Blackstar ID:Core 10 V2 10W Digital Stereo Guitar Combo Amp Black

Most Liked Positive Review

Perfect Home Practice/Jamming Solution, Beginner or Advanced

Purchased from Guitar Center, Birmingham AL for $99.99 plus tax. Just around 15 years ago, I started out playing the electric guitar with a 30-watt Crate solid-state amplifier bought for around $150. I quickly moved on and got rid of that terrible amplifier, moving on to a tube combo as soon as money would allow. I would guess most guitarists have shared similar experiences, but times are clearly changing - I don't see any beginner outgrowing the Core 10 V2 quickly. There's also plenty to like for more advanced players, as well. The build quality is more than adequate for it's intended purpose. This is absolutely not a gig-worthy amplifier in terms of volume output, but the cabinet feels reasonably sturdy and likely to survive a fair share of bumps and scuffs. It remains very light as well - I would guess ten pounds or less. Don't be fooled by the diminutive size, the two 3" speakers put out an impressive amount of bass. There's a distinctly hi-fi sound to the Core 10, leading to a noticeable brightness of tone not present in comparable 1x8" combo practice amps. Not only do all of the models sound excellent at sub-conversation volumes, the effects sound very spacious and rich. The interface is intuitive and blessedly simple. The "ISF" tone knob makes it virtually impossible to dial in a bad sound, although I found it a bit boomy at 3 o'clock or higher. Blackstar advertises that the Core can be connected to a Mac or PC as a recording / re-amping interface. No USB cable is included, and once I rustled up one and installed the "Insider" software for recording and deeper editing, I was unable to get the amp to connect. I'm using Windows 10 on a fairly high-spec computer. Not knocking a star off because I already have an interface and DAW and don't necessarily need this feature, but it's something to be aware of for potential buyers. All in all, a phenomenally great-sounding practice amp at a stupidly low price. Anyone should have one of these in their collection.