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Blackstar ID:Core 40 V4 vs Blackstar ID:X 100

Detailed comparison to help you choose the right Modelling Guitar Combos for your music.

Last updated: June 10, 2026 • Next update: June 17, 2026

Blackstar ID:Core 40 V4

Blackstar ID:Core 40 V4

⭐ 4.3/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10

The ID:Core 40 V4 is a solid, affordable practice amp and small gig option. It's a great all-rounder for beginners or players wanting a variety of sounds in a compact package, especially those who appreciate a modern British amp vibe. The software integration is a nice bonus for tweaking your sounds.

$244

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Blackstar ID:X 100

Blackstar ID:X 100

⭐ 4.5/5 Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10

The ID:X 100 is a solid modeling amp offering a ton of features for the money. It's a great all-rounder for gigging musicians or home recordists who want a wide palette of sounds without needing a rack full of gear; the Anthem speaker really helps it cut through. A bit plasticky, but surprisingly capable.

$494

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Detailed Comparison

Feature Blackstar ID:Core 40 V4 Blackstar ID:X 100
Brand Blackstar Blackstar
Model ID:Core 40 V4 ID:X 100
Price $244 $493
Expert Rating ⭐ 4.3/5 ⭐ 4.5/5
Power (Watts) 40 (2x 20 watts stereo) 100
Speaker 2 x 6.5 in 1 x 12 in BLACKSTAR Anthem 100
Amp Models Clean Warm, Clean Bright, Crunch, Super Crunch, OD1, OD2 (Blackstar emulations) EL84, EL34, 6L6 tube emulations
Effects 12 Vintage Effects (Modulation, Delay, Reverb) Over 35 effects, editable directly on the amp
Presets User-programmable presets via software 35+ Voices & Effects
Weight 6.2 kg 16.6 kg
Pros + Versatile amp models cover a surprising range of tones. + Anthem 100 speaker delivers surprising clarity and punch for a combo.
Pros + The ISF control is genuinely useful for shaping EQ. + ISF control offers genuinely useful tonal shaping beyond simple EQ.
Pros + Compact size and 1-watt mode are great for practice. + USB-C connectivity simplifies recording and streaming workflows.
Pros + Built-in effects are surprisingly usable and well-voiced. + Multiple power modes cater to both bedroom practice and gigging needs.
Cons - 6.5 in speakers lack the low-end thump of larger drivers. - The plastic enclosure feels less premium than competitors in the price range.
Cons - Construction feels a bit plasticky for the price point. - Effect routing can be a bit convoluted and less intuitive than simpler amps.
Cons - Amp models, while varied, aren't true high-end emulations. - While versatile, the 'voicing' can sometimes feel a bit generic and lacking character.
Category Modelling Guitar Combos Modelling Guitar Combos
Article Number 583323 622496
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Frequently Asked Questions

They’re inspired by those classics, but don't expect sonic perfection. They capture the general feel but lack the nuanced complexity of the real deal.
Absolutely, the USB-C connection allows for direct recording and software integration for detailed sound shaping.
It's surprisingly good! It provides a decent amount of volume for bedroom practice while retaining much of the amp’s character.
The Anthem speaker is designed for clarity and projection, offering a more neutral response than some of the darker-sounding Celestion models, which can be a plus for modern styles.
It's a dual-function connection; it allows for both audio streaming/recording and MIDI control, expanding the amp's capabilities significantly.
While the direct editing is convenient, creating complex custom tones can be a bit fiddly, requiring some patience with the menu system – it’s not as streamlined as some more recent, dedicated tone-modeling platforms.

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