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Blackstar launches the Amped 2 – a 100-watt pedalboard amp with built-in effects

An impressive number of features, all combined into one portable unit.

Blackstar Amped 2

Image: Press

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Blackstar has unveiled the latest addition to its range of products – introducing the Amped 2, a 100-Watt amp pedal with multi effects.

The best way to describe the new launch is as an entire rig, but condensed down into one compact and portable unit.

This is because not only is the Amped 2 a 100-watt guitar amp in a pedal format, but it also comes with a host of impressive features including onboard effects, USB and MIDI connectivity and various power valve responses.

Designed to sound like a real tube amp, the response control of the unit delivers three distinctive power valve responses – the EL34, 6L6 and EL84. All of which offer response, dynamics and breakup characteristics that mimic a real valve amplifier interacting with a speaker cabinet.

While these are features that are also seen in the unit’s predecessor, the Amped 1, the new design does incorporate some previously-unseen aspects that take it to new heights. The most impressive of which is its dynamic range of built-in effects, including Drive, Modulation, Delay and Reverb.

Under the Drive section, a three-way toggle allows users to choose from Boost, Drive and Fuzz modes. Similarly, Delay offers Linear, Shimmer and Analogue options, while the Modulation section offers chorus/flanger, tremolo and phaser – as well as controls that adjust the time, depth and level.

A choice of three amp voicings can be selected too – USA, UK and Classic – to help dial in the perfect tone.

Despite the impressive number of new features on the unit, Blackstar ensures that the Amped 2 offers just as much in the way of playability as it does with flashy features.

The onboard chromatic tuner allows for quick and easy tuning regardless of location and  MIDI and USB compatibility means the unit can easily be integrated into a pre-existing pedalboard or rig.
Power reduction down to 1W is also included and, according to Blackstar, the unit can be used to power a cabinet, go direct or connect to the front end of a traditional amp — meaning it is suitable to be used at home, in the studio and in a live setting.

The Amped 2 is available now for £539. Find out more on Blackstar’s website.

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