Page 1
129412M-1 03/23
Blackstar Amplification Ltd, Beckett House, 14 Billing Road, Northampton, NN1 5AW, UK
For the latest information go to: www.blackstaramps.com
Whilst the information contained herein is correct at the time of publication, due to our policy of constant improvement
and development, Blackstar Amplification Ltd reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice.
Owner’s Manual
Designed and Engineered by
Blackstar Amplification UK
21
Page 2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
8. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
9. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other apparatus (including ampliers) that produce heat.
10. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type
plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t into your outlet,
consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
12. Only use attachments/accessories specied by the manufacturer.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of
time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing is required when the
apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is
damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped.
“TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THIS APPARATUS FROM THE AC MAINS,
DISCONNECT THE POWER SUPPLY CORD PLUG FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE”.
“WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE AND OBJECTS FILLED WITH
LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, SHOULD NOT BE PLACED ON THIS APPARATUS”.
USA / Canada
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operation
and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the
appliance.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sucient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
32
Page 3
English
Warning!
Important safety information!
READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY. SAVE ALL
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product!
Danger! High internal operating voltages.
Do not open the equipment case. There are no user serviceable parts in this
equipment. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel.
Clean only with a dry cloth.
Condensation can form on the inside of an amplier if it is moved from a cold
environment to a warmer location. Before switching the unit on, it is recommended
that the unit be allowed to reach room temperature.
Unauthorised modication of this equipment is expressly forbidden by Blackstar
Amplication Ltd.
Never push objects of any kind into ventilation slots on the equipment casing.
Do not expose this apparatus to rain, liquids or moisture of any type.
Avoid placing vessels lled with liquid on top of the amplier.
Do not place this product on an unstable trolley, stand or table. The product may
fall, causing serious damage to the product or to persons!
Do not cover or block ventilation slots or openings.
This product should not be placed near a source of heat such as a stove, radiator,
or another heat producing amplier.
Use only the supplied power adaptor which is compatible with the mains voltage
supply in your area.
The power supply adaptor should always be handled carefully and should be
replaced if damaged in any way.
Never break o the earth (ground) pin on the power supply adaptor.
The power supply adaptor should be unplugged when the unit is to be unused for
long periods of time.
Before the unit is switched on, the loudspeaker should be connected as described
in the handbook using the lead recommended by the manufacturer.
Always replace damaged fuses with the correct rating and type.
Never disconnect the protective mains earth connection.
High loudspeaker levels can cause permanent hearing damage. You should
therefore avoid the direct vicinity of loudspeakers operating at high levels. Wear
hearing protection if continuously exposed to high levels.
If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are
followed, then refer the product to a qualied service engineer.
Only suitable for safe use under non-tropical climate conditions.
Maximum ambient temperature for operation: 35°C
Always make sure that the power adaptor is connected to a socket/outlet with an
earthed connection.
Mains Voltage: 100-240V~ 50/60Hz.
This amplier is only designed and evaluated for safety at a maximum
altitude of 2000m.
The U.S. Government´s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has
specied the following permissible noise level exposures:
Duration Per Day In Hours Sound Level dBA, Slow Response
8 90
6 92
4 95
3 97
2 100
1½ 102
1 105
½ 110
¼ or less 115
According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the above permissible limits could
result in some hearing loss.
Ear plug protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating
this amplication system in order to prevent a permanent hearing loss if exposure is
in excess of the limits as set forth above. To ensure against potentially dangerous
exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed to
equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels such as this amplication
system be protected by hearing protectors while this unit is in operation.
All electrical and electronic products should be disposed of separately
from the municipal waste stream via designated collection facilities
appointed by the government or the local authorities.
English
54
Page 4
English
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing this Dept. 10 AMPED guitar amplier pedal. Like all our
products, this oorboard rig is the result of countless hours of painstaking Research
and Development by our world-class design team. Based in Northampton (UK),
the Blackstar team are all experienced musicians themselves and the sole aim of
the development process is to provide guitarists with the ultimate tools for selfexpression. All Blackstar products are subjected to extensive laboratory and road
testing to ensure that they are truly uncompromising in terms of reliability, quality
and above all TONE.
The Dept. 10 AMPED series is packed with innovative, ground-breaking technology
allowing the sound in your head to be more portable than ever before.
