RVSS2-XLR: How To Set Up Speakers

Introduction:

This guide will walk you through the simple process of setting up either powered or passive speakers using the Rockville RBSS2 XLR speaker stands. Whether you're preparing for a live gig, practice session, or event, these easy-to-follow steps are designed for users of all experience levels.

Requirements:

• Rockville RBSS2 XLR Speaker Stands
• Either powered or passive PA speakers
• Compatible mixer (powered or passive)
• XLR or SpeakON speaker cables (depending on your setup)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Understand Your Setup: Powered vs. Passive Speakers

• Powered Speakers: Require a passive mixer (no built-in amplification).
• Passive Speakers: Require a powered mixer (built-in amplification).
• The RBSS2 stands include two XLR cables, making them ideal for powered speaker setups using a passive mixer.

2. Mounting the Speakers on the RBSS2 Stands

1. Prepare the Stand:
   • Set up the RBSS2 stand on a flat surface and ensure stability.
2. Loosen the Locking Knob:
   • On the bottom of your speaker, find the pole mount locking knob and loosen it.
3. Mount the Speaker:
   • Line up the speaker's bottom pole mount with the top of the stand.
   • Slide the speaker onto the stand’s pole.
4. Secure the Speaker:
   • Tighten the locking knob to keep the speaker safely in place.
5. Repeat for the Second Speaker:
   • Follow the same steps to mount the second speaker.

3. Connecting Powered Speakers to a Passive Mixer

1. Use the Included XLR Cables:
   • Take one XLR cable.
   • Connect the male end to the XLR input on the back of the powered speaker.
2. Connect to the Mixer:
   • Plug the female end into the left or right XLR main output on your passive mixer.
   • Keep track of left and right channel orientation.
3. Repeat for the Second Speaker:
   • Plug into the remaining XLR output (right or left).
4. Power On:
   • Turn on the powered speakers, then turn on your mixer.

4. Connecting Passive Speakers to a Powered Mixer

1. Mount Speakers on the Stands:
   • Follow the same speaker mounting steps listed above.
2. Use the Correct Speaker Cables:
   • If your speakers use SpeakON connectors, use SpeakON-to-SpeakON cables.
   • Other speaker types may require 1/4" TS or banana plug cables.
3. Connect to the Mixer:
   • Plug one end of the cable into the SpeakON input on the back of each speaker.
   • Plug the other end into the SpeakON output of the powered mixer.
   • Ensure correct left/right channel connections.
4. Power On:
   • Turn on the powered mixer and you’re ready to go.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Can I use passive speakers with a passive mixer?
A: No, this setup will not work as neither device has amplification.

Q: Why are my powered speakers not producing sound?
A: Ensure the mixer is passive, all XLR cables are connected properly, and the speakers and mixer are powered on.

Q: What cables do I need for passive speakers?
A: Check your speaker and mixer outputs—commonly SpeakON cables are required, but some setups use 1/4" TS or bare wire connections.

Conclusion:

With just a few simple steps, you can easily connect either powered or passive speakers to your Rockville RBSS2 XLR speaker stands for any performance or practice session. This setup offers flexibility for different audio configurations and ensures stable, elevated speaker placement.