FR Series
TWO CHANNEL POWER AMPLIFIERS
FR•800, FR•1400, and FR•2500
O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L
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Table of Contents
information about this and other Mackie products.
Part No. SW0315 Rev. A 03/2006
©2006 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.
ꢁ
Owner’s Manual
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Introduction
FEATURES
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Mackie
power amplifier. Please read these instructions to get
the maximum performance from your amplifier, and to
keep the owner’s manual writer from getting sad. He’s
been a bit down recently, after his sweetheart in ac-
counting started going out with that amplifier designer,
just because he can whisper sweet nothings in Klingon®.
•
•
•
FR•800: 800 watts continuous @ 4 ohms
bridged
FR•1400: 1400 watts continuous @ 4 ohms
bridged
FR•2500: 2500 watts continuous @ 4 ohms
bridged
•
•
Ultra-low noise/low-distortion design
The FR series amplifiers are designed for continu-
ous duty in speech, music, and sound reinforcement
applications in churches, schools, offices, arenas, hotel
meeting rooms, convention centers, recreation facilities
and other venues demanding high performance, flexible
features, and rugged dependability.
Switchable low-cut filter @ 30 Hz on both chan-
nels
•
•
•
Switchable limiter on both channels
1/4" TRS and XLR line input jacks
Speakon® outputs and binding posts for left,
right and bridged mono
A rear panel low-cut switch allows you to remove low
frequencies, and a clip-eliminator allows extra protec-
tion for your speakers by preventing the amplifier from
being overloaded.
•
•
•
Detented rotary gain controls
Signal present and OL (overload) LEDs
Variable speed fans and large finned heatsink
for superior cooling
The amplifier can operate in stereo, dual-mono, or
bridged mono. The output connections are Speakons®
and binding posts for left, right and bridged mono.
•
•
•
•
Robust chassis, proven design
Discreet component power amplifiers
Double-sided, quality circuit boards
The inputs are capable of accepting balanced XLR,
1/4" TRS, or unbalanced 1/4" TS connections from
line-level sources. Two front panel level controls allow
adjustment of the input signals.
Amaze your friends with your very own reliable
amplifier buddy who will never let you down
The front panel has a rocker power switch with a
power LED, and each channel has a signal-present LED
and an overload LED.
•
Kick sand in the faces of all those amplifiers
that have wronged you
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
The amplifier output stage is fully protected against
permanent damage caused by overloading, shorts, silky
boxers, and extreme temperatures.
The first section after this Introduction is a Getting
Started guide to help you get things set up fast. Right
after that are the hook-up diagrams showing some typi-
cal setups.
The front panel incorporates holes for rack mount-
ing, where it will take up two rather lovely rack spaces.
There are two handles fitted on the front panel for easy
transporting.
The Front and Rear Panel Features section describes
every detail and control of the amplifier. Throughout
this section you’ll find illustrations with each feature
numbered and talked about in words.
This icon marks information that is criti-
cally important or unique to the amplifier. For
your own good, read and remember them.
Please write your serial number here for future
reference (i.e., insurance claims, tech support,
return authorization, etc.)
This icon leads you to in-depth explanations
of features and practical tips. They usually
have some valuable nuggets of information.
Purchased at:
Appendix A is a section on troubleshooting and repair
information.
Appendix B is a section on connectors: XLR connec-
tors, TRS balanced connectors, TS unbalanced connec-
tors. Speaker impedance is also discussed.
Date of purchase:
Appendix C shows the amplifier technical specifica-
tions, and a fetching block diagram.
4
FR SERIES AMPLIFIERS
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Getting Started
•
•
The binding post connectors are wired as fol-
lows:
The following steps will help you set up your
amplifier, and get the levels just right.
Red = hot (+ speaker terminal)
Black = cold (– speaker terminal)
The Speakon connectors are wired as follows:
Settings:
1. Be sure the amplifier’s POWER switch is off.
2. Turn down both Level controls.
1+ = hot (+ speaker terminal)
1– = cold (– speaker terminal).
5. In BRIDGE mode, if using the binding post
outputs:
3. On the rear panel, set the SUBSONIC FILTER
switch OFF and the CLIP LIMIT switch ON.
CH 1 red post = hot (+ speaker terminal)
CH 2 red post = cold (– speaker terminal)
Do not use the black terminals.
If using a Speakon connector, connect the
Speakon to the center BRIDGED connector.
4. Determine which AMP MODE is best for your
application:
STEREO mode is the typical setup for am-
plifying stereo signals. INPUT 1 is routed to
CHANNEL 1 output, and INPUT 2 is routed to
CHANNEL 2 output.
•
The BRIDGED Speakon connector is wired as
follows:
MONO mode is used for sending a mono signal
to both outputs, with separately adjustable
level controls. INPUT 1 is used in MONO mode
(leave INPUT 2 disconnected).
