Mackie M1200/M1400 owner manual Repair, Mackie Designs, Wood-Red Rd. NE Woodinville, WA

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As soon as the music gets loud, the amp shuts down!

Check the M•1200/M•1400’s meters . Be sure that OL is not lighting up frequently or continuously.

Can the amp breathe? The M•1200/M•1400 amps draw their ventilation air in from the front and out through the side panels.

They need plenty of fresh air to stay cool.

Do not block the ventilation ports.

Is the SHORT LED lit? If so, you’ve got a dead short somewhere in your speaker setup, or the total impedance of the load is too low. Turn the amp off and rectify that right away.

Something’s missing in the mid and high frequencies!

If you’re using horns with compression drivers, please read CONSTANT DIRECTIVITY .

It hurts when I touch my arm, or my leg, or even my head!

• You have a broken finger.

Bad sound!

Is it loud and distorted? Turn down the signal coming from the mixer or signal source.

Is the input connector plugged completely into the jack? Check the speaker connec- tions and verify that all connections are tight and that there are no stray strands of wire shorting across the speaker terminals.

If possible, listen to the signal source with headphones plugged into the console. If it sounds bad there, the problem’s not in the amplifier.

Noise/Hum

Check the signal cable between the mixer and the amplifier. Make sure all connections are good and sound.

Make sure the signal cable is not routed near AC cables, power transformers, or other EMI-inducing device.

Is there a light dimmer or other SCR-based device on the same AC circuit as the monitor? Use an AC line filter or plug the amplifier into a different AC circuit.

If possible, listen to the signal source with headphones plugged into the console. If it sounds noisy there, the problem’s not in the amplifier.

Refer to “Grounding” in Appendix D.

REPAIR

Service for the U.S. versions of our amplifi- ers is available only from one of our authorized domestic service stations or at the factory, lo- cated in sunny Woodinville, Washington. (Service for amplifiers living outside the United States can be obtained through local dealers or distributors.) If your amplifier needs service, follow these instructions:

1.Review the preceding troubleshooting suggestions. Please.

2.Call Tech Support at 1-800-258-6883, 8am to 5pm PST, to explain the problem and request an RA (Return Authorization) number. Have your amplifier’s serial number ready. You must have an RA number before you can obtain service at the factory or an authorized service center.

3.Keep this owner’s manual. We don’t need it to repair the amplifier.

4.Pack the amplifier in its original package, including endcaps and box. This is very important. When you call for the RA number, please let Tech Support know if you need new packaging. Mackie is not responsible for any damage that occurs due to non-factory packaging.

5.Include a legible note stating your name, shipping address (no P.O. boxes), daytime phone number, RA number, and a detailed description of the problem, including how we can duplicate it.

6.Write the RA number in BIG PRINT on top of the box.

7.Ship the amplifier to us. We recommend United Parcel Service (UPS). We suggest insurance for all forms of cartage. Ship to this address:

Mackie Designs

SERVICE DEPARTMENT

16220 Wood-Red Rd. NE

Woodinville, WA 98072

8.We’ll try to fix the amplifier within three business days. We normally send everything back prepaid using UPS BLUE (Second Day Air). However, if you rush your ampli- fier to us by Air Shipment, we’ll treat it in kind by letting it jump to the head of the line, and we’ll also ship it back to you UPS RED (Next Day Air). This paragraph does not necessarily apply to non-warranty service.

