Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the world of portable amplifiers, specifically pitting the Roland Cube Street EX against its successor, the Roland Cube Street II. If you're a busker, street performer, or anyone needing a reliable, battery-powered amp, you've probably heard of these two. But what really sets them apart? Let's break it down.

Overview of the Roland Cube Street EX

When it comes to portable amplification, the Roland Cube Street EX has been a long-standing favorite among musicians. Known for its robust build and versatile features, this amplifier is designed to deliver high-quality sound in various performance settings. Whether you are playing on a busy street corner, in a park, or at a small venue, the Cube Street EX provides the power and flexibility you need.

One of the key features of the Cube Street EX is its impressive power output. With up to 50 watts of stereo power, this amp ensures your music is heard clearly, even in noisy environments. This makes it an excellent choice for musicians who need to cut through the ambient noise of urban settings. The amp also offers a wide range of connectivity options, including multiple input channels for microphones, instruments, and external audio devices. This allows for a flexible setup, whether you are performing solo or with a group. The built-in effects, such as chorus, delay, and reverb, add depth and richness to your sound, enhancing your overall performance.

Furthermore, the Cube Street EX is designed with portability in mind. It can be powered by either AC power or eight AA batteries, providing the freedom to perform anywhere without the need for a power outlet. The durable construction ensures that the amp can withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor use. Additionally, the Cube Street EX includes practical features like a built-in tuner and a tilt-back stand, making it a convenient and reliable tool for any musician on the go. Its combination of power, versatility, and portability has solidified its reputation as a top choice in the portable amplifier market.

Overview of the Roland Cube Street II

The Roland Cube Street II emerges as the next-generation portable amplifier, building upon the legacy of its predecessor with enhanced features and modern technology. This amplifier is tailored for musicians who demand both performance and convenience in a compact package. The Cube Street II retains the core strengths of the original Cube Street series while introducing several improvements that make it even more appealing for today's performers.

One of the most notable updates is the improved sound quality. The Cube Street II features a newly designed amplifier and speaker system that delivers a clearer and more dynamic sound compared to the Cube Street EX. This enhancement ensures that your music sounds its best, whether you're playing acoustic melodies or amplified beats. The amp also includes updated effects and amp models, providing a wider range of tonal options to suit different musical styles. Connectivity remains a key feature, with multiple input channels for microphones, instruments, and other audio sources. The addition of i-CUBE LINK allows for seamless integration with iOS devices, enabling you to use your favorite music apps for practice or performance.

The Cube Street II continues to prioritize portability with its lightweight design and battery-powered operation. It can run on eight AA batteries or AC power, offering flexibility for various performance environments. The durable construction ensures it can handle the demands of travel and outdoor use. Furthermore, the Cube Street II incorporates modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream backing tracks or play music wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet. This makes it an excellent tool for solo performers who want to add backing tracks to their sets or for anyone who wants to practice with their favorite songs. With its combination of enhanced sound quality, modern features, and portability, the Roland Cube Street II sets a new standard for portable amplification.

Key Differences: What Sets Them Apart?

Okay, let's get down to brass tacks. What actually makes these two amps different? Here's the lowdown:

• Sound Quality: The Cube Street II generally boasts improved sound quality with a more refined and modern amplifier design. Many users report a clearer, more articulate sound, especially at higher volumes. The Cube Street EX still sounds great, but the II has a slight edge.
• Effects and Amp Modeling: While both amps have built-in effects, the Cube Street II often includes updated and potentially more versatile amp models and effects. This gives you a broader palette of tones to play with. Think of it as a software update for your amp!
• Connectivity: This is a big one. The Cube Street II often includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio wirelessly from your phone or tablet. This is HUGE for playing backing tracks or just jamming along to your favorite tunes. The Cube Street EX lacks this feature.
• i-CUBE LINK: Both have i-CUBE LINK, which allows you to connect to iOS devices for recording and playback. However, the implementation and functionality might be slightly improved in the Cube Street II.
• Cosmetics and Design: The Cube Street II usually features a more modern aesthetic design. This is subjective, of course, but some users prefer the newer look. It's like comparing a sleek new car to a reliable classic – both get you there, but one looks a bit more stylish.
• Price: Generally, the Cube Street II will be more expensive than the Cube Street EX. This is expected, given the newer features and improvements. You'll need to weigh the cost against the benefits to decide if it's worth the upgrade.

