Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 40W Guitar Combo Amplifier

Quick Product Summary

The Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 is a versatile 40-watt programmable guitar amplifier designed for players who want great sounds straight from the control panel while retaining the option to explore deeper editing, recording and content-creation features.

Delivering 40 watts as 2 x 20W Super Wide Stereo through two 6.5-inch Blackstar speakers, the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 produces an immersive sound that makes its modulation, delay and reverb effects particularly effective. Six enhanced amp voices cover everything from warm cleans and edge-of-breakup sounds to crunch and high-gain overdrive, while Blackstar's patented ISF control makes broad tonal adjustment straightforward.

Add 12 built-in effects, 1W power reduction, CabRig Lite speaker simulation, USB-C recording and re-amping, direct-to-phone TRRS streaming, built-in tuning and Blackstar Architect software, and this becomes an excellent all-round amp for practice, songwriting, home recording and developing guitarists.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Blackstar
Series	ID:CORE V4
Model	ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40
Condition	New
Output	40W – 2 x 20W Super Wide Stereo
Speakers	2 x 6.5" Blackstar speakers
Amp Voices	6
Effects	12 built-in modulation, delay and reverb effects
Power Reduction	Down to 1W
Main Appeal	Versatile stereo modelling amp with recording and streaming features
Best For	Home practice, songwriting, recording, learning and jamming

What's Included?

• Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 Guitar Combo Amplifier

• Manufacturer-supplied mains power connection

• ✘ Footswitch not included

• ✘ Blackstar PB-1 PowerBank not included

Compatible FS-11, FS-18 and FS-22 footswitches are available separately.

Why Choose The Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40?

40W Super Wide Stereo Sound

Rather than sending the entire amplifier signal through a single speaker, the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 delivers 2 x 20 watts through two 6.5-inch speakers. Blackstar's Super Wide Stereo processing creates a spacious soundstage that is particularly noticeable when using modulation, delay and reverb.

Six Amp Voices From Clean To High Gain

The Voice control gives you six immediately accessible sounds:

• Clean Warm

• Clean Bright

• Crunch

• Super Crunch

• OD1

• OD2

This makes it easy to move between clean rhythm playing, bluesy breakup, classic rock crunch and heavier distorted tones without building each sound from scratch.

12 Built-In Effects

Four modulation, four delay and four reverb effects are built into the amplifier, with effects operating in Super Wide Stereo. Modulation, delay and reverb can be combined, giving you enough onboard processing to build complete guitar sounds without immediately needing an external pedalboard.

Full 40W Or Home-Friendly 1W Operation

The Power Reduction control drops the amplifier from full output to 1 watt. Full power gives you additional headroom for louder playing, while the 1W mode is particularly useful for everyday home practice where 40 watts is unnecessary.

Easy Controls With Deeper Editing Available

You do not need software to get useful sounds from the ID:CORE V4. Voice, Gain, Volume, ISF and effects controls are available directly from the amplifier.

When you want to go further, Blackstar Architect allows deeper sound editing, patch management and access to CabRig Lite from a compatible computer.

Built-In Chromatic Tuner

A chromatic tuner is integrated directly into the amp, helping keep a practice setup simple without requiring a separate tuner pedal or clip-on tuner every time you play.

Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 vs Popular Alternatives

Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 20

The ID:CORE V4 Stereo 20 shares the same core six voices, Super Wide Stereo concept, effects, USB recording and software functionality in a lower-powered format. Choose the Stereo 20 for predominantly bedroom practice; the Stereo 40 is the stronger option when you want more output and physical presence.

Blackstar ID:X 50

The Blackstar ID:X 50 is the natural step up for players moving towards a more performance-focused modelling amplifier. Its 50W output, 12-inch Anthem speaker, three power settings, expanded effects system and selectable EL84, EL34 and 6L6-style power responses make it better suited to players wanting deeper amp-style control. The ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 remains the more compact choice if stereo effects, easy practice and straightforward operation are priorities.

BOSS Katana-50 Gen 3

The BOSS Katana-50 Gen 3 uses a 50W 1x12 format and offers six amp characters with variations, five effects sections and extensive BOSS Tone Studio editing. It is better suited to someone prioritising a more traditional stage-combo format, while the Blackstar stands out with its compact twin-speaker Super Wide Stereo design and direct TRRS streaming functionality.

