with medium gain overdrive
    • Super Crunch – A modern-driven gain with more punch than Crunch
    • OD 1 – Hot-rodded Master Volume overdrive perfect for those smooth solos
    • OD 2 – A tight metal rhythm tone with boosted overdrive
      This setting is saved when you store a patch.
  3. Gain
    The Gain control adjusts the amount of overdrive or distortion. Low settings (counterclockwise) will deliver a cleaner sound on the edge of breakup. As the Gain control is turned clockwise the sound will become more overdriven, moving through beautiful crunch tones until, at its maximum position, a fully distorted tone is achieved. This setting is saved when you store a patch.

  4. Volume
    This controls the preamp volume. High levels of volume will introduce the effect of valve power amp distortion and compression. This is a global setting and is not saved when storing a patch.

  5. ISF
    The patented ISF control allows you to choose the exact tonal signature you prefer. Fully counterclockwise has a more American characteristic with a tight bottom-end and more aggressive middle , and fully clockwise has a British characteristic which is more ‘woody’ and less aggressive. This leads to a very familiar, musical response. This setting is saved when you store a patch.

  6. MOD (Modulation)
    Press this switch to turn the stereo modulation effect on, or off, or focus the effect for editing. This setting is saved when you store a patch.

  7. DLY (Delay)
    Press this switch to turn the stereo delay effect on, off, or focus the effect for editing. This setting is saved when you store a patch.

  8. 8. REV (Reverb)
    Press this switch to turn the stereo reverb effect on, off, or focus the effect for editing. This setting is saved when you store a patch.
    For all three effect switches/buttons, the LED shows what state the effect is in:** LED| Effect State| Description**
    ---|---|---
    LED not on| Effect off| Effect not active
    LED red| Effect on but not ‘focused’ for editing| Effect is active, but not affected by the front panel effect controls
    LED green| Effect on and ‘focused’ for editing| Effect active and affected by the front panel effect controls

Repeatedly pressing each effect switch on the front panel has the following effect:****

Current Effect State Next Effect State
Effect off Turns the effect on and ‘focuses’ the effect. Any previously

focused effect reverts to an ‘on’ state
Effect on but not ‘focused’| Focuses the effect. Any previously focused effect reverts to an ‘on’ state
Effect on and ‘focused’| Turns the effect off. If any other effect(s) are on, the previously ‘focused’ effect resumes being ‘focused’

NOTE: Only one effect may be ‘focused’ at any time.

  1. Effect Type

  2. This changes the effect type and edits a parameter of the currently ‘focused’ effect (modulation, delay, or reverb).
    Each segment represents a different effect (four for each type of effect). An LED shows which effect type is currently active. The distance travelled through the ‘segment’ modifies an effect parameter. The Effects Table below shows the modifiable parameters.

  3. This setting is saved when you store a patch.

  4. Effect Level

    • This modifies an effect parameter. For modulation and delay effects, turning the Level control while holding down the Tap button (11) modifies the rate/time of the effect.
    • The Effects Table below shows the modifiable parameters.
    • This setting is saved when you store a patch.
  5. Tap

    • The Tap switch is used to set the rate/time of the current ‘focused’ effect. The time between each press of the tap button defines the rate set.
    • Once set, the Tap LED will flash in time with the set rate of the currently ‘focused’ effect.
    • The Effects Table below shows the modifiable parameters:
      Effects Table****

Effect| Segment Parameter Level Parameter Tap Parameter
---|---
MODULATION|
Phaser| Mix| Depth| Speed
Chorus / Flanger| Morph| Mix| Speed
Envelope| Sensitivity| Depth| –
Tremolo| Frequency modulation depth| Amplitude modulation depth| Speed
DELAY|  |  |
Linear| Feedback| Delay level| Time
Analogue| Feedback| Delay level| Time
Tape| Feedback| Delay level| Time
Multi| Feedback| Delay level| Time
REVERB|  |  |
Room| Size| Reverb level| –
Hall| Size| Reverb level| –
Spring| Size| Reverb level| –
Plate| Size| Reverb level| –
12. Power Switch
This switch is used to turn the amplifier on and off; the white dot marks the ON position.

  1. USB
    Plug a USB-C cable in here to connect the amplifier to a Windows, PC or Mac. Blackstar’s ARCHITECT software offers a host of features and can be downloaded from: https://architect.blackstaramps.com.
    See the USB Audio section on page 15 for more information.
    NOTE:
    The amplifier will appear on a personal computer as an audio capture device within recording software.

