RPM47: How To Connect an Instrument / Mic

Introduction

This guide explains how to easily connect microphones and instruments to your Rockville RPM47 mixer. Even if you have no prior technical experience, these clear, step-by-step instructions will help you set up quickly for performances, rehearsals, or recordings.

Requirements:

• Rockville RPM47 Mixer
• Microphone (dynamic or condenser)
• Instrument (guitar, bass, keyboard, etc.)
• XLR cable (for microphones)
• ¼" instrument cable
• Optional: Condenser microphone requiring phantom power (+48V)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Connecting a Dynamic Microphone

Step 1: Plugging in the Microphone

1. Identify one of the five available channels on your RPM47.
2. Connect your microphone using an XLR cable to the XLR Mic Input of your chosen channel.

Step 2: Adjusting Volume Levels

• Turn the channel’s Level knob clockwise to raise the microphone’s volume.
• Raise the Master Volume knob to adjust overall output volume.

Step 3: Test Your Microphone

• Speak into the microphone and check that your voice comes through your speakers clearly.

Connecting a Condenser Microphone

Step 1: Setting Up the Condenser Microphone

• Follow the same steps as connecting a dynamic microphone (above).
• Press the Phantom Power (+48V) button on your mixer to supply power to your condenser microphone.

Connecting Instruments (Guitar, Bass, Keyboard)

Step 1: Connecting a Guitar or Bass

1. Use a ¼" instrument cable to plug your guitar or bass into the Line Input on one of the channels.
2. Raise the Level knob on your selected channel.
3. Raise the Master knob for overall volume control.

Step 2: Connecting Stereo Instruments (e.g., Keyboard or Synth)

• Use two separate channels for stereo setup:
  • Connect the left output of your keyboard/synth to one channel's line input.
  • Connect the right output to another channel's line input.
• Adjust volume for each channel individually and then set overall volume with the master knob.

Adjusting Volume Levels

• Channel Level Knob: Adjusts volume for each microphone or instrument individually.
• Master Knob: Controls the overall mixer output volume for all connected channels.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: I connected my microphone, but there’s no sound. What should I do?

• A: Ensure the Master knob and channel Level knob are both raised. Double-check connections and confirm Phantom Power is activated if using a condenser mic.

Q: My instrument sounds distorted.

• A: Reduce the input level slightly using the channel’s Level knob. Ensure instrument volume isn't set too high at the source (instrument).

Q: Can I plug multiple instruments and microphones at the same time?

• A: Yes, each of the five channels can independently handle either a microphone or an instrument, giving you flexibility for live performances or rehearsals.

Conclusion

You’ve now learned how to connect microphones and instruments to your Rockville RPM47 mixer quickly and easily.