Roland CUBE-15X - Guitar Amplifier Manual

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Power Supply

• Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner), or that contains a motor. Depending on the way in which the electrical appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit to malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not practical to use a separate electrical outlet, connect a power supply noise filter between this unit and the electrical outlet.
• Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers or other devices.
• Although the LEDs are switched off when the POWER switch is switched off, this does not mean that the unit has been completely disconnected from the source of power. If you need to turn off the power completely, first turn off the POWER switch, then unplug the power cord from the power outlet. For this reason, the outlet into which you choose to connect the power cord's plug should be one that is within easy reach and readily accessible.

Maintenance

• For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth or one that has been slightly dampened with water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
• Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.

Additional Precautions

• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit's buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.
• When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector itself—never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cable's internal elements.
• A small amount of heat will radiate from the unit during normal operation.
• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit's volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it is late at night).
• When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.
• Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using some other make of connection cable, please note the following precautions.
• Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable.
• Wrap the power cord around the cord hook when transporting or storing the unit.

Panel descriptions

Control Panel

1. INPUT Jack
   Connect your guitar here.
2. SELECT Switch
   Switches between the CLEAN and LEAD channels. You can confirm which channel is selected by checking the indicator's color (CLEAN: green; LEAD: red).

CLEAN Channel

3. VOLUME Knob
   Adjusts the CLEAN channel volume.

LEAD Channel

4. LEAD Channel
   You can select from the following four types.
   OVERDRIVE
   Natural distortion sound similar to that obtained by turning an amp's volume up completely.
   DISTORTION
   Harder distortion than OVERDRIVE.
   METAL
   Even harder and heavier than DISTORTION, which can get long sustained notes.
   METAL STACK
   Very fat sound of a Heavy Metal full amp stack.
5. GAIN Knob
   Adjusts the LEAD channel's distortion level.
6. VOLUME Knob
   Adjusts the LEAD channel volume.

EQUALIZER

7. BASS Knob
   Adjusts the tone quality of the lower range.
8. MIDDLE Knob
   Adjusts the tone quality of the midrange.
9. TREBLE Knob
   Adjusts the tone quality of the upper range.
   * No sound will be produced when BASS, MIDDLE, and TREBLE knob are all set to 0.
10. AUX IN Jack
    You can connect a CD player, MP3 player or other kind of device and have it play along with your guitar. This accepts a stereo miniature phone plug. However, the speaker and RECORDING OUT/PHONES output is monaural.
    * Determine the volume level by adjusting the volume control of the connected device.
    * The Power Squeezer function is also applied to sounds input from the AUX IN jack.
11. RECORDING OUT/PHONES Jack
    When Using RECORDING OUT
    
    Use mono 1/4" phone plugs when connecting to this jack.
    Volume level of RECORDING OUT can be easily adjusted if you set the CLEAN or LEAD Channel VOLUME knob as shown in the diagram on the right.
    When Using Headphones
    Connect headphones to this jack.
    * No sound is played through the unit's speaker while the RECORDING OUT/PHONES jack is in use.
12. POWER SQUEEZER Switch
    Switching on the Power Squeezer function allows you to reduce the amp's output to 2 watts.
    Switching this on allows you to produce a sound that preserves the same tone and balance as when the amp is played at maximum volume, but at an output of 2 watts, for volume levels that are more suitable for the average home.
13. POWER Switch
    This switches the power on and off.
    * This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after power up is required before the unit will operate normally.
    * If you need to turn off the power completely, first turn off the POWER switch, then unplug the power cord from the power outlet. Refer to "Power Supply".

Connections

Refer to the figure shown below to connect the CUBE-15X to other equipment

Switching the Power On and Off

Once the connections have been completed, turn on power to your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

1. Make sure that all volume controls on the CUBE-15X and connected devices are set to 0.
2. Turn on all the devices connected to the CUBE-15X 's input jacks (INPUT jack and AUX IN jack).
3. Turn on the CUBE-15X.
4. Switch on any equipment connected to the CUBE-15X's RECORDING OUT/PHONES jack.
5. Adjust the volume levels for the devices.
6. Before switching off the power, lower the volume on each of the devices in your system and then TURN OFF the devices in the reverse order to which they were switched on.
   * This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after power up is required before the unit will operate normally. For protection from sudden big sound, always make sure to have the volume level turned down before switching on power. Even with the volume all the way down, you may still hear some sound when the power is switched on and off, but this is normal, and does not indicate a malfunction.
   * If you need to turn off the power completely, first turn off the POWER switch, then unplug the power cord from the power outlet. Refer to "Power Supply".
   * To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections.
   * Before making the connections, be sure that the volume setting of the VOLUME knob for both amplifiers is set to "0."
   * When connection cables with resistors are used, the volume level of equipment connected to the inputs may be low. If this happens, use connection cables that do not contain resistors, such as those from the Roland PCS series.

