PRE-70V: How To Set Up

Introduction

The Rockville PRE-70V Preamp is a multi-zone 70V system controller that allows you to manage multiple speaker zones, adjust audio sources, and control volume independently. This guide will take you through installation, connections, and setup for a seamless audio experience.

Step 1: Understanding 70V Systems

A 70V amplifier and preamp system allows for:

• Running many speakers at a fixed wattage.
• Controlling multiple zones independently.
• Efficient power distribution to avoid overloading the amplifier.

💡 Example: If your amplifier is 1,000W, you can run 100 speakers tapped at 10W each without exceeding power limits.

Step 2: Unboxing & Mounting the Preamp

What's Included:

✅ Rockville PRE-70V Preamp
✅ Rack Mounting Hardware (ears, screws, and handles)

Rack Mounting Instructions:

1. Attach the Rack Ears: Use the included screws to secure them to the sides of the preamp.
2. Attach the Handles: Line them up with the rack ears and fasten them with flathead screws.
3. Insert into the Rack: Position the preamp below the amplifier for an organized setup.
4. Secure it with M6 Screws & Nuts: Ensure it is fastened properly in a 2U rack space.

💡 Tip: 2U spacing is required, but the hole alignment is 1U spacing—check the hole placements carefully before mounting.

Step 3: Connecting the Preamp to the Amplifier

The preamp is the control center for your system, while the amplifier powers the speakers.

Wiring Instructions:

1. Preamp Output → Amplifier Input
   • Use speaker wire.
   • Connect the Left & Right Outputs from the PRE-70V to the Left & Right Inputs on the amplifier.
   • Some amplifiers label them as Channel 1 & Channel 2—match accordingly.
2. Amplifier Output → Preamp 70V Inputs
   • Connect the Amplifier Outputs to the Left & Right 70V Inputs on the PRE-70V.
   • Use red wire for positive and black wire for negative.

💡 Tip: Power on amplifier first, then preamp, to avoid loud pops.

Step 4: Connecting 70V Speakers to the Preamp

1. Locate the Zone Outputs on the back of the PRE-70V:
   • Zones 1-4 → Left Channel
   • Zones 5-8 → Right Channel
2. Connect the Speakers:
   • Red wire → Positive (+) terminal
   • Black wire → Negative (-) terminal
   • Parallel wire additional speakers as needed.
3. Adjust Speaker Tap Settings:
   • Example: If running 200 speakers, set each to 5W to stay within a 1,000W amplifier.

💡 Tip: If you hear a 60-cycle hum, ground the preamp and amplifier by connecting a ground wire between their metal chassis.

Step 5: Controlling the Preamp

Front Panel Controls

• Mode Button: Switch between Bluetooth, FM Radio, USB, SD Card, and Line Inputs.
• Music Playback Buttons: Play, pause, skip tracks.
• Microphone Inputs:
  • Mic 1 (Priority Mic) Input
  • Mic 2 Input (with Echo Control)
• Chime Button: Plays an alert sound for announcements.
• Volume Knobs:
  • Mic 1 & 2 Volume
  • Line Input, Optical, MP3 Volume (Bluetooth)
  • Treble & Bass Adjustments
  • Master Volume & Balance Control
  • Zone Volume Controls (1-8)

Back Panel Connections

• 70V Speaker Zone Outputs: For connecting speakers.
• 70V Inputs & Outputs: For amplifier connection.
• Stereo/Mono Button:
  • Mono Mode: All zones play the same audio.
  • Stereo Mode: Four stereo zones for left/right separation.
• RCA Line Input/Output: For adding extra audio sources or additional preamps/amplifiers.
• Optical Input: Connect to TV or gaming system.
• FM Antenna: Enhances radio reception.

Step 6: Setting Up a Paging Microphone

1. Plug a Microphone into the Mic 1 Input.
2. Turn up the Mic 1 Volume on the Preamp.
3. Press "Mic On" and Speak—your voice will be heard through the speakers.
4. Adjust Mic 1 Mute Knob to control mic level.
5. For Mic 2, use the Echo Knob for effects.

Step 7: Connecting a Bluetooth Device

1. Press "Mode" Until Bluetooth Mode is Selected.
2. On Your Smartphone/Tablet, Search for “PRE-70V” in Bluetooth Settings.
3. Tap to Pair—you’ll hear a confirmation sound.
4. Adjust Volume with the MP3 Volume Knob or Your Device.

Step 8: Multi-Zone Demonstration

• Play audio in Zone 1 only.
• Lower volume in Zone 1 and activate Zone 2.
• Play audio in both zones together for a full-house experience.

Conclusion

The Rockville PRE-70V Preamp makes setting up a multi-zone 70V system simple. With individual zone controls, multiple input options, and microphone integration, you can create a custom audio experience for your space.