Sound Quality in Detail

Delving deeper into sound quality, the Roland Cube Street II showcases several enhancements that distinguish it from the Cube Street EX. The most significant improvement lies in its newly designed amplifier and speaker system. This combination delivers a more refined and dynamic sound, ensuring that every note and nuance is reproduced with clarity and precision. The enhanced sound quality is particularly noticeable at higher volumes, where the Cube Street II maintains its sonic integrity without distortion. This makes it ideal for performances in bustling environments where a clear and powerful sound is crucial. The improved sound quality also benefits acoustic performances, providing a richer and more natural reproduction of acoustic instruments and vocals. The Cube Street II ensures that your music sounds its best, whether you're performing solo or with a group. The enhanced audio fidelity makes it a top choice for musicians who prioritize sound quality in their portable amplification setup.

The Cube Street II also features updated effects and amp models, offering a wider range of tonal options to suit various musical styles. These enhancements allow musicians to fine-tune their sound and create unique sonic textures, adding depth and character to their performances. The improved sound quality ensures that these effects are rendered with clarity and fidelity, enhancing the overall listening experience. The combination of enhanced sound quality and versatile effects makes the Cube Street II a powerful tool for musicians seeking to elevate their performances. Whether you're playing acoustic melodies, amplified beats, or anything in between, the Cube Street II delivers the sound quality and versatility you need to make your music stand out.

Connectivity and Modern Features

When it comes to connectivity and modern features, the Roland Cube Street II truly shines, offering several enhancements that set it apart from the Cube Street EX. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity is a game-changer, allowing you to stream audio wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature is incredibly useful for playing backing tracks during solo performances or for simply jamming along to your favorite songs. The wireless connectivity eliminates the need for cables, providing a cleaner and more streamlined setup.

Another notable feature is the i-CUBE LINK, which allows seamless integration with iOS devices. This enables you to use your favorite music apps for practice, recording, or performance. The i-CUBE LINK feature makes it easy to capture your ideas and share them with others. These modern features enhance the overall user experience, making the Cube Street II a versatile and convenient tool for musicians of all levels. Whether you're a solo performer, a band member, or a music enthusiast, the Cube Street II provides the connectivity and modern features you need to take your music to the next level.

Portability and Power

Both the Roland Cube Street EX and the Cube Street II excel in portability and power, making them ideal choices for musicians who need a reliable amplifier for various performance settings. Both amps can be powered by either AC power or eight AA batteries, providing the flexibility to perform anywhere without the need for a power outlet. The battery-powered operation is particularly useful for busking, street performances, and outdoor gigs where access to electricity may be limited. The durable construction of both amps ensures that they can withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor use, making them reliable companions for musicians on the go. The lightweight design further enhances their portability, making them easy to carry and transport.

The Cube Street II and Cube Street EX are designed to provide ample power for various performance needs. Whether you're playing in a small venue, on a busy street corner, or in a park, these amps deliver the volume and clarity you need to be heard. The combination of portability and power makes them versatile tools for musicians who demand both convenience and performance. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, the Cube Street EX and Cube Street II provide the portability and power you need to bring your music to life, wherever you may be.

Which One Should You Choose?

Alright, the million-dollar question: which amp should you choose? Here's a simplified breakdown:

• Choose the Cube Street EX if:
  • You're on a tighter budget. The EX is a fantastic amp for the price.
  • You don't need Bluetooth connectivity.
  • You're happy with the existing amp models and effects.
• Choose the Cube Street II if:
  • You're willing to spend a bit more for improved sound quality.
  • Bluetooth connectivity is a must-have for backing tracks or jamming.
  • You want more modern features and potentially more versatile amp models.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget. Both are excellent portable amps, but the Cube Street II offers some significant upgrades that might be worth the extra cost for some musicians. Happy jamming!