.

3

High Resolution Active Studio Monitor

>F=4AB<0=D0;

MR5

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions.

13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth. Use a non-scratch cloth to protect the finish.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type
plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other.
A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use
caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip-over.
PORTABLE CART WARNING
Carts and stands - The
Component should be used
only with a cart or stand
that is recommended by
the manufacturer.
A Component and cart
combination should be
moved with care. Quick
stops, excessive force, and
uneven surfaces may cause
the Component and cart
combination to overturn.

CAUTION

AVIS

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOC

ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE. AUCUN
ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER. CONFIER
L'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.
AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OU
D'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET ARTICLE
A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
"dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure, that may be
of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
Le symbole clair avec point de flche l'intrieur d'un triangle
quilatral est utilis pour alerter l'utilisateur de la prsence
l'intrieur du coffret de "voltage dangereux" non isol d'ampleur
suffisante pour constituer un risque d'lctrocution.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user of the presence of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
Le point d'exclamation l'intrieur d'un triangle quilatral est
employ pour alerter les utilisateurs de la prsence d'instructions
importantes pour le fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le
livret d'instruction accompagnant l'appareil.

MR5

14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required

when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as powersupply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no
object filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
16. This apparatus has been designed with Class-I construction and must
be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection (the third grounding prong).
17. Note that this apparatus is not completely disconnected from the AC
mains service when the power switch is in the OFF position.
18. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is
applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as
set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
ATTENTION Le prsent appareil numrique nmet pas de bruits
radiolectriques dpassant las limites applicables aux appareils numriques de
class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans le rglement sur le brouillage
radiolectrique dict par les ministere des communications du Canada.
19. Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing
loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced
hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to
sufficiently intense noise for a period of time. The U.S. Governments
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified
the permissible noise level exposures shown in the following chart.

According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits

could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all
persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels use hearing protectors while the equipment is in operation.
Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn
when operating the equipment in order to prevent permanent hearing
loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set forth here.

Duration Per Day

In Hours

Sound Level dBA,

Slow Response

8
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
0.5
0.25 or less

90
92
95
97
100
102
105
110
115

Typical
Example

Duo in small club

Subway Train
Very loud classical music
Home theater (loudest peaks)
Loudest parts at a rock concert

WARNING To reduce the risk of fire or

electric shock, do not expose this apparatus
to rain or moisture.

Owners Manual

Contents
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS............2
INTRODUCTION..................................................4
QUICK START.............................................................................5

REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION ..............................6

1. SIGNAL INPUTS................................................................ 6
2. INPUT LEVEL..................................................................... 6
3. HIGH FREQUENCY FILTER............................................. 6
4. LOW FREQ FILTER.............................................................7
5. Power Switch.....................................................................7
6. Mains Input and Fuse......................................................7
7. Bass Reflex Port.................................................................7

FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION............................7

8. Power Indicator................................................................7

PROTECTION CIRCUITS......................................8
Overexcursion Protection................................................. 8
Thermal Protection............................................................ 8
Integrated Magnetic Shielding........................................ 8
Input Signal Wiring............................................................. 8

CARE AND CLEANING.........................................8

Appendix A: SERVICE INFO................................9
Troubleshooting.................................................................. 9
Repair.....................................................................................10

Appendix B: CONNECTORS.............................. 11
Appendix C: TECHNICAL INFORMATION....12
MR5 Specifications................................................................12
MR5 Block Diagram............................................................... 13

MR5 Limited Warranty.....................................15

Please write the serial number for your studio monitor here
(all studio monitors if you have more than one) for future reference
(i.e., insurance claims, tech support, return authorization, etc.):
Monitor 3
Monitor 1
Monitor 2

Purchased at:___________________________________ Date of Purchase:_____________

Dont forget to visit our website at www.mackie.com

for more information about this and other Mackie products.
R

Part No. SW0567 Rev. B 01/08

2007-2008 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Owners Manual

MR5

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the MR5 Mackie Reference
Studio Monitors. Just as we revolutionized the studio
monitor market with our flagship HR824 Studio Monitor,
we have done it again with the most affordable precision
active studio monitors ever made. The MR5 features
design elements shared by our HR MK2 Series high resolution studio monitors, providing a level of performance
never before available at this price.

The connecting wires between the amplifier outputs

and the drivers are kept to an absolute minimum,
so the damping factor of the amplifier isnt compromised by the resistance of long speaker cables.

Investments in Excellence...

