SA1521 2-Way Active Speaker System User's Manual · 500 watts of amplifier power, complete active control electronics, and RCF Precision com-ponents. These elements together form

SA15212-WAY ACTIVESPEAKER SYSTEMUSER’S MANUAL

2

PORTABLE CART WARNING

Carts and stands - TheComponent should be usedonly with a cart or standthat is recommended bythe manufacturer.A Component and cartcombination should bemoved with care. Quickstops, excessive force, anduneven surfaces may causethe Component and cartcombination to overturn.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS1. Read Instructions — All the safety and operation instructionsshould be read before this Mackie product is operated.

2. Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructionsshould be kept for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings — All warnings on this Mackie product and inthese operating instructions should be followed.

4. Follow Instructions — All operating and other instructionsshould be followed.

5. Water and Moisture — This Mackie product should not be usednear water – for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink,laundry tub, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, swamp, orsalivating St. Bernard dog, etc.

6. Cleaning — Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Ventilation — This Mackie product should be situated so that itslocation or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. Forexample, the Component should not be situated on a bed, sofa,rug, or similar surface that may block any ventilation openings, orplaced in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or cabinet thatmay impede the flow of air through ventilation openings.

8. Heat — This Mackie product should be situated away from heatsources such as radiators or other devices which produce heat.

WARNING: The heatsink may reach high temperatures duringstandard use. To ensure proper operation, allow a minimum of 6inches of clearance from the heatsink surface and adequateventilation.

9. Power Sources — This Mackie product should be connected to apower supply only of the type described in these operationinstructions or as marked on this Mackie product.

10. Power Cord Protection — Power supply cords should be routedso that they are not likely to be walked upon or pinched by itemsplaced upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords atplugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit thisMackie product.

11. Object and Liquid Entry — Care should be taken so that objectsdo not fall into and liquids are not spilled into this Mackie product.

12. Damage Requiring Service — This Mackie product should beserviced only by qualified service personnel when:

A. The power-supply cord or the plug has beendamaged; or

B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into thisMackie product; or

C. This Mackie product has been exposed to rain; or

D. This Mackie product does not appear to operatenormally or exhibits a marked change in performance;or

E. This Mackie product has been dropped, or its chassisdamaged.

13. Servicing — The user should not attempt to service this Mackieproduct beyond those means described in this operating manual. Allother servicing should be referred to the Mackie Service Department.

14. To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized plug with anextension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can befully inserted to prevent blade exposure.

Pour prévenir les chocs électriques ne pas utiliser cette fichepolariseé avec un prolongateur, un prise de courant ou une autresortie de courant, sauf si les lames peuvent être insérées à fondsans laisser aucune pariie à découvert.

15. Grounding or Polarization — Precautions should be taken sothat the grounding or polarization means of this Mackie product isnot defeated.

16. Power Precaution — Unplug this Mackie product duringlightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. Note thatthis Mackie product is not completely disconnected from the ACmains when the power switch is in the OFF position.

17. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whicheveris applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatusas set out in the radio interference regulations of the CanadianDepartment of Communications.

ATTENTION —Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas debruits radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables auxappareils numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescritesdans le règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par lesministere des communications du Canada.

CAUTION AVISRISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPENRISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCKDO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDEREFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOCELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE. AUCUN

ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER. CONFIERL'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.

AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OUD'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET ARTICLE

A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated"dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. Le symbole éclair avec point de flèche à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est utilisé pour alerter l'utilisateur de la présence à l'intérieur du coffret de "voltage dangereux" non isolé d'ampleur suffisante pour constituer un risque d'éléctrocution.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance. Le point d'exclamation à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est employé pour alerter les utilisateurs de la présence d'instructions importantes pour le fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le livret d'instruction accompagnant l'appareil.

WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire orelectric shock, do not expose this appliance to

rain or moisture.

WARNING — The cabinet has no riggingpoints and is not suitable for flying. Neverattempt to suspend the cabinet by its handles.

3

Lend Me Your EarsExposure to extremely

high noise levels may causepermanent hearing loss. In-dividuals vary considerablyin susceptibility to noise-

induced hearing loss, but nearly everyonewill lose some hearing if exposed to suffi-ciently intense noise for a period of time.The U.S. Government’s OccupationalSafety and Health Administration (OSHA)has specified the permissible noise level ex-posures shown in this chart.