Please read through this handbook carefully to ensure you get the maximum benet
from your new Blackstar product.
To nd out more about the Blackstar range of products please visit our website at
www.blackstaramps.com.
Thanks!
The Blackstar Team
Features
Since our launch in 2007, Blackstar has led the way in the innovation of guitar
amplication. The Dept.10 AMPED 3 represents the culmination of years of technical
research and development. AMPED 3 has an intuitive control set like a traditional
amp, but the versatility of programmability and Pro Digital Technology.
AMPED 3 is a 100W, no compromise oorboard amp capable of delivering the tone
and feel of traditional valve amps. The six unique preamp voices provide a vast
range of sounds and characters, from jangly cleans, to soaring leads and in-yourface rhythm tones. Combined with a built-in boost pedal and two studio quality
reverb options, AMPED 3 gives you the freedom to endlessly shape and rene your
tone. Save and recall your favourite sounds simply and easily with the press of a
footswitch, courtesy of the user programmable amplier patches. But it doesn’t end
there; MIDI control, 9V pedal power outputs and a fully featured FX loop make your
AMPED 3 the ever-expandable hub for your pedalboard.
Via the Response control, AMPED 3 oers three distinctly dierent power valve
responses. The power valve responses (EL84, EL34, 6L6) deliver the response,
dynamics, sag and break up characteristics of their analogue counterparts. The
three responses can be delivered at 100W of power at either 8 or 16 Ohms,
switchable down to 20W or 1W, in a compact package that ts in your gig bag.
CabRig is Blackstar’s next-generation DSP speaker simulator and creates a
fundamental shift in the accessibility of professional recording and performing.
CabRig awards musicians the ability to access previously unattainable technology,
that has long been reserved for professional sound engineers and producers.
The CabRig outputs enable you to get the sound in your head from any speaker
including headphones, studio monitors and front of house. AMPED 3 can also be
used as an audio interface, recording the same tones you use live straight into your
computer via USB-C.
English
76
Page 5
English
Front Panel
1. Channel Footswitches
Your AMPED 3 has two modes: “Patch” mode and “Manual” mode.
When in Patch Mode, the Channel LED colours will be as follows:
Clean -
Crunch -
Overdrive -
When in Manual mode, all Channel LEDs will be white and the Recall Indicator (17)
will stay illuminated.
NOTE: See Boost Footswitch (10) for how to switch modes.
Your AMPED 3 will be in Patch mode by default. In this mode you can recall the
settings stored within your amplier for each Channel using the Channel footswitches.
The sound you hear will be a stored patch and may not reect the physical position of
the controls. Only one patch can be active at a time. The active patch will be indicated
by the Channel LED.
To save a new patch, hold down the active Channel footswitch until the Recall
Indicator (17) and Channel LED ash. New patches can be saved in both Patch and
Manual mode.
When in Manual mode, the Channel footswitches will select which Channel is active.
Only one Channel can be active at a time. The active Channel will be indicated by the
Channel LED. See Voice Switches (2) for descriptions of each of the Channel Voices.
White
Orange
Red
2. Voice Switches
Your AMPED 3 has three distinct Channels with two Voice options per channel,
ranging from ultra clean to extremely overdriven. The Channel can be selected
using the Channel footswitches (1) and the Voice for each Channel can be selected
using the Voice switches located above the Channel footswitches.
Clean Channel
Clean Warm - Classic clean, dynamic
Clean Bright - ‘Boutique’, will break up when pushed hard
Crunch Channel
Crunch - Classic medium gain overdrive
Super Crunch - More gain and punch than Crunch
Overdrive Channel
OD 1 - Hot-rodded Master Volume overdrive
OD 2 - Tight, articulate and aggressive overdrive
This setting is saved when you store a patch.
3. Gain
The Gain control adjusts the amount of overdrive or distortion. Low settings,
counter clockwise, will deliver a cleaner sound. As the Gain control is turned
clockwise the sound will become more overdriven, with maximum distortion in the
full clockwise position. This setting is saved when you store a patch.
4. Bass
The Bass control adjusts the level of low-end frequencies in your tone. The EQ
controls are tailored to the selected voice. For example, the Clean Warm voice has
a more pronounced low end, whereas the Clean Bright voice has a more controlled
bass response. This setting is saved when you store a patch.
