Blackstar ID:X Floor NAM A2 Update Is Available Now
13 minutes ago
3 min read
Blackstar has added native NAM playback to its three ID:X Floor modelers, opening them to compatible community captures without a computer on stage. The Blackstar ID:X Floor NAM A2 update also puts TONE3000 browsing inside Architect, making new amp and cab sounds easier to load. Existing owners get it free, but one effects block has to sit out when a capture is active.
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What does the Blackstar ID:X Floor NAM A2 update add?
The update adds native A2-Lite playback to the Blackstar ID:X Floor One, Blackstar ID:X Floor Two and Blackstar ID:X Floor Three. Architect now connects to TONE3000, where you can sign in, browse compatible captures and send one straight to the hardware. Blackstar says the library contains thousands of community-created tones, while TONE3000 puts its wider catalog above 800,000. That larger figure does not mean every entry works with ID:X Floor.
At present, the modelers accept Amp + Cab captures, which already include the amplifier, speaker cabinet and microphone. Each unit can keep up to 24 NAM captures, while Blackstar still documents 99 patch locations across 33 banks. The original Blackstar and Ampton models remain available, so the update adds another choice instead of replacing the sounds already inside.
NAM A2 appeared in Blackstar’s Beam Mini before coming to ID:X Floor. Blackstar’s Introducing ID:X Floor video predates this update, but it gives a clear look at the three units and their original modeling workflow. It also helps if you are choosing between the compact model and the two versions with expression pedals.
Blackstar introduces the three ID:X Floor models and shows their controls, connections and original modeling workflow.
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How do you install and load a NAM capture?
Connect the powered ID:X Floor to a Mac or PC over USB-C, then open Blackstar Architect and let it check for updates. Install the latest Architect release and accept the hardware firmware prompt when it appears. Do not unplug USB or switch off the unit while the firmware is installing, as an interrupted update may leave the hardware unusable. If that happens, reconnect it and run Architect again so the software can validate or reinstall the firmware.
After updating, choose TONE3000 from Architect’s amp-selection menu and sign in or create an account. Select a compatible Amp + Cab capture, load it onto the Floor and save it to a patch before disconnecting USB. The main limitation is that Pre FX is disabled whenever a NAM capture is active, which matters if your usual patch puts an onboard drive or compressor before the amp. The Floor plays captures but the announcement does not mention making them, and Blackstar has not announced onboard amp capture.
Price and Availability
The free firmware update and direct TONE3000 access are available now through Blackstar Architect. At the time of writing, Thomann lists the Blackstar ID:X Floor One at €179, Blackstar ID:X Floor Two at €209 and Blackstar ID:X Floor Three at €275. All three get the same NAM feature; the higher models mainly add the expression pedal, switching and connections.
If you already own one, update Architect first and let it handle the firmware check. New buyers can choose by foot control rather than sound content, which keeps the cheaper Floor One relevant for a small board. See Blackstar’s ID:X Floor page for the maker’s full range details.
Need the full switching setup?
The Floor Three adds an expression pedal, direct channel and effect switches, MIDI Thru and an effects loop. It now runs the same NAM A2-Lite captures as the smaller models.
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