  2. Manual
    Press this switch to toggle between Patch and Manual Mode. When the amplifier is in Manual Mode, the sound will reflect the current physical position of the knobs. This applies to the Voice, Gain, Volume and ISF knobs. Any effects that are active when switching to Manual Mode will be turned off.
    While in Manual Mode any of the controls can still be modified by the Blackstar ARCHITECT software but this means that the sound will not represent the positions of the knobs on the front panel
    Patch Mode
    Patch mode is indicated by the Manual LED (14) being unlit. See Programmability section on page 14 for more information.
    Tuner Mode
    Holding the Reverb (8) switch for one second will engage the tuner. The Recall Indicator LED (18) will flash continuously to indicate the amplifier is in Tuner Mode. The amplifier output will be muted whilst in the Tuner Mode.
    The Voice LEDs will indicate the closest note to the note being played.

  * Clean Warm String 1 (E)
  * Clean Bright String 2 (A)
  * Crunch String 3 (D)
  * Super Crunch String 4 (G)  

OD 1 String 5 (B)The MOD, DLY and REV LEDs act as indicators to show how close the played note is to the tuned note.

  * MOD LED red Note is sharp (above pitch)
  * DLY LED green Note is in tune
  * REV LED red Note is flat (below pitch)  

All other LEDs on the front panel will be off in Tuner Mode. Pressing any button will exit Tuner Mode.

  1. Footswitch (ID: CORE STEREO 20, 40 only)
    Connect a Blackstar FS-11, FS-18 or FS-22 footswitch (not supplied) to control your
    ID: CORE in one of the following modes:Blackstar-ID-Core-Stereo-20-V4
-20W-Guitar-Amp-Combo-fig- 4
  * In Alternative Mode (selected via ARCHITECT) patches will cycle on a ʻloopʼ. e.g. switching up from OD2 will move to Clean Warm.
  * When in Manual Mode, the effect of any foot controller switch will depend on its last state. Pressing Switch 1 will return the amplifier to Patch Mode. Pressing Switch 2 will toggle the effects off and on without returning to Patch Mode.
  1. Line In/ Streaming
  * Play audio from your mobile device through the ID: CORE using a stereo 3.5mm AUX cable (not supplied). Adjust the player’s volume to match that of your guitar to enable you to play along.
  * Use your ID: CORE as an interface to play, live stream, practice and record on your mobile device. Unlike a standard audio 3.5mm TRS jack that only allows audio to be sent from your device, (e.g. to your headphones), the TRRS jack on your ID: CORE allows audio to be sent and received at the same time. This allows you to playback audio from your device and send audio to your device from your ID: CORE. This feature allows you to use apps such as GarageBand and Instagram Live with a single cable.  

To use your ID: CORE amplifier as your Livestream Interface:

  1. Connect your TRRS cable to your amplifier’s Line IN/Streaming socket (see diagram above).
  2. Connect the opposite end of the TRRS cable to your device’s 3.5mm input.  

NOTE: Apple iPhone/Tablet users: To connect to your mobile device, use a Lightning to 3.5mm adaptor (It is advised to use an official Apple manufactured cable/Adaptor for guaranteed compatibility)

  3. Open an Audio recording software or Camera application on your phone.
  4. Press record to test your levels are loud and clear. Use the channel ‘Gain’ controls on your amplifier to set the level sent to your phone.
  5. Test and adjust your channel controls and effects for optimum sound on your Blackstar amplifier.
  6. Record High-quality videos, Audio memos and Livestream (direct to Instagram Live, Facebook, YouTube, Twitch and more) straight from your amplifier.
  1. CabRig™ & Phones
  * CAB RIG LITE is a next-generation advanced speaker simulator that reproduces the sound and feel of guitar speaker cabs in incredible detail.
  * This output also emulates the tonal characteristics of a guitar speaker cabinet and provides a natural tone for connection to headphones, a recording device, a PA system or a mixing desk.
  * To make full use of the Super Wide Stereo effects, use a ‘Stereo 3.5mm jack to two Mono Jacks’ splitter lead to feed two channels of the recording device or mixer. Always use a good quality screened lead.
  * Turning the Volume knob will control the Emulated Output level.
  *  **NOTE:** The Amplifier speakers will mute when a cable is connected to the CabRig™ & Phones jack.
  1. Recall Indicator
  * The Recall Indicator shows if there is a mismatch between the current value of a parameter within the amplifier and the corresponding physical front panel control. For example, when you change to a different patch the controls on the front panel may not always reflect the setting you are hearing.
  * To prevent unexpected level jumps in the control you are adjusting, the front panel knobs will not affect the sound until the knob reaches the current parameter value. Once reached the Recall Indicator flashes twice and the knob ‘takes control’ of the value and can increase or decrease the value.
  * The recall indicator will flash each time the physical knob ‘passes through’ the currently active value that you are hearing.
  * Recall is active for Gain, Volume and ISF.
  * When the Tuner is active the Recall Indicator will flash continuously.
  1. Power Reduction
  * The Power Reduction button allows the user to reduce the output stage from full power down to 1W without sacrificing tone:
  * Full Power – This is the full power setting which will give the loudest clean headroom.
  * 1W – This is the low power setting which reduces the output down to 1 Watt. Use this when lower volumes for practice and recording are desired.

