I’ve long been a fan of Roland’s Cube amp series. I’ve used them for teaching, I’ve recommended them for students, and the Micro Cube is so teensy that it’s a perfect workbench amp for tech work. Now Roland has revamped the line with new features. There’s the new Micro Cube GX battery-powered mini-amp with i-CUBE LINK, three triple-channel Cube models (Cube-20GX, Cube 40-GX and Cube-80GX) each with iOS connectivity, and the AC-40 Acoustic Chorus Guitar Amplifier, a compact stereo amp for acoustic players. Here’s the info (and make sure you scroll down to the Micro Cube GX video featuring Nita Strauss):
by Peter Hodgson
ROLAND INTRODUCES NEW CUBE-GX GUITAR AMPLIFIERS
Triple-Channel Combo Amps with iOS Connectivity
Los Angeles, CA, June 28, 2013 — Roland is pleased to announce the all-new CUBE-GX series, which features three combo guitar amplifiers equipped with the innovative i-CUBE LINK interface for iOS devices. Building on the top-level COSM tone and rock-solid reliability that’s made the CUBE name famous, the CUBE-GX amps turn up the heat with even more versatile operation and built-in connectivity for Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Models in the new series include the CUBE-80GX, CUBE-40GX, and CUBE-20GX, providing size and feature options to suit the needs of players from gigging pros to bedroom jammers:
• CUBE-80GX: 80 watts, 12-inch custom-designed speaker
• CUBE-40GX: 40 watts, 10-inch custom-designed speaker
• CUBE-20GX: 20 watts, 8-inch custom-designed speaker
Each CUBE-GX amp is equipped with three independent channels—including JC CLEAN, LEAD, and SOLO—plus three separate effects sections. JC CLEAN provides the revered tone of Roland’s legendary JC-120 amplifier, while LEAD offers multiple amp types to choose from (10 in the CUBE-80GX/-40GX; 6 in the CUBE-20GX). SOLO is fully programmable, allowing users to store their favorite amp type along with EQ and effects settings. Built-in effects include EFX (5 types), DELAY, and REVERB.
Players can select channels from the top panel or remotely with footswitches while performing. The CUBE-80GX and CUBE-40GX support the GA-FC Foot Controller (sold separately), which has six footswitches for channel selection and effects on/off, plus two jacks for volume control with expression pedals. All CUBE-GX amps also offer remote channel selection with optional BOSS FS-5U or FS-6 footswitches.
The CUBE-GX series features Roland’s innovative i-CUBE LINK interface for simple and convenient connectivity with Apple’s iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Two-way communication with iOS devices is provided via the included cable, allowing players to jam with music tracks and send studio-quality guitar tones direct to their favorite music recording apps. The versatile i-CUBE LINK jack can also be used as a simple stereo input, letting users plug in nearly any music player or audio device and play it through the amp.
Available for free from the App Store, the companion CUBE JAM app turns an iOS device into a fun command center for jamming, recording, and learning. Users can play along with commercial songs through the CUBE-GX series, and record their performance back into CUBE JAM with their favorite amp tones. The app also includes powerful tools for music practice, including independent speed and pitch adjustment of audio playback, Center Cancel, and more.
ROLAND DEBUTS MICRO CUBE GX GUITAR AMPLIFIER
Battery-Powered Mini-Amp with Massive Tone and i-CUBE LINK
Los Angeles, CA, June 28, 2013 — Roland is proud to introduce the MICRO CUBE GX Guitar Amplifier, a miniature powerhouse that sets a new performance standard in ultra-compact, battery-powered amplification. As the replacement for Roland’s hugely successful MICRO CUBE, the MICRO CUBE GX improves on its legendary predecessor in every way, adding a MEMORY function, new amp and effects types, a chromatic tuner, and more. i-CUBE LINK opens new opportunities for practice and mobile recording, providing a convenient built-in interface for Apple’s iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
A top-seller worldwide for nearly 10 years running, the acclaimed MICRO CUBE holds the mantle as the most popular battery-powered amp of all time. The MICRO CUBE GX is a worthy successor, retaining the original’s tiny size and huge sound while adding many great features and improvements.
Filled with eight of Roland’s renowned COSM amps, the MICRO CUBE GX provides a wide range of versatile tones, from the crystal-clear JC CLEAN to the new EXTREME for crushing, in-your-face metal riffs. Five different EFX types include a new HEAVY OCTAVE effect that works great for adding unique, ultra-low power to distorted tones.
The independent DELAY/REVERB processor features a newly added spring reverb option for authentic surf and roots-rock sounds. A new MEMORY function turns the MICRO CUBE GX into a dual-channel amp, allowing users to store and recall their favorite amp and effects settings.
With up to 25 hours of playing time using six NiMH AA-size batteries, players can enjoy uninterrupted fun with the MICRO CUBE GX while jamming at home, the beach, camping trips, and parties. Increased power output delivers even better performance, and a chromatic tuner is built in, eliminating the need to carry an external tuner.
The MICRO CUBE GX features Roland’s innovative i-CUBE LINK interface for simple and convenient connectivity with Apple’s iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Two-way communication with iOS devices is provided via the included cable, allowing players to jam with music tracks and send studio-quality COSM guitar tones direct to their favorite music recording apps. The versatile i-CUBE LINK jack can also be used as a simple stereo input, letting users plug in nearly any music player or audio device and play it through the amp.
Available for free from the App Store, the companion CUBE JAM app turns an iOS device into a fun command center for jamming, recording, and learning. Users can play along with commercial songs through the MICRO CUBE GX, and record their performance back into CUBE JAM with their favorite COSM amp tones. The app also includes powerful tools for music practice, including independent speed and pitch adjustment of audio playback, Center Cancel, and more.
ROLAND ANNOUNCES AC-40 ACOUSTIC CHORUS GUITAR AMPLIFIER
Compact Stereo Amp for Acoustic Guitarists and Singer/Songwriters
Los Angeles, CA, June 28, 2013 — Roland is pleased to announce the AC-40 Acoustic Chorus Guitar Amplifier, the latest addition to the acclaimed AC family of stereo acoustic amps with built-in effects. Perfect for performing guitarists and singer/songwriters, the mobile AC-40 produces clean, loud, and natural acoustic tone, and features a versatile dual-channel configuration that supports both a guitar and a microphone.
Compact and weighing less than 12 pounds (5.3 kg), the AC-40 delivers big and rich sound despite its small size. Dual custom-designed 6.5-inch speakers offer impressive projection for performing in venues such as intimate nightclubs, restaurants, and coffee houses. True stereo output plus onboard stereo chorus and reverb effects provide studio-quality depth and dimension that’s not possible with standard mono amps.
With two independent channels, the AC-40 gives players pro versatility for any performing situation. The dedicated GUITAR channel features a standard ¼-inch input, while the MIC/LINE channel has an XLR/TRS combo input for connecting a microphone or a line-level device. Each channel has its own three-band EQ for sound shaping plus independent chorus and reverb controls, giving users total command over their tone.
The convenient anti-feedback function provides a simple solution for controlling problematic acoustic feedback automatically, allowing users to perform on stage without worry.
On its rear panel, the AC-40 has flexible connectivity options for a variety of situations. The stereo AUX IN allows users to plug in an external music player for backing tracks and practice, while mono/stereo LINE OUT jacks can be used to connect directly to PA systems or recording devices. Plugging into the PHONES jack mutes the internal speakers, ideal for silent practice sessions. A jack is also provided for turning the reverb and chorus effects on/off with optional footswitches.
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