RW10CA: Wires, Inputs & Functions

Introduction

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the wiring, inputs, and outputs of your Rockville RW10CA powered subwoofer to help you set it up properly in your vehicle. Whether you're a first-time installer or just need a refresher, this guide will make the process simple and easy to follow.

What You Need

• Rockville RW10CA Subwoofer
• 12V Power Cable
• Remote Wire
• Ground Wire
• RCA Cables or High-Level Input Wire Harness
• Bass Remote Knob (optional)
• Basic Tools for Installation

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Connecting the Power Terminals

To power your subwoofer, you’ll need to connect the following wires:

• Power Terminal (+12V): Connect this to the positive terminal of your vehicle's battery.
• Remote Terminal: Connect this to your vehicle’s ignition or accessory switch to turn the subwoofer on and off with the car.
• Ground Terminal (GND): Connect this securely to a metal chassis ground point in your vehicle.

2. Understanding the Indicator Lights

On the side of the subwoofer, you'll see two indicator lights:

• Power Light (Green): Illuminates when the subwoofer is receiving power and functioning properly.
• Protect Light (Red): Lights up if there’s an issue with the wiring, such as overheating or incorrect connections. If this light turns on, check your connections and settings.

3. Auto Turn-On Feature

• Auto Turn-On Button: Engaging this feature allows the subwoofer to automatically power on when it detects a signal from the battery.

4. Adjusting the Phase Switch

• Phase Switch (0°/180°): Adjusting the phase can help the subwoofer match the rest of your system. Toggle between 0° and 180° to determine which setting provides the best sound in your setup.

5. Setting the Low Pass Filter

• Low Pass Filter (LPF): This lets you choose the cutoff frequency for your subwoofer. For example, setting it to 100Hz means the sub will only play sounds at 100Hz and below.

6. Boosting the Bass

• Bass Boost: Enhances frequencies around 45Hz for deeper low-end impact.
• Adjustable up to 18dB to fine-tune bass response to your liking.

7. Adjusting the Gain

• Gain Knob: Controls the overall volume level of the subwoofer. Adjust based on your system’s output. (For more details, check out Rockville’s gain-setting video.)

8. Connecting the Bass Remote Knob (Optional)

If you want to control your subwoofer's bass level from the front seat:

1. Plug one end of the remote wire into the remote input on the subwoofer.
2. Plug the other end into the bass remote knob.
3. Mount the knob in a convenient location.

9. Connecting Your Head Unit

You have two ways to connect your head unit (stereo) to the subwoofer:

• RCA Low Input (Preferred Method): If your head unit has RCA outputs, connect them directly to the RCA inputs on the subwoofer.
• High-Level Input (For Factory Head Units): If your head unit does not have RCA outputs, use the high-level input:
  1. Plug the included high-level wire harness into the high-level input on the subwoofer.
  2. Connect the wires from the harness to your head unit’s speaker output wires.

10. Replacing the Fuse (If Needed)

• The fuse is located on the side of the subwoofer and is easily replaceable if needed.

Final Setup & Placement

Once all your connections are secure:

• Mount the subwoofer under the driver or passenger seat using the included hardware.
• Test your system by turning on your car and playing music.
• Adjust the settings as needed to achieve the best sound.

Conclusion

This guide covers everything you need to know to properly install and connect your Rockville RW10CA powered subwoofer. If you’re experiencing any issues, double-check your wiring and settings. Now, enjoy the deep, rich bass your RW10CA delivers.