In short, all the complex interconnected components

in the system are designed to work in harmony with
each other to produce the best possible sound.

The MR5s were designed by our expert loudspeaker

and transducer engineering teams at Mackie and EAW.
These compact studio monitors can be used in a variety
of applications, including small project studios, surround
sound editing, home theater playback, and desktop
audio workstations (DAWs).
High-frequency and low-frequency switches are provided on the rear panel to adjust the sound of the monitors to the characteristics of the room. Three types of
input connectors are provided, XLR, 1/4-inch, and RCA,
to interface with virtually any application you may have.
The result? The MR5 Studio Monitors are extremely accurate and versatile, with unique controls that allow you
to fine-tune the sound to match your individual environment precisely. Youre gonna love these!

What are they? The Advantages...

The MR5 Studio Monitors are two-way, bi-amplified,
active monitors employing a bass reflex (ported) design
for an extended low-frequency response. There are
many benefits to integrating an active crossover, power
amplifiers, and drivers into a single cabinet, and weve
taken full advantage of these benefits in the design of
the MR5.
The crossover point is designed so that the high- and
low-frequency drivers are fed only the frequencies
they are best able to reproduce.
The amplifiers are designed to provide maximum
acoustic output from the speakers, yet minimize
the danger of speaker damage due to overdriving.
In addition, the amplifiers gain and frequency responses are individually hand-trimmed to compensate for typical manufacturing tolerances between
the drivers and produce a smooth frequency
response from 60 Hz to 20 kHz.

MR5

The acoustic sum of the outputs from the two drivers are optimized electronically, as well as physically, so the amplitude response is unity and the
phase difference is minimal.

The Transducers...
The MR5s feature a 5.25-inch high-precision, low-distortion woofer and a 1-inch high-resolution tweeter.
The high-frequency driver is mounted on a molded
baffle/waveguide, which reduces diffraction and results
in wide, controlled dispersion of high-frequency sounds.
This widens the sweet spot and improves the time
domain characteristics of the system.

The Cabinet...
The cabinet is made of MDF with a matte-black finish.
Internal bracing increases the strength and rigidity
(stiffness) of the box. An open-cell adiabatic foam material fills the inside of the box to absorb internal reflections and dampen standing waves.

Power Amplifiers...
The low-frequency amplifier produces up to 55 watts
continuous before clipping, while the high-frequency
amplifier produces up to 30 watts continuous. Both amplifiers are Class A/B with power MOSFET outputs and
active protection circuits.

We realize that you cant wait to hook

up your new Mackie MR5 Studio
Monitors and try them out. Nevertheless, please take the time to read this
page NOW, and the rest can wait until
youre good and ready.
1. Turn the INPUT LEVEL [2] control on the back of the
cabinet down (fully counterclockwise) before turning
on the monitor for the first time.
2. Set the power switch [5] on the back panel off. This will
prevent you from accidentally connecting a hot signal
source to the monitor and getting a rude surprise.
3. Leave the High Freq [3] and Low Freq [4] Filter
switches at their Normal positions.
4. Connect the line-level monitor signal from your mixer,
preamp, or other signal source to the INPUT [1] jack
on the MR5 Studio Monitor (14-inch PHONE, XLR, or
RCA).
5. Connect the supplied AC power cord to the IEC socket
[6] on the back of the monitor. Plug the other end into
an AC outlet properly configured with the voltage corresponding to the markings next to the IEC socket.
6. Start your signal source (tape deck, CD, DAW, or
whatever), but leave the master volume control on your
mixer or preamp down.
7. Turn on the power switch [5] on the MR5. The power
LED [8] on the front panel will illuminate.
6. Slowly turn up the INPUT LEVEL [2] control on the
back of the monitor to its fully clockwise position
(MAX).
7. Adjust the master volume on your mixer or preamp to
a comfortably loud listening level. If the MR5 gets loud
really fast, turn down the INPUT LEVEL control to its
center position (12 oclock) to provide more volume
control on your mixer or preamp.
Enjoy the silky smooth highs and authoritative, commanding lows of the MR5. Then read the rest of this
manual.