5. Middle
The middle control adjusts the level of mid-range frequencies in your tone. The midrange frequencies are particularly important in setting the amount of ‘body’ your tone
has. With the middle control set to its minimum position (fully counter clockwise) the
sound will be scooped. As the Middle control is increased (clockwise) the amount of
‘body’ is increased. This setting is saved when you store a patch.
6. Treble
The Treble control adjusts the level of high frequencies in your tone. At low settings
the sound will be warm and dark in character. As the Treble control is increased the
sound will become brighter. This setting is saved when you store a patch.
7. ISF
The patented ISF control works in conjunction with
the Bass, Middle and Treble controls. It allows you
to choose the exact tonal signature you prefer.
Fully counter clockwise has a more American
characteristic, with a tight bottom-end and more
aggressive middle, and fully clockwise has a
British characteristic, which is more ‘woody’ and
less aggressive. Unlike conventional ‘contour’ controls and parametric equalisation
systems, the Bass, Middle and Treble controls remain interactive with each other just
like in a traditional guitar amplier tone stack. This leads to a very familiar, musical
response. This setting is saved when you store a patch.
TIP: We recommend that to start with the ISF is set to half way and the Bass, Middle
and Treble are set to taste. Then try gradually adjusting the ISF CW and CCW until
you nd the sound you prefer.
USA TO UK IN SECONDS
8. Volume
Use this to control the preamp/channel volume. Turning it clockwise increases the
volume. High levels of Volume in combination with high levels of Master Volume (15)
will introduce the eect of valve power amp distortion and compression, the character
of which depends on the Response (13) setting you have selected. This setting is
saved when you store a patch.
English
98
Page 6
English
9. Boost
This control aects how much your signal level is boosted when the boost is active.
Higher settings (clockwise) will increase the amount your signal is boosted. The Boost
Pre/Post toggle switch changes the position of the Boost in the signal chain.
Pre-Boost - This setting places the Boost before the preamp stage. High levels of
Pre-Boost will push the preamp harder and result in more saturation. This setting is
ideal when toggling between a rhythm and lead tone, with the Boost bypassed and
active respectively. The Pre-Boost has a maximum boost of 12dB.
Post-Boost - This setting places the Boost after the preamp stage and before the
Response/power amp stage. This setting is perfect to engage a ‘solo boost’, a at
increase in level without aecting your preamp tone. This setting can also be used to
push the Response/power amp stage into overdrive, when used in combination with
high settings of channel and Master Volume. The Post-Boost has a maximum boost
of 6dB.
The Boost level and Boost position are saved when you store a patch.
10. Boost Footswitch
The Boost footswitch toggles the Boost on and o. The LED will light up when
the Boost is active. This is a global setting and it is not saved when storing a
patch.
Hold the Boost footswitch for 2 seconds to toggle between Manual Mode and
Patch Mode. When the amplier is in Manual Mode, the sound will reect the
current physical position of the controls. If the Reverb or Boost are active when
switching to Manual Mode they will be bypassed.
When in Patch Mode, the Channel LED colours will be as follows:
Clean - White
Crunch - Orange
Overdrive - Red
When in Manual mode, all Channel LEDs will be white and the Recall Indicator
(17) will stay illuminated.
Whilst in Manual Mode, any of the controls can still be modied by an external
source (Blackstar Architect software, MIDI controller), but this means that then
the sound will no longer represent the physical positions of the knobs on the
front panel.
Out of the box, or after a factory reset, your amplier will start-up in Patch Mode.
This setting can be changed with Blackstar’s Architect software. Navigate to the
settings panel and deselect ‘Start-up in Patch Mode’.
11. Reverb
The Reverb knob controls the amount of Reverb applied to your guitar tone, with
low settings in the counter clockwise direction and high settings clockwise.
Use the Reverb type switch to alter the character of the Reverb:
Dark - Warm and resonant
Light - Airy and smooth
The Reverb level and Reverb type settings are saved when you store a patch.
The Reverb time and tone can be customised for each Reverb type using Blackstar’s
Architect deep-editing software and saved to your amp.
12. Reverb Footswitch
The Reverb footswitch toggles the Reverb eect on and o. The LED will light up
when the Reverb is active. This setting is global and not saved when you store a
patch.
