ROCK SHAKER 10: How To Connect an Audio Interface

Introduction

If you’re setting up a home recording studio or using your Rockville Rock Shaker 10 subwoofer with an audio interface, you have multiple connection options. This guide will walk you through two common setups based on your interface’s available outputs, ensuring optimal bass integration in your system.

Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting the Rock Shaker 10 to an Audio Interface

1. Determine Your Audio Interface Output Type

Most audio interfaces will have either:

• XLR Outputs (Used for main studio monitors)
• 1/4" TRS Outputs (Quarter-Inch Outputs) (Often used for additional connections)

If your XLR outputs are in use for your main speakers, you can use the 1/4" TRS outputs to send the subwoofer signal.

2. Connecting the Rock Shaker 10 to an Interface with 1/4” TRS Outputs

If your interface has 1/4” outputs available, follow these steps:

A. Using RCA-to-1/4” Cables

1. Get an RCA-to-1/4” TRS cable.
2. Plug the 1/4” ends into the left and right outputs on the back of your audio interface.
3. Plug the RCA ends into the RCA inputs on the Rock Shaker 10 subwoofer.

3. Connecting the Rock Shaker 10 When Using All 1/4" or XLR Outputs for Main Speakers

If your interface has only 1/4” or XLR outputs, you can still integrate the subwoofer.

A. Daisy-Chaining the Subwoofer with Your Speakers

1. Connect your interface to your main speakers as usual (via XLR or 1/4” cables).
2. Use an RCA-to-XLR or RCA-to-1/4” cable:
   • Plug the RCA end into the RCA output of the subwoofer.
   • Plug the XLR or 1/4" end into the inputs on your speakers.

This allows the Rock Shaker 10 to act as a bass filter, passing audio to the main speakers.

4. Adjusting Subwoofer and Computer Settings

Once connected, adjust the following:

• Raise the Volume Knob on the subwoofer.
• Set the Low-Pass Filter (Frequency Knob) to control which bass frequencies are sent to the subwoofer (e.g., 100Hz or lower for optimal bass response).
• Double-check your computer's sound settings:
  • Ensure the audio interface is selected as the output device.
  • Adjust settings in your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), ensuring that low frequencies are sent correctly to the subwoofer.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate your Rockville Rock Shaker 10 subwoofer into your audio interface setup. Whether using dedicated outputs or daisy-chaining with speakers, this setup will provide a richer, deeper bass response for your recordings and mixes.

For additional fine-tuning, adjust the crossover settings and volume balance between the subwoofer and main speakers. If you run into issues, check your interface’s routing settings and ensure all connections are secure.