This is topic Mackie Amps in forum Film Handlers' Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.
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Posted by Jon Bartow (Member # 241) on 03-12-2001, 03:33 PM:
Anyone used Mackie Amps in a theater setup? I've had good luck with them in large PA systems (i.e. churches, live theater, etc) But I'm curious as to how they stand up in a theater. www.mackie.com/products/frseries.asp
Posted by Pete Naples (Member # 761) on 03-12-2001, 04:20 PM:
Seen some 250w units used here, not at all impressed but to be fair they had been placed in a theatre that needed more like 2500w!! I've seen them in smaller theatres and they do seem to struggle with the bass in DTS SR.D soundtracks, plent of audible distortion when the rumbles and explosions come along.... They didn't sound like they were controlling the speakers too well and also I was hearing the power supply running out of steam and the amp wants more, sound. Probably ok in non digital, small theatre set ups.
Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 03-12-2001, 04:53 PM:
Stick with QSC amps!
Mark @ GTS
Posted by Paul G. Thompson (Member # 655) on 03-12-2001, 05:38 PM:
I agree with Mark. We used some Mackie equipment (mixing consoles, primarly) in the radio station, and we are not really impressed with the overall performance. They do honor their warrenty, though.
Posted by Ken Layton (Member # 133) on 03-12-2001, 06:08 PM:
For churches Mackies are ok, but for theaters forget it! Good old reliable QSC amplifiers are the best in my book for theater use.
Posted by Randy Stankey (Member # 64) on 03-12-2001, 09:41 PM:
From the Mackie equipment I have used, mainly mixing boards, I would say that they are one of those companies that try to make you do everything "their way". (Trimming mike inputs and patching a handle to a submaster are two things that come to mind.)If you take the time to think about it you MIGHT find there's a method to the madness. (Then again you might not.)
Personally, I'd stick to more "proven" equipment like QSC.
Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 03-12-2001, 11:02 PM:
Given a choice I use QSC exclusively
If you must use mackie watch out for the venting it is from the side and in tight double ganged racks it gets hot
Posted by Matthew Bailey (Member # 601) on 03-13-2001, 06:59 AM:
I have one QSC and five Altecs
Posted by Scott Norwood (Member # 30) on 03-13-2001, 07:39 AM:
Just curious: how much cheaper are the Mackie amps as opposed to the QSCs?
I don't install this stuff for a living, but the theatres where I've worked have all either had or switched to QSC MX or USA amps and I haven't had any trouble with them at all. (And, if I did, it would be pretty easy to find someone to repair them.) I have an MX1500 in my living room (my neighbors hate me) and it sounds better than most consumer-grade equipment in the same (used) price range.
Posted by Paul G. Thompson (Member # 655) on 03-13-2001, 10:57 AM:
Hi, Scott. With respect for power amplifiers, you get what you pay for. Stick with your QSC.BGW's Grand Touring amplifiers are very good also, if: (1) you have a fork lift to move them and, (2) if you have the money to buy one. 
Posted by Mark Mayfield (Member # 729) on 03-13-2001, 12:32 PM:
Since EAW was acquired by Mackie Designs last year, I am "testing" the concept of offering Mackie power amps to our cinema customers. There were a few on display at ShoWest last week.The FR Series has been "continuously updated" (as we manufacturers like to say) and they are seriously powerful, reliable amps today.
I welcome your feedback - everyone has their preference, but some customers like the convenience of sourcing amps and speakers from the same manufacturer, and now we (EAW) can offer that.
I apologize if this sounds commercial, but I felt it necessary to respond since others have brought it up.
Thanks!
Mark Mayfield
Director of Cinema Products
Eastern Acoustic Works, Inc. www.eaw.com
Posted by Daryl Lund (Member # 356) on 03-13-2001, 09:56 PM:
QSC I have not had one problem. They are the way to go!!!!!
Posted by Barry Floyd (Member # 385) on 03-14-2001, 01:10 PM:
I've used some EAW equipment last year at the Opryland Hotel. It was unbelievable!!I was playing for a 2500 guests event in one of the larger ballrooms and had planned on using my Peavey amps and speakers. When I walked in and saw the EAW speakers hanging from a truss array from the ceiling and four double 18 cabinets at the base of the stage... I just left my stuff in the truck, there was no need for comparison !
I just plugged my rack into the "house feed" and enjoyed the ride. Nothing has been the same since.
Posted by Barry Hans (Member # 477) on 03-14-2001, 03:02 PM:
I bought a pair of the Mackie 1400i's when my old amp puked a couple of years back. The old amp died on a Friday night and Saturday morning I went to a local pro sound outfit who was out of stock on the QSC gear. I have been very happy with the Mackie amps. I would not hesitate to buy their amps again. QSC amps are good, but Mackie should not be considered any less than good either.