According to OSHA, any exposure in ex-cess of these permissible limits could resultin some hearing loss. To ensure against po-tentially dangerous exposure to highsound-pressure levels, it is recommendedthat all persons exposed to equipment ca-pable of producing these levels use hearingprotectors while this unit is in operation.Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals orover the ears must be worn when operatingthis amplification system in order to pre-vent a permanent hearing loss if exposure isin excess of the limits set forth here.

ContentsSAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .............................................................................................................2INTRODUCTION ...........................................................................................................................4REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................4HOOKUP DIAGRAM .....................................................................................................................5CONNECTIONS ............................................................................................................................5PLACEMENT.................................................................................................................................6AC POWER ...................................................................................................................................6THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS .....................................................................................................6SERVICE INFORMATION .............................................................................................................7

Warranty Service ....................................................................................................... 7Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................... 7Repair ....................................................................................................................... 8

CARE AND MAINTENANCE .........................................................................................................8SA1521 SPECIFICATIONS ...........................................................................................................9

Architects and Engineers’ Specifications ..................................................................... 10FREQUENCY RESPONSE GRAPH ..............................................................................................10SA1521 LIMITED WARRANTY ...................................................................................................11

Don’t forget to visit our website at www.mackie.comfor more information about this and other Mackie products.

Duration Per Day Sound Level dBA, Typical In Hours Slow Response Example

8 90 Duo in small club6 924 95 Subway Train3 972 100 Very loud classical music

1.5 1021 105 Tami screaming at Adrian about deadlines

0.5 110 0.25 or less 115 Loudest parts at a rock concert

The SA1521can produce amaximum SPL of133 dB @ 1m

Part No. 820-262-00 Rev. C 11/03© 2003 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.

http://www.mackie.com

4

REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION MAIN INPUTThis is a female XLR-type connector that

accepts a balanced line-level signal from amixing console or other signal source.

LOOP OUTThis is a male XLR-type connector that

produces exactly the same signal that isconnected to the MAIN INPUT jack. Use itto daisy-chain several SA1521s together offthe same signal source.

INTRODUCTIONthe high phase shift characteristics of largediameter woofers.

More importantly, the amplifier incorpo-rates the high-voltage output required togenerate extreme SPL levels. The SA1521also features a low-distortion, high-outputhorn design. This was developed to providethe correct power response and phase

alignment characteristicsat the crossover frequency.Ultra-wide, controlleddispersion performancecontinues to be one ofMackie Designs’ mostimportant engineeringgoals for sound reinforce-ment enclosures. With theresulting 75º x 65º disper-sion pattern, the SA1521provides very open, naturalsound reproduction atextreme output levels.

The rear mounted am-plifier assembly featuresseparate signal and ACpower panels separated by

a large aluminum heatsink. The signal in-put panel contains:

• an input XLR and loop through XLR• a volume level control• Power On indicator• Signal Present indicator• Limit indicator• Thermal protection indicatorThe system accepts a standard line-level

signal via an XLR input connector.The SA1521 cabinet is constructed using

both multi-layered plywood and pressure-injected structural resin caps. The top andbottom sections both have handles for easymovement and relocation.

Level ControlThis controls the overall signal level at the

input to the built-in power amplifiers. Thiscontrol ranges from –15 dB to +5 dB ofgain. The center detent is 0 dB (unity gain).

Power ON IndicatorWhen the power switch is turned on,

and the linecord is connected to an activeAC power supply, this indicator lights greento let you know that you’re ready to rockand roll. The cool blue LED on the front ofthe cabinet works in the same way.

Thank you for choosing a Mackie activesound reinforcement speaker system.

The SA1521 is a high-efficiency, extremeoutput, active two-way, wide dispersion,sound reinforcement speaker system. TheSA1521 benefits from the integration of500 watts of amplifier power, complete activecontrol electronics, and RCF Precision com-ponents. These elementstogether form a speakersystem with 100 dB ofsensitivity (@ 1 watt/1 meter). The result isunprecedented output,resolution and clarity.

