REQ215: How To Set Up & Use

Introduction

The Rockville REQ215 is a dual 15-band graphic equalizer designed for live performances, DJ setups, studio use, and more. This 1U rack-mountable unit allows you to fine-tune your audio mix, adjusting the frequencies for optimal sound quality.

This guide will cover:
✅ Installing the REQ215 into a rack unit
✅ Connecting the EQ to a passive mixer, power amp, and passive speakers
✅ Adjusting the frequency bands for sound optimization
✅ Using the EQ with individual channels on a mixer

What’s Included?

• Rockville REQ215 Dual 15-Band Graphic Equalizer
• Power Cable

Step 1: Rack-Mount Installation (Optional)

The REQ215 is rack-mountable (1U size) for professional setups.

1. Align the two holes on each side of the equalizer to the rack unit holes.
2. Use two screws per side to secure the EQ in place.

✅ Tip: If mounting in a rack, remove the rubber feet at the bottom for a better fit.

Step 2: Connecting the REQ215 to a Mixer, Power Amp, & Passive Speakers

1. Connecting the Equalizer to a Passive Mixer

You can use XLR cables or ¼” (TRS) cables for this setup.

Using XLR Cables:

1. Take two XLR cables and plug the female ends into the main outputs of the passive mixer.
2. Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs (Channel 1 & 2) on the REQ215.

2. Connecting the EQ to a Power Amplifier

1. Take another pair of XLR cables.
2. Plug the female ends into the XLR outputs on the EQ.
3. Plug the male ends into the XLR inputs of the power amplifier.

3. Connecting the Power Amplifier to Passive Speakers

• Use Speakon cables to connect the left and right channels of the power amp to the left and right passive speakers.

✅ At this point, your signal flow is:
🎛 Mixer → REQ215 Equalizer → Power Amp → Passive Speakers

Step 3: Adjusting the EQ Settings

1. Understanding the 15 Frequency Bands

The REQ215 provides 15 frequency bands per channel to adjust the left and right speaker outputs independently.

• Bass Frequencies (32Hz - 275Hz) – Adjusts deep, low-end sounds.
• Midrange Frequencies (250Hz - 4kHz) – Affects clarity and body of vocals and instruments.
• Treble Frequencies (4kHz - 16kHz) – Controls brightness and sharpness of high-end sounds.

2. Using the Built-in Features

• Bypass Switch – Turns the equalizer on or off for each channel.
• Low-Cut Filter (80Hz) – Cuts out low frequencies below 80Hz, which is useful when using a subwoofer.
• Volume Knob (Per Channel) – Adjusts the output level of the equalizer.

Step 4: Testing the Sound with & Without the EQ

🎵 To test how the EQ improves your sound:

1. Start playback with the EQ turned OFF.
2. Turn the EQ ON midway to hear the enhanced sound.

🔊 You should notice:
✅ Boosted bass & clearer mids
✅ Sharper treble frequencies
✅ Overall improved sound definition

Step 5: Using the REQ215 with Individual Mixer Channels

If your mixer has insert jacks for each channel, you can apply the EQ to a single channel instead of the full mix.

1. Using a ¼” Y Cable (Insert Cable)

1. Take the single ¼” end and plug it into the insert jack of the mixer channel you want to equalize.
2. Take the two split ends and:
   • Plug one into the input of the EQ.
   • Plug the other into the output of the EQ.

✅ This setup lets you fine-tune only one instrument or microphone input instead of affecting the entire mix.

Final Thoughts

The Rockville REQ215 is a powerful tool for DJs, live sound engineers, and studio professionals. With precise frequency control, low-cut filtering, and individual channel processing options, this EQ significantly enhances clarity, bass response, and overall balance in your audio system.