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Add to SafariThis is the third iteration of Mackie's mid-range studio monitor speakers. The MR8 mk3 delivers a full and powerful sound which maintains its clarity despite pumping high volumes. This can be attributed to these monitors' large, 8-inch drivers. These speakers are also very versatile in terms of setup compatibility as they offer TRS, XLR, and RCA inputs to choose from. You may need a large desk for these speakers though as they are quite bulky and heavy.
SpecsUpdate
Pros
Pro Professional-grade audio accuracy and distortion-free sound to go along with high volume output
What makes the MR8 a great choice for a studio monitor is that this speaker is able to deliver truly accurate sound ideal for music production. At its flat setting the bass is tight and punchy without much boom. The mids are full and precise while the highs are crisp and airy without being too sharp.
This sound is achieved thanks to the speaker’s 8-inch woofer which is able to provide great bass and mids output, as well as higher volumes without distortion or hiss. This large woofer is complemented by the 1-inch silk dome tweeter for accurate and natural reproduction of the higher frequencies. Audio accuracy is further achieved thanks to the monitor’s amps being matched to the drivers used.
Pro Provides highly detailed sound imaging
This studio monitor is capable of producing clear instrument separation and imaging. For example, crash and ride cymbals can come off from the far left or far right of your listening space, as if you were sitting in front of the drums. This is thanks to Mackie’s proprietary waveguide design which allows for efficient soundwave travel from the tweeters to the listener’s ear.
Pro Even bass response due to rear bass ports
Lower frequencies can be quite difficult to tame, but the MR8 can provide bass that is balanced yet impactful and fast without sounding loose or floppy. This is achieved by the use of custom tuned bass port situated in the rear of the monitor.
Pro Option to enhance or cut high frequencies with the high boost/cut switch
With this studio monitor, you also have the option to boost the highs for enhanced detail and sparkle to the sound or lower the highs output to get a sound that is flatter, with more emphasis on the mids. This can be adjusted according to your preference via the High Boost/Cut Filter switch that can also be found on the rear of the monitor.
Pro You can increase bass output using the low boost switch
This studio monitor’s bass out can be increased up a notch or two, which will give you more powerful bass, resulting in more thump and boom from the woofer. This option gives the MR8 the extra versatility to be used as a multimedia speaker as, for example, explosions in movies can have a lot of oomph and rumble. This can be toggled by the Low Frequency Filter switch in the back.
Pro Can work with different studio setups thanks to a variety of input options available
You can easily use this studio monitor with a number of audio sources including computers, audio interfaces, audio receivers, and mixers due to the three input options this monitor has. This includes balanced TRS and XLR inputs as well as an unbalanced RCA input.
Cons
Con Can be difficult to fit on some desk setups due to this studio monitor’s large size
This studio monitor may not be the best option if you have a small room or a small desk. The 8-inch woofer of the MR8 requires a large cabinet design to house it, which means that this studio monitor will take up a lot of desk space. You will definitely want to use this with a large desk or a much better option would be for you to use speaker stands.
Con Bass reflections can be a problem with these monitors if placed near a wall
If you place this studio monitor with the rear near a wall, it may result in bass reflections due to the rear bass ports. This can cause you to hear too much or too little bass. Either way, this is bad for mixing. You may want to consider a 1 to 2 feet distance from the rear of the monitor and the wall. Also, you can add bass traps and other sound absorption solutions behind the speaker to minimize bass reflections and achieve optimal sound accuracy.
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