The componentsinside the SA1521incorporate several stateof the art advancementsin transducer technology.These advancementshave been in develop-ment for over two years.The compression driveris a new 1.75-inchtitanium diaphragmdesign. It features a 3-slot, low-distortiongeometry phase plug. The amplifier for thecompression driver incorporates a Class ABtopology renowned for its clarity and warmth.

The low-frequency amplifier features aninnovative Class G hybrid topology. Byincorporating a high-frequency switcherinto the amplifier power supply design andfocusing the design effort into generatingthe best possible “application-specific”amplifier design, we arrived at a high-efficiency amplifier that delivers 400 wattsRMS (continuous), and 600 watts peak at100 Hz. It’s quite capable of dealing with

WARNING: THIS SURFACE MAY REACH HIGH TEMPERATURE DURING STANDARD USE. TO ENSURE PROPER OPERATION ALLOW A MINIMUM OF 6 INS.OF CLEARANCE FROM THIS SURFACE AND ADEQUATE VENTILATION. TO REDUCETHE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL OR ANY ATTACHEDCOMPONENT. NO OPERATOR SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TOQUALIFIED PERSONNEL. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOTEXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCKDO NOT OPEN

REPLACE WITH THE SAME TYPE FUSE AND RATING.DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE

UTILISE UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE DE MÊME TYPE.DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE

CAUTION

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE — NE PAS OUVRIR

SERIAL NUMBER MANUFACTURING DATE

ON

POWER

THERMAL

SIGNAL

LIMITLOOP OUT

MAIN INPUT

PARA

LLEL

0dB

-15 +5

SA1521

CONCEIVED AND DESIGNED BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC, WOODINVILLE, WA, USA AND MACKIE EUROPE • COPYRIGHT ©2001 •

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC.: "MACKIE", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE • PATENT PENDING

ACTIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENTSPEAKER SYSTEM

5

SIGNAL Present IndicatorThis LED illuminates whenever there is

a signal present at the MAIN INPUT connec-tor on the rear panel. It senses the signaljust after the Level control, so if the Levelcontrol is turned down, the SIGNAL Presentindicator turns off.

LIMIT IndicatorThe SA1521 has a built-in limiter that

prevents the amplifier outputs from clip-ping or overdriving the transducers. TheLIMIT indicator lights when the limiter isactivated. It’s okay for the LIMIT indicatorto blink occasionally, but if it blinks fre-quently or lights continuously, turn downthe level control until the LIMIT indicatoronly blinks occasionally.

THERMAL IndicatorThere is also a thermal protection circuit

that monitors the internal temperature of

HOOKUP DIAGRAM

1202-VLZPRO





CAUTION



ON

POWER

115V AC FUSE AC125V-T6.3A

POWER

THERMAL

SIGNAL

LIMITLOOP OUT

MAIN INPUT

PARA

LLEL

0dB

-15 +5

SA1521








CAUTION



ON

POWER


POWER

THERMAL

SIGNAL

LIMITLOOP OUT

MAIN INPUT

PARA

LLEL

0dB

-15 +5

SA1521








CAUTION



ON

POWER


POWER

THERMAL

SIGNAL

LIMITLOOP OUT

MAIN INPUT

PARA

LLEL

0dB

-15 +5

SA1521








CAUTION



ON

POWER


POWER

THERMAL

SIGNAL

LIMITLOOP OUT

MAIN INPUT

PARA

LLEL

0dB

-15 +5

SA1521




Mixer orPreamplifier

RightLine levelOutput

LeftLine levelOutput

To NextSpeaker

To NextSpeaker

DAISY-CHAINING MULTIPLE SA1521s

the amplifiers and heatsink. If the tempera-ture should exceed a safe operating level,this indicator lights and the signal is mutedto allow the amplifiers to cool. When thetemperature cools to a safe level once again,the thermal protection circuit deactivatesand normal operation continues.

Note: Activation of the thermal protectioncircuit is an indication that you should takesteps to avoid continued thermal problems.See “Thermal Considerations” on page 6.

Power SwitchUse this switch to turn the SA1521 on

and off. Make sure the level control isturned down before you turn it on.

AC ReceptacleThis is where you connect the AC linecord

to provide AC power for the built-in power am-plifiers. Plug the linecord into an AC socketproperly configured for your particular model.

