Blackstar Amplification has introduced the Fly High Gain, a new ultra-portable mini amp built for guitarists who want heavier tones from the company’s compact Fly platform. The launch adds a dedicated high-gain voice to a series that has sold more than one million units worldwide.
Announced in Northampton, UK, the Blackstar Fly High Gain is designed for modern rock, metal, hard rock and punk players who need a compact practice amp for home use, backstage warmups or portable playing. The amp carries forward key elements of the original Fly design while adding a more aggressive sound and visual identity.
Three Channels, Including the New Nitro Voice
The Fly High Gain uses a three-channel architecture based around Clean, Overdrive and the new Nitro channel. Clean and Overdrive are carried over from the original Fly platform, while Nitro introduces a higher-gain structure aimed at more saturated modern tones.
Blackstar says the Nitro channel is designed specifically for players working in metal, hard rock and punk styles. The amp also includes the company’s patented Infinite Shape Feature, known as ISF, which lets players shape the EQ response from a tighter American-style sound to a more mid-focused British voice.
Portable Design with Expanded Rig Options
At its core, the Blackstar Fly High Gain retains the specially tuned sealed cabinet design and custom 3-inch speaker associated with the original Fly 3. The amp is engineered as an ultra-portable practice tool while aiming to preserve tonal integrity in a compact format.
Players who want a larger stereo setup can pair the amp with the optional Blackstar FLY 103 extension cabinet. This expands the mini combo into a broader stereo mini rig while keeping the footprint compact.
Noise Gate, Delay and Silent Practice Features
To support high-gain playing, the Fly High Gain includes a built-in noise gate intended to keep aggressive tones tight and controlled. An onboard analog-style delay is also included for adding depth to lead lines and solos.
For silent practice or direct recording, the amp features an emulated headphone output. This allows players to send the amp’s tone directly to headphones or a recording interface.
Battery Power and Aux Input for Everyday Use
The amp includes a streamlined control layout with essential tone, gain and effects parameters on a brushed control panel. An auxiliary input allows players to connect external devices and play along with backing tracks.
Blackstar has also designed the Fly High Gain for untethered use. The amp can be powered completely by batteries, making it suitable for portable practice sessions away from a mains power supply.
A Darker Look Inspired by Series One MK II
The Fly High Gain introduces a darker aesthetic that reflects its heavier tonal focus. Its visual design is inspired by Blackstar’s flagship Series One MK II amplifiers and includes a redesigned front grille, premium brushed control panel and metal logo.
The Blackstar Fly High Gain is positioned as a compact high-gain practice amp for players who want heavier tones without moving to a larger rig.
Price and Availability
The Blackstar Fly High Gain has a street price of $99.99 USD. More information, product specifications and authorized dealer details are available from Blackstar at www.blackstaramps.com.
dshowmusic.com
