1. Setup
This section guides you through the initial setup of your SONICAKE 5th Dimension Digital Modulation Pedal.
1.1 Power Supply
The pedal requires a 9V DC power supply with a center-negative polarity. Ensure the power supply meets these specifications to prevent damage to the unit. The power supply is not included with the pedal.
1.2 Connections
Connect your guitar to the 'INPUT' jack on the right side of the pedal. Connect the 'OUTPUT' jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain. Use standard 1/4-inch audio cables.
Image 1.1: SONICAKE 5th Dimension pedal showing input/output jacks and power input. The pedal is compact, designed for easy integration into any pedalboard setup.
2. Operating Instructions
The SONICAKE 5th Dimension pedal offers 11 high-quality digital modulation effects. Familiarize yourself with the controls to explore its full sonic capabilities.
2.1 Controls Overview
- Mode Selector Knob: The large central knob selects one of the 11 modulation effects.
- Speed/Rate Knob: Controls the speed or rate of the selected modulation effect.
- Depth Knob: Adjusts the intensity or depth of the modulation.
- Ctrl/Mix Knob: This knob's function varies depending on the selected mode, often controlling a specific parameter or the wet/dry mix.
- Footswitch: Toggles the effect on/off. Hold down for Tap Tempo function.
- LED Indicator: Illuminates when the effect is active and flashes to indicate the current rate/speed.
Image 2.1: The pedal's interface highlighting the 11 effects available via the mode selector knob. This compact design integrates multiple modulation types into a single unit.
2.2 Modulation Modes
Rotate the large central knob to select from the following 11 modes:
- Chorus: Creates a rich, swirling effect by blending the original signal with a slightly delayed and pitch-shifted copy.
- Flange: Produces a sweeping, jet-plane like sound by mixing a delayed signal with the original, where the delay time is modulated.
- Trem: A classic tremolo effect that modulates the volume of your signal, creating a pulsating sound.
- Phase: Generates a distinctive whooshing or swirling sound by creating phase shifts in the signal.
- Vibra: A vibrato effect that modulates the pitch of your signal, similar to a subtle tremolo arm movement.
- Rotary: Simulates the sound of a rotating speaker cabinet, offering a rich, swirling, and Doppler-like effect.
- Liquid: An experimental, fluid-like modulation effect, often described as a watery or shimmering sound.
- Auto Wah: Automatically sweeps a filter frequency based on your playing dynamics, mimicking a wah pedal without manual control.
- Stutter: Creates a rhythmic on/off chopping effect, producing a choppy, glitchy, or Morse code-like sound.
- Ring: A ring modulator effect that generates metallic, bell-like, or dissonant tones by multiplying your signal with a carrier wave.
- Low Bit: A bitcrusher effect that reduces the bit depth of your signal, resulting in a lo-fi, digital, or retro video game sound.
2.3 Tap Tempo Function
For real-time control over the speed/rate of certain modulation effects (e.g., Tremolo, Phaser), hold down the footswitch for approximately 2 seconds until the LED indicator starts flashing. Tap the footswitch two or more times to set the desired tempo. The LED will flash in sync with your tapped tempo. Hold the footswitch again to exit Tap Tempo mode.
Image 2.2: The footswitch and LED indicator, demonstrating the Tap Tempo functionality. This allows for precise synchronization of modulation effects with your music.
2.4 Serial/Parallel Signal Chain
The pedal features a toggle switch to select between serial and parallel signal processing. This affects how the modulated signal interacts with the dry signal, offering different sonic textures and flexibility in tone shaping.
2.5 Video Demonstrations
For a comprehensive overview of the pedal's capabilities and sound examples for each mode, please refer to the official demonstration videos:
- SONICAKE Modulation Pedal Demo:
Video 2.1: A concise demonstration of the SONICAKE modulation pedal, showcasing various effects and their sonic characteristics. This video provides a quick auditory overview of the pedal's versatility.
- SONICAKE 5th Dimension - Demo:
Video 2.2: A detailed demonstration of the Sonicake 5th Dimension pedal, exploring its different modulation modes and control parameters. This video offers in-depth sound examples and usage tips.
- QSS-08 Dension Pedal Demo:
Video 2.3: A demonstration of the QSS-08 Dension Pedal, highlighting its unique features and sound textures. This video provides specific examples of the pedal's sonic output.
3. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your pedal.
3.1 General Care
The pedal features a durable zinc-alloy die-cast casing designed to withstand wear and tear. Keep the pedal clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid exposing the pedal to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
3.2 Power Supply
Always use a regulated 9V DC center-negative power supply. Using an incorrect power supply can damage the pedal and void the warranty.
4. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your pedal, try the following steps:
- No Sound: Ensure all cables are securely connected to the input, output, and power jacks. Verify that the power supply is correctly connected and providing the specified 9V DC.
- Unwanted Noise: Check your power supply. Using a daisy chain power supply with other pedals can sometimes introduce noise. An isolated power supply is recommended for optimal performance. Ensure all cables are in good condition.
- Effect Not Engaging: Press the footswitch firmly. If the LED does not light up, check the power supply connection.
- Incorrect Effect Sound: Verify that the mode selector knob is set to the desired effect. Adjust the Speed/Rate, Depth, and Ctrl/Mix knobs to fine-tune the sound.
5. Specifications
- Model: QSS2-10
- Item Weight: 8.1 ounces (0.23 Kilograms)
- Product Dimensions: 2.05"L x 1.65"W x 3.68"H (52mm L x 42mm W x 93.5mm H)
- Material Type: Plastic, Metal (Zinc-alloy die-cast casing)
- Voltage: 9 Volts DC
- Connector Type: 9V DC Center Negative
- Signal Format: Digital
- Bypass: True Bypass
Image 5.1: Detailed dimensions of the SONICAKE 5th Dimension pedal, illustrating its compact size for easy portability and pedalboard integration.
6. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please contact SONICAKE customer service through their official channels or the retailer where the product was purchased. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