AN EXTREMELY IMPORTANT NOTE

ON MR5 BASS RESPONSE AND
YOUR CONTROL ROOM.
Your new MR5s achieve their best bass
response in a room thats optimized
for bass reproduction. A lot of factors can conspire to thwart the MR5s
extended low frequency including
room shape, room volume and acoustical treatment.
This is not a cop-out or an apology. Its plain old
physics in action. Luckily weve armed you with some
compensating controls that you can use to optimize the
frequency response of the speakers in your particular
room. Consider the following:

Owners Manual

QUICK START

Low-Frequency Response
When you put your MR5s in a corner or up against
walls, their bass characteristics change. The apparent
loudness of the low frequencies increases when the
monitors are placed close to a wall, and even more so
when they are placed in a corner.
If you have placed the monitors away from the walls
and corners and you would like to hear a little more
bass, try setting the LOW FREQ FILTER [4] switch to
the +2 dB position to provide a gentle boost to the low
frequencies (below 100 Hz). If its still not enough bass,
try the +4 dB position to provide a little more bass boost.

High-Frequency Response
The MR5s are designed to provide a smooth frequency
response throughout the mid and high range. Nevertheless, you may decide that you need a little more or a
little less high frequencies in your monitors while you
are mixing. The HIGH FREQ FILTER [3] switch provides
a gentle boost or cut in the frequencies above 5 kHz.
Remember that boosting the high frequencies in the
monitors can result in a duller mix, while reducing the
high frequencies can result in a brighter overall mix.

Additional Tidbits of Wisdom

Never listen to loud music for prolonged periods. Please
see the Safety Instructions on page 2 for information on
hearing protection.
When you shut down your equipment, turn off the MR5
studio monitors first to prevent thumps and other noises
generated by any upstream equipment from coming out the
speakers. When powering up, turn on the monitors last.
Save the shipping box! You may need it someday, and
you dont want to have to pay for another one.
Save your sales receipt in a safe place.
Also record all MR5 serial numbers in the space provided on page 3, along with where and when you bought them.
Owners Manual

MR5

REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION

This is where you connect your signal to the monitor,
and make adjustments to the frequency response of
the speakers to match the monitors location and your
rooms environment.

2. INPUT LEVEL
The MR5 expects a line-level signal at its input. Use
this control to adjust the sensitivity of the input section
according to the signal strength at its input.

1. SIGNAL INPUTS

The MR5 is designed to operate with a +4 dBu signal

when the INPUT LEVEL control is in the MAX position
(in other words, wide open).
Refer to the QUICK START section on page 5 for the
level-setting procedure.

There are three types of input connectors: XLR (balanced), 1/4-inch (balanced), and RCA (unbalanced).
Since all three of them are connected together electrically, do not connect more than one signal at a time to
the input jacks.

3. HIGH FREQUENCY FILTER

The XLR connector and 1/4-inch TRS (tip-sleeve-ring)

connector accept a balanced signal while the RCA connector accepts an unbalanced signal. A balanced signal
provides better noise rejection and is the preferred
method, especially if using a cable longer than 20 feet
(6 meters).
The 1/4-inch TRS jack can also accept an unbalanced
signal from a 1/4-inch TS (tip-sleeve) plug.
The connectors are wired as follows (per the AES/IEC
standard):

XLR
TRS
RCA
Hot (+)
Cold ()
Shield (Ground)

Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 1

Tip
Ring
Shield

The HIGH FREQ switch tailors the overall highfrequency response by 2 dB at 5 kHz and above. Leave
this switch in the 0 (NORMAL) position unless:
You want to subtly brighten or darken the sound of the
speakers.
Perhaps you have hearing loss caused by too many
nights in front of a double Marshall stack.
You just like to mix on the bright side or dull side.
If your mixes consistently sound dull or dark when
you listen elsewhere, this usually indicates that your
monitors are too bright, relative to your normal hearing.
A bit less high-frequency energy usually fixes this, and
you can force the mix in this direction by reducing the
high-frequency output of the monitors by using the 2 dB
position of the switch.

Tip

Shield

See Appendix B: Connectors for more information on

these connectors.

DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA MANUFACTURED IN CHINA

FABRIQUE EN CHINE COPYRIGHT2007 "MACKIE" AND THE RUNNING MAN
FIGURE ARE TRADEMARKS OF LOUD TECHNOLOGIES, INC. PATENT PENDING.

CAUTION!

SERIAL / DATE CODE

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC

SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR

INPUT
RCA

(UNBALANCED)

SETTINGS
XLR

(BALANCED)

HIGH FREQ
FILTER
INPUT

TRS

(BALANCED)

2dB

+2dB
0
(NORMAL)

LOW FREQ
FILTER

OFF

MAX

LEVEL

+2dB +4dB
0
(NORMAL)

ON

CAUTION: REPLACE WITH THE SAME FUSE AND RATING.

DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE.

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES FOR THE U.S. AND ICES-003, FOR CANADA. OPERATION IS SUBJECT
TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE
MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.

