Roland CUBE 30 - Guitar Amplifier Manual

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled:

• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• USING THE UNIT SAFELY
• IMPORTANT NOTES

These sections provide important information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, Owner's manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Main Features

• 30-watt output, high-performance, DSP guitar amp with built-in 25 cm (10-inch) speaker
• Offers eight different COSM amp types
  Amps included: JC CLEAN, ACOUSTIC, BLACK PANEL, BRITISH COMBO, TWEED, CLASSIC STACK, METAL STACK, and R-FIER STACK
  Composite Object Sound Modeling (COSM) is Roland's innovative and powerful sound modeling technology. COSM analyzes the many factors that make up the original sound, such as the electrical and physical characteristics of the original, and then produces a digital model that can reproduce the same sound.
• Channel can be switched between "CLEAN" and "LEAD." Channel switching can be done via foot switch.
• Includes easy-to-use, three-band equalizer (Bass/Middle/Treble)
• Onboard EFX section includes 4 types of digital effect, chorus, flanger, phaser and tremolo; foot switch (optional) can be used to switch EFX on and off
• Separate "Delay" and "Reverb" effects provided in addition to the EFX
• Equipped with "RECORDING OUT jack" convenient for use in recording and for use as headphone out
• External input jack allows you to connect a CD player or other backing device

Names of Things and What They Do

1. INPUT Jack
   Connect your guitar here.
2. SELECT Switch
   Switches you between the CLEAN and LEAD channels.
   You can confirm which channel is selected by checking the indicator's color (JC CLEAN: green; LEAD: red).
   The channel can be switched using the optional BOSS FS-5U foot switch.

JC CLEAN Channel

This is a model of Roland's famous JC-120 Jazz Chorus guitar amplifier. The ultra-clean, ultra-flat sound offers a smooth. This becomes more effective when used in combination with a multi effector.

3. VOLUME Knob
   Adjusts the JC CLEAN channel volume.

LEAD Channel

4. Type Switch
   You can select from the following seven amp types:
   ACOUSTIC
   By combining acoustic guitar simulation with COSM amplifier modeling technology, this original amplifier model gives you a dynamic acoustic guitar sound using a standard electric guitar.
   BLACK PANEL
   This is modeled on the classic Fender Twin Reverb amplifier, used in a wide variety of musical styles, from country to blues, jazz and rock. Exhibiting rich lows and a bright high end.
   BRIT COMBO
   This is modeled on the Vox AC-30TB, the rock amplifier that created the Liverpool sound of the '60s. It can produce a broad range of sounds, from clean to overdrive, with increased distortion and greater power in the low-midrange when the amplifier's gain is boosted.
   TWEED
   This is modeled on the vintage Tweed Fender Bassman 4x10 combo. The amplifier's four 10-inch speakers produce a clear upper-midrange with a fat low end, and its unique crunch tones make it a favorite of blues-rock guitarists.
   CLASSIC STACK
   This is modeled on the sound and response of a Marshall JMP1987. The legendary JMP1987 is renowned for its smooth tone and presence-perfect for classic and hard rock.
   METAL STACK
   This is modeled on the Peavey EVH-5150. This is the high gain amp, so even at low volumes, you can still get heavy distortion and sustain.
   R-FIER STACK
   This is modeled on the MESA/ Boogie Rectifier. This super high gain amp is capable of producing slash metal, grunge, and a wide range of other lead sounds.
   
   Use of the RECORDING OUT/ PHONES jack allows even better reproduction of the COSM-modeled sound.
   * All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners, and are not related to Roland Corporation.
   In this manual, these names are used as appropriate ways to indicate sounds that are simulated using COSM technology.
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.

EFX (Effects)

10. EFX (Effects) Knob
    Turn this knob to chorus, flanger, phaser, or tremolo to select the corresponding effect. Turn the knob to adjust the amount of effect applied.
    The ON indicator lights up when EFX is turned on, and goes out when EFX is turned off. You can also turn EFX on and off using an optional foot switch (the BOSS FS-5U).
    * Graduations for CHORUS, FLANGER, PHASER,TREMOLO on a panel are for reference. Be sure to check the sound as you adjust the effects.
    CHORUS
    In this effect, a slightly detuned sound is added to the original sound, giving the sound greater breadth and fullness.
    
