SONICAKE Sonic Cube II Dual-Channel Professional Audio Interface

Introducció

The SONICAKE Sonic Cube II is a compact yet powerful dual-channel professional audio interface designed for recording and live streaming. It features high-quality analog preamps that deliver excellent dynamic range and distortion performance, ensuring clear and precise audio capture. This device incorporates digital modeling technology for guitar amplifiers and DSP effects, offering enhanced versatility for musicians and producers.

Equipped with high-performance converters, the Sonic Cube II supports recording and mixing at up to 24-bit/48kHz, providing low noise and high-quality audio reproduction. Its ultra-low noise design and +48V phantom power make it suitable for both beginners and professional studio applications. The interface is compatible with major recording software for Mac and Windows, including ProTools, Reaper, and Ableton.

Figura 1: Panell frontal a sobreview of the Sonic Cube II audio interface.

Guia de configuració

1. Connexió d'alimentació: Connect the Sonic Cube II to a 5V DC power source using the appropriate adapter (not included) or via the USB Type-C port to a computer.
2. Connexió a l'ordinador: Use a USB 2.0 Type-C cable to connect the audio interface to your Mac or Windows computer. Ensure your operating system recognizes the device.
3. Instal·lació del controlador: While often plug-and-play, it is recommended to check the official SONICAKE website for the latest drivers or accompanying software to ensure optimal performance and access to all features, including digital modeling and DSP effects.
4. Connexió de micròfon/instrument:
   • MIC 1: Connect a microphone using an XLR cable to the Combo balanced input. If using a condenser microphone, activate the +48V phantom power switch.
   • LINE/INST 2: Connect a line-level instrument (e.g., keyboard) or a high-impedance instrument (e.g., guitar, bass) using a 1/4" (6.35mm) TRS jack.
5. Connexió de sortida:
   • Sortides principals: Connect your studio monitors to the two 1/4" (6.35mm) TRS balanced jacks.
   • Sortida d'auriculars: Connect your headphones to the 1/4" (6.35mm) headphone jack for direct monitoring.
6. Configuració del programari: Open your preferred Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software (e.g., ProTools, Reaper, Ableton) and select the Sonic Cube II as your audio input and output device in the software's audio settings.

Figure 2: Sonic Cube II connected to a laptop for recording.

Instruccions de funcionament

Control d'entrada

• MIC 1: Ajusteu el GUANYA 1 knob to set the input level for your microphone. Ensure the +48V phantom power is engaged if required by your microphone.
• LINE/INST 2: Ajusteu el GUANYA 2 knob to set the input level for your instrument. The preamp on Channel 2 is designed to handle higher input levels, accommodating various instruments.
• Indicadors d'entrada: Monitor the input level indicators (green/red LEDs) next to the gain knobs to prevent clipping. Adjust gain so that the signal is strong but does not consistently peak into the red.

Sortida i monitorització

• Mando de SORTIDA: Controla el nivell de sortida general dels monitors d'estudi.
• Sortida d'auriculars: The headphone jack provides direct monitoring. Use the dedicated headphone volume control (if available, otherwise controlled by the main OUTPUT knob) to adjust your listening level.
• One-Click Monitoring: The 'ON AIR MONITOR' function allows you to listen to the input sound in real-time with zero latency. This is crucial for recording vocals or instruments without delay.

Figure 3: Detail of the 'ON AIR MONITOR' function and rear panel connections.

Digital Modeling and DSP Effects

• The Sonic Cube II includes powerful computer software with built-in digital modeling for guitar amplifiers and various DSP effects. Install and launch the software on your computer to access these features.
• Use the software interface to select and customize amplifier models, apply effects like EFX and RVB (Reverb), and fine-tune your sound.

Figure 4: Digital modeling and DSP effects in use with the Sonic Cube II.

Manteniment

• Neteja: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can damage the finish.
• Emmagatzematge: Store the Sonic Cube II in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
• Cura del cable: Always handle cables by the connectors, not the wires, to prevent damage. Avoid sharp bends or kinks in cables.
• Actualitzacions de firmware: Periodically check the SONICAKE official website for any firmware updates for your device. Keeping the firmware updated can improve performance and add new features.

Resolució de problemes

• Sense sortida de so:
  • Check all cable connections (USB, inputs, outputs, headphones).
  • Ensure the Sonic Cube II is selected as the audio output device in your computer's sound settings and DAW.
  • Verify that the OUTPUT knob and headphone volume are turned up.
  • Check if the 'ON AIR MONITOR' is active if you expect direct monitoring.
• Input Signal Too Low/High:
  • Adjust the GAIN 1 or GAIN 2 knobs for the respective input.
  • Ensure the input level indicators are mostly green, occasionally peaking into yellow, but not consistently red.
  • For condenser microphones, confirm +48V phantom power is enabled.
• Hum or Interference:
  • Assegureu-vos que totes les connexions siguin segures.
  • Try using a different USB port or cable.
  • Disconnect other USB devices to check for conflicts.
  • Ensure the USB Audio Interface is protected from any hum or interference, as designed.
• El programari no reconeix el dispositiu:
  • Restart your computer and the Sonic Cube II.
  • Reinstall the drivers from the official SONICAKE weblloc.
  • Check your DAW's audio device settings to ensure the Sonic Cube II is selected.

Especificacions

Consells per a l'usuari

• The Sonic Cube II is versatile enough for both beginners learning audio production and experienced studio professionals.
• Utilize the convenient 'ON AIR' feature for streamlined live streaming, ensuring your audience hears you clearly and in real-time.
• Connecting the device to a computer is essential to unlock its full potential, especially for accessing and utilizing the digital modeling and DSP effects software for optimal recording quality.
• Avançanttage of the premium analog preamps for excellent dynamic range and distortion performance, which are key for high-quality recordings.
• Remember that Channel 2's preamp is designed to handle higher input levels, making it ideal for a wide range of instruments.

Figure 5: The Sonic Cube II is simple, compact, and easy to use.

Garantia i Suport

The SONICAKE Sonic Cube II comes with a 90-day warranty. For any questions, technical support, or warranty claims, please contact SONICAKE customer service directly. Refer to the official SONICAKE website for contact information and further support resources.