Hey music lovers, buskers, and anyone who loves a good portable sound system! Today, we're diving deep into a battle of the titans: the Roland Cube Street EX versus the Roland Cube Street II. These speakers have become legendary for their portability, versatility, and impressive sound quality. But which one is the ultimate champion? Let's break it down and see which speaker best suits your needs.

Understanding the Roland Cube Street Legacy

Before we pit these two head-to-head, let's take a moment to appreciate the heritage. The original Roland Cube Street was a game-changer. It packed a punch in a compact package, making it a go-to for street performers, small gigs, and anyone needing a reliable portable amp. Its success paved the way for the Cube Street EX, which built upon the original's strengths and added some serious upgrades. Now, the Cube Street II has arrived on the scene, promising further enhancements and improvements. These speakers are more than just about delivering sound, it's about providing musicians, entertainers, and anyone needing high-quality audio on the go with a powerful and adaptable solution. They all share the same DNA of being portable, battery-powered, and designed for a variety of applications, but each generation brings something new to the table.

The original Cube Street was a trailblazer, beloved for its simplicity and surprisingly robust sound. The Cube Street EX stepped things up with more power, more inputs, and improved features. Now, the Cube Street II aims to refine the formula further, incorporating modern technologies and user-friendly features. They all cater to a wide audience. They’re a fantastic choice for musicians who need a reliable amp for practice, rehearsals, or small performances. They're also perfect for buskers looking to amplify their voice and instruments, or for anyone who wants a portable speaker for parties, events, or outdoor gatherings. The ability to run on batteries is a huge advantage, allowing you to set up and play anywhere without needing an electrical outlet. They are the ideal choice for anyone that appreciates portability and ease of use without sacrificing sound quality. They often include features like built-in effects, multiple input channels, and versatile connectivity options, making them extremely flexible for various audio setups. They are specifically designed to meet the demands of musicians, entertainers, and anyone requiring high-quality, portable audio solutions.

The evolution of the Roland Cube Street series reflects Roland's commitment to innovation and understanding of its customers' needs. Each iteration represents a step forward in portable audio technology, combining power, versatility, and ease of use in a compact and user-friendly design. It's a testament to the brand's dedication to providing solutions for musicians and performers. They've become a staple in the world of portable audio.

Cube Street EX: Power and Versatility Unleashed

The Roland Cube Street EX is a powerhouse. It boasts significantly more power than the original Cube Street, making it suitable for larger crowds and louder environments. This is a crucial upgrade for anyone needing to project their sound further. It features four independent channels, allowing you to connect a microphone, guitar, keyboard, and other instruments simultaneously. It offers a wide array of connectivity options. There are inputs for microphones, guitars, line-level devices, and even an i-CUBE LINK jack for connecting iOS devices. The EX also includes built-in effects, such as chorus, delay, and reverb, which can enhance your sound and add depth to your performance. These effects are a simple way to create a polished sound without the need for additional gear. The Cube Street EX is equipped with a stereo speaker system, which delivers a wider soundstage and more immersive listening experience. It has the ability to run on both AC power and batteries, making it incredibly versatile for any situation. It can last for hours on a set of batteries, meaning you can take it anywhere without worrying about finding an outlet. The Cube Street EX also includes an intelligent power mode that automatically adjusts the power output to conserve battery life, extending your performance time. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate the settings and adjust the levels. The intuitive controls and clear labeling make it easy to get up and running quickly. It's built to withstand the rigors of the road. It has a rugged design and durable construction, ensuring it can handle the bumps and bruises of transport. This makes the Cube Street EX a reliable choice for performers who are always on the go. The Cube Street EX truly excels in environments where you need to deliver a loud and clear sound. It is a fantastic choice if you want to perform in a larger setting.

It is the perfect choice for those that want raw power and extreme portability, delivering clear and detailed audio, ensuring that your sound cuts through the noise and reaches your audience. The additional features such as effects and multiple input channels make it incredibly versatile for musicians and performers of all kinds.

