Roland Blues Cube Stage, BC-Stage, Blues Cube Artist, BC-Artist, Blues Cube Tour Owner’s Manual

Owner’s Manual

Guitar Amplifier

Blues Cube Stage	Blues Cube Artist	Blues Cube Tour
(BC-Stage)	(BC-Artist)	(BC-Tour)
30 cm (12 inch) speaker, 60 W output	30 cm (12 inch) speaker, 80 W output	100 W output

Owner’s Manual

Bedienungsanleitung

Mode d’emploi

Manuale dell'utente

Manual del usuario

Manual do proprietário

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

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION: 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING - 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.Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table 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.

WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED

IMPORTANT: 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.

Owner’s Manual

Guitar Amplifier

This owner’s manual applies to the Blues Cube Tour, Blues Cube Stage and the Blues Cube Artist.

A Artist only , Artist/Tour only , or Tour only icon will be used to

mark explanations that pertain only to a specific model.

Blues Cube Stage	Blues Cube Artist	Blues Cube Tour
(BC-Stage)	(BC-Artist)	(BC-Tour)
30 cm (12 inch) speaker, 60 W output	30 cm (12 inch) speaker, 80 W output	100 W output

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USING THE UNIT SAFELY

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” (inside front cover), “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (p. 2), and ““IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 3). 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 of your new unit, read Owner’s Manual in its entirety. This manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Copyright © 2014 ROLAND CORPORATION

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

AboutWARNING 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

WARNING

Make sure that the power cord is grounded

Connect mains plug of this model to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.

To completely turn off power to the unit, pull out the plug from the outlet

Even with the power switch turned off, this unit is not completely separated from its main source of power. When the power needs to be completely turned off, turn off the power switch on the unit, then

pull out the plug from the 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.

Secure a sufficient amount of space at the setup location

Since this unit normally emits a slight amount of heat, make sure to secure sufficient space around it, as shown below.

Front					Side
30 cm (12 in.)	5 cm (2 in.)				15 cm (6 in.)
or greater	or greater				or greater

20 cm (8 in.)	20 cm (8 in.)
or greater	or greater

Do not disassemble or modify by yourself

Do not carry out anything unless you are instructed to do so in the owner’s manual. Otherwise, you risk causing malfunction.

WARNING

Do not use or store in the following types of locations

• 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

• Exposed to steam or smoke; or are

• Subject to salt exposure; or are

•Exposed to rain; or are

•Dusty or sandy; or are

•Subject to high levels of vibration and shakiness.

Do not place in an unstable location

Otherwise, you risk injury as the result of the unit toppling over or dropping down.

Connect the power cord to an outlet of the correct voltage

The unit should be connected to a power supply only of the type described as marked on the rear side of unit.

Use only the supplied power cord

Use only the attached power cord. Also, the supplied power cord must not be used with any other device.

Do not bend the power cord or place heavy objects on it

Otherwise, fire or electric shock may result.

Do not repair or replace parts by yourself		Avoid extended use at high volume
Refer all servicing to your retailer, the
		Use of the unit at high volume for
nearest Roland Service Center, or an
		extended periods of time may cause
authorized Roland distributor, as listed on
		hearing loss. If you ever experience any
the “Information.”
		hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you
		should immediately stop using the unit
		and consult a specialized physician.

WARNING

Do not allow foreign objects or liquids to enter unit; never place containers with liquid on unit

Do not place containers containing liquid (e.g., flower vases) on this product. Never allow foreign objects (e.g., flammable objects, coins, wires) or liquids (e.g., water or juice) to enter this product. Doing so may cause short circuits, faulty operation, or other malfunctions.

Turn off the unit if an abnormality or malfunction occurs

Immediately turn the unit 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” when:

•The power cord has been damaged; or

•If smoke or unusual odor occurs; or

•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.

Be cautious to protect children from injury

Always make sure that an adult is on hand to provide supervision and guidance when using the unit in places where children are present, or when a child will be using the unit.

Do not drop or subject to strong impact

Otherwise, you risk causing damage or malfunction.

Do not share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices

Otherwise, you risk overheating or fire.

Do not use overseas

Before using the unit in overseas, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information.”

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IMPORTANT NOTES

CAUTION

Place in a well ventilated location

The unit should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.

When disconnecting the power cord, grasp it by the plug

To prevent conductor damage, always grasp the power cord by its plug when disconnecting it from this unit or from a power outlet.

Periodically clean the power plug

An accumulation of dust or foreign objects between the power plug and the power outlet can lead to fire or electric shock.

At regular intervals, be sure to pull out the

power plug, and using a dry cloth, wipe away any dust or foreign objects that may have accumulated.

