Review of Blackstar Fly 3 by Guitar World
The Blackstar Fly 3 is a budget-friendly practice amp that offers a variety of tones below the $/£100 mark. With pristine cleans, classic rock crunch, bluesy tones, and even modern metal sounds, this amp boasts a twin-channel design that provides versatile options for players.
In terms of overall value for money, the Fly 3 is hard to fault as a home practice solution. While it may not match your regular amp in terms of tone quality, it serves as an excellent companion for jamming out in your living room or at your desk. Its simplicity in controls allows for easy tone shaping, with the tape delay emulation adding a unique touch to the overall sound.
The Fly 3 is equipped with a single 3-inch speaker and four knobs for gain, volume, EQ, and delay control. It features separate channels for clean and overdriven tones, along with a mix knob for adjusting the delay signal. Connectivity options include a 1/4-inch input for your guitar, an auxiliary 1/8-inch input for external devices, and a 1/8-inch output for headphones or line out.
Despite its small size, the Fly 3 packs a punch in terms of sound quality. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this amp offers simplicity in its design and ease of use. With separate gain and volume controls, you have the flexibility to achieve distorted sounds at lower levels, making it ideal for practice sessions.
The build quality of the Fly 3 is commendable, with a lightweight yet sturdy exterior that comes in four vibrant colors. The classic chickenhead knobs provide a tactile feel when adjusting settings, while the metal front grille ensures protection for the speaker. Its portable design makes it convenient for on-the-go use, making it a versatile option for players of all levels.
When it comes to sound performance, the Fly 3 excels in delivering clean tones that become more dynamic with added gain. The tape delay emulation enhances the overall sound quality, particularly when playing bluesy riffs or ambient melodies. Cranking up the gain yields classic rock tones that pair well with power chords and lead lines, showcasing the amp’s versatility across genres.
In conclusion, the Blackstar Fly 3 remains a top choice for players seeking an affordable practice amp with a wide range of tones. Despite its compact size, this amp delivers impressive sound quality and ease of use, making it a valuable addition to any guitarist’s collection.