Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $201

Budget/Beginner

$300

$701+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Blackstar ID:Core BEAM is a versatile combo amplifier that redefines your musical experience, whether you're a budding guitarist or a seasoned bassist. This Bluetooth-enabled marvel integrates the cutting-edge modeling technology of the ID:Core series, offering an immersive soundscape across various instruments. With its 10-mode voicing section, the ID:Core BEAM caters to electric guitar, bass, and even acoustic players, making it a true multi-instrument powerhouse. Its compact design doesn't skimp on features, boasting an array of onboard effects like delay, reverb, and distortion that allow you to sculpt your sound to perfection.

The amplifier doubles as a high-quality Bluetooth speaker, seamlessly transitioning from a practice amp to an entertainment hub. The built-in USB connectivity opens up a world of possibilities, letting you connect to your computer for recording or playback. Whether you're practicing in your bedroom or performing at a small venue, the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM delivers rich, room-filling sound that defies its size. This amp is not just a piece of gear; it's a gateway to endless creativity.

Key Features:

  • Bluetooth connectivity for seamless audio streaming
  • 10-mode voicing section for electric, bass, and acoustic guitars
  • Onboard effects including delay, reverb, and distortion
  • USB connectivity for easy recording and playback
  • Compact design ideal for both practice and small performances

Product specs

Brand Blackstar
Model ID:Core BEAM 20-Watt 2x3" Bluetooth Guitar Combo
Finish Black, Cream, Grey Bronco, Red
Year 2015 - 2025
Made In China
Categories Guitar Combo Amps, Small Amps
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Color Family Black, Grey
Electronics Solid State
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 20
Power Tube Type None
Reverb Digital Reverb
Speaker Configuration 2x3"

FAQs

Can the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM handle both electric and bass guitars?

Yes, the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM is designed to accommodate electric, acoustic, and bass guitars, making it a versatile choice for multi-instrumentalists.

Does the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM have Bluetooth connectivity?

Yes, the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music from your devices for practice or playback.

What built-in effects are available on the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM?

The Blackstar ID:Core BEAM includes built-in effects such as reverb, delay, and modulation, along with specialized effects for bass like envelope and distortion.

Is the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM suitable for home practice?

Yes, with its compact size and 20-watt output, the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM is ideal for home practice and small spaces.

What is the speaker configuration of the Blackstar ID:Core BEAM?

The Blackstar ID:Core BEAM features a 2x3" stereo speaker configuration, providing a rich and immersive sound experience.

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

NEW Blackstar ID:Core BEAM demo video - Bluetooth amplifier

Video thumbnail for NEW Blackstar ID:Core BEAM demo video - Bluetooth amplifier by Blackstar Amplification

NEW Blackstar ID:Core BEAM demo video - Bluetooth amplifier

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Video thumbnail for Blackstar ID:Core Beam review demo by Guitarist

Blackstar ID:Core Beam review demo

Guitarist

Guitarist

Video thumbnail for Blackstar ID:Core Beam Bluetooth Guitar Amp - Overview & Demo by PMTVUK

Blackstar ID:Core Beam Bluetooth Guitar Amp - Overview & Demo

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Blackstar ID:Core BEAM - Advanced features demo by Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar ID:Core BEAM - Advanced features demo

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Video thumbnail for Demo: Blackstar ID:Core BEAM (Full Demo) by Mega Music

Demo: Blackstar ID:Core BEAM (Full Demo)

Mega Music

Mega Music

Video thumbnail for Blackstar ID Core B.E.A.M. Bluetooth Combo Amp by Guitar Center

Blackstar ID Core B.E.A.M. Bluetooth Combo Amp

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Immersive Hi-Fi Audio | ID:Core BEAM | Blackstar by Blackstar Amplification

Immersive Hi-Fi Audio | ID:Core BEAM | Blackstar

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Video thumbnail for Blackstar ID: Core BEAM – Acoustic Guitar Demo by Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar ID: Core BEAM – Acoustic Guitar Demo

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Video thumbnail for Blackstar ID: Core BEAM – Electric Guitar by Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar ID: Core BEAM – Electric Guitar

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Video thumbnail for Blackstar ID: Core BEAM demonstration with Static by Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar ID: Core BEAM demonstration with Static

Blackstar Amplification

Blackstar Amplification

Reviews

PROS

  • Supports electric, acoustic, and bass guitars with diverse tones

  • Bluetooth capability for streaming stereo music/audio

  • Compact and lightweight design

  • Intuitive controls with easy-to-use knobs/buttons

  • Features 12 effects and 12 tones, enhancing versatility

  • Ability to store patches and includes a built-in tuner

  • Compatible with recording software for more advanced features

  • Works well as a Bluetooth speaker with good sound quality

  • Delay and reverb effects praised for their quality

CONS

  • Electric guitar tones can sound tinny and boxy

  • Inconsistent responsiveness from ISF, volume, and gain knobs

  • Overdrive settings may cause microphonic squealing

  • Clean tone is too quiet or causes speaker break-up

  • Lacks power for bass playing with others

  • Effects have limited adjustability from the control panel

  • Constant background noise/pulsing tone during use

  • Power chord is bulky and unwieldy

  • Limited headroom as a bass amp

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Blackstar ID:Core BEAM.

