Rockville RCS180-6

19" Rack-Mountable 180-Watt Commercial Amplifier/Receiver

Important Safety Instructions

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, never open the unit. No user-serviceable parts inside. We recommend sending the unit to the Rockville service center for any repairs.

• Do not expose this unit to any kind of moisture.
• Please ensure that the unit is situated in a properly ventilated area.
• Do not attempt to operate this unit if the power cord has been frayed or broken.
• Do not attempt to break off or remove the ground prong. This prong is used to reduce the risk of electrical shock and fire in case of an internal short.
• Do not operate this unit if it is damaged.
• This unit is intended for indoor use only.
• Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed on or against them, paying particular attention to the point of exit from the unit.
• To avoid unnecessary wear and to improve the unit's life span, unplug the unit when not in use for extended periods of time.

Introduction

Rockville is proud to introduce our new RCS series of products. The RCS180-6 is a 180-Watt 6-zone rack mountable digital hybrid amplifier/receiver. This amplifier is capable of 70-volt, 100-volt, 8-ohm, and 4-ohm applications. This makes it perfect for use in a restaurant/bar/café/lounge/school/conference room or any other setting where many speakers are needed.

This model offers 180 watts at 70-volt or 100-volt and the power can be split up into 6 zones. (Most professionals recommend you not exceed 80% of the amp power, so we recommend your speakers' watts not to be more than 150-160 in total on the taps.) Each zone can have the power split as you please. For example, you can put all 150-160 watts into one zone with one volume control. You can also have zone 1 with 60 watts, zone 2 with 50 watts, and the rest of the zones with 5 watts. Just add the total watts up to be under 150-160 and you are OK. No complex wiring required like with 8-ohm systems.

With 3 mic inputs; 2 of which have echo control (Mic 2 and Mic 3), you can use this amplifier for announcements, speeches, or even Karaoke night! This model also includes a chime button so you can create a chime sound before making announcements. The RCS series features Bluetooth audio streaming so you can play your favorite music or access a playlist right from your phone! This amp also features both USB and SD inputs, allowing you to play audio stored on a USB thumb drive or SD Card. There are also 2-line inputs that allow you to plug in another audio device such as an MP3 player, CD player, TV, etc.

Individual volume knobs for each of the 6 zones and volume knobs for each of the 3 mic inputs gives you full control over your system.

The built-in clipping limiter function protects your speakers and the amp from overheating. For further protection there is also a cooling system in this amplifier that will keep the components running cool, making the amplifier durable and reliable.

Our goal with the RCS series was to make it possible for anyone to install 70-volt systems on their own without spending thousands of dollars on a contractor. This model makes it a breeze to connect many speakers and multiple external sources. We intentionally use common plugs like RCA and 1/4" on our model to make this more universal and user friendly. With our unique design you can feel confident in your DIY ability when installing our commercial system!

What is 70 Volt?

70-volt systems are the number one choice for any application where you want to install multiple speakers. With 70 volt there are a lot of advantages over 8-ohm systems. One of the main advantages is the simplicity of the wiring as well as how easy it is to match up speakers with the amplifier. For example, with this 180-watt/70-volt amplifier, you can install speakers that total close to 150 watts. It does not matter if it is 10 speakers that are 15 watts each or 25 speakers that are tapped at 5 watts each. You always want your 70 volt amp to have at least 15 or 20% more power than the combined watts your speakers are tapped at.

When we say the word tap, what we are referring to are the selectors that many speakers in 70 volt have on them. For example, some speakers might have selectable options of 1.5w, 3w, 5w, 10w. What this does is limit how many watts the built-in transformer on the speaker will allow the speaker to get from the amplifier. What this allows for is full customization of your sound for your space. In a restaurant, for example, you can tap your dining room speakers at 5 watts, the speakers by the bar area at 10 watts, the ones in the hallway at 3 watts, and the speakers in the bathrooms at 1.5 watts. Another great feature with 70 volt is you can mix and match any 70-volt speakers whether they are ceiling speakers, wall mounted speakers, subwoofers, etc.