    FLANGER
    This creates a flanging effect that creates a sort of spinning sensation with the sound.
    
    PHASER
    This effect adds a variable phase-shifted signal to the direct sound, giving the sound a swirling character.
    
    TREMOLO
    Tremolo is an effect that creates a cyclic change in volume.
    

DELAY/REVERB

11. DELAY/REVERB Knob
    Turn this knob to DELAY or REVERB to switch to that effect.
    Turn the knob to adjust the amount of effect applied.
    * Graduations for DELAY, REVERB on a panel are for reference. Be sure to check the sound as you adjust the effects.
    DELAY
    Turn the knob to change the delay time.
    
    REVERB
    Turn the knob to adjust the reverb level.
    
12. FOOT SW (Foot Switch) Jack
    You can use foot switches (the optional BOSS FS-5U) connected using a connection cable (the optional PCS-31) to switch channels (JC CLEAN/ LEAD), and to turn EFX on and off.
    
    * When you connect only one foot switch by mono cable, you can only use it to switch channels (JC CLEAN/LEAD).
13. AUX IN Jack
    You can connect a CD player or other kind of device and have it play along with your guitar.
    This accepts a 1/4" stereo 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.
14. 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 VOLUME knob of JC CLEAN or LEAD channel shown below.
    
    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.
15. POWER Switch
    Turns 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.

Main Specifications

Rated Power Output
30 W

Nominal Input Level (@1kHz)
INPUT (JC CLEAN channel): -10 dBu/ 1 MΩ
AUX IN: -10 dBu

Speaker
25 cm (10 inch)

Controls
POWER Switch
SELECT Switch
<JC CLEAN Channel>
VOLUME Knob
<LEAD Channel>
TYPE Switch TYPE (ACOUSTIC, BLACK PANEL, BRIT COMBO, TWEED, CLASSIC STACK, METAL STACK, R-FIER STACK)
GAIN Knob
VOLUME Knob
<EQUALIZER>
BASS Knob
MIDDLE Knob
TREBLE Knob
<EFX>
EFX Knob (CHORUS, FLANGER, PHASER, TREMOLO)
<DELAY/REVERB>
DELAY/ REVERB Knob

Indicators
JC CLEAN Channel
LEAD Channel
EFX

Connectors
INPUT Jack
AUX IN Jack
RECORDING OUT/ PHONES Jack
FOOT Switch Jack (TIP:SELECT RING:EFX)

Power Supply
AC 117 V, 230 V or 240 V

Power Consumption
34 W

Dimension
385 (W) X 240 (D) X 380 (H) mm
15-3/ 16 (W) X 9-1/ 2 (D) X 15 (H) inches

Weights
9.2 kg / 20 lbs 5 oz

Accessories
Owner's Manual

Options
Footswitch FS-5U (BOSS)
Connection cable PCS-31

* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

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.

INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS.

SAVE THESE 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. When 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. Never use with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table except as specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
    
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. 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.

THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED

THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.
GREEN-AND-YELLOW: EARTH, 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 GREEN-AND-YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the letter E or by the safety earth symbol or coloured GREEN or GREEN-AND-YELLOW.

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.

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

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

About and 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.
• 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.

• 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.
• 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.

IMPORTANT NOTES

In addition to the items listed under "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" and "USING THE UNIT SAFELY", please read and observe the following:

Power Supply

• Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any device that will generate line noise (such as an electric motor or variable lighting system).
• 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.

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.
• This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such receivers.
• 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.
• To avoid possible breakdown, do not use the unit in a wet area, such as an area exposed to rain or other moisture.
• 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 put anything that contains water (e.g., flower vases) on the 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.
• Do not paste stickers, decals, or the like to this instrument. Peeling such matter off the instrument may damage the exterior finish.

Maintenance

• To clean the unit, use a dry, soft cloth; or one that is slightly dampened. Try to wipe the entire surface using an equal amount of strength, moving the cloth along with the grain of the wood. Rubbing too hard in the same area can damage the finish.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
  When powering up: Turn on the power to the CUBE-30 last.
  When powering down: Turn off the power to the CUBE-30 first.
• Wrap the AC cord around the cord hook when trans-porting or storing the unit.