When the Reverb is active, holding the Reverb footswitch will activate the ‘Freeze’
eect. Whilst the Reverb footswitch is held down and the ‘Freeze’ eect is active, the
Reverb will decay over a much longer period of time, achieving a synth pad-like eect.
Notes played whilst the Reverb footswitch is held will be added to this freeze eect.
13. Response
The Response control delivers three distinctly dierent and authentic power valve
responses – EL84, EL34 and 6L6. Each setting delivers the response, dynamics, sag
and break-up characteristics of the selected valve power amp. This means that these
amps deliver live without compromise.
Blackstar’s power valve responses change the characteristics of the sound from
dynamic and tight to compressed and spongy.
EL84 - Bell-like full bodied Class A with lots of compression and soft break-up
EL34 - Classic British Class A/B full bodied crunch with focussed mids
6L6 - Tight dynamic Class A/B with extended high and lows
This setting is saved when you store a patch.
14. Presence
The Presence control sets the overall treble of the power valve Response (13).
Accentuate percussive and articulate high-end or control aggressive, sharp treble
with this control. This setting is saved when you store a patch.
15. Master
This controls the overall volume of your amplier. Turning it clockwise increases
the volume. High levels of preamp Volume (8) in combination with high levels
of Master volume will introduce the eect of valve power amp distortion and
compression, the character of which depends on the Response (13) setting you
have selected. This is a global setting and is not saved when storing a patch.
16. Power
This 3-way miniature toggle switch allows the user to switch between three
dierent power output settings:
100W - This is the full power setting which will give the loudest clean
headroom. Ideal for live and stage use.
English
1110
Page 7
English
20W - This setting reduces the output power to a maximum of 20 Watts. Use
for smaller gigs, when rehearsing, or when a more power amp overdriven tone is
desired at a lower level.
1W - This is the lowest power setting and reduces the output power down to
1 Watt. Perfect for practising, recording or when a power amp overdriven tone is
desired at low volume.
Power level is a global setting and is not saved when storing a patch.
17. Recall Indicator
The Recall Indicator shows if there is a mismatch between the current value of a
parameter within the amplier and the corresponding physical front panel control.
For example, when you load a patch the controls on the front panel may not always
reect the sound you are hearing.
To prevent unexpected level jumps in the control you are adjusting, the front panel
knobs will have no eect on the sound until the knob reaches the current parameter
value. Once reached, the Recall Indicator will ash once, the knob will ‘take control’
of the value and it will then increase or decrease the value.
The Recall Indicator will ash once each time the physical knob ‘passes through’
the value stored in the current patch. Recall is active for Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble,
ISF, Boost Level, Channel Volume, Presence and Reverb.
Rear Panel
18. Mains Input
The supplied detachable IEC mains cable is connected here. Dept. 10 AMPED
products use a universal input power supply. This means that the mains input
range is rated at 100Vac to 240Vac and capable of operating at 50Hz and 60Hz.
NOTE: The mains input can only be connected to a power outlet that is compatible
with the voltage, power and frequency requirements stated on the rear panel. If in
doubt, seek advice from a qualied technician
19. Power Switch
This switch is used to turn the amplier on and o.
20. In
Plug your guitar into this input. Always use a good quality screened instrument
lead.
21. FX Loop Send
Connect to the (mono) input of external eects units here. The Eects Loop Send
is taken before the Presence (16) and Master (18) controls.
The default for the Eects Loop is for it to be placed before the onboard Reverb in
the signal chain. This setting can be changed using Blackstar’s Architect software
and saved to the amp.
22. FX Loop Return
Connect to the (mono) output of external eects units here.
As default, the Eects Loop is a series setup. The Eects Loop can be set to run
in parallel using Blackstar’s Architect software and this setting can then be saved
to the amp. When running in parallel, Architect also provides control over the FX
Loop Return Level.
TIP: The typical use of a parallel eects loop is to run the looped eects on full
‘wet’. This eliminates the dry signal from the eects loop and oers more control
over the wet/dry mix.
NOTE: If the FX Loop is set to parallel, running eects in the loop that contain a
dry signal will result in a level boost when mixed back with the dry pass-through at
the FX Loop Return.
23. FX Loop Level Switch
The Level switch sets the Eects Loop to either +4dBu or -10dBV, which allows
the level to be optimal for use with either professional audio equipment (+4dBu) or
with guitar level eects such as eects pedals (-10dBV).
