Blackstar IDX Floor One vs Floor Two vs Floor Three

Quick Summary

In this article, we’ll explore the unique features of each multi-effects processor in the new Blackstar IDX Floor range, and highlight the differences between each option to help you choose the best one for you.

Finding your perfect tone with the Blackstar IDX Floor series

Home-recording and effects processors are really having their moment in 2026, fueled by a wave of releases that debuted just last month at the NAMM show in California.

Perhaps one of the most exciting releases was Blackstar’s new IDX Floor series, including the Blackstar IDX Floor One, Blackstar IDX Floor Two and Blackstar IDX Floor Three. 

Blackstar have already proven themselves to be one of the leaders of the amplification market, and this expertise shines through their recent lineup of multi-effects processors. The IDX Floor range has been engineered to bridge the gap between digital power and analog feel, featuring ‘In the Room’ technology and component level modelling across all three units. 

But what are the key differences between each product in the range, and which one is best for you? Read on as we delve into the specs and unique features of each processor, and help you to figure out which is best suited to your needs.

Blackstar IDX Floor One

Entry-level option for local travelling musicians

The Blackstar IDX Floor One would be considered the entry-level option of the lineup, best for those starting out on their effects journey or gigging at local venues. 

Weighing just 1.33kg with a rugged metal chassis, the IDX Floor One is lightweight yet durable, making it portable and easy to grab-and-go for pub gigs and local shows. 

Despite its small and lightweight exterior, the IDX Floor One features the same ‘In the Room’ technology as its larger siblings. It offers storage for up to 99 custom patches, and has an easy-to-navigate OLED screen for clear visibility on dark stages. You can dial in your sound in seconds using the knob based controls, eliminating the need for app-based menu diving. 

Key Specs & Features:

• 12 electric amp models (with classic Blackstar and Ampton valve tones)

• 3 dedicated bass amp models 

• 2 acoustic voices

• Acoustic simulator

• 4-band EQ with Blackstar’s patented Infinite Shape Feature (ISF)

• CabRig Speaker Simulator 

• IR-based simulation

• Dual-balanced XLR outputs

• USB-C interface allows you to plug into your computer to record

• Built in tuner 

• Built in tap tempo

• MIDI In for external control

• 3.5mm line-in for streaming backing tracks

Blackstar IDX Floor Two

Advanced flexibility and control on-the-go

Next in the range is the Blackstar Floor IDX Two. This processor offers slightly more control than the Floor One, but maintains that grab-and-go portability, making it an excellent choice for travelling musicians looking for a slightly more advanced setup. 

Weighing in at 2.07kg, it is slightly heavier than the Floor One, but still remains highly portable with a rugged metal build for withstanding the rigours of the road. 

While the Floor Two features the same ‘brain’ as the Floor One (component-level modelling, ‘In the Room’ technology, patented power valve responses), the most obvious difference for this tier is the addition of an integrated expression pedal that can be used for advanced control over wah, expression and volume features.

Key Specs & Features

• 12 electric amp models (with classic Blackstar and Ampton valve tones)

• 3 dedicated bass amp models

• 2 acoustic voices

• Acoustic simulator

• 35+ premium effects (including compressors, delays and reverbs)

• 4-band EQ with Blackstar’s patented ISF

• USB-C connectivity

• IR-based CabRig speaker simulation

• Dual-balanced XLR outputs

• MIDI In 

• 3.5mm line-in for streaming backing tracks

• Headphone output for silent practice

• Integrated pedal for seamless control over wah, expression and volume

Blackstar IDX Floor Three

Professional-grade for touring musicians

For those needing total stage control and maximum connectivity, Blackstar have created the IDX Floor Three.

While it carries over the same "In The Room" technology, patented ISF, and integrated pedal found in the Floor Two, the ID:X Floor Three steps things up with its primary upgrade: expanded patch and effects switching. There are more dedicated footswitches on the unit, so you can jump between patches and toggle individual effects at speed without banking up or down as much. 

The IDX Three is also the only option within the range that features MIDI THRU as well as MIDI IN, which is a crucial addition for touring musicians who may be using secondary processors.

Given its expanded array of footswitches and I/O options, the Floor Three is the largest and heaviest processor in the range—yet at only 2.88kg, it still won’t be too troublesome to carry on the road. The extra weight and real-estate is well worth it for the advanced navigation of controls and footswitches on stage.

Key Specs & Features

• 12 electric amp models (with classic Blackstar and Ampton valve tones)

• 3 dedicated bass amp models

• 2 acoustic voices

• Acoustic simulator

• 35+ premium effects (including compressors, delays and reverbs)

• 4-band EQ with Blackstar’s patented ISF

• USB-C connectivity

• IR-based CabRig speaker simulation

• Dual-balanced XLR outputs

• MIDI In 

• MIDI THRU

• 3.5mm line-in for streaming backing tracks

• Headphone output for silent practice

• Integrated pedal for seamless control over wah, expression and volume

• Expanded patch and effects switching 

Blackstar IDX Floor One, Two & Three at a glance

Unleash your creativity with Blackstar

Regardless of the model you choose, the new Blackstar IDX Floor range is designed to expand your creativity and ease the common frustrations associated with effects processors. 

It’s important to remember that all three models in this range have the same ‘brain’ - the real differences lie in the physical design and the level of performance control.

The one you choose ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferred interface: whether you value the portability of the Floor One, the expressive potential of the Floor Two’s integrated pedal, or the total stage command of the Floor Three’s integrated pedal, expanded patch and effects switching and addition of MIDI THRU capabilities.

Looking for the perfect amp to pair with your new Blackstar IDX Floor Multi-Effects processor? Consider checking out the new Blackstar Artist FRFR Cabinet amps. Both the Artist FR Standard 50W and Artist FR Special 100W can be bundled with the Blackstar IDX Floor processors at a special price, and you can explore these options as well as the rest of the range on our Gig Gear online shop. 

Key Takeaways

• The IDX Floor One is for the local gigging musician or the home producer who needs a small footprint but premium CabRig simulation

• The IDX Floor Two is the sweet spot for players who need a wah/volume pedal built-in for a grab-and-go rig

• The IDX Floor Three is the most advanced option acting as a command centre for touring musicians with complex midi setups, or those who want dedicated footswitches for every effect.