Blackstar Introduces Fly High Gain Mini Amp For Heavier Guitar Tones

Blackstar has just expanded its Fly mini amp range with the new Fly High Gain, a compact portable guitar amp aimed at players looking for heavier tones in a small-format practice setup.

The new model builds on the company’s Fly platform, which Blackstar says has sold more than one million units worldwide, but adds a heavier-voiced channel designed for modern rock, punk and metal players.

At the centre of the Fly High Gain is a three-channel design. Alongside the familiar Clean and Overdrive channels from the existing Fly range, the amp introduces a new Nitro channel for more aggressive high-gain sounds.

Blackstar has also included its patented ISF control, allowing players to move between a tighter American-style response and a more mid-focused British voice from a single tone-shaping control.

To keep higher-gain sounds under control, the Fly High Gain includes a built-in noise gate. There is also an onboard analogue-style delay for adding depth to lead lines and solos, plus an emulated headphone output for silent practice or direct recording.

The amp uses a specially tuned sealed cabinet design and custom 3-inch speaker, and can be paired with the optional Blackstar FLY 103 extension cabinet for a wider stereo mini rig.

For practice use, the Fly High Gain also includes an auxiliary input for playing along with backing tracks, while battery power makes it suitable for use away from a mains supply.

Visually, the new model takes a darker approach than the standard Fly look, with styling inspired by Blackstar’s Series One MK II amplifiers. The design includes a redesigned front grille, brushed control panel and metal logo.

The Blackstar Fly High Gain carries a listed US street price of $99.99 in the supplied announcement.

Further information is available via Blackstar.