Mackie CR3-XBT is a 2-way Powered Bass Reflex Bookshelf speaker by Mackie. It was released in 2018. CR3-XBT's built-in amplifier provides 25-watt RMS( 50-watt Peak). The built-in power amplifier saves space & eliminates the need to connect Mackie CR3-XBT to a stereo receiver or external power amp. It features a 0.75" Dome Tweeter and 1 x 3" Polypropylene Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 80-20k Hz. Mackie CR3-XBT has an MSRP of 120$ per pair.
Mackie's CR Series of Loudspeakers
CR3-XBT is a member of Mackie's CR series of Powered speakers. The CR range are Mackie's affordable powered creative-reference monitors for desktop use. Below you can see the main specs of these speakers.
Mackie CR Series Speakers
Frequency Response of the Mackie CR3-XBT Speaker
Mackie CR3-XBT has a Frequency response range of 80-20k Hz. With a minimum frequency of 80 Hz, it is hard to expect a strong bass response from CR3-XBT. Unfortunately, the Mackie CR3-XBT speaker lacks a subwoofer output, making it impossible to connect a subwoofer and enhance the bass response of your system.
Here we have a comparison of how CR3-XBT's Low frequency value compares with the average, max and min Low frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
Mackie CR3-XBT Back View
Handheld Remote
Mackie CR3-XBT comes with a handheld remote which is obviously very useful to control your powered speakers from a distance.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Mackie CR3-XBT employs Built-in 4.2 Bluetooth for wireless music streaming from your Bluetooth-enabled devices such as Apple iPod/iPhone/iPad, Android smartphone/tablet, Windows PC, Mac computers/laptops.
Inputs and Outputs
- RCA Input
- Headphone Jack: 3.5mm
Mackie CR3-XBT External Dimensions and Weight
Mackie CR3-XBT has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 8.125 x 5.5 x 7.5inch (206.4 x 139.7 x 190.5mm ).
Base Surface Area
Base surface area of a loudspeaker may become a determining factor when the space in your room or desk is limited.
The base area of Mackie CR3-XBT is approximately 266.1cm2 / 41.2inch2.
To get a better perspective on the real life size of Mackie CR3-XBT, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).
Mackie CR3-XBT Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc
Here we place the Mackie CR3-XBT virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a BDI Octave Media Cabinet to get a better idea about the size.
Mackie CR3-XBT Speaker next to an amplifier and turntable
Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove → · Work out where they should sit in the room →
WeightThe Mackie CR3-XBT weighs 3.54kg / 7.8lbs per piece. Here is a comparison of how CR3-XBT's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.
Weight
All Bookshelf Speakers
Weight
Bookshelf Speakers under $300
How does the Mackie CR3-XBT compare to the Mackie CR4-XBT?
One of the natural alternative to the Mackie CR3-XBT is the CR4-XBT which is located one step higher in Mackie's Powered Bookshelf selection.
Here is a scaled size comparison of these two speakers to give you an idea how their external dimensions compare:
Comparison image of Mackie CR3-XBT and Mackie CR4-XBT Size and External Dimensions
Check the Detailed Comparison of Mackie CR3-XBT vs CR4-XBT for more details.
Cabinet type and Materials
Mackie CR3-XBT has a
Bass Reflex type cabinet. Bass Reflex type loudspeakers (aka Ported, Vented or Reflex Port) have enclosures that uses a port, hole or vent cut into the cabinet. Ported designs are generally more efficient than the Sealed designs.
Port Position
Mackie CR3-XBT is a rear-firing port speaker so you have to make sure you leave enough space between the back of the speaker and wall or bookshelf so that it has room to breathe.
Wall Mounting
CR3-XBT doesn't sport any built-in mounting bracket, so you need an external structure to mount it on walls.
What's in the Box of Mackie CR3-XBT?
Here are the items that are included inside the box of CR3-XBT:
- Powered monitor w/ attached 5.5-feet power cord (C7 unpolarized)
- Passive monitor
- 6.5-feet Speaker wire
- 5-feet Stereo mini to RCA cable
- Quick Start Guide
Recommended Accessories
Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Mackie CR3-XBT.
- Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators are our favorite isolators but you may find more affordable options too.
- Acoustic Panels and Treatments: Your room is as important as your stereo equipment so acoustic treatments goes a long way in improving the overall performance.
- Speaker Stands: Stands bring your bookshelf speakers to ideal height (rule of thumb is to have the tweeter level with your ear in your listening position), helps stability and acoustical isolation.
Warranty
1 Year of parts warranty and 1 Year of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.