VOL70100: How To Install & Set Up

Introduction

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing and setting up your Rockville VOL 7100 wall volume controller. This controller is designed for 70V audio systems, allowing you to adjust the volume of multiple speakers in different rooms with ease.

What’s Included

• Rockville VOL 7100 Volume Controller
• Faceplate
• Mounting hardware for installation

Understanding 70V Systems

A 70V amplifier allows you to run multiple speakers at a constant wattage using a single amp. For example:

• A 100W amplifier can power ten 10W speakers.
• If using a multi-zone amplifier, each zone has an independent power rating, allowing for customized volume control.

To avoid overloading the system:

• Ensure the combined wattage of the speakers in each zone does not exceed the amplifier's wattage limit.
• Match the wattage of the volume controller to the amplifier or specific zone.

Step 1: Choosing Your Amplifier

You can use either a:

• Single-Zone Amplifier: Connect speakers directly to the 70V main output (not the 100V or 8-ohm output).
• Multi-Zone Amplifier: Connect speakers to the specific zone output.

For example, the Rockville RCS350-6:

• Supports up to 100W per zone.
• Has a total power capacity of 350W.

Make sure the total wattage of all connected speakers does not exceed 100W per zone.

Step 2: Choosing a Location for the Volume Controller

• Install the controller at standard light switch height.
• Choose between:
  • In-wall installation (most common)
  • Surface-mounted installation (used in industrial applications)

For surface mounting, use an electrical box.

Step 3: Cutting the Hole in the Wall

1. Check for obstacles (studs, pipes, electrical wiring) using a stud finder.
2. Mark the cutout using the electrical box as a template.
3. Cut the hole using a drywall saw.
4. Install the electrical box (if using one) by securing it with screws.

Step 4: Running Speaker Wires

To connect the volume controller, you need two sets of speaker wires:

1. From the amplifier to the volume controller.
2. From the volume controller to the first speaker.

Wiring Tips:

• Label each wire to keep track of connections.
• Plan wire routes using a stud finder.
• Use 20-40% extra wire to accommodate obstacles.
• Use CL2-rated speaker wire for fire resistance.

Step 5: Connecting the Speaker Wires to the Volume Controller

1. Remove the Euroblock terminal from the controller.
2. Loosen the screws on the Euroblock using a Flathead screwdriver.
3. Connect the speaker wires:
   • Amplifier → Input Terminal
   • Speakers → Output Terminal
4. Tighten the screws to secure the connections.
5. Reinsert the Euroblock terminal into the controller.

Step 6: Securing the Volume Controller to the Wall

1. Insert the controller into the wall box.
2. Secure it with the provided long screws.
3. Use a screwdriver or power drill (on low speed) to tighten.
4. Attach the faceplate and secure it with the included screws.

Step 7: Setting the Volume

1. Set the volume controller to zero.
2. Adjust the amplifier volume to 75-80%.
3. Use the controller to raise the volume as needed.

For multi-zone setups, follow the same process for each controller, ensuring:

• The total system wattage does not exceed 350W.
• Each zone stays within 100W.

Step 8: Testing the Setup

1. Play audio from the amplifier.
2. Adjust the volume controller to test volume control.
3. Ensure each zone functions properly.

Once set up, you can easily control the volume in different rooms, creating the perfect sound environment.

Conclusion

Installing and using the Rockville VOL 7100 Volume Controller is simple and effective. By following these steps, you can customize your audio system and control volume levels across multiple rooms.