CONNECTIONSThe SA1521 has one female XLR input

that accepts a balanced line-level signal.When connecting a balanced signal, be sureit’s wired per AES (Audio Engineering So-ciety) standards:

XLRHot (+) Pin 2Cold (–) Pin 3Shield (Ground) Pin 1 Balanced XLR Connectors

6

THERMALCONSIDERATIONS

The SA1521 has two powerful built-inamplifiers capable of producing a combined500 watts of power. As amplifiers produceheat, it is important to dissipate the heat asquickly as possible. This results in increasedreliability and longevity for the amplifier.

The amplifier module is mounted on alarge heatsink, which is cooled by convectionwhere cool air is drawn through it’s fins, car-rying the heat away. In order for thisconvection cooling to work efficiently, it isimportant to provide adequate airspace be-hind the loudspeaker. When you position theSA1521, we recommend leaving at least sixinches of air space behind it.

In the unlikely event of the amplifier over-heating, a built-in thermal switch willactivate, which mutes the signal and lightsthe THERMAL LED. When the amplifier hascooled down to a safe operating temperature,the thermal switch resets itself, and theSA1521 resumes normal operation.

If the thermal switch activates frequently,try turning down the level control a notch ortwo on the mixing console (or the back of theSA1521) to avoid overheating the amplifier.

If the temperature in the room is too high,it could cause the amplifier to overheat. Inthis case, you should try aiming a fan at therear panel to move more air through the fins.

age specified for your model. If the voltageshould drop below 97% of the specified linevoltage, the built-in amplifiers will no longerbe able to supply rated power. (They willcontinue to operate down to 80% of therated line voltage, but won’t reach full power,resulting in lower headroom.)

Be sure the electrical service can supplyenough amperage for all the componentsconnected to it.

We recommend that a stiff (robust) supplyof AC power be used because the amplifiersplace high current demands on the AC line.The more power that is available on the line,the louder the speakers will play and themore peak output power will be available forcleaner, punchier bass. A suspected problemof “poor bass performance” is often causedby a weak AC supply to the amplifiers.

CAUTION: Never remove the ground pinon the power cord of the SA1521 or anyother component. This is very dangerous.

There is also a male XLR connector la-beled LOOP OUT. This is also wiredaccording to the AES standard.

The LOOP OUT connector allows you toconnect more than one SA1521 to your sys-tem. Simply plug the signal source (i.e.,mixer output) into the first MAIN INPUTjack, and patch that speaker’s LOOP OUTjack to the next MAIN INPUT jack, and soon, daisy-chaining multiple speakers.

The LOOP OUT jack is wired straightfrom the MAIN INPUT connector — there isno electronic circuitry between — so thesignal coming out of the LOOP OUT jack isexactly the same as the signal going in.

PLACEMENTThe SA1521 speaker is designed to sit on

the floor or stage. It can be pole-mounted viathe built-in socket on the bottom of the cabinet.Be sure the pole is capable of supporting the100 lbs. weight of the SA1521.

WARNING: The cabi-net has no riggingpoints and is not suit-able for flying. NEVERattempt to suspend theSA1521 by its handles.

You can create a horizontal array by plac-ing the cabinets side-by-side. However, youshould have a good understanding of the re-lationship between the splay angle (theangle between the facing sides of the cabi-nets), the on-axis power, and frequencycancellation effects between cabinets.

When two cabinets are placed side-by-side, the actual splay angle is 20º (determinedby a 10º angle on each cabinet side). As thesplay angle increases toward the angle ofhorizontal coverage (75º for the SA1521),the on-axis power decreases, but the fre-quency response becomes smoother as thecomb-filtering effects (caused by the interac-tion in the area of double-coverage) decrease.

As with any poweredcomponents, protectthem from moisture. Ifyou are setting them upoutdoors, make surethey are under cover ifyou expect rain.

AC POWERBe sure the SA1521 is plugged into an

outlet that is able to supply the correct volt-

7

• Is the THERMAL indicator lit red on therear panel? Make sure there is at least sixinches of free space behind the SA1521.