MR5

Its a real rush to mix really loud. But remember that

the resulting mix only sounds good when you play it at
least that loud. However strange it may sound, mixes
made at lower levels sound even better when played
loud, perhaps even a bit bigger than life.
Get that sound level meter out. Decide what level
youre going to mix at and use the meter to help keep
you mixing at that level. Your ears will thank you, and
your mixes will be better for it.

4. LOW FREQ FILTER

The LOW FREQ switch tailors the overall low-frequency
response by +2 dB or +4 dB at 100 Hz.
For most applications, use the 0 (NORMAL) setting.
This takes the equalization circuit out of the signal path.
If you want or need just a little extra low-frequency
output, use the +2 dB setting.
If you want or need more low-frequency output, use the
+4 dB setting. Remember how things work in reverse,
so boosting the deep bass content on playback may
actually decrease it in the final mix.

5. Power Switch
Use this switch to turn on or off the MR5. When the
power switch is turned on and the MR5 is plugged into
an AC outlet, the power LED on the front of the monitor
lights up to let you know the MR5 is ready to go.

6. Mains Input and Fuse

Connect the power cord to this IEC socket securely,
and plug the other end into your AC outlet. Make sure
the AC outlet has the correct voltage indicated next to
the IEC socket.

Owners Manual

Conversely, if your mixes are consistently too bright,

then adding some additional high-frequency energy in
the monitors satisfies your ears, and the resultant mix
has less HF content.

The fuse is located behind the fuse cover, at the bottom of the IEC socket. See the Troubleshooting section
on page 9 for information about replacing the fuse.

7. Bass Reflex Port

A bass reflex system uses the radiation from the rear
of the woofer cone to extend the low-frequency response
of the speaker. The size of the port is carefully designed
with respect to the volume of the cabinet and the
characteristics of the woofer to produce low-frequency
extension.

FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION

8. Power Indicator
The power indicator lights up when the power switch
[5] on the back of the MR5 is turned on and AC power is
available at the mains input [6].

Owners Manual

MR5

PROTECTION CIRCUITS
There are several protection mechanisms designed
into the MR5 to safeguard the loudspeakers and amplifiers from inadvertent damage.
CAUTION: The protection circuits
are designed to prevent damage to
the loudspeakers under reasonable
and sensible conditions. Should you
choose to ignore the warning signs
(i.e., excessive distortion), you can still damage the
speakers in the MR5 by overdriving them. Such damage
is beyond the scope of the warranty.

Overexcursion Protection
A 12 dB/octave high-pass filter at 60 Hz just prior to
the low-frequency amplifier prevents very low frequencies from being amplified. Excessive low-frequency
energy below 60 Hz can damage the woofer by causing it
to bottom out, also known as overexcursion, which is
equivalent to a mechanical form of clipping.

Thermal Protection
All amplifiers produce heat. The MR5 is designed to
be efficient both electrically and thermally.
If for some reason the heatsink gets too hot, a thermal
switch activates and turns off the amplifier. This protection operates independently for the low-frequency and
high-frequency amplifiers. Therefore, it is possible for
only the low frequency or high frequency amplifier to
shut down while the other remains on.
When the heatsink cools down to a safe temperature,
the thermal switch resets and normal operation resumes.
If the heatsink temperature again gets too hot, the shutdown process repeats. Should this happen, make sure
that airflow to the rear of the cabinet is not restricted. If
the ambient air temperature is very warm, try pointing
a small fan toward the heatsink to increase the airflow
through the ventilation holes.

Integrated Magnetic Shielding

The MR5 contains drivers with large magnetic
structures. The drivers magnets are shielded to help
prevent the magnetic field from radiating out into the
environment and playing havoc with computer monitors
or TV screens. Unshielded speakers can cause distortion
in both the shape and color of the picture if placed too
close to a CRT (cathode ray tube). If you have a particularly sensitive computer monitor or TV screen, it may be
necessary to move the speakers a few inches away.

