RX230: How To Set Up & Use

Introduction

The Rockville RX230 Crossover is a professional-grade signal processor that allows you to split audio frequencies between different speakers in your PA system. This results in better sound clarity, louder volumes, and reduced distortion by ensuring that each speaker plays only the frequencies it's designed to handle.

This guide will cover:

• How a crossover works
• Connecting your RX230 in a two-way crossover setup
• Using advanced three-way crossover mode
• Adjusting settings for optimal performance

What’s Included

• RX230 Crossover Unit (with built-in rack ears for mounting)
• Power Cable

How a Crossover Works

A crossover separates your audio signal into specific frequency ranges:

• Low frequencies go to subwoofers (bass).
• Mid and high frequencies go to full-range speakers (mids & treble).

Using a crossover prevents distortion and allows speakers to play louder and more efficiently.

Step 1: Mounting the RX230

The RX230 includes rack ears, allowing it to be mounted in a rack mount or rack bag.

1. Line up the unit with an available 2U space in your rack.
2. Secure it using the four screw holes on the corners.

Step 2: Choosing Your Setup Mode

The RX230 can be used in two different modes:

1. Two-Way Stereo Mode (Common Setup)
   • Left and right speakers each receive a dedicated high-frequency and low-frequency signal.
2. Three-Way Mono Mode (Advanced Setup)
   • Signal is split into three frequency ranges—high, mid, and low.

For most users, two-way stereo mode is the best option.

Step 3: Connecting the Crossover (Two-Way Stereo Setup)

Equipment Needed:

• Two Subwoofers (for low frequencies)
• Two Full-Range Speakers (for mids & highs)
• Two Power Amplifiers (one for subs, one for full-range speakers)
• Signal Source (e.g., Mixer)

1. Connecting Amplifiers to the Crossover

Connecting the Subwoofer Amp (Low Frequencies)

• Use two XLR cables.
• Plug the female ends into the LOW outputs of Channel 1 & 2 on the RX230.
• Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs of your subwoofer amplifier.

Connecting the Full-Range Speaker Amp (High Frequencies)

• Use two XLR cables.
• Plug the female ends into the HIGH outputs of Channel 1 & 2.
• Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs of your full-range amplifier.

2. Connecting the Crossover to Your Mixer

• Use two XLR cables.
• Plug the female ends into the XLR outputs on your mixer.
• Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs of Channel 1 & 2 on the crossover.

Now, your mixer is sending audio to the crossover, which is distributing frequencies between your amps and speakers.

Step 4: Powering On & Adjusting Settings

Power On Sequence:

1. Turn on the mixer.
2. Turn on both amplifiers.
3. Turn on the RX230 crossover.

Step 5: Adjusting the Crossover Settings

1. Setting Frequency Cutoff for Highs and Lows

• Use the Low/High Knob (1 per channel).
• Example: If set to 250 Hz:
  • All frequencies below 250 Hz go to subwoofers.
  • All frequencies above 250 Hz go to full-range speakers.

2. Adjusting Volume Output

• Raise the Low and High Output Knobs to set the volume for the subs and speakers.

3. Activating Additional Features

• Crossover Frequency Switch: Expands the frequency control range.
• 40 Hz Low Cut Button: Removes frequencies below 40 Hz to prevent excessive bass rumble.
• Sub Output (Optional): Allows adding a dedicated subwoofer channel.

Step 6: Testing & Fine-Tuning the Sound

1. Raise the volume knobs on your amplifiers.
2. Raise the input knob on the crossover to allow the signal from your mixer.
3. Raise the main left and right faders on your mixer.
4. Adjust the gain and volume knobs for the music channel on your mixer.

Now, play music and listen to how the crossover distributes frequencies.

Step 7: Exploring Three-Way Mono Mode (Advanced Users)

If you need to split your sound into high, mid, and low frequencies, you can:

• Press the Mono Mode Button in the middle.
• This combines Channels 1 & 2 into one signal, splitting frequencies across three speakers.
• Outputs are labeled High, Mid, Low, and Sub.

This mode is best for complex PA systems where speakers have separate amps for highs, mids, and lows.

Sound Demo & Adjustments

1. Start with just the full-range speakers.
2. Gradually bring in the subwoofers and listen to the added bass.
3. Adjust the crossover frequency to shift midrange sounds between subs and speakers.
4. Experiment with the 40 Hz low cut to hear the difference.

You should now have a fully optimized sound system!

Conclusion

The Rockville RX230 Crossover is an essential tool for improving sound quality and protecting your speakers. By separating frequencies, you:

• Reduce distortion
• Improve clarity
• Enhance bass performance
• Maximize volume levels

For most setups, two-way stereo mode works best. However, if you have a complex sound system, three-way mono mode offers even more precision.