1+ = hot (+ speaker terminal)
2+ = cold (– speaker terminal)
6. Plug all the sound system components into suit-
able AC outlets, properly grounded and capable
of delivering adequate current.
BRIDGE mode uses both outputs to double the
power to one speaker (or set of speakers). IN-
PUT 1 is used in BRIDGE mode (leave INPUT
2 disconnected and its Level control turned
down).
7. Make sure your signal source is powered up and
delivering signal to the amplifier.
8. Turn the power amplifier’s switch on. Verify that
the POWER LED lights.
NOTE: 4 ohms is the minimum speaker imped-
ance you should connect to the amplifier in
BRIDGE mode.
9. Slowly turn up both Level controls on the am-
plifier. You should hear music and see the SIG
LEDs flashing. If the OL (Overload) LEDs are
flashing, turn down either the Level controls on
the amp or the source signal’s output level con-
trols (i.e., master faders), until the OL LEDs
either blink occasionally or not at all.
5. Set the AMP MODE switch according to your
application and delicate sensibilities.
Connections:
1. Using balanced cables, make connections from
your mixer (or other signal source) MAIN OUT
to your amplifier’s INPUTs.
10. For quieter listening, it is preferable to adjust
the amp’s Level controls rather than the source
signal’s output level (unless you have the
source’s control all the way up!).
2. In STEREO mode, connect the cables from your
signal source to the amplifier’s INPUT jacks, ei-
ther XLR or 1/4" TRS. The XLR and TRS inputs
for each channel are wired in parallel.
Things To Remember:
•
•
Never plug amplifier outputs into anything
except speakers (unless you have an outboard
box specifically designed to handle speaker-
level signals). Pumpkins are right out.
•
The balanced XLR inputs are wired as follows:
Pin 1 = shield (ground)
Pin 2 = hot (+)
Pin 3 = cold (–)
Before making connections to an amp or recon-
figuring an amp’s routing, turn the amp’s level
controls down, turn the power off, make the
changes, turn the power back on, and then turn
the level controls back up.
•
The 1/4" TRS inputs are wired as follows:
Tip = hot (+)
Ring = cold (–)
Sleeve = shield (ground)
3. In MONO mode and BRIDGE mode, connect
one cable from the input source to INPUT 1,
and connect nothing to INPUT 2.
•
•
If you shut down your equipment, turn off the
amplifiers first. When powering up, turn on the
amplifiers last.
4. In STEREO and MONO modes, connect speaker
cables to the SPEAKER OUTPUTS, either the
binding posts or the Speakon® connectors.
Save the shipping box and packing material!
5
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Hookup Diagrams
OPTIONAL CONNECTION USING BINDING POSTS
+
Stereo Hookup
TO SPEAKERS
+
FROM MIXING CONSOLE
LEFT AND RIGHT MAIN OUT
AMP MODE SWITCH
STEREO
Passive Speakers (Mackie C300s)
DuAL Mono Hookup
OPTIONAL CONNECTION USING BINDING POSTS
+
TO SPEAKERS
+
FROM MIXING
CONSOLE
MONO OUT
AMP MODE SWITCH
MONO
Passive Speakers (Mackie C300s)
BriDgeD Mono Hookup
OPTIONAL CONNECTION USING BINDING POSTS
TO SPEAKER
+
FROM MIXING
CONSOLE
MAIN OUT
AMP MODE SWITCH
BRIDGE
Passive Speaker
(Mackie C300)
STEREO, DUAL MONO, AND BRIDGED MONO
6
FR SERIES AMPLIFIERS
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DAiSY CHAining tWo AMpLiFierS
FROM MIXING CONSOLE
LEFT AND RIGHT MAIN OUT
AMP MODE SWITCH
STEREO
Passive Speakers (Mackie C300s)
AMP MODE SWITCH
STEREO
Passive Speakers (Mackie C300s)
running Stereo SpeAkerS WitH MiniMuM SpeAker CABLe runS
FROM MIXING CONSOLE
LEFT AND RIGHT MAIN OUT
Passive Speakers (Mackie C300s)
AMP MODE SWITCH
STEREO
TO FIRST
SPEAKER INPUT
CHANNEL A
COLD
SPEAKER
END
AMPLIFIER
END
TO SECOND
SPEAKER INPUT
FROM "THRU"
OUTPUT
1–
1–
HOT
1+
2+
1+
2+
2–
Crossover Cable
(Pin 2+ to Pin 1+
Pin 2– to Pin 1–)
2–
COLD
CHANNEL B
COLD
1–
1–
TO SECOND
FROM "THRU"
OUTPUT
1+
1+
HOT
2+
2+
SPEAKER INPUT
2–
2–
CHANNEL B
DAISY CHAINING AND A CUTE TRICK
7
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Front Panel Features
1. POWER
5. LEVEL CONTROLS
Use this rocker switch to turn the unit on or off. This
connects/disconnects the AC power to the AC power
transformer.