MR5

Input Signal Wiring

You should use high-quality, shielded cable to connect
the signal source to the SIGNAL INPUT jack [1] on the
MR5.
For balanced signals, foil shielded cables, such as
Belden 8451, 8761, or 9501 are commonly used for
studio wiring.
Microphone cables work well for the XLR input.
The better the shield, the better the immunity from
externally induced noise (like EMI and RFI). Route the
cable away from AC power cords and outlets. These are
common sources for hum in an audio signal. Wall warts
and line lumps are especially insidious hum inducers!
You can purchase quality cables from your Mackie
dealer.
In certain home theater applications, it may be necessary
to connect the speaker outputs from a stereo receiver
to the inputs of the MR5, if the receiver doesnt have
preamp outputs or other line-level output connections.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to connect
a speaker output directly to the input
of the MR5! Speaker levels are much
higher than line levels and can damage
the input circuitry in the MR5.
You can, however, insert a speaker-level to line-level
signal attenuator between the receivers speaker output
and the HR624 MK2s input. Your Mackie dealer may be
able to help you find one, or you can build your own.

CARE AND CLEANING

Your Mackie Reference Studio Monitors will provide
many years of reliable service if you follow these guidelines.
Avoid exposing the monitors to moisture.
Avoid exposure to extreme cold (below freezing temperatures).
Use a slightly damp cloth with a mild soap solution
to clean the cabinets. Only do this when the power is
turned off. Avoid getting moisture into any of the opeings of the cabinet, particularly where the drivers are
located.

If you think your Mackie product has a problem,

please check out the following troubleshooting tips and
do your best to confirm the problem. Visit the Support
section of our website (www.mackie.com/support)
where you will find lots of useful information such as
FAQs, documentation, and user forums. You may find
the answer to the problem without having to send your
Mackie product away.

Troubleshooting
No Power
Our favorite question: Is it plugged in?
Make sure the power cord is securely seated in the IEC
socket [6] and plugged all the way into the AC outlet.
Make sure the AC outlet is live (check with a tester or
lamp).
Is the power [5] switch on the rear panel in the ON
position?
Is the power indicator [8] on the front panel illuminated? If not, make sure the AC outlet is live. If so, refer
to No Sound below.
If the power indicator is not illuminated, and you are
certain that the AC outlet is live, it is possible the fuse
has blown.
To remove and replace the fuse:
1. Disconnect the power cord from the IEC socket.
2. Remove the fuse drawer by prying it open with a
small screwdriver. It will slide all the way out.

FUSE

3. Remove the fuse and replace it with an equivalenttype fuse.

115 VAC unit: 1.6 amp slo-blo (T 1.6 A H/250V)

230 VAC unit: 800 milliamp slo-blo (T 800 mA H/250V)

4. Replace the fuse drawer by pushing it all the way

back into the IEC socket.

If two fuses blow in a row, then something is very wrong.

See the Repair section on the next page to find out
how to proceed.

No Sound
Is the power indicator [8] on the front panel illuminated? If not, refer to No Power above.
Is the INPUT LEVEL [2] control turned up?
Is the signal source turned up? Make sure the signal level
from the mixing console (or whatever device immediately precedes the studio monitor) is high enough to
produce sound.
If its a stereo pair, try switching them around. For
example, if a left output is presumed dead, switch the
left and right cords at the monitor end. If the problem
switches sides, its not the monitor. It could be a bad
cable, or no signal from the mixer.

Owners Manual

Appendix A: SERVICE INFO

Bad Sound
Is the input connector plugged completely into the jack?
If using a 14" plug, make sure it is plugged all the way in.
Is it loud and distorted? Reduce the signal level at the
mixer.
If possible, listen to the signal source with headphones
plugged into the preamp stage. If it sounds bad there,
its not the monitor.
Too much bass or not enough bass? Move around the
room and see if the bass response changes. Its possible
your listening position coincides with a room mode
where the low frequencies either become exaggerated
or nulled. If so, try moving the monitors to a different
position, or moving your listening position.

Noise/Hum/Buzz
Check the signal cable between the mixer and the
monitor. Make sure all connections are secure. These
problems usually produce crackling noises, hum, or buzz.
If connecting an unbalanced output to the MR5 balanced
input, make sure the shield is connected to the unbalanced
ground of the source and to pins 1 and 3 of the XLR.
If a CATV cable is connected to the system, try disconnecting it. If the hum goes away, call your cable carrier
to check for proper grounding of the cable.
Make sure the signal cable is not routed near AC cables,
power transformers, or other EMI sources (including
wall warts and line lumps!). These sources usually
produce hum.
Is there a light dimmer or other triac-based device on
the same AC circuit as the monitor? Dimmers cause
buzzing noises. Use an AC line filter or plug the monitor
into a different AC circuit.
Excessive hiss is an indication of an incorrect gain setting somewhere before the speaker.
If possible, listen to the signal source with headphones
plugged in. If it sounds noisy there, its not the monitor.
Owners Manual

MR5

Repair
For warranty repair or replacement, refer to the warranty information on page 15.
Non-warranty repair for Mackie products is available at a factory-authorized service center. To locate
your nearest service center, visit www.mackie.com, click
Support and select Locate a Service Center. Service
for Mackie products living outside the United States can
be obtained through local dealers or distributors.
If you do not have access to our website, you can call
our Tech Support department at 1-800-898-3211, MondayFriday, 7 am to 5 pm Pacific Time, to explain the problem.
Tech Support will tell you where the nearest factoryauthorized service center is located in your area.