Fender Mustang LT40S

The Fender Mustang LT40S is another 40W stereo modelling amplifier, using two 4-inch full-range speakers and a preset-driven interface with a colour display. It is a strong option for players wanting a large library of amp models and presets, while the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 offers a simpler six-voice control system alongside Blackstar's ISF and particularly immersive stereo effects.

Who Is The Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 For?

The ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 is particularly well suited to:

• Beginners wanting an amplifier they can grow into

• Home players who want more output than a small practice amp

• Guitarists who enjoy experimenting with different tones and effects

• Players who prefer physical controls but still want software editing available

• Students practising along with songs and backing tracks

• Home-recording guitarists

• Content creators recording guitar videos or livestreams

• Players who regularly practise through headphones

• Guitarists who want clean, crunch and high-gain sounds from one compact amplifier

Looking for advice on choosing the right practice amp, modelling guitar amplifier or home recording setup? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Suitable Genres And Uses

With six amp voices ranging from Clean Warm through to OD2, the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 can comfortably cover pop, funk, blues, indie, classic rock, alternative, hard rock and modern high-gain guitar.

Its stereo delay, modulation and reverb effects also make it particularly enjoyable for ambient playing and spacious clean sounds, while its USB and TRRS connectivity give it genuine value for songwriting, recording, online lessons and guitar-focused content creation.

What Is Blackstar Super Wide Stereo?

Super Wide Stereo is Blackstar's approach to creating a much broader stereo image from a compact guitar amplifier. The ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 uses two separate 20W channels and a pair of speakers, allowing stereo modulation, delay and reverb effects to spread across the soundstage rather than being collapsed into a conventional mono guitar speaker.

The difference is especially noticeable with delays, chorus-style modulation and spacious reverbs. For a guitarist practising at home, it can make effected sounds feel substantially larger and more immersive without requiring two separate amplifiers.

USB-C Recording, Re-Amping And CabRig Lite

The ID:CORE V4 can function as more than a practice amplifier. Its 4-channel USB-C audio system allows both processed and direct guitar audio to be sent to a compatible computer, making straightforward recording and re-amping possible without adding a separate guitar recording interface for basic setups.

Blackstar's CabRig Lite system provides configurable speaker-cabinet simulation for recorded sounds. Through Architect software, players can adjust elements including cabinet and microphone positioning, providing more control over the direct guitar tone than a basic fixed speaker-emulated output.

Direct-To-Phone Streaming

The Line In / Streaming connection supports a compatible 3.5mm TRRS cable, allowing audio to be sent to and received from compatible mobile devices.

This is particularly useful for guitarists making demonstration videos, livestreaming, recording social content or working with mobile-based music applications without building a complicated routing setup.

Story & Context

Blackstar created the ID:CORE family to combine the immediate control layout of a conventional guitar amplifier with the flexibility of programmable digital amplification. Rather than requiring players to navigate extensive menus simply to find a core guitar sound, the range centres around the company's six-position Voice control and patented ISF tone shaping.

Across successive ID:CORE generations, recording, editing and connectivity have become increasingly important alongside the core guitar sounds. The V4 generation introduces USB-C connectivity, CabRig Lite speaker simulation, direct TRRS streaming and 1W power reduction, bringing the series more closely into modern home-recording and content-creation workflows.

The Stereo 40 sits at the top of the regular ID:CORE V4 combo range and combines the family's compact format with 40 watts of stereo output, making it particularly appealing to players who want more authority than the smaller Stereo 10 and Stereo 20 models.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	Programmable digital guitar combo amplifier
Output Power	40W total
Stereo Output	2 x 20W
Speaker Configuration	2 x 6.5" Blackstar speakers
Audio Format	Super Wide Stereo
Amp Voices	Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD1, OD2
Tone Shaping	Blackstar patented ISF
Built-In Effects	12
Modulation Effects	4
Delay Effects	4
Reverb Effects	4
Effects Operation	Super Wide Stereo
Power Reduction	1W mode
Built-In Tuner	Chromatic tuner
USB Audio	4-channel USB-C
USB Recording	Yes
Re-Amping	Yes
Speaker Simulation	CabRig Lite
Software	Blackstar Architect
Line In / Streaming	3.5mm TRRS compatible
Footswitch Compatible	Yes
Compatible Footswitches	FS-11, FS-18, FS-22
Bluetooth Audio	No
Weight	6.2 kg
Dimensions	434 x 336 x 185 mm

Connectivity & Compatibility

The ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 works particularly well as an all-in-one home guitar setup. Standard effects pedals can be connected before the guitar input, although much of the modulation, delay and reverb functionality many players need is already built into the amp.

