Introduction
The SONICAKE US Madness is a compact and portable headphone amplifier designed for both guitar and bass players. It allows for silent practice with headphones, featuring built-in effects and a dynamic clean tone. Its rechargeable battery provides extended playing time, making it ideal for on-the-go musicians.
Safety Information
- Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Use only the specified charging cable.
- Prolonged listening at high volume levels can cause permanent hearing damage.
Package Contents
- SONICAKE US Madness Headphone Amplifier
- 1/8 inch Aux Cable
- Headphone Splitter
- USB Charging Cable
Image: The SONICAKE US Madness amplifier shown alongside its included accessories: a 1/8 inch aux cable, a headphone splitter, and a USB charging cable.
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the various controls and ports on your SONICAKE US Madness amplifier.
Image: Top view of the SONICAKE US Madness amplifier, highlighting the PHONES, VOLUME, TONE, GAIN, and POWER controls, along with the FX switch, AUX input, and USB port.
Image: Side view of the SONICAKE US Madness amplifier, showing the 1/4-inch instrument input jack and the control knobs for Volume, Tone, and Gain.
Image: Close-up of the SONICAKE US Madness amplifier, detailing the FX (Effects) toggle switch and the 1/8-inch AUX input jack.
Image: Close-up of the SONICAKE US Madness amplifier, showing the micro USB charging port, indicating its rechargeable nature.
Controls and Indicators:
- PHONES: 1/8 inch (3.5mm) headphone output jack.
- VOLUME: Adjusts the overall output volume to your headphones.
- TONE: Controls the tonal characteristics, from darker to brighter.
- GAIN: Adjusts the amount of overdrive/distortion.
- POWER: On/Off switch.
- FX (On/Off): Toggles the built-in chorus effect.
- AUX: 1/8 inch (3.5mm) auxiliary input for connecting external audio sources (e.g., smartphone, MP3 player).
- USB: Micro USB port for charging the internal battery.
- LED Indicators: Four blue LEDs indicate battery charge level and charging status.
Setup
- Charge the Device: Before first use, fully charge the US Madness amplifier using the supplied USB cable connected to a USB power adapter (not included) or a computer USB port. The blue LEDs will indicate charging progress and full charge. A full charge provides approximately 5 hours of continuous operation.
Image: The micro USB port on the side of the amplifier, used for charging the internal battery.
- Connect to Instrument: Plug the 1/4-inch jack of the US Madness directly into your guitar or bass's output jack.
Image: The SONICAKE US Madness amplifier plugged directly into the output jack of an electric guitar, ready for use.
- Connect Headphones: Plug your headphones into the PHONES (1/8 inch) jack. If you need to connect two pairs of headphones or an external recording device, use the included headphone splitter.
Image: The SONICAKE US Madness amplifier connected to headphones and an auxiliary audio source, demonstrating its versatile connectivity.
- Connect Auxiliary Audio (Optional): Use the supplied 1/8 inch Aux Cable to connect an external audio source (e.g., smartphone, MP3 player) to the AUX input jack. This allows you to play along with backing tracks.
Image: The SONICAKE US Madness amplifier connected to headphones and an auxiliary audio source, demonstrating its versatile connectivity.
Operating Instructions
- Power On: Flip the POWER switch to the "ON" position. The blue LED indicators will light up.
- Adjust Volume: Start with the VOLUME knob at a low setting and gradually increase it to a comfortable listening level.
- Adjust Tone: Use the TONE knob to shape your sound. Turn clockwise for brighter tones and counter-clockwise for warmer, darker tones.
- Adjust Gain: The GAIN knob controls the amount of overdrive. Turn clockwise for more distortion and sustain, and counter-clockwise for a cleaner sound. This amplifier is designed for a dynamic clean tone, suitable for both guitar and bass.
- Engage Effects: Toggle the FX switch to "ON" to activate the built-in chorus effect. Flip it to "OFF" to bypass the effect. The chorus effect adds sonic depth and modulation to your sound.
- Playing with Backing Tracks: If an external audio source is connected to the AUX input, its volume will be controlled by the source device. Adjust the volume on your phone or MP3 player accordingly.
- Power Off: When finished, flip the POWER switch to the "OFF" position to conserve battery life.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the amplifier in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Care: For optimal battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. Recharge the device regularly, even if not in use for extended periods.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from headphones. | Amplifier is off; Volume is too low; Headphones not properly connected; Instrument not properly connected. | Ensure POWER switch is ON; Increase VOLUME knob; Check headphone connection; Ensure instrument is fully plugged in. |
| Sound is distorted or noisy. | GAIN knob is too high; Low battery; Interference from other electronics. | Reduce GAIN; Recharge the amplifier; Move away from interfering devices. |
| Unit does not charge. | USB cable faulty; USB power source faulty; Charging port damaged. | Try a different USB cable; Try a different USB power source; Contact customer support if port is damaged. |
| FX effect is not working. | FX switch is off. | Ensure FX switch is in the "ON" position. |
| Auxiliary audio is not heard. | Aux cable not connected; External device volume too low. | Check Aux cable connection; Increase volume on the external audio device. |
Specifications
- Brand: SONICAKE
- Model: QAP-4E (US Madness)
- Compatible Devices: Guitar, Bass
- Amplifier Type: Solid State
- Output Wattage: 1 Watt
- Power Source: Cable Electric (Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery)
- Battery Composition: Lithium Ion Polymer
- Battery Life: Approximately 5 hours continuous operation
- Material: Plastic
- Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 17.6 x 12.5 cm; 63 g
- Input: 1/4 inch instrument input, 1/8 inch AUX input
- Output: 1/8 inch headphone output
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official SONICAKE website or contact your local dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
For further assistance, you may visit the SONICAKE brand page on Amazon: SONICAKE Brand Store