Poor bass performance• Check the polarity of the connections

between the mixer and the loudspeak-ers. You may have your positive andnegative connections reversed at oneend of one cable, causing one loud-speaker to be out-of-phase.

Poor sound• Is it loud and distorted? Make sure that

you’re not overdriving a stage in thesignal chain. Verify that all level controlsare set properly.

• Is the input connector plugged com-pletely into the jack? Be sure allconnections are secure. It’s a good ideato periodically clean all electricalconnections with a non-lubricatingelectrical contact cleaner.

Noise• Make sure all connections to the active

loudspeakers are good and sound.• Make sure none of the signal cables are

routed near AC cables, power trans-formers, or other EMI-inducing devices.

• Is there a light dimmer or other SCR-based device on the same AC circuit asthe SA1521? Use an AC line filter orplug the SA1521 into a different ACcircuit.

Hum• Try disconnecting the cable connected

to the MAIN INPUT jack. If the noisedisappears, it could be a “ground loop,”rather than a problem with the SA1521.Try some of the following troubleshootingideas:

• Use balanced connections throughoutyour system for the best noise rejection.

• Whenever possible, plug all the audioequipment’s linecords into outlets whichshare a common ground. The distancebetween the outlets and the commonground should be as short as possible.

SERVICE INFORMATIONWarranty Service

If you think your loudspeaker has aproblem, please do everything you can toconfirm it before calling for service, includ-ing reading through the followingTroubleshooting section. Doing so mightsave you from being deprived of yourMackie loudspeaker.

Of all Mackie products returned for ser-vice (which is hardly any at all), many arecoded “CND” — Could Not Duplicate—which usually means the problem lay some-where else in the system. The followingtroubleshooting tips may sound obvious,but here are some things you can check:

Troubleshooting

No power• Our favorite question: Is it plugged in?

Make sure the AC outlet is live (checkwith a tester or lamp).

• Our next favorite question: Is thePOWER switch on? If not, try turningit on.

• Is the POWER LED on the rear panelglowing green? If not, make sure the ACoutlet is live. If so, refer to “No sound”below.

• The internal AC line fuse may be blown.This is not a user serviceable part. If yoususpect the AC line fuse is blown, pleasesee the REPAIR section next.

No sound• Is the input LEVEL control for the

input source turned all the way down?Verify that all the volume controls in thesystem are properly adjusted.

• Is the signal source working (and makingunion scale)? Make sure the connectingcables are in good repair and securelyconnected at both ends. Make sure theoutput volume (gain) control on themixing console is turned up sufficientlyto drive the inputs of the speaker.

• Make sure the mixer does not have aMute on or a Processor loop engaged. Ifyou find something like this, make surethe volume/gain is turned down beforedisengaging the offending switch.

8

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

environment, warm up the voice coilsslowly by sending a low-level signalthrough them for about 15 minutesprior to high-power operation.

• Use a slighty damp cloth with a mildsoap solution to clean the cabinets. Onlydo this when the power is turned off.Avoid getting moisture into any of theopenings of the cabinet, particularlywhere the drivers and amplifier assem-bly are located.

RepairService for the SA1521 is available only

from one of our authorized domestic ser-vice stations or at the factory service centerlocated in Whitinsville, Massachusetts.Service outside the United States can be ob-tained through local dealers or distributors.

If your SA1521 needs service, please fol-low these instructions:1. Review the preceding troubleshooting

suggestions. Please.2. Call Mackie Tech Support at 1-800-

898-3211, 7 AM to 5 PM PST, toexplain the problem in detail. They willask you all sorts of impertinent ques-tions in the hope of sorting out theproblem. If it appears that the SA1521needs repair, request an RA (ReturnAuthorization) number. Have yourloudspeaker’s serial number ready. Youmust have an RA number before youcan obtain service at the factory or anauthorized service center.

3. Keep this user’s manual and the detach-able linecord. We don’t need them torepair the loudspeaker.

4. Pack the loudspeaker in its originalpackaging, including protective wrap,endcaps, and box. This is very impor-tant. When you call for the RA number,please let Tech Support know if youneed new packaging. LOUD Technolo-gies is not responsible for any damagethat 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 prob-lem, including how we can duplicate it.