70-volt systems allow you to run very long lines of speaker wire without signal loss. This makes it ideal when running long speaker leads.

The wiring is simple. You just wire all the positive terminals of the speakers to the positive 70-volt terminals of the amplifier. The negative terminals on the speaker simply get wired to the negative terminals on the amp. You do not have to worry about impedance. The power is constant.

Functions

1. Power: ON/OFF Switch
2. SD Input: Accepts FAT or FAT32 formatted 32 GB or less standard SD Cards.
3. LCD Display: This screen shows the input mode selected (FM Radio, USB/SD or Bluetooth). 
4. USB Input: Accepts FAT or FAT32 formatted 32 GB or USB Thumb Drives.
5. Record Function LED Indicator
6. Chime Button: Creates chime sound through all zones / outputs (with volume up). Recommended for making announcements via Mic 1 input.
7. Independent Mic Volume Controls
8. Optical & Line Input Volume Controls
9. MP3 Module Volume Control (for selected input mode; FM Radio, USB/SD or Bluetooth)
10. Status Indicator LEDs:
    • Power - Indicates that the unit is powered on.
    • Fault - Indicates that the amplifier has encountered a fault due to overheating or overload.
    • Clip - Indicates that the output signal is exceeding the supply voltage.
11. Zone Volume Knobs: Controls volume for 6 zones (when zone outputs are in use).
12. MP3 Module
    • Mode - Switch between SD, USB, Wireless Streaming, Optical, and FM radio. Press and hold to enter stand-by mode (screen will show "Bye-Bye"). Press and hold to exit stand-by mode.
    • Play/Pause - Press to play or pause playback. Press to auto-scan and save stations in FM radio mode.
    • Menu/Record - (USB/SD only) Press the button to enter folders. Press and hold to begin recording. Press again to stop recording. Press and hold for 5 seconds to force disconnect any paired bluetooth device(s).
    • Repeat - (USB/SD only) Press once to repeat single track. Press twice to repeat all tracks. Press three times to repeat all files
    • |◀◀ / ◀◀ (Previous/Rewind) - Press this key to return to the previous track. Press and hold to rewind current track (USB/SD only). Press and hold to decrease volume (Wireless Streaming only). Press to move back through saved stations (Radio only).
    • ▶▶| / ▶▶ (Next/Fast-Forward) - Press this key to proceed to the next track. Press and hold to fast-forward current track (USB/SD only). Press and hold to increase volume (Wireless Streaming only). Press to move forward through saved stations (Radio only).
13. Priority Mic 1: Connect microphones using shielded 1/4" TS patch cable(TRS not recommended). 
    • Input signal detected from this port will override all other input signals. 
    • Works in conjunction with the Mute features (see item 23).
14. Mic Reverb/Delay Effect Controls:
    Please note: effect will only be applied to Mic 2 and Mic 3 inputs.
    • Repeat - Sets the number of times the echo is repeated.
    • Speed - Controls the speed at which the repetitions occur.
    • Echo - Controls the volume of the echo effect.
15. Bass & Treble: This 2-Band EQ controls the overall bass and treble levels of all output.
16. Master Volume: Controls the overall volume of all output.

17. Input Signal Level Indicator LEDs

    