These two knobs control the levels of Channels 1 and
2. The knobs are detented to make it easy to set both
controls to the same level. Usually, these controls are
set all the way up.
The amplifier is on when the top of the switch is
pressed in. It is off when the bottom of the switch is
pressed in.
You might turn them down slightly if you have high-
efficiency speakers. Also, you could use them to control
the level of line-level sources such as a CD player con-
nected directly to the amplifier without a preamplifier
or mixer.
The Power On LED above the switch will light when
the power switch is on.
The amplifiers are designed so that a +3.4 dBu (1.15V
rms) input signal drives the amplifier to full power into
4 ohms:
ꢀ. VENTILATION
Keep these ventilation slots free from any obstruc-
tions, so the air may flow freely and cool down the power
transistors.
FR•800 = 300 watts per channel into 4 ohms
FR•1400 = 450 watts per channel into 4 ohms
FR•2500 = 750 watts per channel into 4 ohms
This equates to a gain of about 30 dB (30 dB, 32 dB,
and 34 dB respectively).
ꢁ. OL LEDs
This is short for “overload.” These red LEDs indicate
when the output of the amplifier has reached the maxi-
mum, and is right on the edge of clipping. Clipping is
bad for speakers and should be avoided.
After you have set the levels for the mixer (or other
signal source), adjust the Level controls on the ampli-
fier as the final adjustment to set the overall volume for
the system.
It is okay if the OL LED blinks occasionally. It means
that the transient peaks of the music are just hitting the
full output of the amplifier.
In stereo and mono mode, use both level controls
to control the levels going to each speaker. In bridged
mono mode, turn the channel 1 level control down, and
just use the channel 2 control.
However, if the OL (overload) LED is blinking fre-
quently or continuously, turn down the source signal
(i.e., the mixer’s master faders) or the amplifier’s Level
controls.
4. SIG LEDs
This is short for “signal present.” These green LEDs
indicate when a signal is present after the Level con-
trols, at the output stage of the power amplifier. If the
Level controls are turned all the way down (fully coun-
terclockwise), these indicators will not light.
4 3
4 3
2
1
5
5
8
FR SERIES AMPLIFIERS
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Rear Panel Features
6. XLR INPUTS
9. CLIP LIMIT
When engaged, the CLIP LIMIT switch protects your
loudspeakers from the effects of clipping. It is designed
to be virtually transparent, meaning you probably won’t
even notice any audible difference when the switch is
turned on.
These inputs allow you to connect balanced XLR
plugs.
These are wired conventionally, with pin 2 hot, pin 3
cold and pin 1 ground.
We recommend that you leave this switch on at all
times. However, if you are working at quiet levels, or you
have already placed a compressor/limiter in the signal
path, you can leave the CLIP LIMIT switch off.
7. 1/4" INPUTS
These inputs allow you to connect balanced 1/4" TRS
or unbalanced TS plugs from line-level sources.
Use balanced connections where possible, as these
offer better rejection of noise than unbalanced lines.
10. AMP MODE
This switch determines the input signal routing
within the amplifier. For most applications, you will
use the STEREO setting. However, some applications
might be better suited for using either the MONO or the
BRIDGE setting.
Use high-quality, three-conductor shielded cable for
balanced connections. The better the shield, the better
the audio signal is protected from induced EMI and RFI.
8. SUBSONIC FILTER
STEREO: This is the normal position used when
amplifying stereo signals. This mode accepts separate
left and right inputs (1 and 2), and routes them to the
CHANNEL 1 and CHANNEL 2 outputs. Each channel’s
Level control adjusts the gain for its own channel, and
each channel is independent.
Turn this switch on to engage a low-frequency cutoff
(high-pass) filter at 30 Hz. The frequency range below
30 Hz is attenuated.
The amplifiers can amplify signals below 20 Hz, but
most speakers can’t reproduce frequencies that low.
MONO: This mode is used when you want to send a
mono signal to both outputs. It accepts a single input
(INPUT 1), and routes it to both the CHANNEL 1 and
CHANNEL 2 outputs. Each channel’s Level control
adjusts the gain for its own channel.
By engaging the SUBSONIC FILTER, you allow the
amplifier to power only the frequencies you can hear.
In addition, this filter can reduce low-frequency stage
noise (footsteps) and accidental microphone pops that
could damage a loudspeaker.
BRIDGE: This mode accepts a single input (INPUT
1), and uses both amplifier outputs to double the power
to one speaker. Use the Channel 1 Level control to
adjust the gain (turn the Channel 2 Level control all the
way down). The hookup diagrams show how to connect
a speaker in Bridge mode.