6. Write the RA number in BIG PRINTon top of the box.

7. Ship the loudspeaker to us. We suggestinsurance for all forms of cartage. Shipto this address:

MACKIESERVICE DEPARTMENT

Building #11One Main Street

Whitinsville, MA 01588

8. We’ll try to fix the loudspeaker in threeto five business days. Ask Tech Supportfor current turnaround times when youcall for your RA number. The productMUST be packaged in its originalpacking box and have the RMA numberappear on the box. Once it is repaired,we’ll ship it back to you the same way inwhich it was received. This paragraphdoes not necessarily apply to non-warranty service.

Your Mackie loudspeak-ers will provide manyyears of reliable serviceif you follow theseguidelines:

• Avoid exposing the loudspeakers tomoisture. If they are set up outdoors, besure they are under cover if you expectrain.

• Avoid exposure to extreme cold (belowfreezing temperatures). If you mustoperate the loudspeakers in a cold

9

SA1521 SPECIFICATIONSSystem Specifications

Frequency Range (–10 dB):49 Hz–20 kHz

Frequency Response (–3 dB):57 Hz–18 kHz

Horz. Coverage Angle (–6 dB):75° averaged 1 kHz to 6 kHz

Vert. Coverage Angle (–6 dB):65° averaged 1 kHz to 6 kHz

Sensitivity (1W@1m):100 dB

Maximum SPL Long-term:130 dB @ 1m

Maximum SPL Peak:133 dB @ 1m

Crossover Point:1300 Hz

TransducersLow Frequency

Diameter: 15 in/381mmHigh Frequency

Diaphragm Diameter: 1.75 in/44mmDiaphragm Material: TitaniumExit Throat: 1.00 in/28.4mm

HornType: Constant DirectivityMouth Size: 10.6˝ x 10.6˝

(27 x 27 cm)Throat Size: 1.0˝ (2.54 cm)

Volume ControlRotating Knob: –15 to +5 dB

(0 dB detent)

AmplifiersLow Frequency:

Rated Output*: 400 watts RMScontinuous

Rated THD:

10

Architects and Engineers’ SpecificationsThermal protection shall be provided by

a thermal sensor mounted on the heatsink,which monitors the heatsink temperatureand triggers the thermal protection circuitshould the temperature exceed 140º F(60º C). The thermal LED shall light andthe input signal shall be muted until theheatsink cools to a safe operating level, atwhich point the thermal protection circuitauto-resets and normal operation resumes.

Overload protection shall be provided bya limiter circuit, which monitors the low-frequency amplifier output and reduces theinput level to the amplifier should the am-plifier output begin to clip.

The loudspeaker enclosure shall have atrapezoidal shape and shall incorporate twoside handles and a top and bottom relocationhandle. The enclosure shall be constructedof a combination multi-ply wood and high-pressure injected structural resin, with a blackPVC vinyl finish. The front of the loudspeakershall be covered with a powder coated,weather-resistant perforated steel grille.

The active two-way full-range loudspeakersystem shall be a Mackie SA1521.

Dimensions

32.0 in/81.3 cm

13.9 in/35.3 cm

18.1 in/46.0 cm

19.1 in/48.5 cm

19.1 in/48.5 cm





CAUTION



ON

POWER


POWER

THERMAL

SIGNAL

LIMITLOOP OUT

MAIN INPUT

PARA

LLEL

0dB

-15 +5

SA1521




FREQUENCY RESPONSE GRAPH

The active two-way, full-range loudspeakersystem shall incorporate one 15-inchlow-frequency (LF) transducer and a 1-inchexit compression driver high-frequency(HF) transducer. The LF driver shall bemounted in a vented enclosure tuned foroptimum low-frequency response. The HFtransducer shall be loaded on a symmetricalconstant directivity horn.

The system shall have a nominal coveragepattern of 75° (horizontal) x 65° (vertical).System frequency response shall vary nomore than ± 3 dB from 57Hz to 18kHzmeasured on axis. The loudspeaker shall in-corporate a Class G low-frequency amplifiercapable of delivering 400 watts RMS over afrequency range of 20Hz–1300Hz. The sys-tem shall incorporate a Class AB 100 wattRMS amplifier specifically designed to powerthe HF driver over the range of 1300Hz –20kHz. The amplifiers shall be mounted onan aluminum heatsink, which shall bemounted on the rear of the speaker system,and shall be convection cooled.