Need help with your new MR5?

Visit www.mackie.com and click Support to find:
FAQs, manuals, addendums, and user forums.
Email us at: techmail@mackie.com.
Telephone 1-800-898-3211 to speak with one of our splendid
technical support representatives, (Monday through Friday,
from 7 am to 5 pm PST).

10

MR5

XLR Connectors

1/4" TS Phone Plugs and Jacks

XLR connectors are used to make balanced connections to the MR5. They are wired as follows, according
to standards specified by the AES (Audio Engineering
Society).

TS stands for Tip-Sleeve, the two connections available on a mono 1/4" phone jack or plug. They are used
for unbalanced signals. It is okay to connect an unbalanced 1/4" phone plug into the 1/4" TRS phone jack on
the MR5.

SHIELD
HOT

SLEEVE

COLD

SLEEVE

TIP

SHIELD

TIP

Owners Manual

Appendix B: CONNECTORS

TIP
SLEEVE

COLD 3
HOT
1
3

2
SHIELD
COLD

HOT

XLR Balanced Wiring

Pin 1 = Shield
Pin 2 = Hot (+)
Pin 3 = Cold ()

1/4" TS Unbalanced Wiring:

Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot (+)

RCA Plugs and Jacks

1/4" TRS Phone Plugs and

Jacks
TRS stands for Tip-Ring-Sleeve, the three connections available on a stereo 1/4" or balanced phone jack
or plug. TRS jacks and plugs are used to make balanced
connections to the MR5.
RING SLEEVE

SLEEVE RING TIP

RCA-type plugs (also known as phono plugs) and

jacks are often used in home stereo and video equipment and in many other applications. They are unbalanced and electrically equivalent to a 1/4" TS phone
plug.
SLEEVE

TIP SLEEVE

TIP

RCA Unbalanced Wiring:

Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot

TIP
RING
TIP
SLEEVE

1/4" TRS Balanced wiring:

Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot (+)
Ring = Cold ()

Owners Manual

11

MR5

Appendix C: TECHNICAL INFORMATION

MR5 Specifications
Acoustic Performance

Equalization

Free Field Frequency Response:

60 Hz 20 kHz (3 dB)

Low Frequency EQ:

+2 dB/+4 dB @ 100 Hz, shelving

High Frequency EQ:

2 dB @ 5 kHz, shelving

Lower Cutoff Frequency:

3 dB @ 60 Hz

Upper Cutoff Frequency:

3 dB @ 22 kHz

AC Power Requirements

Sound Pressure Level @ 1 meter, +4 dBu into Balanced Input:

100 dB SPL @ 1m
Maximum SPL Per Pair:

113 dB SPL @ 1m

Transducers
Low Frequency:

5.25 in/133 mm with steel frame,

blue polypropylene cone woofer
with rubber surround

High Frequency:

Wave guide loaded 1 in/25 mm silk

dome tweeter

Amplifiers
Low Frequency Power:

55 watts, 4 ohm load,

85 watts peak

High Frequency Power:

30 watts, 4 ohm load,

50 watts peak

Slew Rate:

> 15 V/s

120 VAC, 60 Hz
240 VAC, 50 Hz
220 VAC, 60 Hz
100 VAC, 50/60 Hz

Note: The MR5 does not support multiple voltage configurations. Make sure the voltage rating for your particular model
(as indicated on the rear panel near the IEC socket) corresponds with your local AC mains voltage.
AC Connector:

3-pin IEC 250 VAC, 16 A male

Fuse:

115 VAC: T 1.6AL/250 V

230 VAC: T 800 mA/250 V

Power Consumption:

75 watts with music, loud mix

10 watts quiescent (idle)

Physical Dimensions and Weight

Distortion (THD, SMPTE IMD, DIM 100):

< 0.035%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio:

Low Frequency: > 101 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz,

unweighted, referenced to 55 watts into 4 ohms

High Frequency: > 93 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz,

unweighted, referenced to 30 watts into 4 ohms
Type:

US:
Europe:
Korea:
Japan:

