Blackstar Amplification has officially unveiled the Beam Mini, a compact powerhouse that bridges the gap between high-end guitar amplification and premium consumer audio. More than just a practice tool, the Beam Mini is a sophisticated Bass, Electric, Acoustic, and Music (B.E.A.M.) ecosystem housed in a sleek, portable frame.
A Tiny Titan with “Ampton” Soul
While most desktop amps rely on static “snapshots” of gear, Blackstar has introduced the Ampton Series. Leveraging decades of R&D, these models use component-by-component modeling to recreate the feel and response of history’s most iconic amplifiers.
The user experience is centered around the innovative Light Beam and SpeedDial interface. The Light Beam provides real-time visual feedback, allowing players to see their tone changes instantly. Whether you are using the dedicated smartphone app or the physical controls, the Beam Mini offers a tactile, “no-latency” feel that is often missing from digital gear.
Designed for those who demand inspiration without the friction of a complex setup, the Beam Mini delivers a high-fidelity, immersive experience in a sleek, ultra-portable frame. By fusing decades of traditional craftsmanship with advanced component-level modeling and Neural Amp Modeler (NAM) compatibility, Blackstar has set a new benchmark for desktop amplification.
It’s a rare, no-compromise hybrid that transitions seamlessly from a world-class guitar rig to a premium Bluetooth audio system, ensuring you never have to sacrifice tone for convenience.
High-Fidelity Audio Meets Guitar Tech
Blackstar didn’t just stop at guitar tones. The Beam Mini was benchmarked against market-leading Bluetooth speakers to ensure it doubles as a primary music listening device.
-
True Stereo Setup: Unlike many mono-output portable speakers, the Beam Mini features side-firing passive radiators in a sealed, ported enclosure for rich, wide audio.
-
XpressFX: This proprietary technology spreads effects across a massive stereo field, creating an “In The Room” experience that belies the unit’s small footprint.
-
Vocal Recording: In a first for the desktop amp category, the Beam Mini supports vocal recording alongside guitar, making it an essential tool for singer-songwriters and content creators.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
| Battery Life | 12–18+ Hours (USB-C Rechargeable) |
| Amp Models | 17 (Plus 50+ via App) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB-C Audio Interface, 3.5mm Headset |
| Speaker Tech | Super Wide Stereo with Passive Radiators |
| App Integration | Photo-realistic Rig, Social Patch Sharing, YouTube Sync |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use the Blackstar Beam Mini for bass guitar? A: Yes! The “B” in B.E.A.M. stands for Bass. The sealed, ported enclosure is specifically designed to handle low-end frequencies without rattling.
Q: How long does the battery actually last? A: While playback style varies, the unit is rated for over 12 hours of heavy use, with some settings allowing for upwards of 18 hours on a single USB-C charge.
Q: Does it work as a recording interface? A: Absolutely. It features a built-in USB-C audio interface for multi-channel direct recording into your favorite DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).
Q: Can I share the tones I create? A: Yes, the Blackstar app includes a “Social Share” feature and an online community where you can download artist presets or upload your own.
Our Thoughts: The Verdict
The Blackstar Beam Mini is a masterclass in hybrid design. It’s rare to find a device that doesn’t compromise on either side of the “guitar amp vs. Bluetooth speaker” divide.
For the modern musician, space and versatility are everything.
The inclusion of vocal recording capabilities and the Ampton Series modeling makes this feel less like a “mini amp” and more like a professional studio shrunk down to fit on a bookshelf. If you’re a hobbyist looking for a stylish practice tool or a pro needing a portable songwriting rig, the Beam Mini is a “clever little beast” that earns its spot on your desk.
Pre-Order & Pricing
Available at Andertons – £169.99
More Information
#Blackstar #Beam Mini
This article may contain affiliate links to Andertons, DeathCloud, Donner, Fender, Gear4Music, Positive Grid, Sweetwater, and Thomann that help finance the running costs of GuitarBomb. We will receive a small commission if you buy something through these links. Don’t worry; you pay the same price, and it costs you no extra to use these affiliate links for your purchases.
