Radial Cube

The Radial Engineering Workhorse Cube 3-Module Desktop Power Rack is designed to hold three 500 series Radial modules. It can be placed on the desktop or be carried around the studio using its convenient top-mounted handle. This enables the engineer to position instrument and microphone preamps as close to the source as possible for improved signal to noise. The Cube can also be recessed into the work surface using the mounting flanges (sold separately). These allow either flush mounting or 30° angle mounting to optimize the viewing position.

The Cube is 100% backwards compatible with older API modules while being optimized for Radial's expanding range of preamps, processors, and routing devices. Construction begins with a 14 gauge steel frame and features dual gold contact EDAC 15-pin connectors for optimal signal transfer. To maximize headroom, the external supply delivers 500mA of current for power hungry modules plus a separate 48V phantom tap delivers a full 10mA of current for microphone preamps. Rear panel connectivity includes standard XLRs for each slot along with ¼" TRS connectors for multiple modules, cross patching, and parallel processing.

The Cube employs feed function that patches modules together in series without the need of a cable. The stereo modules no longer need to be soldered to be paired, but they can be synced together using a simple switch. The Cube is also equipped with an Omniport on each slot. This TRS jack enables the module manufacturer to implement a unique function for a given module such as a key input on a gate.

For those who simply want to have The Cube next to their workstation, the top handle may be removed by unscrewing the 3 hex screws on the top. This streamlines the look of the device while allowing a second Workhorse Cube to be stacked on top. The included top carry handle is designed to make it easy to transport the Cube around the studio using one hand. This leaves the second free to carry a microphone. Bringing the mic preamp as close to the source as possible reduces noise and increases dynamics.

Channel Strip

Create a channel strip by combining your favorite mic preamp, EQ, and dynamic processor. Use the PowerPre for clarity to feed a mic into the Q3 for color and the Komit to keep everything under control.

Guitar Front End

Record your guitar and bass direct using the JDV-Pre. Send the recorded track back out to the EXTC so that you can add effects pedals and then process the return signal through the JDX to emulate a Marshall 4x12 half stack.

Reamp for the Desired Tone

Send your pre-recorded clean track into the Radial X-Amp and out to your amplifiers and Reamp. Send the signal back through the EXTC to add effects or add a spring reverb using the Tank Driver.

Performance

This Radial Cube is a compact desktop 3-slot 500 series power rack that follows the guidelines set out in the Workhorse open-source document (Whos-Doc). This accommodates the Radial modules while also being backward compatible with old formats. There is no audio circuitry other than connectors. The Cube will not impart any color, distortion or artefact. The Cube employs Edac gold plated 15-pin card-edge connectors on the inside and Neutrik connectors with non-tarnishing nickel-silver contacts on the back panel for signal transfer. Each slot is equipped with an auto-resetting fuse to protect the system should a faulty module be employed. A 500mA external supply provides current to feed the modules and 48V for phantom power.

Feed Function

On older API racks, in order to feed one channel into another, you had to 'hard patch' modules using an XLR cable. This not only muddled up the back of the rack with excessive cables, it also eliminated the possibility of parallel processing as the only available output jack was taken up. The Workhorse introduced a simple function called FEED that enables a module to feed into the adjacent module by simply moving a selector switch. This frees up the XLR for direct patching while cleaning up the inside of the rack.

Extra TRS Jacks

It uses parallel processing whereby a preamp may be used to feed a compressor while it is also feeding a distortion pedal. It is equipped with extra ¼" TRS jacks that essentially work like a patch bay to allow you to route signals at will.

Stereo Link

It features a stereo link switch. All you do is move the slider switch and you are in full stereo.

Omniport

It features an Omniport jack. This simple TRS connector enables each 500 series manufacturer to assign the Omniport to perform a unique function that would best augment their module. For instance this could be an instrument input on a mic preamp, a direct box output on an instrument preamp, a key input on a gate, a foot-switch on a distortion, control voltage on a synthesizer, etc. Omniport is loaded into each channel of the Cube.

More Power

The Cube employs an 800 mA power supply to deliver tons of current to power hungry modules. Because the power is shared like a pool, using a tube preamp like the PowerTube is not a problem.

3-Space Power Rack

It lets you fit in any three 500 series modules and is backward compatible with old API modules.

14-Gauge Steel

Heavy-duty construction for added durability and improved shielding.

Slide-in Tray

Makes it easy to align modules when swapping in and out.

Carry Handle

It makes it easy to move the Cube around the studio with one hand, and can be removed when not required.

EDAC 15-Pin

Dual-sided gold contacts for connectivity and employs original API spec for compatibility.

Power Switch

Convenient front panel switch makes it easy to turn Off and mute when swapping modules.

Rear Panel

Full complements of connectors for series and parallel signal processing.

48V Phantom Switch

Lets you turn 48V phantom power On or Off.

Power OK

LED indicator lets you know your power supply is properly connected.

Power Supply

External supply provides nearly 600mA of current to the 3 modules.

Male & Female XLRs

Used to connect signal to and from each of the 3 modules.

Feed Switch

Sends the output from one module into the next without requiring a cable.

Link Switch

Used to stereo link 2 modules when formatted for stereo use.

Omniport

Works with Radial modules and others for extra functionality.