Features and functionality

  • The BEAM's Bluetooth capability is primarily for streaming music or backing tracks, not for wireless guitar input.

    Source
  • The BEAM includes presets for acoustic and bass instruments, offering versatility beyond standard electric guitar use.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BEAM, unlike the ID:Core 10, features Bluetooth and specific acoustic/bass presets, making it more versatile for varied musical needs.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners note that loose solder joints on the power jack can cause connection issues; a simple soldering fix often resolves this.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • One user was satisfied with the amp's performance, especially given the $30 purchase price, despite needing a minor repair.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners found fixing loose power jack connections straightforward; adding solder to the joints usually restores full functionality.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Blackstar ID:Core BEAM Amplifier : Ask.Audio

ask.audio

The Blackstar ID:Core BEAM Amplifier impresses with its compact size, retro style, and modern features like Bluetooth connectivity. It's praised for its sound quality and versatility, offering multiple instrument modes and a range of effects, making it a great practice tool. However, the single-dial EQ might limit detailed sound adjustments for some. Overall, it's a solid choice for musicians seeking portability and functionality.

positive

Blackstar ID:Core BEAM review

guitar.com

The Blackstar ID:Core BEAM is a versatile 20-watt practice amp and Bluetooth speaker that shines as both a guitar amp and a hi-fi speaker. Its compact size and range of amp voices paired with digital effects make it a solid choice for bedroom musicians, while the lack of a handle could be a minor inconvenience. Bluetooth connectivity is a highlight, although initial pairing can be finicky. Overall, its sound clarity and stereo capabilities make it a fun and functional addition to a guitarist's tech arsenal, offering good value despite minor drawbacks.

positive

Blackstar ID:Core BEAM review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Blackstar's ID:Core BEAM impresses with its excellent onboard effects and Bluetooth streaming capabilities, making it an ideal desktop amp that encourages more play. The compact design and versatile sound options, including electric, acoustic, and bass voices, offer great value. While the noise gates can be a tad overactive and a standalone tone control is missed, these issues are minor compared to its strengths. With room-filling Super Wide Stereo sound and robust delay and reverb effects, the BEAM is a solid choice for musicians seeking a versatile, space-saving amp solution.

positive

Quick Hit: Blackstar ID:Core BEAM Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Blackstar ID:Core BEAM is a compact amp that offers impressive versatility for practice and small gigs. It features 12 voicings, including for bass and acoustic, and a wealth of effects. Its standout features are USB connectivity and Bluetooth streaming, making it more than just a traditional amp. While its multifunctionality justifies its price, it might seem steep if you're not utilizing all its capabilities. Overall, it's a well-rounded tool for musicians looking for a flexible, space-saving solution with quality sound.

positive

Blackstar ID:Core BEAM

soundonsound.com

Blackstar's ID:Core BEAM is a versatile, feature-packed amp that excels in delivering high-quality sound across various instruments, including electric, bass, and acoustic guitars, as well as music playback via Bluetooth. Its Super Wide Stereo processing and customizable effects offer an engaging listening experience, making it a fun and practical choice for home use and practice. The lack of battery operation and some limitations in acoustic simulation are minor downsides, but the ability to double as an audio interface adds significant value. Overall, it's a great investment for its price, especially for those who enjoy experimenting with different sounds.

positive
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4.0 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
offsetsolid

An ok amp

This amp is, well, an amp. It's kind of weird how there are different settings for different instruments, because none of them sound all that good. The only thing I use this amp for is the bluetooth. If I ever want to jam along to a song, I use this. It also has some pretty good inbuilt effects. If I'm not mistaken, there's delay, reverb, phaser, flanger, compressor, and tremolo all in one amp. That's pretty cool

onetrickpony

That is about right the amp sounds ok like any ID:Core. The Bluetooth is the real selling points and you can use the Blackstar Insider to fine tweek the amp and load custom patches. Still on the fence on this amp. I like the look and build meanwhile, I added a Bluetooth receiver dongle to my Roland Cube Lite and the jury is still out on this.

offsetsolid

@onetrickpony Yeah most of the time I just use the AUX on my guitar or bass amp

sonnysoul

Good

It's a good practice amp, but is not as good as I hoped when playing along to music from your phone.

sonnysoul

Good

Good home-amp with many good channels and effects in it :)

weaselabby

Meh

It's not that good. It has no headroom at all as a bass amp.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nick Rossi uses Blackstar ID:Core BEAM

Nick Rossi

Guitarist, Bassist

Born of Osiris

...
Verified via Photo

Nick has a blackstar beam amp. he uses this as a small practice amp. he got this amp from his dad as a birthday present

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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