TIP: If you are unsure which setting to use, start with -10dBV.
24. Out
Connect your AMPED to the input of another amplier using the Out. The signal for
this output is taken after the Presence (16) and Master (18) controls, but the power
valve Response (17) is not applied to the tone.
25. Speaker Outputs
Connect a suitable guitar speaker cabinet to the matching impedance Speaker
Output:
The output marked ‘16 OHM’ is for the connection of a single 16 Ohm extension
speaker cabinet.
The output marked ‘8 OHM’ is for the connection of a single 8 Ohm extension
cabinet.
WARNING: Do not use both speaker outputs at the same time, doing so will
damage your amplier. Connect the speaker cable to your cabinet rst, then your
AMPED pedal.
NOTE: If the speaker lead is disconnected at the amplier end, then your AMPED
pedal will automatically switch to a safe, low power consumption mode. Therefore,
for example, if you wish to record using the output from either the XLR, stereo jack,
or USB, then you can set it on your desk without any need to be connected to a
speaker load.
English
1312
Page 8
English
IMPORTANT NOTE: The protection sensing is at the speaker output jacks on the
unit. Do not disconnect at the speaker end only. Disconnect at the amp!
26. Outputs
Use the two isolated 9V DC outputs to power your external pedals up to a
maximum combined current of 500mA. Both isolated outputs are centre negative.
WARNING: Do not exceed a combined total current of 500mA from the two
outputs. Do not connect pedals that require a centre positive power connection.
27. USB Audio - CabRig Output
Use the supplied USB-C cable to connect your AMPED 3 directly to your
computer. This is for USB digital audio output and for connecting to Blackstar’s
Architect software.
Standard audio drivers are used to connect the amplier to a PC, Mac or other
applicable recording device. No specic drivers are required. For a guide on low
latency USB recording visit: www.blackstaramps.com/usbrecording
NOTE: Always connect the amplier via a main USB port, often found on the
rear of the computer.
CabRig
CabRig is a next-generation advanced speaker simulator that reproduces the
sound and feel of mic’d up guitar speaker cabs in incredible detail. The sound
is dependent on the position of the CabRig switch. The CabRig switch has
3 positions to choose between three presets, these presets are completely
customisable in the CabRig section of the Architect software.
Your AMPED 3 is capable of multiple simultaneous inputs and outputs via USB.
The amplier will appear as an audio capture device within recording software.
The audio output via USB from your amplier directly to your computer is carried
across four independent, simultaneous channels:
Channel 1: CabRig, left channel – The fully processed guitar sound, with
power amp and speaker cabinet emulation. This will include the left channel of
the CabRig Room. This signal is taken from after the Master volume control.
Channel 2: CabRig, right channel – The fully processed guitar sound, with
power amp and speaker cabinet emulation. This will include the right channel of
the CabRig Room. This signal is taken from after the Master volume control.
Channel 3: Preamp output – The sound of the preamp voices and EQ
stages, taken before the reverb and without any speaker or cabinet emulation.
Ideal for use with your own eects and power amp/cabinet emulation plugins
within your recording software/DAW. This signal is not aected by the Master
volume control or any controls within CabRig, but it can be attenuated by up to
20dB using the CabRig Outputs ‘Level’ control on the rear panel.
Channel 4: Unprocessed dry guitar signal – This is the direct signal
from your guitar as received by the input stage of the amp. This signal is ideal for
reamping. This signal is not aected by any of the amplier’s controls.
These audio streams can be recorded simultaneously within your chosen
recording software/DAW. Control the output levels of Channels 1 and 2 using
CabRig within Blackstar’s Architect software.
TIP: To record a stereo Room sound, pan the stereo CabRig left channel 100%
left in the mix and pan the right channel 100% right.
Your AMPED pedal can also receive audio input from your computer:
Channel 1: Line input, left channel – Used for audio monitoring or
backing track playback via the Balanced XLR and Line Out CabRig outputs.
Channel 2: Line input, right channel – Used for audio monitoring or
backing track playback via the Balanced XLR and Line Out CabRig outputs.
28. MIDI In
To receive MIDI messages, connect your MIDI device here using the supplied TRS
MIDI to 5 pin MIDI adaptor. Always use a good quality MIDI lead. The default for
receiving MIDI messages via the MIDI In is channel 1. The MIDI channel can be
changed using Blackstar’s Architect software.
