Mackie announced a new series of studio monitors to its popular lineup – XR Series Studio Monitors. Aimed at professional and project studios, XR Series offers two models, the 8″ XR824 and 6.5″ XR624. With XR, Mackie delivers an extremely accurate studio monitor design that offers the clarity, performance and modern look to meet the needs of the modern studio.
“Mackie is well known for creating high-performing studio monitors that cover the widest possible range of applications, from our ultra-affordable CR Series to our flagship HR Series,” commented Jon Rundle, Mackie Product Manager. “And XR really hits the sweet spot, with a step-up to truly professional performance at prices far more affordable than boutique offerings.”
Drawing inspiration from the performance and aesthetic aspects of the proven Mackie HR Series monitors, XR features a smart logarithmic waveguide, providing acoustic alignment to deliver precision balance between articulate highs and midrange clarity. Both models feature a high-output 160W power amplifier and premium transducers including a Kevlar® LF driver with proven fast-recovery from transients, virtually eliminating resonant frequencies. And, unique to XR, Mackie has developed the new ELP Bass Reflex System which utilizes an extended-length, internally curved port that delivers outstanding bass response and increased output capability.
“The new ELP porting system significantly extends bass response, but its unique design offers additional benefits,” remarks Rundle. “The port exit sits completely flush with the back of the cabinet, creating a zero turbulence design that significantly improves overall acoustic performance.”
XR Series Studio Monitors can be sonically optimized to the specific mix environment, featuring user-controllable acoustic space tuning controls. There are three different acoustic space settings that adjust for monitor placements close to walls, in corners, etc. Plus, both high- and low-frequency EQ controls are available for final sonic adjustment to the mixing space. Other finishing features include an eco-friendly auto on/off functionality that senses when a signal is present and turns that monitor on or off, plus the inclusion of acoustic isolation pads for each monitor.
“Mix translation is so important and having a flat frequency response from your studio monitors is critical. We didn’t want to hype up your mix. If something sounds off, you want to know. And, when it sounds great, you can trust that it will sound great anywhere,” Rundle concluded. “Mackie XR monitors will reveal your true mix and we think that’s a great thing.”
The Mackie XR Series includes the 8″ XR824 and 6.5″ XR624, both with worldwide availability beginning November 1, 2016. Sold individually, the XR824 has a U.S. MSRP of $629.99 and the XR624 has a U.S. MSRP of $519.99. For more information, visit www.mackie.com/XR .
