RBG18S: How to Set Up & Use

Introduction

The Rockville RBG18S is a powerful 18-inch powered subwoofer designed to enhance low-end frequencies for live performances, band rehearsals, DJ events, and more. It features a built-in digital signal processor (DSP), multiple connectivity options, and mobility features like handles and wheels.

This guide will walk you through:

• Understanding the controls
• Connecting the subwoofer to a powered speaker
• Using the subwoofer with a passive mixer and two speakers
• Expanding the setup with two subwoofers

What’s Included

• Rockville RBG18S Powered Subwoofer
• Power Cable
• 35mm Pole Socket (for mounting a speaker)
• Built-in Handles and Wheels (for portability)

Step 1: Understanding the Controls

Volume & DSP Controls

• Level Knob: Adjusts the output level of the subwoofer.
• DX Sub Switch:
  • Up: Boosts bass by +3dB.
  • Middle: Keeps the bass flat and even.
  • Down: Extends low-frequency range.
• Low Pass Filter (80Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz): Determines the frequency cutoff for the subwoofer (e.g., setting at 80Hz allows only frequencies below 80Hz to be heard).

Polarity & LED Indicators

• Polarity Switch: Reverses polarity for better synchronization with speakers.
• LED Indicators:
  • Power Light: Indicates when the subwoofer is turned on.
  • Signal Light: Shows when a signal is detected.
  • Clip Light: Turns on when the subwoofer reaches peak volume or distorts.
  • Limit Light: Activates when the built-in limiter protects the subwoofer from excessive volume.

Inputs & Outputs

• 2 Combo XLR / ¼-inch Inputs: Connect powered speakers or mixers.
• 2 XLR Outputs: Send signals to additional speakers or subwoofers.
• RCA Line Inputs: Connect devices with RCA outputs.

Step 2: Connecting the Subwoofer to a Powered Speaker

What You Need

• Powered Speaker (e.g., Rockville Titan 15)
• XLR Cable
• Speaker Stand (RSP36) [Optional]

Setup Instructions

1. Mount the speaker on the subwoofer using the 35mm pole socket.
2. Connect the powered speaker to the subwoofer:
   • Take an XLR cable.
   • Plug the female end into the XLR output on the powered speaker.
   • Plug the male end into the XLR input on the subwoofer.
3. Turn on the subwoofer and powered speaker.
4. Adjust volume levels:
   • Raise the level knob on the subwoofer.
   • Adjust speaker volume for balanced sound.
5. Play music and test the setup.

Step 3: Using the Subwoofer with a Passive Mixer & Two Speakers

What You Need

• Passive Mixer
• Two Powered Speakers (e.g., Titan 12)
• XLR Cables (4 total)

Setup Instructions

1. Connect the mixer to the subwoofer:
   • Take two XLR cables.
   • Plug the female ends into the main XLR outputs on the mixer.
   • Plug the male ends into the left and right XLR inputs on the subwoofer.
2. Connect the subwoofer to the speakers:
   • Take two more XLR cables.
   • Plug the female ends into the left and right XLR outputs on the subwoofer.
   • Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs on each speaker.
3. Power everything on in this order:

1. Turn on the mixer.
2. Turn on the subwoofer.
3. Turn on the speakers.

2. Adjust volume levels:
   1. Raise the subwoofer level.
   2. Raise the speaker volume knobs.
   3. Adjust the left and right faders on the mixer.
3. Play music and test the setup.

Step 4: Expanding the Setup with Two Subwoofers

What You Need

• Second RBG18S Subwoofer
• Two Powered Speakers
• Passive Mixer
• 6 XLR Cables

Setup Instructions

1. Connect the mixer to the subwoofers:
   • Take two XLR cables.
   • Plug the female ends into the left and right XLR outputs on the mixer.
   • Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs on each subwoofer.
2. Connect each subwoofer to a speaker:
   • Take two more XLR cables.
   • Plug the female ends into the XLR outputs on each subwoofer.
   • Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs on each speaker.
3. Power everything on in this order:

1. Turn on the mixer.
2. Turn on the two subwoofers.
3. Turn on the two speakers.

2. Adjust volume levels:
   1. Raise the subwoofer levels.
   2. Raise the speaker volume knobs.
   3. Adjust mixer faders.
3. Play music and test the setup.

Conclusion

The Rockville RBG18S 18-Inch Powered Subwoofer is a versatile, powerful addition to any live sound setup. Whether you're pairing it with a single powered speaker, using it with a mixer and multiple speakers, or expanding to two subwoofers, this guide ensures an easy setup for optimal performance.