Please refer to the MIDI table at the end of this manual for more details.
29. MIDI Thru
MIDI messages received at the MIDI In port will be passed, unaected, to the MIDI
Thru. Use this output to chain multiple MIDI devices together.
NOTE: The path from MIDI In to MIDI Thru is a software pass-through.
30. Balanced – Mono XLR CabRig Output
Use a 3 pin XLR cable to connect this output to an audio interface, stage box or
mixing desk. This provides a low noise, low impedance, high quality connection
for recording or live use.
The signal from this output is the fully processed guitar sound, with power amp
and CabRig speaker cabinet emulation.
This signal can also be attenuated by up to 20dB using the CabRig Outputs ‘Level’
control. The USB stereo line input will also be aected by the Level control when it
is monitored through the XLR output.
NOTE: This signal is taken after the Master volume control.
31. Line Out – Stereo CabRig Output
This ¼” TRS jack socket provides a stereo connection to a recording device,
mixing desk or headphones. Always use a good quality TRS (stereo) type lead or
TRS to 2 x TS (mono) lead (see diagram below).
The signal from this output is the fully processed guitar sound, with power amp
and CabRig speaker cabinet emulation. The sound is dependent on the CabRig
switch (34) setting and the more in-depth settings within the CabRig section of
Blackstar’s Architect software.
The CabRig signal level can also be attenuated by up to 20dB using the Level
English
1514
Page 9
English
Ring
to mixer
Right channel
control (35). The USB stereo line input will also be aected by the Level control
when it is monitored through the Line Out.
NOTE: This signal is taken after the Master volume control.
English
to mixer
Tip
Screen
Left channel
32. CabRig Switch
Use this to switch between the three CabRig settings currently stored on your
AMPED 3. You can customise the three factory patches using the CabRig section
of Blackstar’s Architect software.
33. Level - CabRig Outputs
This control allows quick access, physical control over the XLR, Line Out and USB
audio channel 3 output level. At maximum (fully clockwise), this control has no
eect on the signal level. At minimum (fully anti-clockwise), this control attenuates
the signal on these outputs by 20dB.
34. Kensington Lock
Also known as a Kensington Security Slot or K-Slot this is a specically sized hole
for connecting a compatible Kensington Lock to secure the amplier to a xed
point. For more information please refer to www.kensington.com
Architect
Amplifier
Saving Patches
Click on the ‘Save’ icon in the toolbar to save an amp Patch. In the pop-up window,
you can choose to “Save Patch to Device” or “Save Local Patch”. All amplier front
panel settings will be saved for either option.
Clicking “Save Patch to Device” will save a
Device Patch. Device Patches are stored on
your Amped 3 and can be recalled using
the Channel Footswitches (see 1 - Channel
Footswitches for more information) and via
MIDI (please see the MIDI table at the end
of this manual for more information) without
connecting to Architect. Device Patches
can be recalled at any point by double
clicking on the patch in the patches panel
or right clicking on the patch and selecting
“Load Patch”.
Local Patches are saved on your computer, rather than on your amplier. Local
Patches can be accessed in the patches panel on the right-hand side of the amp
page. You can save as many Local Patches as you like and these can be recalled
at any point by double clicking on the patch in the patches panel or right clicking
on the patch and selecting “Load Patch”.
Note: Device Patches can be saved as Local Patches by right clicking on the
patch and selecting “Save as Local Patch”. Local Patches can be saved to your
Amped 3 by right clicking on the patch and selecting “Save Patch to Device”.
On this page all of the front panel (outlined in the ‘Front Panel’ section of this
manual) controls of your AMPED 3 can be adjusted.
To switch to CabRig page in Architect, click on the CabRig icon at the bottom of
the page. Please see the CabRig section below for more information on CabRig.
Random Preset Generation
Click on the ‘Die’ icon to generate a random amp preset. All front panel controls
will be randomised.
1716
Page 10
English
Audio Settings
Click on the ‘Audio Settings’ icon to open the Audio Settings panel. Adjust MIDI
channel, FX Loop and Reverb settings here. Changes made here will automatically
update, but will not be permanently saved to the amp. To save your changes, click
“Save Amp Settings” at the bottom of the page.
NOTE: For use with 3rd party IR (Impulse Response) loaders, select the DI option.
The DI is taken from after the power amp emulation.