Leave this off if you are powering a subwoofer, or if
your speakers can reproduce low frequencies such as
the kick drum range.
6
7 8
9 10
9
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•
There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Please refer to the “Repair” section on page 13
for instructions on how to proceed.
11. FAN VENTS
Do not obstruct the ventilation openings of the ampli-
fier.
14. POWER CORD SOCKET
1ꢀ. SPEAKER OUTPUTS
Here is where you connect the detachable power cord
included with your amplifier. Plug the other end of the
power cord into an AC outlet properly configured with
the voltage required for your particular model.
There are two options for connecting your speakers:
binding posts and Speakon connectors.
Normally, you would use either the binding posts
or the Speakon connectors. Since the connectors are
wired in parallel (e.g., CHANNEL 1 binding post and
Speakon are in parallel, and CHANNEL 2 binding post
and Speakon are in parallel), you can connect a speaker
to each connector, as long as the total impedance per
channel is two ohms or more.
Be sure the AC outlet can supply enough current to
allow full power operation of all the amplifiers plugged
into it. The outlet should be a three-prong socket that
matches the power cord.
•
•
Two 8 ohm speakers in parallel equals 4 ohms.
Two 4 ohm speakers in parallel equals 2 ohms.
When the amplifier is used in bridged mono mode, use
either the center Speakon, or the two red binding posts
to connect your single speaker.
1ꢁ. BREAKER
This is a resettable circuit breaker that monitors the
amount of current being drawn by the amplifier. Under
normal operating conditions, this should never pop. An
unusual condition may cause the breaker to pop, such
as a mains voltage surge occurring at the same time as a
peak amplifier output.
Turn the POWER switch off, and push the BREAKER
button in to reset the circuit breaker. Turn the POWER
switch back on and the amplifier should resume normal
operation. If the circuit breaker pops again, something
probably isn’t right.
•
Make sure that the total impedance of the
speakers connected to the outputs is 2 ohms
or greater (per channel) in stereo mode, or 4
ohms or greater in bridged mode.
•
If the breaker pops right away, even with the
Level controls turned down and the speakers
disconnected, there may be something wrong
inside the amplifier.
11
12
13
14
10
FR SERIES AMPLIFIERS
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General Precautions
If the amplifier should overheat, a thermal switch
turns off the power amplifier, allowing the heatsink
to cool down. Once the amplifier has cooled to a safe
operating temperature, the thermal switch resets and
reactivates the amplifier. If this should occur, identify
the cause of the problem and take corrective action. For
example:
AC POWER REQUIREMENTS
The amplifier's power cord should be plugged into an
AC outlet properly configured with the voltage required
for your particular model.
Be sure the AC outlet can supply enough current to
allow full power operation of all the amplifiers plugged
into it. The outlet should be a three-prong socket that
matches the power cord.
•
•
•
Provide better ventilation
Install a fan in the rack to move more air
Make sure the amplifier is not overloaded with
too low of a load impedance or by a short circuit
on the speaker line
WARNING: Bypassing the plug’s safety ground pin can
be dangerous. Don’t do it!
The AC current demand of an amplifier varies depend-
ing on several factors, including the load impedance,
the crest factor, and the duty cycle of the program
material. Under typical conditions reproducing rock
music where musical peaks are just below clipping, the
amplifiers require the following average currents:
RACK MOUNTING
The FR amplifiers are designed to be mounted in a
standard rack. They require two rack spaces (2U =
3.5”). They also require 15.75” depth inside the rack,
including the rear support brackets. When designing
your rack, put the heavier items at the bottom and the
lighter items toward the top.
FR•800 = 5 A
FR•1400 = 7 A
FR•2500 =10 A
Secure the front panel of the amplifier to the front of
the rack using four screws with soft washers to prevent
scratching the panel. In addition, because of the weight
of the amplifier, you must secure the rear support brack-
ets of the amplifier to the back of the rack. You could
use a support rail or shelf across the back of the rack, or
angle brackets attached between the rear support rails
and the rear rails of the rack. This is recommended for
all components mounted in a rack that is going to be
moved frequently.
It is recommended that a stiff supply of AC power be
used because the amplifier places high current demands
on the AC line. The more power that is available on the
line, the louder the amplifier will play and the more
peak output power will be available for cleaner, punch-
ier bass.
If you have more than one amplifier sharing an AC
outlet, you should avoid turning them all on at the
same time. Rather, sequence them on, one at a time,
to prevent popping the circuit breaker (due to in-rush
current).
MAINTENANCE
Usually, your amplifier will not require regular main-
tenance for normal use. However, you can do several
things to keep it in good operating and cosmetic condi-
tion.
THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS
The power amplifier is fan cooled. Air is drawn
through the rear panel vents, to cool down the amplifier
heatsinks, and then expelled through the front panel
vents.
