RPM1870: How To Set Up A Powered Subwoofer

Introduction

The Rockville RPM 1870 powered mixer allows you to expand your sound system by connecting powered subwoofers or active speakers. This guide will show you how to properly connect a single subwoofer or dual subwoofers, and adjust the settings to ensure optimal sound output. You will also be able to control the subwoofer volume from the mixer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Connecting a Single Subwoofer

For this setup, you can use either:

• XLR cables (recommended for better audio quality)
• ¼-inch cables (if your subwoofer has ¼-inch inputs)

Steps to Connect One Subwoofer:

1. Choose a cable:
   • Use an XLR cable for professional sound quality.
   • If your subwoofer has a ¼-inch input, use a ¼-inch cable instead.
2. Connect the Mixer to the Subwoofer:
   • Plug one end of the XLR cable into the Left Main Output on the RPM 1870 mixer.
   • Plug the other end into the Left Input of the powered subwoofer.
3. Power on the Subwoofer and adjust its crossover and volume.
4. Raise the Main Left and Right Faders on the mixer to balance the overall sound.
5. Test your audio sources (microphones, instruments, or Bluetooth playback) to ensure sound is routed through the speakers and subwoofer.

2. Connecting Dual Subwoofers

If you want more bass and stereo sound, you can add a second powered subwoofer.

Steps to Connect Two Subwoofers:

1. Follow steps 1-2 above for the first subwoofer.
2. For the second subwoofer:
   • Take a second XLR cable.
   • Connect one end to the Right Main Output on the RPM 1870 mixer.
   • Connect the other end to the Left Input of the second subwoofer.
3. Power on the second subwoofer and adjust its crossover and volume.
4. Ensure the Main Left and Right Faders are raised for full-range output.

3. Adjusting the Subwoofer Settings

Once the subwoofer(s) are connected, tweak the settings for optimal bass performance:

• Crossover Setting:
  • Adjust the crossover frequency on the subwoofer (typically 80Hz-120Hz) to filter out high frequencies.
• Volume Adjustment:
  • Set the subwoofer volume to match the main speakers.
• Phase Control (if available):
  • Adjust if the bass sounds weak or out of sync with the main speakers.

Additional Notes

• These same steps apply when connecting powered speakers instead of subwoofers.
• For best results, ensure your subwoofers are properly positioned in your venue or studio.
• Experiment with EQ settings to fine-tune the balance between your main speakers and subwoofers.

Conclusion

Adding a powered subwoofer to your Rockville RPM 1870 mixer is quick and easy, enhancing your system with rich, deep bass. Whether you’re using one or two subwoofers, following these steps will ensure your setup sounds great.