CAUTION

Disconnect the power plug whenever the unit will not be used for an extended period of time

Fire may result in the unlikely event that a breakdown occurs.

Route all power cords and cables in such a way as to prevent them from getting entangled

Injury could result if someone were to trip on a cable and cause the unit to fall or topple.

Avoid climbing on top of the unit, or placing heavy objects on it

Otherwise, you risk injury as the result of the unit toppling over or dropping down.

CAUTION

Never connect/disconnect a power plug if your hands are wet

Otherwise, you could receive an electric shock.

Disconnect all cords/cables before moving the unit

Before moving the unit, disconnect the power plug from the outlet, and pull out all cords from external devices.

Before cleaning the unit, disconnect the power plug from the outlet

If the power plug is not removed from the outlet, you risk receiving an electric shock.

Whenever there is a threat of lightning, disconnect the power plug from the outlet

If the power plug is not removed from the outlet, you risk receiving an electric shock.

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 or a motor (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner). 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.

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 unit may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this unit 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.

•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 this unit for long periods of time. Such objects can deform or discolor the unit.

•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.

•Do not place containers or anything else containing liquid on top of this unit. Also, whenever any liquid has been spilled on the surface of this unit, be sure to promptly wipe it away using a soft, dry cloth.

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. 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 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 others nearby, try to keep the unit’s volume at reasonable levels.

•When you need to transport the unit, pack it in shockabsorbent material. Transporting the unit without doing so can cause it to become scratched or damaged, and could lead to malfunction.

Intellectual Property Right

•Company names and product names appearing in this document are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.

•Roland, BOSS, and CUBE are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

•MMP (Moore Microprocessor Portfolio) refers to a patent portfolio concerned with microprocessor architecture, which was developed by Technology Properties Limited (TPL). Roland has licensed this technology from the TPL Group.

•ASIO is a trademark and software of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.

•This product contains eCROS integrated software platform of eSOL Co.,Ltd. eCROS is a trademark of eSOL Co., Ltd. in Japan.

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3

About Your New Blues Cube Stage / Artist / Tour

Introduction

Congratulations!

You’ve made the right choice.

The Blues Cube is the happy result of using Roland’s technological expertise to obtain the best possible sound from your electric guitar.

But to get the most out of your Blues Cube, you should go through this manual.

You don’t need to keep most amp manuals. But this one will explain important stuff about what makes a great sounding amp and how to get that killer tone.

Guitar Amp as a Musical Instrument

An electric guitar doesn’t come alive until it’s plugged in. Your amp can actually be considered part of the instrument.

In fact, it’s almost like the body of a great acoustic, contributing greatly to the final sound. Even a vintage guitar can’t give you all it’s got if you use a mediocre amp.

Dramatically Evolved Tube Logic

The quest to find the Blues Cube tone started with the component of the same very basic tube circuitry as Fender Bassman’s. Specifically, that is 12AY7 and 2 stage of 12AX7 for pre tubes, passive tone stack, longtailed pair phase inverter, 6L6GC power tubes with pushpull method, output trans. Its power section contains GZ34 rectifier tube, and the fixed bias method is adopted for power tube.

Types of power supply such as B+ power supply or C- power supply are significant factors that are deeply related to the curve of power tube gain or saturation, and not only types of tube but the way of power supply is the important factor to determine the characteristics of amp sound.

There is a certain point in the dynamic change in power supply to power tube that produce a very good feeling for musicians. That is to say, attack and sustain go together, or in other words, the characteristic bite feeling and compression feeling of tube go together. We have made the balance of adjustments to the feelings over and over again.

Warm, bouncy, responsive, dynamic, elastic…these are all terms that guitarists use to describe the satisfying experience of playing their favorite tube amps. Thanks to Roland’s Tube Logic, these words can be applied to the Blues Cube as well.

Dramatically evolved from the first-generation sound of the original Blues Cube amps from the ‘90s, today’s Tube Logic accurately provides the complex, highly interactive behavior of classic tube designs in meticulous detail, providing the magical “it” factor that takes a guitar amp from a simple sound system to a living, breathing musical instrument. Great feel, distortion control with touch and volume, bloom, sparkle, power supply “sag,” and more—everything that players love about a finely tuned vintage tube amp is present in abundance with the Blues Cube.

Performance-Ready Amp for Pro Players

Ready for live playing, the Blues Cube Artist is equipped with 80-watts of power

(Blues Cube Stage is equipped with 60-watts), plus a custom 12-inch speaker that’s been specially designed for maximum tonal response with Tube Logic. The open-back cabinet features poplar plywood construction, which offers acoustically vibrant tone for solo or group performances.

4