The FS-11, FS-18 and FS-22 footswitches provide compatible external control and are sold separately.

For computer users, USB-C opens up recording, re-amping, Architect editing and CabRig Lite. Mobile content creators can use the TRRS streaming connection with compatible devices, while the Line In function allows external audio and backing tracks to be played through the amp.

Power Requirements

The Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 is normally mains powered using its manufacturer-supplied power connection.

Blackstar also designed the ID:CORE V4 range for compatibility with the optional PB-1 rechargeable PowerBank, allowing a suitably equipped setup to be used away from a conventional mains socket.

The PB-1 is sold separately.

Fair Deal Music Verdict 🎵

★★★★★ 5/5

The Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 is a particularly strong choice for players who want a compact modelling amplifier that is easy to understand without becoming basic as their playing progresses.

Its combination of 40W stereo output, six genuinely useful voices, Super Wide Stereo effects and 1W power reduction covers the everyday playing side extremely well. USB-C recording, re-amping, CabRig Lite and TRRS streaming then give it much more long-term usefulness for players moving into recording or creating guitar content.

Best suited for: Beginners, home guitarists, students and recording/content-creation setups
Customers usually upgrade from: Small 10W–20W beginner and practice amplifiers
Most commonly paired with: Electric guitars, headphones, USB-C recording setups and compatible Blackstar footswitches
Our tip: Try the stereo modulation and delay effects while sitting directly in front of the amp. Super Wide Stereo is one of the main reasons to choose the Stereo 40 over a conventional single-speaker practice amplifier.
Showroom feedback: For a player who wants one straightforward amp to cover lessons, daily practice, experimenting with effects and first steps into recording, the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 offers an excellent balance of ease of use and deeper functionality.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Our Birmingham showroom is backed by a knowledgeable musician-led team who understand guitar amplifiers as part of a complete setup. Whether you're buying your first electric guitar amp, upgrading from a smaller practice combo or choosing an amplifier for recording, we're here to help you find the right option.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment

• Competitive prices on leading music brands

• Secure UK-wide delivery

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• Decades of experience with new and pre-owned musical equipment

• A large Birmingham showroom where you can speak directly with our team

• Practical advice on guitars, pedals, amplifiers and recording setups

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next upgrade more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blackstar ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 suitable for beginners?

Yes. The six-position Voice control and straightforward Gain, Volume and ISF controls make it easy to find useful sounds without understanding complicated signal chains. The deeper Architect editing features can then be explored as your experience grows.

Does the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 have Bluetooth?

No. Bluetooth audio is not built into the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40. External audio can instead be connected through the Line In / Streaming connection. The Bluetooth-equipped model within the standard V4 family is the dedicated ID:CORE V4 Stereo 10 Bluetooth.

Can I use headphones?

Yes. The amp supports headphone practice, making it useful when you need to play without using the internal speakers.

Can I record directly to a computer?

Yes. The USB-C connection provides 4-channel USB audio, including facilities for direct recording and re-amping with compatible computer software.

Do I need an audio interface to record it?

Not necessarily. For straightforward guitar recording, the amplifier's USB-C audio connection allows the ID:CORE V4 to act as the recording device itself. A separate interface may still be useful if your setup also needs microphones or additional instruments.

Can I use guitar pedals with it?

Yes. Standard guitar pedals can be connected before the amp input. Bear in mind that the ID:CORE V4 already provides a useful selection of modulation, delay and reverb effects, so many players can build complete practice sounds without additional pedals.

Is the footswitch included?

No. Compatible FS-11, FS-18 and FS-22 footswitches are sold separately.

Is the ID:CORE V4 Stereo 40 loud enough for rehearsals?

Its 40W stereo output gives it more headroom than the smaller ID:CORE models and makes it useful for louder practice and some rehearsal situations. If regular rehearsals with a loud drummer and live performance are the main priority, the Blackstar ID:X 50 and its 12-inch speaker are better suited to that role.

Can I use the amp for backing tracks as well as guitar?

Yes. The ID:CORE V4 uses full-range linear speakers and includes a Line In connection, making it well suited to playing backing tracks and other external audio while you practise.