•
Testing: Periodically test your system for
proper performance. A simple test is to play a
CD through it using well-defined, articulate,
wide-range program material. Listen to ensure
all drivers are working properly and for any evi-
dence of distortion or other extraneous sounds.
Test at several volume levels: very low, normal,
and high.
When installing, be sure to allow sufficient air space
around the front and rear of the amplifier for adequate
cooling for the heatsinks. Leave at least one rack space
above and below, and at least 6 inches behind and in
front of the chassis to allow proper ventilation.
•
Cleaning: Use only a clean dry cloth to dust off
and clean the surface. Turn off the power to the
amplifier while you do this.
11
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Appendix A: Service Information
•
Is the signal source turned up? Make sure
Warranty Service
the signal level from the mixing console (or
whatever device immediately precedes the
amplifier) is high enough to produce sound in
the amplifier. The SIG LEDs should be blinking
to indicate that signal is present.
Details concerning Warranty Service are spelled out
in the Warranty section on page 19.
If you think your amplifier has a problem, please
do everything you can to confirm it before calling for
service. Doing so might save you from the deprivation of
your amplifier.
•
•
If the speakers are wired for BRIDGE mode,
make sure the AMP MODE switch is set to
BRIDGE.
These may sound obvious to you, but here are some
things you can check. Read on:
If the amplifier has gotten extremely hot, the
thermal protection circuit may have activated.
Allow the amplifier to cool down and normal
operation should resume.
Troubleshooting
•
Are there fuses in the speakers, or in-line fuses
in the speaker wire? Check to see if they’re
blown.
No Power
•
•
Our favorite question: Is it plugged in?
Distorted Sound
Make sure the power cord is securely seated in
the IEC socket and plugged all the way into the
AC outlet.
•
•
•
The power amplifier is clipping. The signal level
is exceeding the limits of your system and you
must reduce the level from your mixer or signal
source.
•
•
Make sure the AC outlet is live (check with a
tester or lamp).
Ensure that no equipment in the signal chain
is being over driven. For example: input(s) or
summing bus in the mixing console, equalizers
etc.
Make sure the front panel POWER switch is in
the ON position.
•
•
Has the BREAKER switch popped?
Is anything on the front panel illuminated? If
not, make sure the AC outlet is live.
Is the input connector plugged completely
into the jack? Check the speaker connections
and verify that all connections are tight and
that there are no stray strands of wire shorting
across the speaker terminals.
•
•
Are all the lights out in your town? If so,
contact your local power company to get power
restored.
•
•
If possible, listen to the signal source with
headphones plugged into the console. If it
sounds bad there, the problem is not in the
amplifier.
If nothing is illuminated, and you are certain
that the AC outlet is live, it will be necessary to
have your amplifier serviced. There are no user
serviceable parts inside. Refer to “Repair” on the
next page to find out how to proceed.
Loudspeakers not working properly.
No Sound or Low Output
Partial Sound (frequency band missing)
•
Loudspeaker cables or connectors are not wired
•
Incorrect EQ settings in the electronic equip-
ment. Ensure all EQ settings and filters on the
mixing console or preamplifier and on other
equipment are set for normal operation. Ensure
level controls on electronic crossovers and as-
sociated amplifiers are correctly set and that all
cables and connections for such equipment are
connected and working properly.
correctly or they are faulty. Check all cabling,
referring to these instructions for the correct
connections. The best way to check a suspect
cable is to swap it with a known good cable.
Read the loudspeaker’s input panel to verify
correct cable connections.
•
•
Loudspeaker is not working. Connect the
loudspeaker cable to a known good loudspeaker
leaving all equipment set to the same levels.
If the problem disappears, the loudspeaker is
probably not working correctly.
•
•
•
Loudspeaker not working properly. Swap with a
good one.
Is the LED next to the POWER switch illumi-
nated? If not, make sure the AC outlet is live.
Are the channel Level controls turned up?
Slowly turn them up and see if you hear any-
thing.
The fuses inside the amplifier may have blown.
These are not a user-serviceable. See next page
about service.
1ꢀ
FR SERIES AMPLIFIERS
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One side is louder than the other
Repair
•
•
•
Are both Level controls set to the same posi-
tion?
Service for Mackie products is available at a factory-
authorized service center. Service for Mackie products
living outside the United States can be obtained through
local dealers or distributors.
Check your source signal to make sure the left
and right signals are balanced.
Are the speaker impedances matched? Differ-
ent speaker loads can cause different volume
levels on each side.
If your amplifier needs service, follow these instructions:
1. Review the preceding troubleshooting suggestions.
Please.
•
Try switching sides: Turn off the amp, swap the
speaker cables at the amp, turn the amp back
on. If the same side is still louder, the problem
is with your speaker cabling. If the other side is
louder now, the problem is with the mixer, the
amp, or the line-level cabling.