• Rated Power Output
  15 W
• Nominal Input Level
  INPUT (CLEAN channel): -10 dBu/1 MΩ
  AUX IN: -10 dBu
• Speakers
  20 cm (8 inch)
• Controls
  POWER Switch
  SELECT Switch
  POWER SQUEEZER Switch
  <CLEAN Channel>
  VOLUME Knob
  <LEAD Channel>
  TYPE Switch (OVERDRIVE, DISTORTION, METAL, METAL STACK)
  GAIN Knob
  VOLUME Knob
  <EQUALIZER>
  BASS Knob
  MIDDLE Knob
  TREBLE Knob
• Indicators
  CLEAN Channel
  LEAD Channel
• Connectors
  INPUT Jack
  AUX IN Jack
  RECORDING OUT/PHONES Jack
• Power Supply
  AC 117 V, AC 230 V or AC 240 V
• Power Consumption
  18 W
• Dimensions
  335 (W) x 240 (D) x 335 (H) mm
  13-3/16 (W) x 9-1/2 (D) x 13-3/16 (H) inches
• Weight
  7.1 kg / 15 lbs 11 oz
• Accessories
  Owner's Manual

* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

NOTE
In the interest of product improvement, the specifications and/or appearance of this unit are subject to change without prior notice.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

For the U.K.

THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.

BLUE: NEUTRAL
BROWN: LIVE

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREVETION OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS

About WARNING and CAUTION Notices

	Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of death or severe injury should the unit be used improperly.
	Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of injury or material damage should the unit be used improperly. * Material damage refers to damage or other adverse effects caused with respect to the home and all its furnishings, as well to domestic animals or pets.

About the Symbols

	The symbol alerts the user to important instructions or warnings. The specific meaning of the symbol is determined by the design contained within the triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.
	The symbol alerts the user to items that must never be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that must not be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the unit must never be disassembled.
	The symbol alerts the user to things that must be carried out. The specific thing that must be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the power-cord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.

ALWAYS OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING

• Before using this unit, make sure to read the instructions below, and the Owner's Manual.
• Do not open or perform any internal modifications on the unit.
• Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts within it (except when this manual provides specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page.
• Never use or store the unit in places that are:
• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or are
• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors); or are
• Humid; or are
• Exposed to rain; or are
• Dusty; or are
• Subject to high levels of vibration.
• Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. Never place it on stands that could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.
• The unit should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions, or as marked on the unit.

• Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, producing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock hazards!
• This unit, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level, or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately stop using the unit, and consult an audiologist.
• Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.
• Immediately turn the power off, remove the power cord from the outlet, and request servicing by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page when:
• The power-supply cord, or the plug has been damaged; or
• If smoke or unusual odor occurs
• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto the unit; or
• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has become wet); or
• The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.
• In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.
• Protect the unit from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)
• Do not force the unit's power-supply cord to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using extension cords—the total power used by all devices you have connected to the extension cord's outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through.
• Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page.
• Do not put anything that contains water (e.g., flower vases) on this unit. Also, avoid the use of insecticides, perfumes, alcohol, nail polish, spray cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any liquid that spills on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.

Placement

• Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment containing large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the source of interference.
• Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initiating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch them off
• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes. Also, do not allow lighting devices that normally are used while their light source is very close to the unit (such as a piano light), or powerful spotlights to shine upon the same area of the unit for extended periods of time. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.
• When moved from one location to another where the temperature and/or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation) may form inside the unit. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the unit in this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation has completely evaporated.
• Do not allow rubber, vinyl, or similar materials to remain on the unit for long periods of time. Such objects can discolor or otherwise harmfully affect the finish.
• Do not paste stickers, decals, or the like to this instrument. Peeling such matter off the instrument may damage the exterior finish.
• Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface. You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to prevent this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the unit will not slip or move accidentally.

• The unit should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
• Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply cord when plugging into, or unplugging from an outlet.
• At regular intervals, you should unplug the power plug and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe all dust and other accumulations away from its prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time. Any accumulation of dust between the power plug and the power outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire.

• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out of the reach of children.
• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.
• Never handle the power cord or its plug with wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet.
• Before moving the unit, disconnect the power plug from the outlet, and pull out all cords from external devices.

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug the power cord from the outlet.
• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, pull the plug on the power cord out of the outlet.
• The cooling vents on either side of the unit may become hot, so take care to avoid burns.
• Do not remove the speaker grille and speaker by any means. Speaker not user replaceable. Shock hazardous voltages and currents are present inside the enclosure.