English
CabRig
To access and edit CabRig settings you will need Blackstar’s
Architect software. Download Architect from the Blackstar website:
https://blackstaramps.com/architect
Cab Channel Strip
The Cab Channel strip allows you to craft and control your virtual cabinet tone.
1 2
3
2. Microphone Selection
Mic up your virtual cabinet with a choice of 6 industry standard microphones.
Toggle the axis of your microphone choice for a dierent tonal avour. In general,
OFF AXIS will darken your tone and shift the mid-range character.
1. Cab Selection
Select your virtual cabinet using the Cabinet Selection panel. Choose from 23
distinct speaker cabinets or select DI (Direct Injection) for the direct power amp
output.
1918
Page 11
English
Microphone Character
Bright and cutting, with controlled lows. A classic
57 - Dynamic
421 - Dynamic
67 - Condenser
414 - Condenser
121 - Ribbon
160 - Ribbon
microphone choice for recording guitar cabinets. Use
this microphone o-axis for a less sharp, mid-focussed
tone.
Aggressive and tight. Use this microphone for an up-
front sound or o-axis for a more mellow sound.
Balanced with extended top end. O-axis this
microphone gives a similar tone to a ribbon, but with a
controlled low end.
Rich and bold. The extended top and bottom end
of this microphone gives your tone a larger-than-life
sound.
Thick and warm. A great choice for a vintage sound.
Try o axis for a super smooth sound.
Punchy mids with smooth highs. Use this microphone
for a more controlled ribbon sound or o-axis for a
richer tone.
3. Mix Controls
Balance the levels of your cabs using the channel faders. Use the solo button to
isolate your cab and room, or the mute button to silence it.
Below is the signal chain for CabRig:
Room
English
1
2
3
CAB 1 ROOM
MIC 1
LR
MIXER
L R
MASTER EQ
L R RLL+R
USB 1+2 LINE OUT
XLR
1) Room Selection
Support your cab and mic selection with
room ambience. Select the type of room
using the drop-down menu. Each room
type has a “Damped” option; selecting
this will result in a shorter and more rened
sound.
2) Width Selection
Adjust the stereo width of your room
choice using this drop-down. These
are emulations of three dierent micing
techniques (shown below): mono mic, XY
pair and spaced pair.
NOTE: The “Wide” setting will enhance
and widen the stereo image, resulting in an
expansive stereo experience.
2120
Page 12
English
Master
CAB
MIC
MONO
STEREO
WIDE
SMALL ROOM
MEDIUM ROOM
LARGE ROOM
The channel EQs provide the ability to shape the tone of each of your cab and mic
combinations individually. The EQ can be bypassed for a quick comparison.
LOW-CUT: Controls a 2nd order high pass filter
LOW: Controls a low shelf filter at 120Hz +/- 10dB
LOW MIDS: Controls a peak filter at 400Hz +/- 10dB
HIGH MIDS: Controls a peak filter at 1KHz +/- 10dB
HIGH: Controls a high shelf filter at 4KHz +/- 10dB
HI-CUT: Controls a 2nd order low pass filter
TIP:
Choose one of the EQ Presets from the drop-down box (shown to the right)
for a good place to start. This is like having your own sound engineer, getting you
to the sound you want quickly. The EQ Presets also provide a great platform for
experimentation should you wish to tweak your tone further.
English
EQ
2322
Page 13
English
Patches and Presets
Settings Panel
Click the gear icon to open the settings panel.
Audio
Adjust MIDI channel, FX Loop and Reverb settings here. Changes made here will
automatically update, but will not be permanently saved to the amp. To save your
changes, click “Save Amp Settings” at the bottom of the page.
English
Device (AMPED 3) Patches
These are the patches that are currently loaded on your amplier, selectable via the
CabRig switch. Press the save button and “Save Patch to Device” to save your
current CabRig settings to one of your “Device Patches”.
Blackstar Patches
The “Blackstar Presets” are a collection of patches created by the team at
Blackstar. These presets are included when you install Blackstar Architect. The
Blackstar Presets are a great place to start if you are new to CabRig. Find a preset
that suits your tone and adjust the CabRig settings from there.
Local Patches
“Local Patches” are saved on your computer (Documents – Blackstar – Saved
Patches), instead of loaded onto your amp.