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Contents Speaker Outputs Safety Instructions While this Noise level exposures shown in this chartManent hearing loss To suffi Protectors CientlyM1200/M1400 amps Be sure the Power switch is off before making connectionsQuick Start M1200/M1400 Amps can be mounted1/4 TS connectors are wired Tip = hot + and sleeve = cold Start dancing, but don’t let the ants out of your pantsThings You Must Remember Arcane Mysteries Illuminated Application DiagramsPlug for the Connectors Section General Precautions ConsiderationsContents Application M1400 Main Speakers and Stage Monitors with ONE Amplifier M1200/M1400 Stereo System with Bridged Subwoofer DB for those of you sittin’ there with your calculator GainHigh Current Design MetersOutputs. Both the Protect and the Short LEDs light up SIGProtect ShortTemp Status PowerIf you shut down your System, turn off your ampli Power CordFiers first. When powering Speaker OutputsChoose to terminate your Speaker cables with An amp’s signal routingInput Be Aware Should youHot + Pin Cold Pin RingPin Shield Thru LOW CUT FilterConstant Directivity More on Constant Directivity Horns AMP ModeNEL 1 inputs only BridgeOutput Application LimiterSelect a rolloff point, via the Frequency Here’s how to configure it Turn the M1200/M1400’s Power offTurn the M1200/M1400’s Power on. Woof SubwooferSubwoofer Frequency switch setting either 63Hz or 125Hz AC Power Considerations Rack MountingThermal Considerations Feet Input WiringOutput Wiring AC Power DistributionImpedance Wire 70V Distribution SystemsLoad Gauge Are both Gain knobs set to the same position? Warranty ServiceTroubleshooting Make sure the AMP Mode switch is set to BridgeRepair Mackie DesignsWood-Red Rd. NE Woodinville, WA Term for a sound mixer, usually a large desk-like mixer Sound Pressure Level SPL measured with an a weighting filterEMI See Hertz FrequencySignal whose level falls between -10 dBu and +30 dBu Male counterpart to the phone jack. See aboveControl affecting the final output of a Unity gain TRSInstruments XLR Connectors⁄4 TS Phone Plugs and Jacks Unbalancing a LineBinding Posts SpeakonsBalanced Lines Balanced line is a threeBalanced lines offer increased immunity Don’t use hardware-store light dimmers GroundingHere are some guidelines Optimizing Sound System LevelsDynamic Range Next set the master output level faderBiamplified System with Active Crossover Do the Math OHMS, Loads and Such As a load gets heavier, its impedance in ohms decreasesOhm speaker load is twice as heavy as a Specifications Limiter Section IndicatorsPower Consumption AC Line PowerFreq Mackie Designs Inc All Rights Reserved Colophon

M1200/M1400 specifications

The Mackie M1200 and M1400 are two prominent power amplifiers that have gained recognition for their reliability, performance, and innovative design in the professional audio field. Engineered for both live sound and studio applications, these amplifiers deliver exceptional sound quality and unmatched power, making them a favorite among audio professionals.

One of the standout features of the M1200 and M1400 is their impressive power output. The M1200 boasts a power output of 1200 watts at 4 ohms, while the M1400 takes it a step further with 1400 watts at 4 ohms. This substantial power allows users to drive a wide range of speakers, making them suitable for various settings, from small clubs to large venues and outdoor events. Furthermore, they excel in providing clean, distortion-free sound even at high volumes.

Both models incorporate Mackie's patented Smart Protect DSP technology. This intelligent thermal and signal protection system helps prevent overheating and ensures that the amplifiers operate within safe limits, enhancing longevity and reliability. The DSP also contributes to superior sound quality, maintaining clarity and detail across different frequency ranges.

Another key feature of the M1200 and M1400 is their rugged construction. Designed for the rigors of touring and live performances, these amplifiers feature a sturdy chassis that withstands the challenges of transport and heavy use. Their efficient heatsink design allows for effective cooling, ensuring the amplifiers remain operational even under demanding conditions.

In terms of connectivity, both models are versatile. They offer XLR and TRS inputs, allowing compatibility with a variety of audio sources. The outputs include Neutrik Speakon connections, providing secure and reliable speaker connections. Additionally, the amplifiers have built-in limiters that help to prevent speaker damage by controlling signal levels.

The user-friendly interface of the M1200 and M1400 includes level control knobs, LED indicators for power and signal, and a comprehensive set of output options. This simplicity ensures that audio engineers can quickly adjust settings to cater to specific acoustic environments, making setup and operation seamless.

In conclusion, the Mackie M1200 and M1400 power amplifiers are remarkable for their powerful performance, durability, and advanced technology. Whether for live sound reinforcement or studio applications, these amplifiers continue to set a standard in audio excellence, proving their worth to sound engineers worldwide.