What Is the Tonex Cab?
The ongoing debate between tube amplifiers and digital technology ignites passionate discussions among guitarists, often leading to extensive threads on forums. Irrespective of personal preferences, the digital landscape is undeniably gaining traction, with both professional and amateur musicians increasingly adopting ampless setups and digital rigs, alongside a burgeoning FRFR speaker market to satisfy this demand.
Consequently, we now have a variety of effective monitoring options available, including the Laney LFR 112/412, Line 6 powercab, Headrush FRFR, and Fender Tone Master FR-12, all capable of delivering meticulously crafted digital tones at performance levels. Enter IK Multimedia with their latest offering, the Tonex Cab.
True to the Italian brand’s reputation, the Tonex cab comes packed with additional features that, if executed well, could position it as a formidable player in the market, despite its relatively higher price tag.
The Tonex Cab is currently available for pre-order at a discounted rate, with pre-orders closing on March 18.
The Tonex Cab is designed to work seamlessly with various non-Tonex modelers, enhancing versatility.
Building on the success of the tonex pedal, which evolved from IK’s Tonex plugin software, the Tonex Cab marks the company’s inaugural venture into the FRFR (Full Range, Flat Response) speaker cabinet arena. Its primary goal is to amplify digital algorithms while allowing guitarists to experience the thrill of playing with genuine stage volume.
While it may seem counterintuitive to adopt an ampless approach only to replace it with a cabinet that resembles a traditional guitar amp,the advantages lie in the benefits of digital modeling and related technologies. These include direct connections to the mixing desk, consistent sound quality, and additional features tailored for amp modeling, all while addressing the common drawbacks of diminished amp feel and the absence of a speaker ”pushing air.”
Moreover, the Tonex Cab is not limited to users of the Tonex pedal series.Depending on your equipment and expectations, it can also perform admirably with other modelers, making it a versatile addition to any setup. Personally, I appreciate the aesthetic of having a matching pedal and cab.
Specifications
- Pre-order price (shipping April 2025): $699/£699/€699
- Type: Powered full range cabinet (FRFR)
- Output: 350w RMS, 700w peak
- Speaker: 12″ Custom Celestion speaker, 1″ Lavoc compression driver
- Controls: 3-band EQ, Amp tone control, volume
- Features: Amp Tone Control (adjusts mid character and audio dispersion), IR loading, 3-band EQ, Post/Pre EQ switch for output to desk, MIDI programmable, eight presets, interchangeable front baffle
- Connectivity: 2x combo XLR/1/4 inch inputs, MIDI in/out, XLR out, USB B
- Weight: 28lbs (12.7kg)
- Dimensions: 546mm x 432mm x 230mm
- contact: IK Multimedia
Build Quality Assessment
Build Quality Rating: ★★★★☆
Upon first glance, the Tonex Cab impresses with its sturdy faux leather handle, making it easy to lift the relatively lightweight 12.7kg unit. Its compact design is a boon for stage setups, conserving valuable space. The robust wooden construction ensures durability, alleviating concerns about potential damage during rapid pack-ups after gigs.
For performing musicians, the inclusion of legs that allow the cabinet to tilt back is a significant advantage, directing sound towards the player’s ears rather than overwhelming the audience in front.
However,it’s worth noting that the legs may rub against the cabinet’s sides during deployment. While no visible marks appeared during testing,ther are concerns that frequent use could eventually lead to cosmetic damage.
On the front, one of the standout features of the Tonex Cab is its removable and customizable baffle. The test model came with a sleek black grill, while options for gold or silver are also available, evoking the aesthetics of traditional amplifiers and ensuring the Tonex Cab fits seamlessly into any stage setup.
Removing the baffle is straightforward,aided by a bright red tag at the bottom right. While this design choice is functional, it may draw too much attention; a color that matches the baffle or cabinet would create a more cohesive look. the cabinet is well-constructed and clearly designed with the performing musician in mind.
Ease of Use
Usability Rating: ★★★★★
Setting up the cab is a breeze: simply plug it in, connect your modeler, crank up the volume, and you’re ready to rock. It’s that simple. A user-amiable design allows for quick setup without the need to consult the manual, which is a significant plus.
The EQ controls feature notches indicating the flat setting, a thoughtful detail for preserving your meticulously crafted tones. Saving and recalling presets is straightforward, with clear indicators next to the controls, eliminating the need for complex digital displays or menu navigation. Plus, the eight LED preset lights double as an input meter, ensuring you avoid clipping.
Regarding inputs and outputs, the cab features two combo jacks—one for guitar and another for auxiliary input—along with an XLR output that can be sent directly to the mixing desk. Additionally, a pre/post EQ switch allows you to determine whether EQ adjustments made on the cab are sent to the sound desk.
