BLUAMP 90: How To Set Up Home Stereo Bluetooth Amplifier / Receiver

Introduction

The Rockville BLUAMP 90 is a home stereo Bluetooth amplifier and receiver designed for high-quality audio playback from multiple sources, including Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, RCA, USB, and SD card inputs. It also includes microphone inputs for karaoke and a wireless remote for easy control.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through connecting speakers, setting up various inputs, using microphones, and optimizing sound settings.

What’s Included?

• BLUAMP 90 amplifier
• Wireless remote control
• Power cable

Step 1: Connecting Passive Speakers

The BLUAMP 90 supports passive speakers and requires proper impedance matching.

Speaker Compatibility & Wiring

• The amp is 4-ohm stable, meaning the total impedance of your connected speakers must not drop below 4 ohms.
• Do not connect two 4-ohm speakers per channel, as it will fall below the safe load.

Connecting the Speakers

1. Loosen the speaker terminals on the back of the amplifier.
2. Connect the red (positive) speaker wire to the positive terminal on the amp.
3. Connect the black (negative) speaker wire to the negative terminal on the amp.
4. Connect the other ends of the speaker wire to the corresponding terminals on the speakers.

Tip: To connect multiple speakers per channel, use parallel wiring. Check out Rockville’s video on how to parallel wire your stereo system for more details.

Step 2: Turning on the Amplifier & Exploring Controls

1. Plug the power cable into an outlet.
2. Press the power button to turn on the amplifier.
3. Use the front panel buttons to control music playback, input selection, and EQ presets.

Key Controls:

• Mode Button: Switch between Bluetooth, AUX, Optical, Coax, and HDMI ARC modes.
• EQ Button: Toggle through different equalizer presets.
• Headphone Jack & Mode Button: Enables private listening mode when headphones are plugged in.
• Mic Inputs: Two 1/4-inch microphone inputs for karaoke or announcements.

Step 3: Connecting a Powered Subwoofer or External Speakers

To connect an active subwoofer or powered speakers:

1. Plug an RCA cable into the RCA line output on the back of the amp.
2. Connect the other end into the RCA input of your powered speaker or subwoofer.

Step 4: Using Microphones for Karaoke or Announcements

1. Plug a dynamic microphone into one of the 1/4-inch mic inputs.
2. Raise the mic volume knob to adjust loudness.
3. Use the treble and bass knobs to fine-tune the microphone sound:
   • Treble knob: Adjusts high frequencies (increases vocal clarity).
   • Bass knob: Adjusts low frequencies (adds warmth and depth).
4. Use the echo knob to apply an echo effect for karaoke.

Step 5: Connecting Audio Sources

The BLUAMP 90 offers multiple audio input options:

Option 1: Bluetooth Connection

1. Switch the amp to Bluetooth mode.
2. Open Bluetooth settings on your smartphone or tablet.
3. Search for "BLUAMP 90" and select it to pair.
4. Once connected, play music from Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, etc.

Option 2: USB or SD Card Playback

• Insert a USB drive or SD card into the corresponding slot.
• The amp will automatically switch to the USB/SD source and start playing audio files.

Option 3: AUX (RCA) or Phono Input (For Record Players)

1. Use RCA cables to connect an MP3 player, CD player, or turntable to the AUX/Phono input.
2. If connecting a record player, press the AUX/Phono button on the back to switch to Phono mode.

Option 4: HDMI ARC (For TV Audio)

1. Plug an HDMI cable from the HDMI ARC output on your TV to the HDMI ARC input on the amplifier.
2. On your TV’s audio settings, change the audio output from TV speakers to HDMI out.
3. Go to Advanced or Expert Audio Settings and set the audio format to PCM for the best sound quality.

Option 5: Optical or Coaxial Input (For TV & Gaming Consoles)

1. Ensure your TV or gaming console has an optical audio output.
2. Plug an optical cable into the optical out on your TV or console.
3. The other end goes into the optical input on the amplifier.
4. In your TV’s sound settings, switch the output to Audio Out Optical and set the audio format to PCM.

Step 6: Testing & Adjusting Sound Settings

1. Play music or a movie through your connected source.
2. Adjust the volume knob to a comfortable level.
3. Use the EQ presets to customize the sound profile.
4. If using a subwoofer, fine-tune the balance between your speakers and subwoofer.

Step 7: Using the Wireless Remote

The included remote control allows you to:

• Adjust volume, EQ settings, and source selection.
• Control USB/SD music playback.
• Switch between input sources without touching the amp.

Tip: The remote requires two AAA batteries (not included).

Conclusion

The Rockville BLUAMP 90 is a powerful and versatile home audio amplifier, supporting Bluetooth streaming, TV connections, microphones, and more. Whether you're listening to music, watching TV, or using it for karaoke, this amplifier provides high-quality sound with multiple connectivity options.