Blackstar HN222686 Core 30 Acoustic Instrument Combo Owner’s Manual
- June 5, 2024
- Blackstar
Table of Contents
187401M-2 07/22
ACOUSTIC:CORE 30
Owner’s Manual
The sound in your head
Designed and Engineered by
Blackstar Amplification
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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Read these instructions.
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Keep these instructions.
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Heed all warnings.
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Follow all instructions.
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Do not use this apparatus near water.
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Clean only with a dry cloth.
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Do not block any ventilation openings.
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Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
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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. -
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
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Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
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Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
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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 THAT OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, SHALL NOT BE PLACED ON 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.
| CAUTION
THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DOES NOT OPEN|
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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.
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.
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 of time.
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 |
| 1½ | 102 |
| 1 | 105 |
| 1½ | 110 |
| ¼ or less | 115 |
According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the above permissible limits
could result in some hearing loss.
Earplug protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when
operating this amplification system in order to prevent permanent hearing loss
if exposure is in excess of 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 ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 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 this development process is to provide acoustic players 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.
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
ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 is the result of countless hours of technical research and benchmarking against market-leading acoustic amplifiers. Designed from the ground up for acoustic players, they are straightforward, compact, and designed for the way you play today: streaming, recording, practicing, or live.
Channel 1 features a 1/4″ jack input with GAIN, LOW and HIGH EQ controls with an ENHANCE select feature, which applies a studio-style EQ to give the feeling of space to your instrument sound. An independent REVERB level with two REVERB choices and a dedicated CHORUS level with two separate chorus effects, VINTAGE and WIDE in immersive Super Wide Stereo.
Channel 2 features a combination XLR/jack input with GAIN, LOW, MID, and HIGH
EQ controls – perfect for a microphone or other instruments, and a VOCAL
CLARITY select which makes your microphone dynamically cut through the mix
with a more pronounced professional vocal sound.
A global PHASE button also allows you to control any unwanted feedback.
Your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 acts as your USB Audio interface. By connecting a
USB cable, you can simultaneously send both direct and processed audio to a
computer for recording purposes, with a LINE OUT / HEADPHONE jack for output
to a PA, recording desk, or headphones for quiet practice.
The LINE IN/STREAMING input allows you to connect your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 to a
music device 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.
An integrated Tilt Stand is built into the base of the amplifier to allow you
to finely adjust the angle of your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30.
Front Panel
Channel 1
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Input (1/4″ instrument jack)
Plug your acoustic instrument in here. Always use a good quality screened instrument cable. -
Gain
This controls the input gain of Channel 1. Turning it clockwise increases the input gain, increasing the volume. -
Enhance
This switch applies a studio-style EQ and spatial process to your instrument sound. With this switch in the OUT position, the EQ is flat, providing a natural-sounding starting point for most instruments. The IN position engages an advanced DSP algorithm which gives a sense of space and depth to your sound. -
Low
The LOW control adjusts the number of bass frequencies in your tone. This amplifier has active tone-shaping which allows the low frequencies to be precisely controlled for both the desired sound and also to help control instrument resonances. -
High
The HIGH control allows exact adjustment of the treble frequencies within your sound. At low settings (counter-clockwise) the sound will be warm and darker in character. As the control is increased (clockwise) the sound will become brighter and more lively. -
Chorus
This knob controls the two Super Wide Stereo Chorus effects; VINTAGE and WIDE. Each of these effects has an adjustable level within the segment. With the control fully counter-clockwise there will be no Chorus effect applied. Turning the control clockwise from the OFF position will increase the mix level of the VINTAGE Chorus effect, until the maximum VINTAGE Chorus level is reached with the control in the middle position. From the middle position onwards, the WIDE Chorus effect is controlled; at the fully clockwise position, the WIDE chorus effect will be at the maximum level. -
Reverb
The Reverb control has two studio-quality Super Wide Stereo reverb choices, each with an adjustable level within the segment. With the control fully counter-clockwise there will be no Reverb applied. Turning this control clockwise to the middle position will increase the level of the ROOM Reverb. From the middle position onwards, the HALL Reverb is controlled. At the fully clockwise position, the HALL Reverb will be at the maximum level.