18. FM Antenna: Expands to enhance FM Radio reception.
19. 70V/100V Direct Speaker Output: Banana-style binding post output connections for 70-Volt or 100-Volt speakers.
20. 4 – 16Ω Direct Speaker Output: Banana-style binding post output connections for 4 to 16-ohm speakers.
21. COM Direct Speaker Output: Banana-style binding post output connection for common (negative) ground.
22. User Serviceable 5A/250V Fuse Compartment: Check and replace (if necessary) the 5-Amp 250-Volt 5x20mm Fast Blow Fuse.
23. Mute: Adjusts how much the level of all channels will be affected by Priority Mic 1 input. This allows you to go from Priority feature disabled, to ducking (lowering level partially), to full muting. 
24. Mic 2 & Mic 3: Connect microphones using shielded 1/4" TS patch cable(TRS not recommended). 
25. Optical Input: Green LED indicates optical signal is present.
26. RCA Line Input: Use these jacks to connect line level audio devices (i.e. Blu-ray / DVD Player, Wifi Media Player, Audio Mixer).
27. RCA Line Output: Use these jacks to connect a subwoofer, additional audio amplifier or other device with line input.
28. 70V Speaker Zone Outputs: Removeable phoenix connector used to connect the positive and negative wires for up to 6 zone.
29. AC 110V/60Hz Power Input

Remote Control

1. ON/OFF
2. Mode: Select SD, USB, Bluetooth, Optical, or FM radio.
3. Preset EQs: Normal, rock, pop, classic, jazz, and country.
4. Mute
5. VOL-/VOL+: Increase or decrease the volume.
6. Play/Pause: Press to play or pause playback. Press for two seconds to auto-scan and save stations in FM radio mode.
7. |◄◄ / ►►|: Previous/Next song
8. REP: Press once to repeat single track. Press twice to repeat all tracks. Press three times to repeat all files within a folder. Press four times to enter random mode.
9. U/SD: Press to switch between USB and SD input.
10. Number Pad: Select music files by number.

Setup

Selecting Output Wire and Connectors

It is recommended you use high quality 16 AWG, 2 or 4 conductor, heavy gauge, CL2 or CL3 rated, 100% Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) speaker wire. CL2 and CL3 ratings refer to the cable jacket's fire resistance and the voltage capacity of the wire. While both cables have the same flame resistance capability, the CL2 cable can handle voltage spikes of up to 150 volts while the CL3 can handle up to 300 volts. When using the 70V/100V speaker zone output screw connectors, use terminal forks up to 10 AWG (recommended) or bare wire. Below is a chart to help you select the appropriate size wire based on the amp to speaker distance.

CAUTION: Check local code requirements before installing in-ceiling or in-wall speaker wires. We recommend you use CL2 or CL3 rated, Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) speaker wire.

CAUTION: Never use shielded cable for output wiring.

CAUTION: For low impedance loads only.

The RCS180-6 features one RCA line output. We recommend you use high quality RCA cables such as Rockville's RNRTR, RNRMR, or RCDR series.

Selecting Input cables

There are three 1/4" balanced TS mic inputs, one optical input, and one RCA input on the RCS180-6. We recommend you use high quality Rockville cables like the RCXMB, RCXFB, or RCTR series 1/4" TS cables and the RNRTR, RNRMR, or RCDR series RCA cables.

Rack Mounting

This unit should be on the bottom of the rack or above any equipment that does not produce heat. Be sure to provide at least 1 RU (Rack Unit, 1.75") of space above and below. The side wall should be at least 2" from the sides of the amplifier and the back of the rack should be open. This will ensure a source of cool air to all sides of the amplifier.

Connecting Speakers

1. Carefully cut away a small amount of the speaker wire's insulation.
2. Peel back enough of the insulation to expose approximately 3 inches of wire.
3. Cut off the excess insulation.
4. Strip 1/4" of insulation from each wire (fig. a). Fan out the strands (fig. b) and twist them (fig. c) making sure that there are none sticking out.
5. Loosen the screws at either end of the Phoenix terminal (fig d) and pull it away from the amp. Now loosen the terminal screws on top (fig. e).
6. Insert the appropriate wire into the corresponding slot. Check that the wire is fully inserted and properly seated.
7. Tighten the terminal, do not over-tighten. Repeat this procedure for the other wire(s). Make sure you've inserted the wire into the correct slot.
8. Plug the terminal into the zone slots. Gently push it until you hear it click.
9. Tighten the screws at either end of the terminal to lock it in place. Do not over-tighten.

