How To Set Up Your RCM01

Introduction

In this guide, we will walk you through setting up the RCM01 condenser microphone. The package includes the microphone, a shock mount for easy attachment to any mic stand, an XLR cable for connecting to an interface or mixer, an XLR to 8-inch cable for PC or similar devices, and a windscreen to reduce plosive sounds during recording.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Setting Up the Microphone on a Mic Stand

1. Attach the Shock Mount:
   • Start by taking the shock mount and loosening the knob on the side to adjust the position. Set it to your desired angle, then tighten the knob to secure it.
   • Next, align the threading of the shock mount with the mic stand's threading and screw it on tightly.
2. Mount the Microphone:
   • Pinch the clamps on the shock mount to open them.
   • Slide the microphone into the shock mount, then release the clamps to secure it.

2. Attaching the Windscreen

1. Install the Windscreen:
   • Slide the windscreen over the grill of the microphone. This helps reduce plosives like "P"s, "T"s, and "K"s during vocal recordings.

3. Using a Pop Filter (Optional)

1. Attach the Pop Filter:
   • Instead of using the windscreen, you can use a pop filter to reduce plosives.
   • Attach the pop filter's clamp to your mic stand and adjust the goose neck to position the filter in front of the microphone.

4. Connecting the Microphone to Your Interface

1. Connect the Microphone to the Interface:
   • Take the included XLR cable and plug the female end into the microphone.
   • Plug the other end of the XLR cable into the microphone input on your interface (e.g., the Rocku Mini).
   • If your interface has multiple inputs, choose any available input, but remember the input channel number for when setting up your DAW track.

5. Configuring Sound Settings

1. Adjust Sound Settings on Your Computer:
   • On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Sound. Set the input and output devices to Rocku Mini.
   • On GarageBand: Open Preferences > Audio/MIDI, and set both input and output devices to Rocku Mini.
2. Enable Phantom Power:
   • Condenser microphones like the RCM01 require phantom power (48V) to work. On the Rocku Mini, you can activate phantom power by flipping the 48V switch to the on position.

6. Creating Your Track in the DAW

1. Set Up Your Track:
   • Open your DAW (e.g., GarageBand) and create a new audio track.
   • Make sure the input for the track is set to the channel where the microphone is connected (e.g., Input 1).
2. Adjust the Gain:
   • Raise the gain knob for the corresponding input to ensure the microphone picks up the signal.
   • Monitor the signal meter to ensure the input doesn't go into the clipping zone. If needed, use the pad button on your interface to lower the signal.

7. Recording with Your Microphone

1. Begin Recording:
   • Once your track is set up and gain is adjusted, start recording. You can now monitor your audio levels and make adjustments to ensure the best recording quality.

8. Setting Up Your Microphone with the ISO Box (Optional)

1. Mount the Microphone in the ISO Box:
   • Screw the shock mount onto the top arm inside the ISO box, and adjust it with the knob to ensure it’s level.
   • Pinch the shock mount’s clamps, slide the microphone in, and let go to secure it.
2. Connect the Microphone:
   • Feed the XLR cable through the openings at the bottom of the ISO box, connect it to the microphone, and plug the other end into your interface.
3. Reduce Plosives:
   • You can use the built-in pop filter on the ISO box door, or you can add a windscreen or separate pop filter for even better sound isolation.

9. Using Your Microphone with the PSP 5 (Optional)

If you're using the RCM01 with a powered speaker or device that lacks phantom power, you can use the PSP 5 to provide the necessary 48V power.

1. Connect the Microphone to the PSP 5:
   • Plug the microphone into the XLR input on the PSP 5.
2. Connect the PSP 5 to the Powered Speaker:
   • Use another XLR cable to connect the PSP 5's XLR output to the powered speaker's input.
3. Power On:
   • Turn on the PSP 5 and then your powered speaker. Adjust the volume levels, and you should hear the microphone signal coming through the speaker.

Conclusion

The RCM01 is perfect for recording vocals, podcasts, and more. By following the steps above, you can easily set up the microphone with your interface, mixer, or powered speaker. For those looking for more flexibility, you can use the ISO box for even better sound isolation or the PSP 5 to power the microphone when using devices that lack phantom power.