Rear Panel

DC Input

  • The supplied detachable DC power supply is connected here. Always ensure the Power Switch (12) is in the OFF position before connecting the power supply. The lead should only be connected to a power outlet that is compatible with the voltage, power and frequency requirements stated on the power supply. If in doubt seek advice from a qualified technician.
  • Optionally, your ID: CORE can also be powered by Blackstar’s PB-1 PowerBank (not supplied). The PB-1 provides portable power for between 4-8 hours with your ID: CORE, depending on usage.

Programmability

Storing Patches

  • Your ID: CORE amplifier stores 6 patches (1 patch per Voice setting).
  • To store the current sound as a patch press and hold the Manual switch for two seconds. The currently selected Voice LED will flash to indicate the patch has been stored.
  • Storing a patch will overwrite any previous patch in that location.
  • Patches can also be stored via Blackstar’s ARCHITECT software.

NOTE:
Each patch on your ID: CORE must use the Voice setting assigned to that patch i.e. the Clean Warm patch uses the Clean Warm voice.

Recalling Patches

  • When in Patch Mode turn the Voice control to choose the desired Voice patch.
  • Patches can also be recalled via the Blackstar ARCHITECT software or a connected foot controller (ID: CORE STEREO 20, 40 only).

NOTE:
To recall a patch, the Manual LED must be off to indicate Patch Mode. Turning the Voice control while the Manual LED is on (in Manual Mode) will only select the indicated voice.

USB Audio

  • WINDOWS – The Blackstar Amplification USB Audio Driver is required to work on Windows. To download the driver please visit: www.blackstaramps.com/idcorev4-welcome/
  • MAC – No installation of Audio Drivers is required. Connect your amp directly to your Mac to use as a plug-and-play audio interface.
  • For a guide on low-latency USB recording, visit: www.blackstaramps.com/usbrecording.
  • NOTE: Always connect the amplifier via a main USB port, often found on the rear of the computer.

The amplifier will appear as an audio capture device within the recording software. The USB audio signal output level from your ID: CORE amplifier can be controlled independently of your amplifier’s speaker volume by holding down the Tap switch (11) whilst turning the Gain control (3) on the front panel (see the Advanced Features section on page 16). This will allow you to achieve a strong recording signal level whilst monitoring the output at a lower, more comfortable level, or even silently if you prefer; simply turn the amplifier speaker volume to zero using the Volume control on the front panel.

The audio output via USB from your amplifier directly to your computer is carried across four independent, simultaneous channels:

  • Channel 1: Stereo emulated, left channel – The fully processed guitar sound, with speaker cabinet emulation. Contains the left channel of the Super Wide Stereo effects.
  • Channel 2: Stereo emulated, right channel – The fully processed guitar sound, with speaker cabinet emulation. Contains the right channel for the Super Wide Stereo effects.
  • Channel 3: Preamp output – The preamp sound of the Voice and EQ stage, taken before the effects, and without any speaker cabinet emulation. Ideal for use with your own effects and cabinet emulation plugins from your recording software/DAW.
  • Channel 4: Unprocessed guitar signal – The signal as it comes out of your guitar. Record this signal for later use during Reamping (see ‘Reamping’ section below).

These audio streams can be recorded simultaneously within your chosen recording software/DAW.

TIP:
To record a truly Super Wide Stereo-effected sound – which is faithfully recreated when playing back your recorded tracks on any stereo speakers – pan the stereo-emulated left channel 100% left in the mix, and pan the right channel 100% right.

Your ID: CORE amplifier can also receive audio input from your computer:

  • Channel 1: Line input, left channel – Used for audio monitoring or MP3/backing track playback. Playback through the left internal speaker.
  • Channel 2: Line input, right channel – Used for audio monitoring or MP3/backing track playback. Playback through the right internal speaker.
  • Channel 3: Reamping input – Send a pre-recorded unprocessed guitar signal to your amplifier for Reamping, when in Reamping mode.
  • Channel 4: Unused

Reamping

  • The amplifier can be switched into Reamping Mode via the Blackstar ARCHITECT software. This is a non-storable setting and will be switched off either when the USB cable is removed, or when the amplifier power is switched off.
  • When activated, Reamping Mode allows the amplifier to accept a pre-recorded, dry guitar signal via USB output 3 and returns a fully processed audio signal on USB input 1 + 2. This return signal can then be captured using recording software on the connected PC or Mac. Please be aware that to use Reamping mode you need to have your recording software set to use ID: CORE V4 as your audio interface.

