DCS6T: How To Set Up, Install & Use

Introduction

The Rockville DCS6T 70V Drop Ceiling Tile Speaker is designed for easy installation in standard 2' x 1' drop ceiling spaces. This guide will walk you through how to connect and install the speaker, explaining 70V systems, wiring, and placement for optimal sound performance.

Understanding 70V Systems

Before installing the DCS6T, it's important to understand how 70V speaker systems work:

• A 70V amplifier allows multiple speakers to be connected to a single amp.
• Each speaker can be tapped to a specific wattage, ensuring the total wattage matches the amp's capacity.
• For example, if your amp supports 100W, you can connect 10 speakers tapped at 10W each.
• Multi-zone amplifiers allow independent volume control for different areas.

If you want more details, check out our "What is 70V?" video.

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Connecting the Speaker Wire

To begin, you’ll need to remove the panel on the back of the speaker:

• Use a screwdriver to loosen the top and side screws on the panel.
• Lift the panel to reveal the Euroblock terminal inside.

Using the Euroblock Terminal

The Euroblock connector makes wiring easier:

1. Remove the Euroblock terminal from the speaker.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the screw terminals on top.
3. Connect your speaker wire to the first positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.
   • Speaker wires typically have one side with text and one blank side.
   • Assign one side to positive and one to negative—just be consistent when connecting to the amplifier.
4. If connecting additional speakers, use the extra set of positive and negative terminals on the Euroblock to daisy-chain to another speaker.
5. Plug the Euroblock terminal back into the speaker.

2. Securing the Panel

Before reattaching the panel:

• Run the speaker wire through the panel’s wire hole.
• Align the screw holes on the panel with the speaker.
• Use the screws removed earlier to secure the panel back in place.

3. Connecting the Speaker to the Amplifier

• Take the other end of your speaker wire and run it along the ceiling towards your 70V amplifier.
• Connect the wire to the amplifier's speaker output, ensuring the same polarity is maintained (positive to positive, negative to negative).

4. Setting the Wattage Tap

• Locate the wattage selector dial on the side of the speaker.
• Choose a wattage setting based on your amplifier and the number of speakers in your setup.
• Available tap settings: 1.5W, 2.5W, 5W, 10W, and an 8Ω setting for standard receivers.
• For maximum volume, set the speaker to 10W.

5. Installing the Speaker into the Ceiling

• Remove the ceiling tile from the space where the speaker will be placed.
• Drop the speaker into the open ceiling tile slot.
• For added support:
  • Use a support rail in the middle of the speaker and ceiling tile.
  • Cut the original ceiling tile in half and place it on the opposite side for balance.
  • If the speaker is centered, cut the tile into pieces to fill the gaps.

6. Finishing the Setup

• Run the speaker wire along the ceiling and down to the amplifier.
• Once connected, turn on the amplifier and test the speaker.

Sound Test & Performance

In a conference room test, the DCS6T delivered clear highs and strong low-end bass, making it a great choice for background music, announcements, and multi-speaker setups.

Expanding Your Speaker System

To add more DCS6T speakers, repeat the same setup process and daisy-chain them using the extra terminals on the Euroblock.

Conclusion

Setting up the Rockville DCS6T 70V Drop Ceiling Tile Speaker is simple and efficient, whether for offices, retail spaces, or conference rooms. With proper wattage tapping and installation, you can create a multi-speaker audio system with ease.