About the M1 Active Mk2

THE M1 ACTIVE MK2 POWER SUPPLY

The M1 Active Mk2 employs a regulated switching power supply. This type of supply has previously only been available in amplifiers sold at the very high end of the Pro Audio market.

Most power amp customers are familiar with the large transformer and output capacitors in high quality amplifiers. These large components are used to keep the amplifier’s supply rails as close to DC as possible. For traditional supplies, bigger is better.

But by using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and output voltage feedback in the M1 Active Mk2, we have the equivalent of near-infinite transformer and output capacitors, but at a fraction of the cost. PWM provides protection from line voltage surges that would otherwise destroy the amplifier. No user-replaceable fuse is required because nuisance tripping is eliminated. And finally, PWM practically eliminates hum because the line frequency (60 Hz) transformer is replaced with a very high frequency (130,000 Hz) transformer.

The regulated supply rails increase the amplifier dynamic range and reduce clipping distortion under heavy loading. The compact size of the supply does not significantly reduce the internal air volume of the speaker cabinet. And lastly, full power can be maintained even with low or “flat-topped” line voltages.

Note, however, that this switching supply is NOT a universal voltage type that may be used with any input voltage in any country simply by changing the cord. If you wish to use the M1 Active Mk2s in a country whose line voltage is other than 120 volts AC, they must be internally modified or used with a step-down transformer.

THE CABINET AND PORT DESIGN

The M1 Active Mk2 cabinet construction employs vinyl composite material laminated to a .625” MDF (medium density fiberboard) core for the four sides and the rear. The front panel is 1” thick MDF, to withstand the greater demands of the drivers mounted on it. The entire cabinet is braced extensively in random fashion to dissipate intramodal vibration.

M1 Active Mk2 Reference Manual

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Alesis M1 Active Mk2 manual M1 Active MK2 Power Supply, Cabinet and Port Design
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M1 Active Mk2 specifications

The Alesis M1 Active Mk2 is a well-regarded studio monitor designed for musicians, producers, and audio engineers seeking high-quality sound reproduction at an accessible price point. With a focus on delivering accurate sound and a balanced performance, the M1 Active Mk2 has become a popular choice for both home studios and professional environments.

One of the standout features of the M1 Active Mk2 is its bi-amplified design. Each speaker is powered by dedicated amplifiers that optimize the performance of the woofer and tweeter separately. This bi-amplification ensures clear and precise sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum. The 6.5-inch low-frequency driver is designed to deliver robust bass response while the 1-inch silk dome tweeter provides smooth high-frequency performance, resulting in a well-rounded audio experience.

The M1 Active Mk2 incorporates advanced technologies to enhance its performance. The monitor features a front-firing bass port that helps to minimize boundary coupling and improves the overall bass response, allowing for placement flexibility within the studio. This design reduces the risk of unwanted resonances caused by proximity to walls, ensuring accurate sound even in challenging acoustic environments.

Another important characteristic of the M1 Active Mk2 is its frequency response, which ranges from 55 Hz to 20 kHz. This wide frequency range makes it suitable for various musical genres and audio applications, enabling users to hear detailed nuances in their mixes. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with a rear-mounted EQ control, allowing users to tailor the sound to their specific acoustic space, mitigating the effects of room acoustics on playback.

Durability and design are also key aspects of the M1 Active Mk2. Its rugged enclosure is built to withstand the rigors of studio use while also providing a sleek and professional appearance. The monitors can be easily positioned on desktop surfaces or mounted on stands, making them versatile for different studio setups.

Overall, the Alesis M1 Active Mk2 stands out as a reliable and affordable option for anyone looking to improve their audio monitoring capabilities. With its bi-amplified design, advanced technologies, and customizable features, this studio monitor delivers impressive sound quality suitable for both amateur and professional recording applications. Whether mixing, mastering, or simply enjoying music, the M1 Active Mk2 is designed to deliver a true-to-source listening experience.
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