Music / Guitar Amplifiers
User Manual for Blackstar AMPED 1 Amplifier Pedal
Quick start guide and setup instructions for the Blackstar AMPED 1 100W amplifier pedal. Learn how to connect your guitar, configure preamp voices, use Cab Rig outputs, and manage presets.
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick Start Guide
Follow these steps to set up your Blackstar AMPED 1 amplifier pedal:
- Power Connection: Connect the mains lead to the amplifier's MAINS INPUT.
- Guitar Input: Plug your guitar into the IN socket using a high-quality screened guitar lead.
- Speaker Connection: Connect a suitable guitar speaker cabinet (8 Ohms or 16 Ohms) to the SPEAKER OUTPUT. Warning: Do not use both speaker outputs at the same time, as this will damage the amplifier. Connect the cable to the cabinet first, then to the pedal.
- Cab Rig Output: Connect to a computer or full-range active speaker using the Cab Rig outputs if required.
- Power On: Switch the amplifier on using the Power Switch.
Amplifier Controls
The AMPED 1 features several controls to shape your tone:
- Amplifier: Use the toggle switch to choose between 3 preamp voices. Adjust Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, and Master controls to shape your sound.
- Power Amp: Select the power amp RESPONSE and POWER rating, then set the MASTER volume.
- Reverb: Press to activate the built-in Reverb. Adjust the level with the control. Press and hold the footswitch for a FREEZE effect.
- Preset: Press to activate the stored preset. To save a new preset, hold the PRESET footswitch until the RECALL LED lights and the PRESET LED flashes.
Connectivity and Features
- USB and Architect: Connect to a PC or Mac via USB-C to use the free Architect software for deep editing, managing presets, and configuring the Cab Rig DSP.
- FX Loop: Connect the supplied TRS signal splitter cable to use the effects loop. Use Architect to set routing (series/parallel) and reverb placement.
- MIDI: Use the supplied TRS MIDI to 5-pin MIDI adaptor to control features via MIDI. Default channel is 1.
- DC Output: Power external pedals directly from the AMPED 1 using the 9V DC outputs (max 500mA total).
- Cab Rig Outs: Use the stereo LINE OUT for headphones or mixers. The balanced XLR output connects directly to an interface or 'Front of House'. The LEVEL control adjusts the output volume.
Voice Settings
- USA Voice: A clean, high-headroom classic American style channel.
- UK Voice: Built around a vintage tone stack and gain structure, ideal for crunch sounds.
- Flat Voice: Designed for use with external preamps or multi-fx units; features an active EQ for added flexibility.
Safety Information
Ensure the device is used in a non-tropical climate at an altitude not exceeding 2000m. Do not expose the apparatus to rain, liquids, or moisture. Do not place the product on unstable surfaces. Always use a power outlet compatible with the voltage, power, and frequency requirements stated on the rear panel. If the unit does not operate normally, refer to qualified service personnel.
Manufacturer information
Blackstar Amplification
Practical help
Common problems
No sound output
Ensure the speaker cable is connected to only one speaker output (8 or 16 Ohms) and the cabinet is connected before the pedal. Check that the Power Switch is on and Master volume is turned up.
Preset not saving
Ensure you hold the PRESET footswitch until the RECALL LED lights and the PRESET LED flashes. The recall LED will flash when the physical knob passes through the saved preset value.
Distortion or clipping
Adjust the Gain and Master volume controls. If using external preamps, ensure the input levels are not overloading the pedal.
Before use
- Verify the power outlet matches the voltage/frequency requirements.
- Use a high-quality screened guitar lead.
- Ensure speaker cabinet impedance is 8 or 16 Ohms.
- Connect the speaker cable to the cabinet before the pedal.
- Do not use both speaker outputs simultaneously.
Specs in practice
- 9V DC Output
- Power supply for external pedals, maximum combined current of 500mA.
Images and diagrams
- The Connection Guide illustrates the signal path from the guitar to the pedal, and from the pedal to various outputs like headphones, computer, desk, MIDI devices, and speaker cabinets.
Model compatibility
- Speaker outputs: 8 Ohms or 16 Ohms only.
- Do not use both speaker outputs at the same time.
- Architect software is compatible with PC and Mac.
Manual page author
Emily Carter
User documentation editor
Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.