LINE8: How To Set Up & Use

Introduction

The Rockville Line 8 Eight-Channel Line and Microphone Mixer is an excellent addition to any setup, whether you're working in a recording studio, at a live performance, or organizing a karaoke event. This versatile mixer allows you to add multiple microphone and line inputs, making it easy to expand your system. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of setting up your Line 8 mixer with various audio equipment.

What You’ll Need

• Rockville Line 8 Eight-Channel Line and Microphone Mixer
• Power supply (included)
• 9V battery (optional, for portable use)
• Microphone(s) and audio equipment
• Quarter-inch cables for connections

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Unbox the Line 8 Mixer

• Open the package and confirm you have:
  • The Line 8 Mixer
  • Power supply or 9V battery for power
  • Quarter-inch cable for audio output
  • Four antennas (for better signal reception)

2. Powering the Line 8

• You can power the Line 8 Mixer either with the included power supply or a 9V battery:
  • If using the power supply, plug it into the back of the mixer.
  • If you prefer battery power, install a 9V battery in the compartment located at the bottom of the mixer.

3. Setting to Mono or Stereo Mode

• The Line 8 Mixer allows you to switch between Mono and Stereo modes:
  • Mono Mode: This mode uses all eight inputs, with outputs A and B transmitting identical signals. This is ideal for microphones or line-level inputs.
  • Stereo Mode: In this mode, inputs A and B function as stereo inputs for instruments like keyboards or synthesizers, giving you four stereo channels.
  • For this guide, we'll be using Mono Mode for a microphone setup.

4. Connecting a Microphone

• Set the mic/line switch for each channel to mic mode.
• Plug your microphone into one of the eight inputs using an XLR to quarter-inch cable.
• For example, plug the XLR end into the microphone and the quarter-inch end into input 1 on Channel A.

5. Connecting the Line 8 to a Powered Speaker

• Use a quarter-inch cable to connect the Output A of the Line 8 to the input on the powered speaker.
• Turn on the Line 8 Mixer and the powered speaker.
• Raise the volume knob for Channel 1 on the Line 8 Mixer and ensure that the main volume on your speaker is also adjusted.

6. Adjusting the Microphone Volume

• Use the volume knob on the Line 8 to control the microphone’s output.
• Adjust the gain and main volume to ensure the microphone sound is at the desired level.
• Now, you should be able to hear your voice through the speaker.

7. Expanding the Setup (Optional)

• If you're planning to use more microphones, simply plug them into the remaining inputs.
• Use the Mono Mode to ensure all outputs are the same, or switch to Stereo Mode if you’re connecting instruments.
• To create a larger setup, connect the Output B to a second powered speaker.

8. Using the Line 8 with a Powered Mixer

• If you're working with a powered mixer and multiple passive speakers, you can connect the Line 8 via XLR or quarter-inch cables.
• Set the Line 8 to Mono Mode if you're using multiple microphones and adjust the settings on the powered mixer for further sound control.

9. Recording with the Line 8

• If you need more microphone inputs for recording, connect the Line 8 to your audio interface:
  • Use the Output A of the Line 8 and connect it to a channel on your interface.
  • Set the Line 8 to Mono Mode for microphone recordings.
  • Open your DAW (e.g., Audacity, Pro Tools) and configure the input settings to match your interface.
  • Now, when you turn on the microphone, you'll see the input signal in your DAW.