Monolithic IC, Class AB with

DMOS power stage

Enclosure:

0.625 in/16 mm thick MDF with

0.750 in/19 mm MDF front panel

Damping:

Adiabatic foam

Dimensions:

Height:



Width:

Depth:

Weight:

11.25 in/286 mm
11.50 in/292 mm including top of
waveguide
7.75 in/197 mm
10.50 in/266 mm
14.3 lb/6.5 kg

Electronic Crossover
Crossover Type:

24 dB/octave

Crossover Frequency:

4 kHz

Sensitivity:

+4 dBu at 300 Hz for full output

Input Impedance:

20 k, balanced bridging;
10 k unbalanced

Disclaimer

7.75" (197 mm)

LOUD Technologies is always striving to improve our products

by incorporating new and improved materials, components and
manufacturing methods. Therefore, we reserve the right to
change these specifications at any time without notice.
10.50" (266 mm)

MR5
WEIGHT
14.3 lb
(6.5 kg)
11.50"
(292 mm)

12

MR5

11.25"
(286 mm)

RCA
UNBALANCED
LINE INPUT
XLR
BALANCED
LINE INPUT

HI-FREQUENCY
POWER AMPLIFIER

HIGH FREQ
1

CROSSOVER

+2 dB
0
2 dB

2
3

INPUT LEVEL

+HI VDC

HI-FREQUENCY
DRIVER

HI-FREQ

TWEET

LO-FREQ

1/4"
UNBALANCED
LINE INPUT

HI VDC

OVEREXCURSION
PROTECT

60 Hz

DARK SIDE
OF THE MOON

LO-FREQUENCY
POWER AMPLIFIER

LOW FREQ

+HI VDC

Owners Manual

MR5 Block Diagram

LO-FREQUENCY
DRIVER

+4 dB
+2 dB
0

WOOF

HI VDC
FUSE

POWER
POWER
LED
+
HI VDC

MACKIE
MR5
BLOCK DIAGRAM
08.29.07

TOROIDAL POWER
TRANSFORMER

+
LO VDC

The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of LOUD Technologies Inc.: The Mackie logo, MR
Series, Zero Edge Baffle, and the Running Man.
This manual also contains names and marks of other
companies which belong to those respective companies,
and are hereby acknowledged.
2007 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Owners Manual

13

MR5

DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA MANUFACTURED IN CHINA

FABRIQUE EN CHINE COPYRIGHT2007 "MACKIE" AND THE RUNNING MAN
FIGURE ARE TRADEMARKS OF LOUD TECHNOLOGIES, INC. PATENT PENDING.

CAUTION!

SERIAL / DATE CODE

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC

SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR

INPUT
RCA

(UNBALANCED)

SETTINGS
XLR

(BALANCED)

HIGH FREQ
FILTER
INPUT

TRS

(BALANCED)

2dB

+2dB
0
(NORMAL)

LOW FREQ
FILTER

OFF

MAX

LEVEL

+2dB +4dB
0
(NORMAL)

ON

CAUTION: REPLACE WITH THE SAME FUSE AND RATING.

DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE.

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES FOR THE U.S. AND ICES-003, FOR CANADA. OPERATION IS SUBJECT
TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE
MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.

14

MR5

Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.