TIP:
Reamping requires a dry guitar track to have been captured at the time of recording. You can use USB channel 4 on your ID: CORE V4 to record a dry guitar track alongside Channels 1 and 2, to have the option to remap it at a later date.

NOTE:
If you wish to use ID: CORE V4 in re-amp mode with another interface and studio monitors you will need to set up an aggregate sound device which will allow you to use multiple interfaces simultaneously.

  • On Mac, you can create an aggregate device using the operating system Audio/Midi preferences.
  • You can create an aggregate device on Windows using the free tool ASIO4ALL. https://asio4all.org/.

Advanced Features

Your ID: CORE amplifier has further advanced features that are aimed at more in-depth users who enjoy getting the most from their amplifier. These features do not have independent controls on the front panel of the amplifier but instead are accessed by using the Tap switch (11) as a ‘shift key’ and using other controls to access these features.

Independent Music Playback Volume – Tap + Volume
Under most circumstances, the volume of your music playback via the MP3/Line Input is effectively controlled directly from your playback device. For quieter environments and general convenience, you can also further reduce the music playback volume of your ID: CORE amplifier by simply holding down the Tap switch (11) whilst turning the Volume control (4) on the front panel.

USB Recording Level – Tap + Gain
As stated in the USB Audio section (see page 15), the output level of the USB audio signal from your ID: CORE amplifier can be controlled independently of your amplifier’s speaker volume by holding down the Tap switch (11) whilst turning the Gain control (3) on the front panel.

Effect Speed/Time – Tap + Effects Level
As stated in the Effect Level section (see page 10), the speed/time of the modulation and delay effects can be controlled by holding down the Tap switch (11) whilst turning the Effect Level control (10) on the front panel. This can be very useful for setting a specific accurate effect tempo instead of using the Tap switch.

Firmware Update
Firmware updates are initiated via the Blackstar ARCHITECT software. A new version of the Blackstar ARCHITECT software will be released whenever an update is available.
Important note: Always connect the amplifier to a main USB port (usually found on the rear of your PC or Mac) when updating the firmware. Never use a front- mounted USB port, USB hub or a USB extension cable. Doing so may result in a failed update, which could cause your amplifier to become unresponsive.

When the amplifier is connected (via USB) to a version of the Blackstar ARCHITECT software containing newer firmware, a message will be displayed prompting you to install the latest files. Whilst updating, the amplifier controls will be unresponsive. Front panel voice LEDs will cycle to indicate data activity during the update process. The amplifier power should not be switched off during a firmware update. If the amplifier is switched off during an update, the controls may be unresponsive after the power is reapplied and the amplifier will produce no sound. The voice LEDs will cycle to indicate that the amplifier contains no valid firmware.

If you are experiencing problems with the firmware update process the amplifier can be forced to power up in Update Mode. Hold down the Manual (14) & MOD (6) switches simultaneously, whilst switching on the amplifier to enter this mode with the voice LEDs cycling to indicate Update Mode. Connect the amplifier to the Blackstar ARCHITECT software to begin a firmware update. The amplifier must be connected to the Blackstar ARCHITECT software to reinstall valid firmware. The update process will start automatically if the Blackstar ARCHITECT software detects that the amplifier is in this state.

Technical Specification

ID: CORE STEREO 10 V4

  • Power: 10 Watts
  • Speaker: 2 x 5 Watts
  • Weight (kg): 3.7
  • Dimensions (mm): 340(W) x 265(H) x 185(D)

ID: CORE STEREO 20 V4

  • Power: 20 Watts
  • Speaker: 2 x 10 Watts
  • Weight (kg): 5.2
  • Dimensions (mm): 375(W) x 292(H) x 185(D)
  • Footswitch (not supplied): FS-11, FS-18 or FS-22 footswitch

ID: CORE STEREO 40 V4

  • Power: 40 Watts
  • Speaker: 2 x 20 Watts
  • Weight (kg): 6.2
  • Dimensions (mm): 434(W) x 336(H) x 185(D)
  • Footswitch (not supplied): FS-11, FS-18 or FS-22 footswitch

Blackstar Amplification Ltd, Beckett House, 14 Billing Road, Northampton, NN1 5AW, UK For the latest information go to: www.blackstaramps.com. Whilst the information contained herein is correct at the time of publication, due to our policy of constant improvement and development, Blackstar Amplification Ltd reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice.

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