RPM870: How To Set Up & Use

Introduction

The Rockville RPM 870 is an 8-channel powered mixer designed for versatile audio setups, including live performances, karaoke, and band practices. This guide will walk you through setting up passive and active speakers, microphones, instruments, and subwoofers, as well as Bluetooth pairing, effects processing, and system configurations.

What's Included:

• RPM 870 Mixer
• Power Cable

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Connecting Speakers

The RPM 870 supports both passive and active speakers.

Connecting Passive Speakers (Using SpeakON Outputs)

1. Use SpeakON cables to connect passive speakers.
2. Plug one end of the SpeakON cable into the Left A and Right A SpeakON outputs on the back of the mixer.
3. Connect the other end into the SpeakON inputs of your passive speakers.
4. If using two pairs of passive speakers, daisy-chain them:
   • Connect the SpeakON output from the first speaker to the input of the second speaker.
   • Ensure each channel uses only two 8-ohm speakers to avoid damaging the mixer.

💡 Warning: Do NOT connect two 4-ohm speakers per channel, as this could damage the mixer.

Connecting Active Speakers or Subwoofers

• Use XLR or ¼-inch cables from the Main Outputs (XLR/¼-inch) on the top panel.
• Connect the other end to your active speakers or powered subwoofers.
• Ensure all connected active speakers are 8-ohm to prevent damage.

2. Connecting a Microphone

1. Plug an XLR cable into the XLR input of any channel (e.g., Channel 1).
2. Raise the Gain knob to set the input level.
3. Raise the Channel 1 fader to adjust volume.
4. Increase the Main Left & Right faders to hear sound through the speakers.
5. Speak into the microphone and adjust the EQ and effects as needed.

3. Connecting an Instrument

1. Use a ¼-inch instrument cable to connect a guitar, keyboard, or other instruments.
2. Plug one end into the instrument and the other into a Line Input on the mixer (e.g., Channel 2).
3. Adjust the Gain and Channel 2 fader to control volume.
4. Play your instrument and ensure sound comes through the speakers.

4. Using the Insert Inputs for External Effects

• Each channel has an Insert input for external effects like compressors.
• Use a Y-cable to connect the Insert:
  • Plug the single end into the Insert of the chosen channel (e.g., Channel 1).
  • Connect the other ends to the input & output of your external processor.

Adjusting Sound Settings

1. Using the EQ Section

Each channel includes a 4-band EQ to adjust sound frequencies:

• High (Treble Control): Adds or removes crispness.
• High Mid: Adjusts vocal clarity.
• Low Mid: Controls the body of the sound.
• Low (Bass Control): Enhances or reduces bass.

Tip: Set the EQ to the middle as a baseline and adjust from there.

2. Using the Built-in Effects Processor

The mixer features built-in reverb, delay, and modulation effects.

• Use the Effects Knob on a channel to apply an effect.
• Choose an effect using the Preset Selector (e.g., Preset 4: Reverb).
• Adjust Parameter 1 & Parameter 2 to fine-tune the effect.
• Raise the Effects Fader to apply the effect to all channels.

3. Using the Pan & Mute Functions

• Pan Knob: Directs audio to Left or Right speakers.
• Mute Button: Silences a channel.
• Solo Button: Isolates a single channel in the mix.

Bluetooth & MP3 Playback

1. Pairing a Bluetooth Device (e.g., computer, smartphone or tablet)

1. Press the Source Button to enter Bluetooth Mode.
2. Use the Skip Buttons to select Bluetooth.
3. Press Play to activate pairing.
4. On your Bluetooth-Enabled Device (e.g., computer, smartphone or tablet), search for "RPM870" and select it.
5. Raise Channels 7 & 8 faders to adjust Bluetooth volume.

💡 Tip: Use this feature for karaoke, background music, or live performances.

2. Playing Music via USB or RCA

• Insert a USB drive into the USB port to play MP3 files.
• Use the RCA Inputs for external media players.
• Switch between sources using the Source Button.

Adding a Subwoofer

1. Use an XLR or ¼-inch cable from the Left or Right Main Outputs to your powered subwoofer.
2. Adjust the subwoofer's crossover & volume for a balanced mix.
3. If using two subwoofers, connect each to the Left and Right Outputs.

Additional Features

Phantom Power for Condenser Microphones

• Press the Phantom Power Button to enable 48V power for condenser mics.

Recording with RCA Outputs

• Use the RCA Record Output to send audio to a recording device.

Headphone Monitoring

• Connect headphones to the Phones Jack.
• Adjust headphone volume using the Phones Knob.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

1. No Sound from the Speakers?
✔ Ensure the Main Left & Right faders are raised.
✔ Check that the channel fader & gain knobs are turned up.
✔ Make sure speakers are properly connected and powered.

2. Microphone Not Working?
✔ Make sure the XLR cable is plugged in correctly.
✔ Adjust the Gain, Fader, and Main Volume.
✔ If using a condenser mic, ensure Phantom Power is ON.

3. Bluetooth Not Pairing?
✔ Make sure no other device is already connected.
✔ Restart the mixer and try pairing again.

4. Distorted Sound or Clipping?
✔ Lower the Gain Knob on overloaded channels.
✔ Ensure all connected speakers are 8-ohm for passive setups.
✔ Avoid setting EQ levels too high.

Conclusion

Setting up your Rockville RPM 870 mixer is simple and flexible, allowing you to configure microphones, instruments, speakers, Bluetooth playback, and effects processing for a powerful audio experience. Whether you’re using it for karaoke, live performances, or recording, this mixer offers professional-level controls with easy setup.