We've literally got a sock drawer stuffed with gray cards and assorted white balance/color temperature measurement devices we've collected over the years, which is why we approached Datacolor's new SpyderCube with some trepidation. But after seeing a demo of this new, all-in-one RAW calibration tool at PMA this year, we're ready to clean out the sock drawer and make room in our camera bag for the Cube.

Because it's a multi-sided device and not just a flat card, the SpyderCube lets you adjust your RAW images files using five separate surfaces—a white face to measure highlights versus the catchlight; a gray face for measuring color temperature and midtones; a black face to lock in your shadows; and a black trap (literally a hole at the bottom of the cube) to define absolute black.

There's also a chrome ball on top of the cube to measure the catchlight and read specular highlights. Meanwhile, a short loop of string lets you hang the SpyderCube over the scene you plan to shoot; or you can use the tripod mount on the bottom to position the Cube for a test shot. Once you've got a scene you'd like to shoot, capture a photo that includes the SpyderCube and then use this picture info later to make adjustments in whatever RAW software you're using.

That last point's important—there's no special software that comes with the SpyderCube. Datacolor says you can use the device to adjust photos with "any RAW conversion software available today." That certainly makes things simpler.

Though the Cube is small enough to fit in your pocket, you can tell a lot of thought went into this tiny device. To make sure all the various sides don't fade with time, Datacolor used a fade-proof, flameproof, and shock-resistant hybrid resin called ABS Cycoloy to coat the cube.

To maintain 18 percent gray—spectral neutrality—over time, shading on the Cube is created using a pigment that's mixed right into the plastic so if your cube gets worn, the tone won't fade. The only time you'll need to get a new SpyderCube is if you lose the one you have.

Cost: $59 Further information: spyder.datacolor.com/product-cb-spydercube.php