Channel 2 -
Input 2 (combination XLR/jack)
Plug your microphone or another instrument in here. Always use good-quality screened XLR or instrument cables. -
Gain
This controls the input gain of Channel 2. Turning it clockwise increases the input gain, increasing the volume. -
Vocal Clarity
The IN position applies a professional effect which allows your microphone to dynamically cut through the mix with a more pronounced sound. If your vocal sounds dark or too mid-focussed, engage this button to automatically enhance your vocal sounds. -
Low
The LOW control adjusts the number of bass frequencies in your tone. This amplifier has active tone-shaping which allows the low frequencies to be precisely controlled for both the desired sound and also to help control instrument resonances. -
Mid
The MID control adjusts the number of middle frequencies in your tone. The middle frequencies are particularly important in setting the amount of ‘body’ your tone has. -
High
The HIGH control allows exact adjustment of the treble frequencies within your sound. At low settings (counter-clockwise) the sound will be warm and darker in character. As the control is increased (clockwise) the sound will become brighter and more lively. -
Reverb
The Reverb control has two studio-quality Super Wide Stereo reverb choices, each with an adjustable level within the segment. With the control fully counter-clockwise there will be no Reverb applied. Turning this control clockwise to the middle position will increase the level of the ROOM Reverb. From the middle position onwards, the
HALL Reverb is controlled. At the fully clockwise position, the HALL Reverb will be at the maximum level. -
USB Audio Socket
This USB Mini-B socket is for connection to a computer via a suitable USB cable (not supplied). Standard audio drivers are used to connect the amplifier to a PC, Mac, or another applicable recording device – no specific drivers are required. For a guide on low-latency USB recording visit: www.blackstaramps.com/USB recording
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 audio output via USB from your amplifier directly to your computer is carried across four independent, simultaneous channels:
• USB Channel 1 + 2: A Stereo mix of your guitar and vocal channels, including Reverb and Chorus effects.
• USB Channel 3: A separate dry signal from channel 1 – this signal is taken after your EQ.
• USB Channel 4: A separate dry signal from channel 2 – this signal is taken after your EQ. -
Master Volume
This controls the overall output volume of your amplifier. Turning it clockwise increases the volume. -
Phase
This will reverse the phase of the signal within the preamp. Use this to help to suppress acoustic feedback. -
Footswitch (not supplied)
The optional FS-18 footswitch, or any 2-way latching footswitch, can be connected here. The first switch on the FS-18 footswitch labeled ‘A’ toggles the Channel 1 Chorus effect on / off. The second switch, labeled ‘B’ toggles the Reverb effect on/off globally for both channels. -
Line/Headphone Out
This output provides a natural tone for connection to headphones, a recording device, a PA system, or a mixing desk.
For silent recording or headphone use, turn the Master Volume control to zero and adjust the output to taste using the gain controls.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Always use a stereo jack lead when using this output, as this will not function with a mono jack lead. When connecting to a desk or recording
device use a Y-cable (TRS to two mono TS). For a balanced output, use the XLR socket on the rear of the amp. -
Line In/Streaming
Play audio from your phone, MP3 player, tablet, or laptop through the ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 using a stereo 3.5mm AUX cable (not supplied). Adjust the player’s volume to match that of your acoustic guitar to enable you to play along
Use your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 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 ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 allows audio to be sent and received at the same time. This allows you to playback audio from your device and sends audio to your device from your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30. This feature allows you to use apps such as GarageBand and Instagram live with a single cable.
To use
your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 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 the record to test if 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. -
Power Switch
This switch is used to turn the amplifier on and off. The Power Indicator will be illuminated when the amplifier is switched on.
Rear Panel -
DC Input
The supplied detachable DC power supply is connected here. Always ensure the Power Switch (21) is in the OFF position before connecting the power supply. The power supply 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 ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 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 ACOUSTIC: CORE 30, depending on usage. -
XLR D.I Mix Output
This is a professional balanced XLR output for connecting directly to a mixer, stage box, or front-of-house PA. This audio signal is a mix of both Channels, with Chorus and Reverb, and is not affected by the Master Volume. Use this output when playing live to send your mixed Guitar, Vocal, and effects signals to a PA system.
The underside of the Amplifier
An integrated Tilt Stand on the base of the amplifier allows you to easily adjust the angle of your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 for optimum projection of sound. Unscrew the stand to extend it to your desired angle. Please take care not to extend to the extreme length, as your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 may become unstable and fall over.
NOTE: You can use your amp as a stage monitor when playing live. Simply
tilt your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 to the desired angle towards you, and set the
stage volume using the Master Volume knob.
Also Available: Mount your ACOUSTIC: CORE 30 on a standard 35mm PA
speaker stand using the optional Blackstar SA-2 Stand Adaptor.
Technical Specification
ACOUSTIC: CORE 30
Power (RMS): 30 Watts stereo (2×15 Watts)
Weight (kg): 6.3
Dimensions (mm): 375(W) x 292(H) x 185(D)
Accessories
- FS-18 two-button latching footswitch (not supplied)
- PB-1 PowerBank (not supplied)
- SA-2 Stand Adaptor (not supplied)
Blackstar
Amplification Ltd, Beckett House, 14 Billing Road, Northampton, NN1 5AW, UK
For the latest information go to:
www.blackstaramps.com
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.