RKI65BT: How to Set Up & Use

Introduction

The Rockville RKI65BT is a dual UHF wireless karaoke microphone interface, perfect for karaoke bars, home theater setups, and live performances. It allows multiple input options, Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with powered speakers, mixers, and home theater systems.

This guide will walk you through:

• Powering on and setting up the interface
• Connecting wireless microphones
• Setting up with powered speakers
• Expanding your setup with a mixer or home theater system
• Connecting a TV via optical audio
• Playing music through Bluetooth, AUX, or RCA

Step 1: Unboxing and Setup

Inside the box, you’ll find:

• RKI 65BT karaoke interface
• Two wireless microphones
• Batteries for each microphone
• AUX cable
• RCA to AUX cable
• 1/4" cable
• Optical cable
• Micro USB to USB-A cable
• USB power block

Step 2: Powering On the Interface

1. Take the USB power block and plug the USB-A end of the micro USB cable into it.
2. Plug the micro USB end into the power input on the interface.
3. Connect the power block to an electrical outlet.
4. Turn on the interface using the power switch.

Step 3: Setting Up the Wireless Microphones

1. Unscrew the end cap of each microphone to access the battery compartment.
2. Insert two AA batteries (included) into each microphone facing down.
3. Reattach the end cap.
4. Extend the antennas on the back of the interface to optimize wireless reception.

RF lights on the interface indicate which microphones are active.

Step 4: Connecting to a Powered Speaker

For this setup, you'll need:

• 1/4” cable (included)

Step-by-Step Connection

1. Turn down the volume on both the interface and speaker.
2. Connect one end of the 1/4” cable to the Mix Output on the back of the interface.
3. Plug the other end into the 1/4” mic input on the powered speaker.
4. Turn on the powered speaker.
5. Gradually raise the volume on the interface and speaker.

Test the microphone by speaking into it—you should hear your voice through the speaker.

Step 5: Connecting to a Mixer for a Larger Setup

For karaoke bars or bigger events, use a mixer.

1. Use a 1/4” cable to connect the Mix Output on the interface to the 1/4” input on the mixer.
2. Turn up the volume on the interface.
3. Raise the channel fader on the mixer.
4. Adjust the main left and right faders on the mixer.

You now have full control over the microphone levels, effects, and EQ.

Step 6: Adjusting Microphone Effects and Tone

The front panel of the interface features:

• Echo knob – Adds an echo effect to the microphone.
• Tone knob – Adjusts the tone of the microphone:
  • Higher settings = Brighter treble sound.
  • Lower settings = More natural tone.
• Mic Volume knobs – Controls individual microphone volumes.
• Music Volume knob – Adjusts background music volume.

Quickly change microphone frequency if you experience interference by pressing the button on the microphone.

Step 7: Playing Music via AUX, Bluetooth, or RCA

AUX Connection

1. Use the included AUX cable.
2. Plug one end into the AUX IN input on the interface.
3. Plug the other end into the headphone jack of a smartphone, laptop, or tablet.
4. Increase the Music Volume knob.
5. Play a karaoke track from your device.

Bluetooth Connection

1. Go to Bluetooth settings on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Select "RKI65BT" from the available devices.
3. Once paired, play your music wirelessly.

RCA Connection (for Home Theater)

1. Use the RCA to AUX cable.
2. Plug the 3.5mm end into the AUX OUT on the interface.
3. Plug the RCA end into the AUX IN on a receiver.
4. Set the receiver to AUX mode to hear karaoke audio.

Step 8: Connecting to a TV via Optical Audio

For a true home theater karaoke experience, use an optical connection.

1. Ensure your TV has an "Optical Audio Out" port.
2. Plug one end of the optical cable into the TV’s Optical Out.
3. Plug the other end into the Optical Input on the interface.
4. Go to the TV’s audio settings:
   • Change audio output from "TV speakers" to "Optical Out".
   • Set the audio format to PCM.
5. Make sure the interface is connected to the home theater receiver via AUX or RCA.
6. Now, play a karaoke track on YouTube and sing along using the wireless microphones.

This setup lets you enjoy high-quality karaoke sound through your home theater system.

Conclusion:

The Rockville RKI 65BT is a powerful and versatile karaoke interface, supporting multiple connectivity options for different setups. Whether you're using it for home karaoke, DJ gigs, or professional events, this system provides excellent wireless performance, audio quality, and flexibility.