This feature may be unneeded for those using advanced modelers like the Line 6 helix or Neural DSP quad Cortex, which offer more routing options, but it becomes invaluable for users of simpler modelers lacking these capabilities.
Diving into the advanced features, the accompanying app simplifies the process of managing your presets. After receiving feedback regarding the usability of the Tonex Pedal’s app, IK Multimedia has made significant improvements with the Tonex Cab app, which is both intuitive and user-friendly.
This app enables users to create presets from their PC or Mac and is also the primary method for loading IRs into those presets.Additionally, MIDI functionality allows for preset changes via program Change messages, adding further versatility depending on your needs and modeler capabilities.
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The additional features truly shine when paired with a more compact, pedalboard-friendly modeler.
Users of advanced floorboards like the Line 6 Helix may find that more economical FRFR options suffice,as many of the Tonex Cab’s enhanced functionalities might already be integrated into their multi-effects pedal or amp modeler.
However, the Tonex Cab certainly has its place. Its unique features become notably beneficial when used alongside more streamlined modelers, such as the UA amp pedals or IK’s own Tonex Pedal series, which is a logical pairing.
In this scenario, the Tonex cab enhances live performance capabilities through an intuitive and user-friendly interface.It proves invaluable when multiple devices are in use, allowing for global adjustments to IRs and EQ presets without the need to replicate changes across each unit.
Sound Quality
Sound Quality Rating: ★★★★★
If you’re new to FRFR cabinets, you might assume that all full-range flat-response speakers deliver similar tonal replication. After all,”flat response” suggests uniformity,right? Though,variations in tone can arise from speaker selection and cabinet design.
My ears gave out before the cab did.
The Tonex Cab impresses with its sound quality. During testing with both my tonex Pedal and Line 6 Helix Floor, the high frequencies were crisp without any harshness, the mids were well-defined, and the lows were robust, especially impressive for a 12” speaker.
And it gets loud. In a mid-sized studio, I gradually increased the volume to test its limits, and I found my ears giving up long before the cab showed any signs of distress.
While the specifications of 350 watts RMS and 750 watts peak may not seem impressive at first glance, wattage does not directly correlate with volume. The Tonex Cab delivers ample sound to easily compete with even the loudest drummers.
However, with grate power comes the need for careful control, and the 3-band EQ allows for straightforward tone adjustments. The Bass and Mid controls offer a reasonable sweep,enabling room adjustments without overdoing it,while the treble control provides a broader,yet still practical range.
Having performed at numerous gigs on unstable stages rattled by booming monitors, the ability to easily reduce bass from the cab while sending unaffected audio to the mixing desk is a significant advantage.
I found myself adjusting the Amp Tone control to a midpoint between the live and amp settings on both my Tonex Pedal and Line 6 Helix, which speaks volumes.
Beyond just EQ adjustments, the Amp Tone control is a particularly intriguing feature. According to IK, “Turning the Amp Tone knob towards the Live setting enhances mid-range focus, which is essential for ensuring your guitar stands out in a band setting—both on stage and beyond—especially at higher volumes.Additionally, it influences how the Tonex Cab disperses sound in the surrounding area. This design aims to replicate the experience of playing through a traditional guitar amplifier rather than an FRFR speaker.”
From a guitarist’s perspective, the shift in mid-range resembles the effect of adding a quality room mic to your tone. It also provides a different feel beyond a mere EQ adjustment, making it feel more akin to playing through a real amplifier.
While I won’t declare this as the end of tube amps,it certainly brings an already impressive modeling tone closer to that authentic feel. During my experimentation with the unit, I consistently found myself setting the Amp Tone control midway between the live and amp settings on both my Tonex Pedal and Line 6 Helix, which is a testament to its effectiveness.
final Thoughts
The Tonex cab excels with its Amp Tone feature and enhances the functionality of smaller, pedalboard-friendly modelers.
The Tonex Cab’s pricing is higher than many of its competitors, which is understandable given its extensive feature set. however, these features may not be necessary for everyone, as users of full-sized floorboards might find similar functionalities already available.
Where the Tonex Cab truly excels is in its Amp Tone feature and its ability to enhance smaller modelers like IK’s Tonex pedals or products such as the blackstar Amped and UAFX amp pedals. In this context, it expands the capabilities available to musicians, providing valuable and easily accessible features during live performances.
Guitar World Verdict: For those seeking to amplify a compact, pedalboard-friendly modeler, the feature-rich Tonex Cab delivers extensive options in a compact, intuitive, and impressively loud FRFR package.
|
Test |
Results |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
Build Quality |
Sturdy construction, able to withstand the rigors of live performances. Minor concerns with leg deployment. |
★★★★☆ |
|
Usability |
Intuitive interface and user-friendly app, nearly foolproof. |
★★★★★ |
|
Sound Quality |
Extraordinary sound quality, with clear highs and impressive lows for a 12-inch speaker. |
★★★★★ |
|
Overall |
Well-constructed, easy to operate, great sound, and feature-rich. Worth the investment if you plan to utilize its features. |
★★★★ |
Also Consider
Hands-On Videos
Ola Englund
The Studio Rats
watch On
The enhanced features truly excel when paired with a compact, pedalboard-friendly modeler.