2. Call Tech Support at 1-800-898-3211, 7 am to 5 pm
PST, to explain the problem and request a Service
Request Number. Have your serial number ready.
You must have a Service Request Number before
you can obtain warranty service.
Poor Bass response
3. Keep this owner’s manual and the detachable
linecord. We don’t need them to repair the amp.
•
Check the polarity of the speaker cable connec-
tions. You may have your positive and negative
reversed at one end of one speaker cable.
4. Pack the amplifier in its original package, includ-
ing endcaps and box. This is VERY IMPORTANT.
Mackie is not responsible for any damage that oc-
curs due to non-factory packaging.
As the music gets loud, the amp shuts down
•
Make sure the OL LEDs are not lighting con-
tinuously. If so, turn down the signal source or
the amp Level controls.
5. Include a legible note stating your name, shipping
address (no P.O. boxes), daytime phone number,
Service Request Number, and a detailed description
of the problem, including how we can duplicate it.
•
Can the amp breathe? It needs plenty of fresh
air to stay cool. Do not block the ventilation
holes.
6. Write the Service Request Number in BIG PRINT
on top of the box. Units sent without the SR number
will be refused.
Noise/Hum
•
•
•
Check the signal cable between the mixer and
the amplifier. Make sure all connections are
good and sound.
7. Tech Support will tell you where to ship the ampli-
fier for repair. We suggest insurance for all forms of
cartage.
Make sure the signal cable is not routed near
AC cables, power transformers, or other EMI-
inducing devices.
8. You will need to contact the authorized service
center for their latest turn-around times. Once it’s
repaired, the authorized service center will ship it
back by ground shipping, pre-paid (if it was a war-
ranty repair).
Is there a light dimmer or other SCR-based
device on the same AC circuit as the amplifier?
Use an AC line filter, or plug the amplifier into a
different AC circuit.
Note: Under the terms of the warranty, you must ship
or drop-off the unit to an authorized service center.
The return ground shipment is covered for those
units deemed by us to be under warranty.
•
If possible, listen to the signal source with
headphones plugged into the console. If it
sounds noisy there, the problem is not in the
amplifier.
•
•
Is there a cable-TV audio feed in your system?
An incorrect ground may causes a "ground loop"
hum.
Note: You must have a sales receipt from an authorized
Mackie dealer for your unit to be considered for
warranty repair.
Sometimes it helps to plug all the audio equip-
ment into the same AC circuit so they share a
common ground.
1ꢁ
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Appendix B: Connections, math and stuff
Use a high-quality 3-conductor shielded cable to
connect the signal between the signal source (mixing
console, equalizer, etc.) and the balanced inputs to
the amplifier. If you are using unbalanced inputs, use a
high-quality 2-conductor shielded cable. Here are some
common audio connectors and their internal wiring:
1/4" TS Phone Plugs and
Jacks
“TS” stands for Tip-Sleeve, the two connections avail-
able on a mono 1/4" phone jack or plug. They are used
for unbalanced signals.
SLEEVE
SLEEVE
TIP
XLR Connectors
TIP
TIP
XLR connectors are commonly wired as follows (ac-
cording to standards specified by the Audio Engineering
Society):
SLEEVE
1/4" TS Unbalanced Wiring
2
SHIELD
Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot (+)
HOT
1
3
COLD
SHIELD
1
Speakons
When using the Speakon outputs in stereo or mono
modes, wire the Speakon connectors as shown below:
3
COLD
2
HOT
SHIELD
COLD
HOT
1
3
2
1–
1+
XLR Balanced Wiring
Pin 1 = Shield
Pin 2 = Hot (+)
Pin 3 = Cold (–)
COLD
1–
1+
2+
HOT
2–
Stereo and Mono Speakon Connection
1/4" TRS Phone Plugs and
Jacks
Loudspeaker Cable
“TRS” stands for Tip-Ring-Sleeve, the three connec-
tions available on a stereo 1/4" or balanced phone jack
or plug. TRS jacks and plugs are used for balanced
signals and stereo headphones.
Use loudspeaker cables with a minimum conductor
size for the length you need as listed in these tables.
This will minimize
power losses to less
Minimum AWG 4 ohm 8 ohm
RING SLEEVE
SLEEVE RING TIP
18
16
14
12
10
10 ft
25
25 ft
50
than 0.5 dB. The ca-
ble lengths listed are
“up to” lengths. For
in-between lengths,
use the next larger
conductor gauge.
TIP
RING
TIP
25
75
SLEEVE
50
125
200
1/4" TRS Balanced wiring
100
Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot (+)
Ring = Cold (–)
Using larger than the
recommended con-
ductor size is always
permissible. Using
smaller than recom-
mended conductor
size will result in
Min Metric WG 4 ohm 8 ohm
12
14
16
20
25
3 m
8
8 m
15
8
25
15
30
40
60
higher power losses.
