I had heard the bigger ID Core amps and wanted one to get decent sounds in a bedroom without wearing out my valve amps through an attenuator. My 10 watt ID Core has several very good amp sounds including the two clean amps that break up nicely when driven. The ISF control shifts the frequencies affected by the EQ so the knob does more than a simple tone control.I like the selection of effects on offer and enjoy the super stereo sound. I make regular use of the built-in attenuator and found the amp has plenty of bass at sensible volume levels. Very good sounds in a small and lightweight portable box.The free Architect software is useful and works well for me. I like the cream colour, nice to have a change from black boxes. I fitted a footswitch socket like those on the 20 and 40 watt ID Cores, note this voids the warranty.

The blackstar mini fly3 I have is almost the same if not better sound wise. What's the point paying more for a practicing amp.

I'm a big fan of Blackstar amps and currently use an ID Core v2 for gigs and sessions, so I was really interested to see how the v4 amp has changed over 2 generations.I think the overall summary is that everything has got a bit better, which makes an already excellent amp even better.Improved features that I noticed in no particular order are :+ The USB connection (used for recording, and for the controlling/programming the amp from the Architect PC software) has been upgraded to a USB C connection. For me, that is important because the USB C connector is much more robust that the previous Mini USB connection.+ There is a very good carry handle built into the case (which is much better than the previous case which had a long strap)+ There is a 10W/1W switch to be able to turn down the loudness without compromising the sound, so that is excellent for late night practicing.+ I was really happy to see that the power supply was 10V, because I usually power my amp from a USB 9V power pack. Some of the older ID Core amps used a 6V supply which was much less convenient for the USB power packs.And, of course, the most important bit is the quality of noise that the amp makes. My very subjective impression is that sound is similar but a bit better than my current amp. It's difficult to describe, but doing a side by side comparison I felt the sound was just a bit tighter and better controlled. All the built in effects continue to sound very good indeed.As in previous models, there is a physical ISF knob to adjust the tone, but if you dig into the Architect software you will also find more traditional Bass. Middle and Treble controls.What was totally new to me was the ability to select a certain amount of cabinet emulation (without being a full-blown modelling amp). I thought it was a good choice range without being overwhelmed with the gazillion options that you sometimes find on other amps.Overall, in my opinion, Blackstar has made a bunch of really worthwhile improvements to this already excellent amplifier.I don't think you can get a better home amplifier in this price range anywhere.

I’ve had the chance to use this compact amp for a few months now, and while it’s not going to replace a larger setup, it’s great for what it is. The built-in effects offer some nice variety, making it fun to experiment with different sounds. I appreciate the ability to reduce the power, especially when I need to practice without disturbing others. The sound quality is decent, though it doesn’t have the richness or depth of a higher-end model. It’s a solid choice for beginners or for someone needing a portable option for small spaces.

I was impressed by what this little amp had to deliver. The sound quality is pretty good, especially for the amateur guitarist. It's has plenty of sound options, with the ability to add more if you chose. The built in turner is handy and works well.For me, the icing on the cake was the option to use the amp as a digital audio device. By using a USB-C cable the amp can be connected to your PC/MacBook/iPad etc for recording or using with virtual amp software.Highly recommended