Multi-Zone Connection Example

In this example we have various speaker combinations (totaling 17 speakers) connected to various zones, none exceeding more than 80 watts per zone and with a total overall zone power rating of 140 watts, well below the maximum total zone power output of 150 watts.

WARNING: Do not use Direct Output (binding post) and Zone Output (screw connector) at the same time. Doing so will cause permanent damage to the amp.

WARNING: When using the multi-zone connections, do not use 8-ohm or 4-ohm speakers. Only use speakers with built in 70-volt transformers.

70V/100V Direct Speaker (Binding Post Terminals)

You may connect any number of speakers to the 70 or 100-volt direct speaker output binding posts as long as the total wattage does not exceed 180 watts. Best practice is to allow for about 10-20% "head room" or extra power to handle any unusual amp requirements such as a deep bass note or a booming finale.

Multi-Speaker 70V Connection

Multi-Speaker 100V Connection

WARNING: Do not use 70-volt and 100-volt connections at the same time. Doing so will cause permanent damage to the amp.

WARNING: Do not use 8-ohm or 4-ohm speakers. Only use speakers with built in 70-volt or 100-volt transformers.

4 to 16-Ohm Direct Speaker Output (Binding Post Terminals)

You can connect two speakers to this terminal as long as the final impedance does not fall below 4 ohms. Although it is possible to connect more than two speakers to these terminals, it is not recommended. Please consult a professional if you intend to do so as incorrect installation could lead to irreparable damage to your amp and speakers.

WARNING: Total impedance of your speakers must not be less than 4 ohms.

CAUTION: We recommend you consult a professional if you plan on wiring more than 2 speakers to the 4 to 16-ohm output.

WARNING: Do not use Direct Output (binding posts) and Zone Output (screw connectors) at the same time. Doing so will cause permanent damage to the amp.

Connections:

4-Ohm Direct Speaker Connection (wired in series)

8-Ohm Direct Speaker Connection (wired in series)

In-Wall Volume Controls

Although the RCS180-6 offers individual zone volume controls, there may be occasions when you may want to adjust the volume of a specific zone without having to return to the amplifier. In-wall volume controls are the perfect solution and they are relatively easy to set up. Below is a general wiring guide to assist you in the installation of in-wall volume controls. As with any installation that requires running wires through your walls, be sure to check local code requirements.

A typical in-wall volume control consists of a face plate with a volume control knob on the front side and a step down transformer with in/out connections on the back side. Keep in mind that these volume controls come in a range of wattage ratings. The control you use must match the wattage of your speakers. You can use a higher rated control for lower wattage speakers, but you cannot use a lower rated control for higher wattage speakers.

ATTENTION: Check local code requirements before installing in-ceiling or in-wall speaker wires. We recommend you use CL2 or CL3 rated, Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) speaker wire.

In-Wall Volume Control Installation

This example shows connections for one zone. You can connect volume controls to any of the 6 zones.

Using high quality 16 AWG, 2 or 4 conductor, heavy gauge, CL2 or CL3 rated, 100% Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) speaker wire, connect the desired zone output's +/- screw terminals to the IN+ and IN- terminals on the volume control. Next, connect the +/- speaker wires from your speakers to the SP- and SP+ terminals on the volume control. Make sure to observe proper polarity on all connections.

Please note, wall controller wattage rating must match the wattage of the connected speakers.

Operation

Bluetooth Pairing

To connect your iPod, iPhone, MP3 player, Android phone, or any other Bluetooth-capable device, follow the steps listed below.

1. Make sure the RCS180-6 unit's power switch is in the ON position.
2. Turn on the Bluetooth feature on your device and ensure that it is in "discoverable" mode.
3. Push the Mode button on the unit until you are in Bluetooth mode (LCD screen will display the word "Bluetooth").
4. Once in Bluetooth mode, the unit should automatically pair with your device and you will hear a voice prompt. If not, look for "RCS180-6" on your device and select it.
5. Once connected, the LCD screen will display the word "Connected". Please note, the unit will remember the last paired device. Press and hold the MODE/RECORD button for 5 seconds to force disconnect all paired devices.