The recommended conductor gauges are listed for
AWG (American Wire Gauge) and Metric WG (Metric
Wire Gauge). Note that smaller AWG numbers = larger
14
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conductors and smaller Metric WG numbers = smaller
conductors. The Metric WG is equal to ten times the
nominal conductor diameter in millimeters.
terminals of all the speakers. If one speaker opens in a
parallel configuration, the others will still work, but the
load will change. That lets you breathe a little easier
(the show will go on), except that you may have a dead
speaker and not even know it.
Longer Lengths
Calculating parallel loads is also easy, as long as each
speaker has the same value — just
divide the value by the number of speakers.
For cable lengths over 200 feet / 60 m at 8 ohms,
and over 100 feet / 30 m at 4 ohms, the conductor sizes
needed for less than 0.5 dB power losses are rarely prac-
tical for physical and cost reasons.
For example, four 8-ohm speakers, connected in par-
allel, will equal 2 ohms
(8 / 4 = 2).
As a practical compromise for these situations the
recommended conductor gauge is 10 AWG or 25 metric.
If the parallel loads aren’t all the same, things gets a
little more complicated, but nothing that you can’t do
with a simple calculator. The total impedance (ZT) is
given by the following formula, where Z1, Z2 and Z3 are
the impedances of your speakers.
Speaker Impedances
A speaker’s impedance varies with frequency. For ex-
ample, it may be 4 ohms at 500Hz, and 6 ohms at 120Hz.
What you need to know is the average (or nominal)
impedance across the speaker’s frequency range. This
will be printed somewhere on the cabinet, or in the
specification section of the missing manual.
1
Z
=
T
1
Z
1
Z
1
Z
+
+
+
. . .
1
2
3
There are other, more complicated configurations, like
series-parallel (using a combination of series and paral-
lel links to arrive at a desired load) and parallel configu-
rations of unmatched loads (usually not recommended).
But rather than get too deep into this, let’s just summa-
rize the basics, as they apply to you and your amp:
If you’re just dealing with one speaker per channel,
then make sure that the average impedance is greater
than or equal to 2 ohms.
In BRIDGE MONO mode, make sure that your speaker
impedance is greater than or equal to 4 ohms.
•
•
•
The lower the speaker impedance, the more
power can be put out by the amplifier.
If you’re driving an assortment of speakers, you have
to make sure that the total impedance does not go below
these same levels. There are two basic ways of linking
multiple speakers: series and parallel. The following
sections show how to make the connections and how to
work out the total impedance.
Driving lower impedance speakers makes the
amplifier work harder and heat up quicker.
Do not connect a total impedance of under
2 ohms per channel in STEREO and MONO
modes.
SERIES
•
•
•
•
Do not connect a total impedance of under 4
ohms in BRIDGE mode.
“Series” means that the positive amp output con-
nects to the first speaker’s positive terminal, the first
speaker’s negative terminal connects to the second
speaker’s positive terminal, the second speaker’s nega-
tive terminal goes to the amp’s negative output. Series
connections are not normally used in PA applications
because it ruins the amplifier’s ability to damp (control)
the speakers. The other snag: if one speaker goes out,
they all do.
Connecting speakers in series or parallel can
drastically alter their frequency response.
Consider using multiple amplifiers rather than
overloading one.
Reduce the low-frequency output by setting
the LOW CUT FILTER to match the speaker’s
specifications.
•
•
Never plug the amplifier outputs into anything
except speakers (unless you have an outboard
box designed to accept speaker level levels).
Doing load calculations with series configurations
is easy — just add the loads. For instance, two 4-ohm
speakers in series, equals 8 ohms (4 + 4 = 8).
Be careful in BRIDGE mode as both speaker
wires are live. In this mode, do not connect the
speaker wires to any external device which is
grounded.
PARALLEL
“Parallel” means that the positive amp output con-
nects to the positive terminals of all the speakers,
and the negative amp output connects to the negative
15
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Appendix C: Technical Info
Specifications
Continuous Sine Wave Average Output Power, per channel,
both channels driven, ꢀ0 Hz to ꢀ0 kHz
Topology
FR•800, FR•1400:Class AB
FR•2500:
Class H
FR•800 FR•1400 FR•2500
2 ohms: 480 W
4 ohms: 300 W
8 ohms: 205 W
800 W 1400 W
450 W 750 W
310 W 575 W
Cooling
Variable-speed fans with back to front airflow
Indicators
Bridged Mono Operation, ꢀ0 Hz to ꢀ0 kHz
Channels A and B SIG (Signal Present), OL (Overload), POWER
FR•800 FR•1400 FR•2500
Current Consumption
4 ohms: 800 W 1400 W 2500 W
FR•800 FR•1400 FR•2500
8 ohms: 560 W
900 W 1500 W
Idle
0.5 A
0.5 A
5.1 A
6.7 A
1.0 A
8.1 A
10.0 A
Note: Power ratings are specified at 120 VAC line voltage.
