Blackstar Amplification announces the launch of the Artist FR Standard and Artist FR Special, two new full range, flat response powered cabinets designed to give modern players a professional FRFR solution that finally feels and responds like a traditional guitar amplifier. Created for today’s modelling and floorboard users who demand accuracy, clarity and genuine playing dynamics, these new cabinets address the need for compact, powerful and intuitive FRFR systems that work just as confidently at home, in the studio, at rehearsal or on stage.
Engineered by Blackstar’s experienced amplifier designers, both Artist FR models are built on the company’s proven cabinet construction and power amp technology, ensuring reliable performance and authentic “amp-like” response. They are ideally suited for the Blackstar ID:X floor unit or similar products. Each cabinet uses a custom-designed flat-response 1x12 speaker created specifically for this platform, delivering the balanced, articulate sound needed to faithfully reproduce amp models and IRs, while a whizzer cone supports high frequencies to keep definition and clarity across complex tones and effects.
In practical terms, the Artist FR range has been developed to make FRFR amplification straightforward for players of all levels. A simple, musician-focused control layout gives instant access to volume along with a powerful active three-band EQ and a Presence control, allowing users to quickly refine their sound to suit different rigs, rooms and performance environments without getting lost in menus. Every cabinet also includes an integrated kickstand to allow easy tilt-back monitoring when needed.
The Artist FR Standard delivers 50 watts of power in a compact 1x12 format, making it ideal for home and studio players who also want enough output for smaller performance settings. For those requiring greater headroom and stage authority, the Artist FR Special offers the same sonic philosophy in a larger 1x12 cabinet with 100 watts of power, extending the concept naturally into rehearsal spaces and bigger live situations. The Standard weighs 10.72kg and measures 461 x 387 x 230mm, while the Special comes in at 13.50kg with dimensions of 525 x 447 x 245mm, giving players clear options depending on their power and portability needs.
With the Artist FR series, Blackstar has created FRFR cabinets that are still compact, practical and financially realistic while still delivering the familiar feel, responsiveness and physical reassurance guitarists expect from an amplifier. These new models bring professional full range performance into formats that look, behave and inspire like real guitar gear, making them a natural partner for the latest generation of modeller-based rigs.
For further information on the Artist FR Standard and Artist FR Special, please visit NAMM Booth #6802 or online at www.blackstaramps.com
Street Price:
Artist FR Standard $399.99 USD
Artist FR Special $469.99 USD
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