To save a local patch, click the save button and “Save Local Patch”. You can save
as many “Local Patches” as you like and these can be recalled at any point by
double clicking on the patch in the patches panel or right clicking on the patch and
selecting “Load Patch”.
TIP:
To organise your “Local Patches” in the patch panel go to “Documents –
Blackstar – Saved Patches” and create your own folders. Simply drag your patches
into the folders you have created and your folders will appear in the patch panel.
About
Information about your amplier will be displayed here.
Reset Default Patches and Settings
The default factory amp patches, CabRig patches and settings can be
restored to your amplier at any time. This can only be done using Blackstar’s
Architect software. Download Architect from the Blackstar website:
https://blackstaramps.com/architect/
Navigate to the ‘General’ settings panel within Architect and click ‘Restore Patches
and Settings’. Follow the on screen instructions to complete the reset.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This process will overwrite any user content saved to
the amp.
Firmware Upgrade
When a rmware upgrade for your amplier is available, Architect will automatically
prompt you, upon connection to your AMPED 3, to upgrade to the latest version.
Follow the onscreen instructions to perform the rmware upgrade.
Technical Specifications
AMPED 3
Power (RMS): 100W
Weight (kg): 1.98
Dimensions (mm): 285(W) x 80(H) x 150(D)
2524
Page 14
MIDI Table
Function CC Number Value
English
English
Preamp
Response
Clean
Crunch
Overdrive
Boost
FX Loop
Reverb
Power Level
Volume 2 0-127
ISF 3 0-127
Bass 4 0-127
Middle 5 0-127
Treble 6 0-127
Gain 7 0-127
EL84 8 127 = On
EL34 10 127 = On
6L6 12 127 = On
Presence 15 0-127
Master Volume 16 0-127
Clean Patch 25 127 = On
Warm Voice 26 127 = On
Bright Voice 27 127 = On
Crunch Patch
Crunch Voice
Super Crunch Voice
Overdrive Patch
OD1 Voice
OD2 Voice
Boost Footswitch 59
Boost Post 60 127 = On
Boost Pre 61 127 = On
Boost Level 64 0-127
FX Loop Pre 75 127 = On
FX Loop Post 76 127 = On
FX Loop Series 77 127 = On
FX Loop Parallel 78 127 = On
Reverb Footswitch 86
Reverb Bright 87 127 = On
Reverb Dark 88 127 = On
Reverb Level 91 0-127
Reverb Hold 92
1W 110 127 = On
20W 111 127 = On
100W 112 127 = On
38 127 = On
39 127 = On
40 127 = On
51 127 = On
52 127 = On
53 127 = On
0 = O
127 = On
0 = O
127 = On
0 = O
127 = On
2726
Page 15
English
VOLUME
PO
BOOST
L
VE
RB
T
GA
MA
ST
ER
ESENCE
English
Deutsch
Français
Español
AMPED 3 Top View
3 8 9 11 14 15
GAIN
17
2
WARM BRIGHT OD 1OD 2
VOLUME
MIDDLE
BOOST
PREDARK
POST LIGHT
I
TREBLEBASS
CRUNCH
REVERB
ISF
SUPER
CRUNCH
MASTERPRESENCE
POWER AMP
RESPONSE POWER
EL84
EL34
6L6
1W
20W
100W
Deutsch
Français
REVERB
Español
12
Japanese
Japanese
CLEAN
AMPED3
DEPT. 10 | 100W 3 CHANNEL AMP
14 5 6 7 13 1016
BOOSTOVERDRIVECRUNCH
( HOLD: MANUAL)
2928
Page 16
English
English
Deutsch
Français
Español
AMPED 3 Rear View
IN OUT
FX
LOOP
SEND
RETURN
+4dBu
-10dBV
LEVEL
1
2
USB
3
LEVEL
C A B R I G
O U T P U T S
LINE OUT
P HONES
BALANCED
MIDI
IN THRU
S P E A K E R O U T P U T S
( ONLY USE ONE)
8 OHM
OUTPUT: 100 WATTS RMS CLASS 2 WIRING
16 OHM
OUTPUTS
9V 500mA
TOTAL
181920 24 2732 34 28 29
MAINS INPUT
100V-240V~50/60Hz
300 WATTS
Deutsch
Français
Español
Japanese
Japanese
21 22 23 303133 25 26
3130
Loading...