Cube Street II: The Evolution of Portability and Sound

The Roland Cube Street II takes everything that was great about the EX and refines it even further. It keeps the core strengths of its predecessor, while also introducing new features and improvements. It retains the same battery-powered convenience, making it ideal for outdoor performances and on-the-go use. While it might not boast quite the same raw power as the EX, it still delivers a surprisingly loud and clear sound for its size. The Cube Street II features updated speaker technology and improved sound quality. You can expect a more refined and balanced audio experience. This new speaker system is designed to deliver a more immersive listening experience. It delivers a full and balanced sound across the entire frequency range. It is equipped with five independent channels, providing even more flexibility. It allows for the connection of microphones, instruments, and other audio sources. Like the EX, the Cube Street II includes built-in effects to enhance your sound. It offers a selection of reverb, chorus, and other effects to add depth and dimension to your performance. The design of the Cube Street II emphasizes ease of use. It has a simplified control panel, making it easier to navigate the settings and adjust the levels. This user-friendly interface makes it easy to get your sound dialed in quickly. The Cube Street II incorporates modern connectivity options, including Bluetooth. You can stream music wirelessly from your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This is great for playing backing tracks or providing music during breaks. Roland has designed the Cube Street II with portability in mind. It features a lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry around. It makes it a breeze to transport from one gig to another. The Cube Street II also offers an i-CUBE LINK/AUX input for connecting external devices. This makes it easy to integrate with your existing setup. The new generation is designed for the modern performer. It is the perfect choice for the modern musician.

It continues to be an excellent choice for street performers, buskers, and anyone who needs a compact and versatile speaker. Its modern design, enhanced sound quality, and expanded connectivity options make it a great choice for musicians. The integration of Bluetooth is a huge bonus, allowing for wireless music streaming. It offers a balance of portability and performance.

Comparing Key Features: Cube Street EX vs. Cube Street II

To make a clear comparison, let's break down the key features of both speakers:

• Power: The Cube Street EX generally has more power (50W) than the Cube Street II (10W + 10W), making it better suited for larger crowds and louder environments.
• Channels: The Cube Street EX features four independent channels, while the Cube Street II offers five, giving you slightly more flexibility in terms of inputs.
• Sound Quality: Both speakers deliver excellent sound quality. The Cube Street II benefits from the latest speaker technology. It offers a more refined and balanced sound.
• Connectivity: Both offer a variety of inputs, but the Cube Street II adds Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming.
• Portability: Both are highly portable and battery-powered, but the Cube Street II is generally lighter and more compact.
• Effects: Both include built-in effects such as chorus, delay, and reverb, which enhance your sound. The Cube Street II provides better and more varied effects.
• Price: The Cube Street II is generally more budget-friendly than the Cube Street EX.

Which Speaker Is Right for You?

So, which one should you choose? Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

• Choose the Cube Street EX if:

  • You need maximum power and volume.
  • You often perform in larger spaces or outdoor environments.
  • You need a speaker with a robust build for heavy use.
  • You need maximum power and volume.
  • You perform in larger spaces.

• Choose the Cube Street II if:

  • You value portability and a lightweight design.
  • You want modern features like Bluetooth connectivity.
  • You prioritize the latest speaker technology and a refined sound.
  • You are on a budget, and the cost is a primary consideration.
  • You want a speaker with a refined sound.

Making Your Final Decision

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. The Cube Street EX is the workhorse. It is a fantastic choice if you need the most power and versatility. The Cube Street II is a great choice if you value portability, modern features, and a refined audio experience. Consider the size of your typical gigs, your budget, and the features that matter most to you. Try to listen to both speakers, if possible. This will help you to determine which one better matches your sonic preferences. Don't forget to weigh the pros and cons of each model, as well as any other key features that are crucial for your needs. Remember to consider factors such as your budget, the types of gigs you perform, and any special features that are important to you. Whether you choose the Cube Street EX or the Cube Street II, you're getting a top-notch portable speaker that will serve you well. Happy playing!