SONICAKE QDM-20

SONICAKE QDM-20 20W Electric Drum/Keyboard Amplifier User Manual

Model: QDM-20

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the SONICAKE QDM-20 Electric Drum/Keyboard Amplifier. This portable amplifier is designed to provide clear and dynamic sound reproduction for electronic drums, keyboards, synthesizers, and other audio interfaces. Featuring a 20W dual speaker system and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, it offers versatile options for practice and performance.

2. Important Safety Instructions

  • Read these instructions thoroughly before operating the device.
  • Keep these instructions for future reference.
  • Heed all warnings on the product and in this manual.
  • Do not use this apparatus near water.
  • Clean only with a dry cloth.
  • Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
  • Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
  • Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
  • Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
  • Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

3. Product Overview

The SONICAKE QDM-20 amplifier is designed for clarity and portability. Below is an illustration of its main components and controls.

SONICAKE QDM-20 Electric Drum Amplifier front view

Figure 3.1: Front view of the SONICAKE QDM-20 amplifier, showcasing its robust grille and control panel.

Control Panel Layout

Diagram of SONICAKE QDM-20 amplifier control panel with numbered labels for INPUT, AUX IN, LOW EQ, HIGH EQ, VOLUME, Bluetooth controls, and POWER switch.

Figure 3.2: Detailed diagram of the amplifier's control panel, indicating input jacks, EQ knobs, volume, Bluetooth controls, and power switch.

  1. INPUT (1/4" Jack): Connect your electronic drum kit, keyboard, synthesizer, or other instrument here.
  2. AUX IN (3.5mm Jack): Connect external audio sources like smartphones, tablets, or MP3 players for backing tracks.
  3. LOW EQ Knob: Adjusts the bass frequencies of the sound.
  4. HIGH EQ Knob: Adjusts the treble frequencies of the sound.
  5. VOLUME Knob: Controls the overall output volume of the amplifier.
  6. Bluetooth Controls:
    • Previous Track Button: Skips to the previous track when playing via Bluetooth.
    • Play/Pause Button: Plays or pauses audio when connected via Bluetooth.
    • Next Track Button: Skips to the next track when playing via Bluetooth.
    • BT Button: Activates Bluetooth pairing mode.
    • BT Indicator Light: Shows Bluetooth connection status.
  7. POWER Switch: Turns the amplifier ON or OFF.

4. Setup

4.1 Initial Power-Up

  1. Ensure the amplifier is placed on a stable, flat surface.
  2. Connect the provided DC power supply to the amplifier's power input jack.
  3. Plug the power supply into a suitable electrical outlet.
  4. Turn the VOLUME knob counter-clockwise to its minimum setting before powering on.
  5. Flip the POWER switch to the 'ON' position. The power indicator light will illuminate.

4.2 Connecting an Instrument

  1. Using a standard 1/4" instrument cable, connect your electronic drum module, keyboard, or synthesizer to the INPUT jack on the amplifier.
  2. Slowly increase the VOLUME knob to your desired listening level.

4.3 Connecting via AUX IN

  1. Using a 3.5mm audio cable, connect your smartphone, tablet, or other audio device to the AUX IN jack.
  2. Play audio from your connected device.
  3. Adjust the volume on both your audio device and the amplifier's VOLUME knob for optimal sound.
Close-up of the SONICAKE QDM-20 amplifier's auxiliary input jack with a 3.5mm cable connected.

Figure 4.1: The 3.5mm AUX IN jack, allowing connection of external audio devices.

4.4 Bluetooth Pairing

  1. Ensure the amplifier is powered on.
  2. Press the BT button on the control panel. The BT indicator light will flash, indicating it's in pairing mode.
  3. On your Bluetooth-enabled device (smartphone, tablet, etc.), go to its Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
  4. Select "SONICAKE QDM-20" from the list.
  5. If prompted for a passcode, enter 6688.
  6. Once successfully paired, the BT indicator light will stop flashing and remain solid.
  7. You can now stream audio wirelessly from your device to the amplifier. Use the amplifier's Bluetooth control buttons (Previous, Play/Pause, Next) to manage playback.
Close-up of the SONICAKE QDM-20 amplifier's Bluetooth controls and a smartphone displaying music playback.

Figure 4.2: Bluetooth connectivity allows wireless audio streaming from compatible devices.

5. Operating the Amplifier

5.1 Adjusting Sound

  • Volume: Use the large VOLUME knob to control the overall loudness. Start low and increase gradually.
  • LOW EQ: Turn this knob clockwise to boost bass frequencies for a fuller, deeper sound. Turn counter-clockwise to reduce bass.
  • HIGH EQ: Turn this knob clockwise to boost treble frequencies for a brighter, more articulate sound. Turn counter-clockwise to reduce treble.

Experiment with the LOW and HIGH EQ knobs to find the optimal tone for your instrument and listening environment.

5.2 Multipurpose Use

The QDM-20 is versatile and can be used with various instruments:

  • Electronic Drums: Connect your drum module to the INPUT for clear and dynamic drum sound reproduction.
  • Keyboards/Synthesizers: Ideal for amplifying the full range of keyboard sounds.
  • Audio Interfaces: Can be used as a monitor speaker for audio interfaces.
  • Bluetooth Speaker: Stream music for practice or casual listening.

6. Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
  • Storage: When not in use, store the amplifier in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Ventilation: Ensure the ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.
  • Power Supply: Only use the original power supply provided with the unit.

7. Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No sound from amplifier.
  • Power switch is OFF.
  • Volume knob is at minimum.
  • Instrument/audio cable is not connected properly.
  • Bluetooth not paired or device volume is low.
  • Incorrect input selected (e.g., trying to play instrument via Bluetooth).
  • Turn POWER switch ON.
  • Increase VOLUME knob.
  • Check all cable connections.
  • Ensure Bluetooth is paired (BT light solid) and device volume is up.
  • Ensure instrument is connected to INPUT or AUX IN as appropriate.
Distorted sound.
  • Volume too high.
  • Input signal too strong.
  • EQ settings are extreme.
  • Reduce amplifier VOLUME.
  • Reduce output volume from the connected instrument/device.
  • Adjust LOW and HIGH EQ knobs to a more neutral position.
Bluetooth not connecting.
  • Amplifier not in pairing mode.
  • Device is too far from amplifier.
  • Incorrect passcode entered.
  • Press BT button to enter pairing mode (flashing light).
  • Move device closer to the amplifier.
  • Ensure passcode 6688 is entered correctly.

8. Specifications

FeatureDetail
ModelQDM-20
Output Wattage20 Watts
Speaker SystemDual Drivers
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.0, 1/4" Instrument Input, 3.5mm AUX Input
Compatible DevicesElectronic Drums, Keyboards, Synthesizers, Audio Interfaces
ControlsVolume, Low EQ, High EQ, Bluetooth Playback Controls
Power SourceDC Power Supply
Dimensions (W x H x D)11.42 x 10.63 x 9.45 inches (29 x 27 x 24 cm)
Weight8.8 pounds (4 kg)
ColorBlack
Diagram showing the dimensions of the SONICAKE QDM-20 amplifier: 29cm (11.42in) width, 27cm (10.63in) height, 24cm (9.45in) depth.

Figure 8.1: Physical dimensions of the QDM-20 amplifier.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official SONICAKE website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical assistance or service inquiries, contact SONICAKE customer support.

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