Rockford Fosgate PMX-8BB Hide Away Media Receiver and PMX-1R Remote Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Rockford Fosgate PMX-8BB Hide Away Media Receiver and PMX-1R 2.7" Display Remote. The PMX-8BB is a marine-grade media receiver designed for hidden installation, offering advanced audio control and connectivity. The PMX-1R is a wired remote control that provides a user interface for the PMX-8BB, featuring a 2.7-inch full-color display.

Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting installation or operation to ensure proper use and to maximize the performance of your system.

2. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your PMX-8BB and PMX-1R system. Due to the hide-away nature of the PMX-8BB, careful planning of component placement and wiring is essential.

2.1 Component Placement

• PMX-8BB Receiver: Install the PMX-8BB in a dry, protected location away from direct exposure to water and extreme temperatures. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
• PMX-1R Remote: Mount the PMX-1R in an easily accessible location, typically on a dashboard or console, ensuring it is within reach for operation. The PMX-1R is IPX6 rated for water resistance.

2.2 Wiring Connections

All wiring should be performed with the vehicle's power disconnected. Use appropriate gauge wires and ensure all connections are secure and insulated.

Figure 1: PMX-8BB Hide Away Media Receiver with all wiring harnesses connected, showing the various input and output cables.

• Power/Ground/Remote: Connect the main power (B+), ground (GND), and remote turn-on (REM) wires to the vehicle's electrical system. Ensure the power wire is fused appropriately.

Figure 2: Power and Speaker Terminals on the PMX-8BB. This image shows the B+, GND, and REM connections, along with the speaker output terminals.
• Speaker Outputs: Connect your speakers to the designated speaker output terminals. The PMX-8BB supports 4x50W at 2 ohms.
• RCA Pre-outs: Utilize the 6-channel F/R/S 4V Zone 1&2 Preouts and 2-channel Zone 3&4 4V Preouts for connecting external amplifiers.
• USB Input: Connect USB devices for media playback or charging. The unit features dual USB inputs with video playback capability.
• NMEA 2000 Protocol: Connect to a compatible NMEA 2000 network for marine system integration.
• PMX-1R Remote Connection: Connect the PMX-1R remote control cable to the dedicated port on the PMX-8BB.


Figure 3: Remote and Input Terminals on the PMX-8BB. This image highlights the connections for the wired remote control and other auxiliary inputs.

• A/V Input/Output: Connect external audio/video sources or output video to a display.

3. Operating Instructions

The PMX-1R 2.7" display remote serves as the primary interface for controlling the PMX-8BB receiver.

Figure 4: PMX-1R 2.7" Display Remote. This image shows the remote's full-color display and control buttons.

3.1 Basic Controls (PMX-1R)

• Power On/Off: Press and hold the SRC (Source) button to power the unit on or off.
• Source Selection: Press the SRC button to cycle through available audio sources (AM/FM/WB Tuner, SiriusXM, Pandora, Bluetooth, USB, AUX).
• Volume Control: Use the rotary encoder knob to adjust the master volume.
• Menu Navigation: Use the MENU button to access system settings and audio adjustments.
• Track/Tune Control: Use the forward/backward buttons to change tracks or radio stations.
• Play/Pause: Use the play/pause button for media playback control.

3.2 Audio Adjustments

• Equalizer: Access the 7-band graphic equalizer through the menu to fine-tune audio frequencies.
• Punch EQ: Engage the Punch EQ feature for enhanced bass and treble response.
• Crossover Settings: Adjust high-pass and low-pass crossover points for each independent zone to optimize speaker performance.
• Zone Control: The PMX-8BB offers 4-zone volume control and 2-source zone control, allowing independent audio management in different areas.

3.3 Bluetooth Operation

• Pairing: Navigate to the Bluetooth menu on the PMX-1R. Enable Bluetooth on your mobile device and select the PMX-8BB from the list of available devices. The unit supports simple secure pairing.
• Audio Streaming: Once paired, stream audio from your device. The unit supports A2DP and AVRCP 1.4 for control.
• Pandora Control: Licensed Pandora control is available via direct USB for Apple devices or Bluetooth for both Android and iOS.

3.4 USB Media Playback

• Insert a USB drive into one of the USB inputs. The PMX-8BB will automatically detect and allow playback of compatible audio (WAV, WMA) and video files.
• Folder browsing is available for connected iPhones.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your Rockford Fosgate system.

• Cleaning the PMX-1R Remote: The PMX-1R is IPX6 rated. Clean the display and buttons with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• PMX-8BB Receiver: As the PMX-8BB is a hide-away unit, ensure its installation location remains dry and free of debris. Periodically check wiring connections for corrosion or looseness.
• Firmware Updates: Check the official Rockford Fosgate website for any available firmware updates for your unit. Follow the provided instructions carefully for any update procedures.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your PMX-8BB and PMX-1R system, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps.

5.1 No Power

• Check the main power fuse.
• Verify that the B+ (power), GND (ground), and REM (remote turn-on) wires are correctly connected and secure.
• Ensure the vehicle's ignition is on if the remote turn-on is connected to an ignition source.

5.2 No Sound

• Check speaker wire connections for proper polarity and secure contact.
• Verify that the volume is not muted or set to minimum.
• Ensure the correct audio source is selected.
• If using external amplifiers, check their power and input connections.

5.3 Bluetooth Connection Issues

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both the PMX-8BB (via PMX-1R) and your mobile device.
• Delete previous pairings from your mobile device and attempt to re-pair.
• Move your mobile device closer to the PMX-8BB/PMX-1R to rule out range issues.

5.4 PMX-1R Remote Not Responding

• Check the connection cable between the PMX-1R and PMX-8BB for damage or loose connections.
• Ensure the PMX-8BB receiver has power.

6. Specifications

The following table outlines the key specifications for the Rockford Fosgate PMX-8BB Hide Away Media Receiver and PMX-1R Remote.

7. Warranty Information

The Rockford Fosgate PMX-8BB Hide Away Media Receiver and PMX-1R Remote are covered by a 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation, accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, unauthorized modification, or normal wear and tear. For full warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Rockford Fosgate website.

8. Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact Rockford Fosgate customer support.

• Online Support: Visit the official Rockford Fosgate website for FAQs, support documents, and contact information.
• Dealer Support: Contact your authorized Rockford Fosgate dealer for local support and service.

You can find more information about Rockford Fosgate products and support at their official store: Rockford Fosgate Store.