Musical Program @ 8 ohms 3.9 A
Musical Program @ 4 ohms 5.0 A
Musical Program @ 2 ohms 7.0 A
Power Bandwidth
5 Hz to 50 kHz (+0, –3 dB)
10.6 A 17.2 A
AC Power Requirements
Frequency Response
25 Hz to 25 kHz (+0, –1 dB)
U.S model:
120 VAC, 60 Hz
European model: 240 VAC, 50 Hz
Distortion
THD and SMPTE IMD; 20 Hz to 20 kHz
< 0.03 % @ 8 ohms
Physical Dimensions and Weight
Height:
3.5 in/89 mm
Width:
19.0 in/483 mm
15.7 in/400 mm
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
> 100 dB below rated power into 4 ohms
Depth:
Weight:
FR•800:
FR•1400:
FR•2500:
Channel Separation
> 90 dB @ 1 kHz
43.6 lb/19.8 kg
48.5 lb/22.0 kg
56.2 lb/25.5 kg
Damping Factor
> 300 @ 1 kHz and below
LOUD Technologies Inc. is always boldly striving to improve
our products by incorporating new and improved materi-
als, components, and manufacturing methods. Therefore, we
reserve the right to change these specifications at any time
without notice.
Input Impedance
20 kΩ balanced
10 kΩ unbalanced
Input Sensitivity
1.15 V (+3.4 dBu) for rated power into 4 ohms
“Mackie,” and the “Running Man” are registered trademarks of
LOUD Technologies Inc. All other brand names mentioned are
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective hold-
ers, and are hereby acknowledged.
Gain
FR•800: 30 dB
FR•1400: 32 dB
FR•2500: 34 dB
The technical writer reserves the right to go downstairs and
get a bag of popcorn, shoot the breeze and exchange tech writer
jokes with his buddies around the water cooler.
Betty darling, I will always love you. I’m leaving now to go and
rethink my life, get some lunch and a brake cable for the old
Chevette. All I can hope for is that your new Beau is as reliable
and dependable as these amplifiers.
Maximum Input Level
9.75 Vrms (+22 dBu)
Turn On Delay
2.5 seconds
©2006 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Subsonic Filter
– 9 dB @ 30 Hz
16
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Dimensions
FR•800
WEIGHT
43.6 lbs.
(19.8 kg)
FR•1400
WEIGHT
48.5 lbs.
(22 kg)
FR•2500
WEIGHT
56.2 lbs.
(25.5 kg)
19.0 " (483 mm)
Need Help?
You can reach a technical support representative
Monday through Friday
from 7 AM to 5 PM PST at:
1-800-898-ꢁꢀ11
or email us at: [email protected]
18
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FR Series Amplifiers Limited Warranty
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.
F. Any products returned to one of the LOUD Technologies
A. LOUD Technologies Inc. warrants all materials,
factory-authorized service centers, and deemed eligible for
repair or replacement under the terms of this warranty will
be repaired or replaced within thirty days of receipt. 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.
workmanship and proper operation of this product for a
period of three years from the original date of purchase. 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. by
LOUD Technologies Inc. or its authorized dealers.
B. Failure to register online or return the product registration
card will not void the three-year warranty.
C. Service and repairs of Mackie products are to be
performed only at a factory-authorized facility (see D below).
Unauthorized service, repairs, or modification will void this
warranty. To obtain repairs 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
the purchase date and determine whether your Mackie
product is within the warranty period.
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
quality or timeliness of repairs performed by an authorized
service center.
D. To obtain factory-authorized service:
1. Call Mackie Technical Support at 800/898-3211, 7
AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday (Pacific Time) to get
a Service Request Number. Products returned without a
Service Request Number will be refused.
I. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and to
anyone who may subsequently purchase this product within
the applicable warranty period. A copy of the original sales
receipt is required to obtain warranty repairs.
2. 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, and your return street address (no P.O. boxes or
route numbers, please!). If we cannot duplicate the problem
or establish the starting date of your Limited Warranty, we
may, at our option, charge for service time.
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 THREE
YEARS 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
3. Ship the product in its original shipping carton, freight
prepaid to the authorized service center. The address of
your closest authorized service center will be given to you
by Technical Support, or from our website.
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
TECHNOLOGIES INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY
INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
the form of a dated copy of the original dealer’s invoice or sales THAT MAY RESULT FROM ANY DEFECT IN THE MACKIE
receipt. Final determination of warranty coverage lies solely
with LOUD Technologies.
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.
19
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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: [email protected]
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