DX12: How To Set Up & Use

Introduction:
Setting up your Rockville DX12 powered speakers is quick and straightforward, allowing you to take full control over your audio. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps for connecting microphones, instruments, and mixers, as well as how to properly position your speakers for optimal sound.

Requirements:

• Rockville DX12 powered speakers
• XLR cables (or 1/4-inch cables)
• Microphone, guitar, or keyboard
• Mixer (optional)
• Power cable

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Understanding the Controls, Inputs, and Outputs

• LED Indicators:
  • Power LED: Indicates the speaker is powered on.
  • Signal LED: Shows when a signal is coming into the speaker.
  • Clip LED: Warns when the speaker is too loud or distorted. If it turns on, lower the master volume or reduce the input volume from your microphone or instrument.
• Two-Band EQ:
  • Bass Knob: Adjusts low-end frequencies. Boost or cut bass to shape your sound.
  • Treble Knob: Adjusts high-end frequencies. Boost or cut treble for clarity and presence.
• Line Volume Knob: Adjusts the volume for anything plugged into the line input (e.g., mixer or instrument).
• Master Volume: Controls the overall volume coming from the speaker.
• Microphone Volume Knob: Adjusts the volume for microphones connected to the mic input.
• Combo Jack Input: Allows you to connect your microphone using either an XLR or 1/4-inch cable.
• Line Input: Used for connecting instruments, mixers, or additional powered speakers.
• Mix Output: Sends the audio signal to another speaker or powered subwoofer.

2. Positioning Your DX12 Speaker

• The DX12 has two pole mounts for different speaker positions:
  • Vertical Position: Use the pole mount at the back of the speaker for a traditional upright setup.
  • Tilted Position: Use the pole mount at the front to tilt the speaker downwards by 15°—ideal for taller stages or angled setups.
  • Monitor Setup: Place the speaker on its side on the floor for use as a monitor.
  • Fly Points: Hang the speaker from the ceiling using safety cables if needed.

To position the speaker:

• For a vertical setup, align the back pole mount with the top of the speaker stand and place the speaker vertically.
• For the tilted setup, use the front pole mount to position the speaker at a 15° downward tilt.

3. Connecting a Microphone or Instrument

For Microphone:

• Plug the female end of the XLR cable into your microphone.
• Plug the other end into the mic input on the back of the speaker.
• Raise the mic volume knob and master volume knob.
• Test the microphone by speaking into it. You should hear your voice through the speaker.

For Instruments (e.g., Guitar, Keyboard, Synthesizer):

• Use a 1/4-inch cable (or XLR if your instrument has an XLR output).
• Plug one end into your instrument (guitar, keyboard, etc.) and the other end into the line input.
• Raise the line volume knob and master volume knob to hear the sound through the speaker.

You can also set up both a microphone and an instrument at the same time for a complete live performance setup.

4. Linking Two DX12 Speakers Together for Bigger Sound

• Use an XLR cable to connect the Mix Output on the first speaker to the Line Input on the second speaker.
• Raise the line volume knob and master volume on both speakers to ensure the signal comes through both systems.

This setup is perfect for larger venues, and you can also connect your DX12 speakers to other powered speakers or subwoofers using the same method.

5. Connecting a Mixer to Your DX12 Speakers

• Connect two XLR cables from the main outputs on your mixer to the line input on each of your DX12 speakers.
• Raise the line volume and master volume knobs on both speakers.
• For optimal sound, raise the main mix knob on your mixer.

If your mixer has 1/4-inch outputs, you can use 1/4-inch cables in place of the XLR cables.

Conclusion:

Setting up your Rockville DX12 powered speakers is simple and versatile, whether you're connecting a microphone, instrument, or mixer. The various positioning options and input controls allow for customization to fit any performance or event.