Bluetooth Playback

You can control playback from your device or from the MP3 control panel on the RCS180-6:

1. Press Play/Pause to begin or pause music playback.
2. To skip songs, press the |◄◄ / ►►| buttons.
3. Volume can be controlled from your device as well as the RCS180-6. Please note, there are three volume controls on the amplifier which can affect Bluetooth playback, the |◄◄/◄◄ & ►►|/►► buttons (see item 12 in the Functions section; default setting for these controls is max volume), the MP3 volume knob, and the Master volume knob. These controls must be set separately as they work independently of each other.

Optical Input

Many TVs, digital set-top boxes, and receivers players have optical (fiber optic) outputs. To connect via Optical input, follow the steps listed below.

1. Use a digital optical audio cable to connect the sound source to the amplifier.
2. Power on the sound source and the RCS180-6. If it is properly connected, the green LCD by the optical input will light up. Adjust optical knob, master vol and zone knobs to get sound.

USB/SD

1. Inserting a USB flash drive or an SD card into the corresponding port/slot will set the RCS180-6 to USB/SD mode and it will automatically begin to play music.
2. To skip songs, press the |◄◄ / ►►| buttons. Press and hold to rewind or fast forward (◄◄/►►). Please note, this function is not available in Bluetooth mode.
3. To access files and folders within a USB drive or SD card, press the Menu button and use the |◄◄ / ►►| buttons to navigate the files and folders.
4. Volume is controlled via the MP3 volume knob and the Master volume knob. Please note, these controls must be set separately as they work independently of each other.

FM Radio

1. Press the Mode button until the LCD display indicates you are in radio mode.
2. Make sure the antenna is up and fully extended.
3. Press the Play/Pause button to automatically scan and save all available stations.
4. Use the |◄◄ / ►►| buttons to navigate through saved stations.
5. Volume is controlled via the MP3 volume knob and the Master volume knob. Please note, these controls must be set separately as they work independently of each other.

Record Function

While in USB/SD mode, you can record to a USB or SD card. Simply press and hold the record button for 3 seconds to begin recording.

Features

• Rockville RCS180-6 180-Watt 19" Rack Mountable Commercial Amplifier/Receiver
• Capable of 70 volt, 100 volt, 8 ohm, and 4 ohm
• 70/100-volt RMS Power: 184 Watts
• 6 Zones - each zone has a separate volume control
• Built-in Bluetooth audio streaming
• FM radio tuner
• USB input (32GB max)
• SD card slot (32GB max)
• USB/SD supported file formats: MP3, WAV
• Separate volume control for MIC1, MIC2, MIC3, MP3, Optical input, and Line input
• Echo control for the mic inputs 2 and 3 with speed and repeat adjustments
• Built-in clipping limiter to protect the amp and speakers
• Bass and Treble control
• Built-in EQ presets (via remote): Normal, rock, pop, classic, jazz, and country
• Chime button for making announcements
• Top quality aluminum panel with industrial-grade knobs
• 5-segment signal level indication
• Multi function remote control
• Built-in cooling system keeps component cool at all times

Specifications

• Power Requirements: 110V/60Hz
• A Weighted Signal to Noise (@ 1W): -68.1dBA
• A Weighted Signal to Noise (referenced to full 4-ohm power): -89.2dBA
• Frequency Response: 49Hz - 14.9Khz
• Frequency Response VS THD+M 1W @ 8 Ohms: 0.89%
• Weight: 22.7 lbs
• Dimensions: 19" x 16" x 4" inches

Inputs and Outputs

• (3) Mic inputs
• Optical input
• RCA AUX input
• RCA Line output
• 100V speaker red positive speaker output terminal
• 70V speaker red positive speaker output terminal
• 4-16-ohm red positive speaker output terminal
• Shared negative speaker output terminal

Troubleshooting