For users of advanced floorboards like the Line 6 Helix, more budget-friendly FRFR options may suffice, as many of the Tonex Cab’s additional functionalities might already be integrated into their multi-effects pedal or amp modeler.
Nonetheless, the Tonex Cab has its unique advantages. Its features become particularly beneficial when used alongside more compact modelers, such as the UA amp pedals or IK’s own Tonex Pedal series, which is a logical pairing.
In this context, the Tonex Cab enhances live performance capabilities through an intuitive and user-friendly interface. It proves invaluable when multiple devices are in use, allowing for global adjustments to IRs and EQ presets without the need to replicate changes across each unit.
Sound Quality
Sound Quality Rating: ★★★★★
If you’re venturing into the realm of FRFR cabinets for the first time, you might assume that all full-range flat-response speakers deliver similar tonal replication. After all, “flat response” suggests uniformity, right? However, variations in tone can arise from speaker selection and cabinet design.
My ears gave out before the cab did.
The tonex Cab impresses with its sound quality. During testing with both my Tonex Pedal and Line 6 Helix Floor, the high frequencies were crisp without any harshness, the mids were well-defined, and the lows were robust, especially impressive for a 12” speaker.
And it gets loud. In a mid-sized studio, I gradually increased the volume to test its limits, and I found my ears giving up long before the cab showed any signs of distress.
While the specifications of 350 watts RMS and 750 watts peak may not seem impressive at first glance, wattage does not directly correlate with volume.The Tonex Cab delivers ample sound to easily compete with even the loudest drummers.
However, with great power comes the need for careful control, and the 3-band EQ allows for straightforward tone adjustments. The bass and Mid controls offer a reasonable sweep, enabling room adjustments without overdoing it, while the treble control provides a broader, yet still practical range.
Having performed at numerous gigs on unstable stages rattled by booming monitors, the ability to easily reduce bass from the cab while sending unaffected audio to the mixing desk is a significant advantage.
The Amp Tone control is a standout feature that enhances the overall experience.
In addition to the EQ, the Amp Tone control is a particularly noteworthy feature. According to IK, “Turning the Amp Tone knob towards the Live setting enhances mid-range focus, which is essential for ensuring your guitar stands out in a band setting—both on stage and beyond—especially at higher volumes. Additionally, it influences how the Tonex Cab disperses sound in the surrounding area. This design aims to replicate the experience of playing through a traditional guitar amplifier rather than an FRFR speaker.”
From a guitarist’s perspective, the shift in mid-range resembles the effect of adding a quality room mic to your tone. It also provides a different feel beyond a mere EQ adjustment,making it feel more akin to playing through a real amplifier.
While I won’t declare this as the end of tube amps, it certainly brings an already impressive modeling tone closer to that authentic feel. During my experimentation with the unit, I consistently found myself setting the Amp Tone control midway between the live and amp settings on both my Tonex Pedal and Line 6 Helix, which is a testament to its effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
The Tonex Cab excels with its Amp Tone feature and enhances the functionality of smaller, pedalboard-friendly modelers.
The Tonex Cab’s pricing is higher than many of its competitors, which is understandable given its extensive feature set. However, these features may not be necessary for everyone, as users of full-sized floorboards might find similar functionalities already available.
Where the Tonex Cab truly excels is in its Amp Tone feature and its ability to enhance smaller modelers like IK’s Tonex pedals or products such as the Blackstar Amped and UAFX amp pedals.In this context,it expands the capabilities available to musicians,providing valuable and easily accessible features during live performances.
Guitar world Verdict: For those seeking to amplify a compact, pedalboard-friendly modeler, the feature-rich Tonex Cab delivers extensive options in a compact, intuitive, and impressively loud FRFR package.
|
Test |
Results |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
Build Quality |
Sturdy construction, able to withstand the rigors of live performances. Minor concerns with leg deployment. |
★★★★☆ |
|
Usability |
Intuitive interface and user-friendly app, nearly foolproof. |
★★★★★ |
|
Sound Quality |
Exceptional sound quality, with clear highs and impressive lows for a 12-inch speaker. |
★★★★★ |
|
Overall |
Well-constructed, easy to operate, great sound, and feature-rich. Worth the investment if you plan to utilize its features. |
★★★★ |
Also Consider
Hands-On Videos
Ola Englund
The Studio Rats
Watch On
