Mackie MRS10 Subwoofer

A perfect addition to the MR series, this speaker convinces with an accurate representation of the low-end, making decisions about the bass range in the mix easier. A crossover between 40-180Hz as well as a polarity switch for the phase correction is available to optimise the sound. In addition, the included footswitch can be used to mute the sub-signal – perfect for direct A-B comparison.

Equipped with a 10” glass aramid woofer, this subwoofer is powered by a 120W Class A/B amplifier and offers both XLR and TRS connectivity. A professional and robust MDF enclosure protects the technology from external influences, whilst rubber feet prevent unwanted resonances.

Aye, There’s The Sub

The MRS10 subwoofer employs a 10-inch glass/aramid-composite woofer powered by a 120W amplifier, handling low frequencies from 180Hz down to 35Hz (-3dB). As the MRS8 already goes down to 38Hz, that particular model probably won’t benefit much from adding a sub unless used in a large room treated to allow accurate bass reproduction, but the two smaller models would make good candidates. The peak SPL available from the MRS10 is an impressive 119dB, yet the ported, all-wood enclosure measures just 382 x 321 x 386 mm, weighing in at 15kg.

Adding the subwoofer to any of the MR series ‘tops’ is straightforward as the MRS10 includes the necessary filtering to split the signal between the sub and the main speakers. Stereo inputs and outputs are available on balanced quarter-inch jacks and XLRs. The controls are pretty simple, with two switches looking after auto energy saving and signal polarity, with the setting of the signal polarity switch depending on where in the room the sub is located (generally the setting that delivers the loudest level at around the sub/top crossover frequency). A rotary control sets the crossover frequency anywhere between 40 and 180 Hz while the level control runs from +6 to -30 dB. As a rule the sub should only be loud enough that you just miss it when it is bypassed. If you actually notice that you are running a sub then it is probably too loud. A footswitch jack allows the sub to be bypassed, whereupon the crossover filters are taken out of circuit so the full-range signal reaches the main speakers.

The correct placement for any sub can be reached by trial and error or by employing our favorite trick of standing the sub where you normally sit, then listening around the front of the room, close to the floor, until you find the spot where the bass sounds the most even. That’s the best place for your sub. Usually this will be away from corners but also not too close to the centre of a wall.