Blackstar Amplification has added native Neural Amp Modeler support to the Beam Solo headphone amp through a new partnership with TONE3000. The free firmware update, available via the Beam app from 10 June 2026, makes the Beam Solo the first headphone amp to natively run NAM A2 technology.
The update brings TONE3000’s NAM A2 engine to Blackstar’s compact practice and recording platform. Beam Solo users can now load NAM A2 Lite captures directly into the device, giving guitarists access to neural amp modelling in a plug-in-and-play headphone amp format.
NAM A2 Comes to a Compact Headphone Amp
Neural Amp Modeler technology is designed to reproduce the sound and response of captured amplifiers with a high level of detail. With NAM A2 support, Beam Solo users can access an expanding open-source library of thousands of NAM captures without relying on a larger desktop or studio setup.
For players using the Beam Solo as a practice, recording or travel solution, the update adds a new layer of tonal flexibility. It also positions the device as a notable development in the headphone amp category, where native neural amp modelling has not previously been available.
Free Firmware Update via the Beam App
The Blackstar Beam Solo NAM A2 update is free for all existing Beam Solo owners. It is available through the Beam app from 10 June 2026.
The Beam Solo already includes eleven amp models based on iconic reference amps and Blackstar’s own valve amp designs. Its existing feature set also includes more than 35 effects, CabRig speaker simulation with In The Room technology, patented ISF tone control, XpressFX, SpeedDial, Bluetooth music playback and multi-channel USB-C recording.
The unit also includes a headset microphone input with studio-quality preamps and full integration with the Beam app community.
Price and Availability
The Blackstar Beam Solo is available now from authorised Blackstar dealers worldwide. Pricing is listed at £119, €139.99 and $129.99.
More information on NAM A2 is available from TONE3000’s official NAM A2 guide.
About Blackstar Amplification
Blackstar Amplification is based in Northampton, England. The company says its team brings more than 100 years of combined experience in guitar amplification design and production, with a focus on tools for tone creation, practice, recording and live performance.
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