WET ARRAY 5: How To Set Up, Wire & Install

Introduction

The Rockville Wet Array 5 Series Speakers are versatile, weather-resistant (IP55-rated) speakers that can be used in commercial 70V systems or standard 8-ohm home theater setups. Available in black and white, both colors have the same setup process.

This guide will walk you through:

• Mounting the speaker (Picture Frame Brackets or Swivel Mount)
• Setting up in a 70V system (Tapping for different wattage levels)
• Configuring an 8-ohm setup
• Connecting speaker wires properly
• Optimizing placement for best sound quality

Step 1: Mounting Your Wet Array 5 Speaker

Option 1: Using the Built-in Picture Frame Brackets (Fixed Mounting)

The Wet Array 5 comes with two built-in picture frame brackets that allow for horizontal or vertical mounting.

Installation Instructions

1. Mark the mounting location on your wall.
2. Drill holes and insert 4-inch or 5-inch drywall anchors.
3. Partially insert screws, leaving enough space to slide the speaker onto the brackets.
4. Hang the speaker like a picture frame.

Important Note:

• Ensure screws are long enough to clear the speaker terminals but still secure the speaker.
• For a more adjustable setup, use the included Swivel Mount.

Option 2: Using the Included Swivel Mount (Adjustable Positioning)

The Swivel Mount allows for precise angle adjustments and is the recommended installation method.

What’s Included in the Swivel Mount Kit?

• Horizontal base plate (attaches to the wall)
• Vertical swivel mount (attaches to the speaker)
• Various screws and hardware

Additional Tools Needed

Phillips screwdriver
Phillips screw gun
Wall anchors and screws (recommended: ¼-inch anchor system for drywall installation)

Installation Instructions

1. Remove the four screws on the back of the speaker.
2. Attach the vertical swivel mount to the speaker using the removed screws.
3. Mark the wall using the horizontal base plate.
4. Drill holes and insert anchors.
5. Secure the base plate to the wall.
6. Attach the speaker mount to the base plate.
7. Secure the safety cable to prevent accidental drops.

Adjusting the Speaker Angle

• Up/Down Tilt: Insert the large bolt and fly nut into the desired tilt position.
• Left/Right Rotation: Use two screws to lock the speaker horizontally.

Step 2: Setting Up in a 70V System

What is 70V and Why Use It?

• 70V systems allow multiple speakers to be connected in parallel wiring.
• Each speaker draws a fixed amount of power from the amplifier based on its tap setting.
• Ideal for commercial applications such as restaurants, bars, and outdoor patios.

Tapping Your Speaker for a 70V System

The Wet Array 5 has four tap settings, which determine how much power it pulls from the amplifier.

Important:

• If using a Rockville RCS 350-6 70V amplifier (350W total power), make sure your total speaker wattage does not exceed the amplifier’s limit.
• Example: If each speaker is tapped at 30W, you can run up to 10 speakers safely.

Wiring Your Speakers in Parallel (70V System)

1. Run the negative speaker wire into the negative push terminal.
2. Run the positive speaker wire into the positive push terminal.
3. Daisy chain all speakers:
   • Negative to negative
   • Positive to positive
4. Ensure total power draw does not exceed the amplifier’s rating.

Pro Tip: Parallel wiring eliminates impedance mismatches, making it easier to manage multiple speakers.

Step 3: Configuring an 8-Ohm Setup (Home Theater Use)

If you’re using the Wet Array 5 with a home theater amplifier, switch to 8-ohm mode.

How to Set Up for 8-Ohm Operation

1. Locate the tap selector on the back of the speaker.
2. Set it to the “8Ω” position to bypass the transformer.
3. Connect the speaker wire:
   • Negative to amplifier’s negative output
   • Positive to amplifier’s positive output
4. Ensure amplifier power matches the speaker’s rating.

Important: NEVER use the 8-ohm mode in a 70V system—this bypasses the transformer and could damage your amplifier.

Step 4: Optimizing Speaker Placement

• For indoor installations: Position speakers at ear level or slightly above.
• For outdoor setups: Tilt speakers slightly downward for even coverage.
• For stereo use: Space speakers 6-10 feet apart for balanced sound.

Step 5: Sound Demo & Final Adjustments

Once installed, test the speaker at different volume levels and EQ settings.

Key Features Noted in Sound Test:
Balanced sound with clear highs and deep bass.
Great for background music in restaurants, patios, and bars.
Weather-resistant (IP55) for indoor and outdoor use.

Conclusion

The Rockville Wet Array 5 Series provides flexibility and high-quality sound for both commercial and home audio setups. Whether you're using 70V parallel wiring or standard 8-ohm configurations, installation is simple with multiple mounting options.