A. LOUD Technologies Inc. warrants all materials,
workmanship and proper operation of this product for a period
of one year from the original date of purchase. You may
purchase an additional 24-month Extended Warranty (for a
total of 36 months of coverage). Visit our website and follow
the Product Registration links for details (www.mackie.com).
If any defects are found in the materials or workmanship or
if the product fails to function properly during the applicable
warranty period, LOUD Technologies, at its option, will repair
or replace the product. This warranty applies only to equipment
sold and delivered within the U.S. and Canada by LOUD
Technologies Inc. or its authorized dealers.
B. For faster processing (not to mention a free gift), register
online or mail in the product registration card.
C. Unauthorized service, repairs, or modification of Mackie
products will void this warranty. To obtain repairs or
replacement under warranty, you must have a copy of your
sales receipt from the authorized Mackie dealer where you
purchased the product. It is necessary to establish purchase
date and determine whether your Mackie product is within
the warranty period.
D. To obtain warranty repair or replacement:
1. Call Mackie Technical Support at 800/898-3211, 7
AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday (Pacific Time) to get
authorization for repair or replacement. Alternately, go to
the Mackie website, click Support (www.mackie.com/
support), and follow the instructions for reporting a warranty
issue and submitting a request for an advance replacement.
2. Advance Replacement: Mackie will ship a replacement
unit to you along with an invoice for the suggested
retail price of the replacement unit. You must return the
defective unit immediately to cancel the invoice. If you do
not return the defective unit within 30 days, you must pay
the full amount stated in the invoice to satisfy your debt.
3. Repair: When you call Mackie Technical Support, explain
the problem and obtain a Service Request Number. Have
your Mackie products serial number ready. You must have
a Service Request Number before you can obtain factoryauthorized service.
Pack the product in its original shipping carton. Also
include a note explaining exactly how to duplicate the
problem, a copy of the sales receipt with price and date
showing, your daytime phone number and return street
address (no P.O. boxes or route numbers, please!), and the
Service Request Number. If we cannot duplicate the problem
or establish the starting date of your Limited Warranty, we
may, at our option, charge for service time and parts.
Ship the product in its original shipping carton, freight
prepaid to the authorized service center. Write the Service
Request Number in BIG PRINT on top of the box. The
address of your closest authorized service center will be
given to you by Technical Support, or it may be obtained
from our website. Once its repaired, the authorized service
center will ship it back by ground shipping, pre-paid (if it
qualified as a warranty repair).
Note: Under the terms of the warranty, you must ship or dropoff the unit to an authorized service center. The return ground
shipment is covered for those units deemed by us to be under
warranty.
Note: You must have a sales receipt from an authorized
Mackie dealer for your unit to be considered for warranty
repair.

IMPORTANT: Make sure that the Service Request Number

is plainly written on the shipping carton. No receipt, no
warranty service.
E. LOUD Technologies reserves the right to inspect any
products that may be the subject of any warranty claims before
repair or replacement is carried out. LOUD Technologies may,
at our option, require proof of the original date of purchase in
the form of a dated copy of the original dealers invoice or sales
receipt. Final determination of warranty coverage lies solely
with LOUD Technologies.
F. Any products returned to one of the LOUD Technologies
factory-authorized service centers, and deemed eligible
for repair or replacement under the terms of this warranty
will be repaired or replaced. LOUD Technologies and its
authorized service centers may use refurbished parts for repair
or replacement of any product. Products returned to LOUD
Technologies that do not meet the terms of this Warranty
will not be repaired unless payment is received for labor,
materials, return freight, and insurance. Products repaired
under warranty will be returned freight prepaid by LOUD
Technologies to any location within the boundaries of the USA
or Canada.
G. LOUD Technologies warrants all repairs performed
for 90 days or for the remainder of the warranty period.
This warranty does not extend to damage resulting from
improper installation, misuse, neglect or abuse, or to exterior
appearance. This warranty is recognized only if the inspection
seals and serial number on the unit have not been defaced or
removed.
H. LOUD Technologies assumes no responsibility for the
timeliness of repairs performed by an authorized service
center.
I. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser. This
warranty may be transferred to anyone who may subsequently
purchase this product within the applicable warranty period
for a nominal fee. A copy of the original sales receipt is
required to obtain warranty repairs or replacement.
J. This is your sole warranty. LOUD Technologies does not
authorize any third party, including any dealer or sales
representative, to assume any liability on behalf of LOUD
Technologies or to make any warranty for LOUD Technologies
Inc.
K. THE WARRANTY GIVEN ON THIS PAGE IS THE SOLE
WARRANTY GIVEN BY LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.
AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS
AND IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. THE WARRANTY GIVEN ON THIS PAGE SHALL BE
STRICTLY LIMITED IN DURATION TO ONE YEAR FROM THE
DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE FROM AN AUTHORIZED
MACKIE DEALER. UPON EXPIRATION OF THE APPLICABLE
WARRANTY PERIOD, LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC. SHALL
HAVE NO FURTHER WARRANTY OBLIGATION OF ANY
KIND. LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE
FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES THAT MAY RESULT FROM ANY DEFECT IN THE
MACKIE PRODUCT OR ANY WARRANTY CLAIM. Some states
do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental, special, or
consequential damages or a limitation on how long warranties
last, so some of the above limitations and exclusions may not
apply to you. This warranty provides specific legal rights and
you may have other rights which vary from state to state.

Owners Manual

Owners Manual

MR5 Limited Warranty

15

16220 Wood-Red Road NE Woodinville, WA 98072 USA

United States and Canada: 800.898.3211
Europe, Asia, Central and South America: 425.487.4333
Middle East and Africa: 31.20.654.4000
Fax: 425.487.4337 www.mackie.com
E-mail: sales@mackie.com