11

SA1521 LIMITED WARRANTY

4. If the Authorized Mackie Service Center is lo-cated in another city, pack the loudspeaker in itsoriginal shipping carton. More information onpacking can be found in the Service section ofthis manual.5. Contact the Authorized Mackie Service Centerto arrange service or bring the loudspeaker to them.

F. LOUD Technologies and Authorized Mackie Ser-vice Centers reserve the right to inspect anyproducts that may be the subject of any warrantyclaims before repair or replacement is carried out.LOUD Technologies and Authorized Mackie ServiceCenters may, at their option, require proof of theoriginal date of purchase in the form of a dated copyof the original dealer’s invoice or sales receipt. Finaldetermination of warranty coverage lies solely withLOUD Technologies or its Authorized Service Centers.G. Mackie loudspeakers returned to LOUD Tech-nologies and deemed eligible for repair orreplacement under the terms of this warranty will berepaired or replaced within thirty days of receipt byLOUD Technologies. LOUD Technologies may userefurbished parts for repair or replacement of anyproduct. Products returned to LOUD Technologiesthat do not meet the terms of this Warranty will berepaired and returned C.O.D. with billing for labor,materials, return freight, and insurance. Products re-paired under warranty at the factory will be returnedfreight prepaid by LOUD Technologies to any loca-tion within the boundaries of the USA.H. LOUD Technologies warrants all repairs per-formed on Mackie products for 90 days or for theremainder of the original warranty period. LOUDTechnologies assumes no responsibility for the qual-ity or timeliness of repairs performed by AuthorizedMackie Service Centers.I. This warranty is extended to the original purchaserand to anyone who may subsequently purchase thisproduct within the applicable warranty period.J. This is your sole warranty. LOUD Technologiesdoes not authorize any third party, including anydealer or sales representative, to assume any liabilityon behalf of LOUD Technologies or to make anywarranty for LOUD Technologies Inc.K. THE WARRANTY GIVEN ON THIS PAGE IS THESOLE WARRANTY GIVEN BY LOUD TECHNOLOGIESAND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,EXPRESS AND IMPLIED, INCLUDING THEWARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY ANDFITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THEWARRANTY GIVEN ON THIS PAGE SHALL BESTRICTLY LIMITED IN DURATION TO FIVE YEARSFROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE FROMAN AUTHORIZED MACKIE DEALER. UPONEXPIRATION OF THE APPLICABLE WARRANTYPERIOD, LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC. SHALLHAVE NO FURTHER WARRANTY OBLIGATIONOF ANY KIND. LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL,SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGESTHAT MAY RESULT FROM ANY DEFECT IN THEMACKIE PRODUCT OR ANY WARRANTY CLAIM.Some states do not allow exclusion or limitationof incidental, special, or consequential damagesor a limitation on how long warranties last, sosome of the above limitations and exclusions maynot apply to you. This warranty provides specificlegal rights and you may have other rights whichvary from state to state.

Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.

A. LOUD Technologies Inc. warrants all materials,workmanship and proper operation of this MackieSA1521 for a period of five years from the originaldate of purchase, with the following exception:warranty on all its loudspeaker components includ-ing woofers and compression drivers are onlywarranted for two years. If any defects are found inthe materials or workmanship or if the product failsto function properly during the applicable warrantyperiod, LOUD Technologies, at its option, will repairor replace the product. This warranty applies onlyto equipment sold and delivered within the U.S. byLOUD Technologies Inc. or its authorized dealers.B. Failure to register online or return the productregistration card will not void the five-year warranty.C. Service and repairs of Mackie products are to beperformed only at the factory (see D below) OR atan Authorized Mackie Service Center (see E below).Unauthorized service, repairs, or modification willvoid this warranty.D. To obtain factory service:

1. Call Mackie Service at 800/898-3211, 7 AMto 5 PM Monday through Friday (Pacific Time)to get a Return Authorization (RA). Products re-turned without an RA number will be refused.2. Pack the SA1521 in its original shipping car-ton. If you do not have the carton, just ask forone when you get your RA number, and we’llsend a shipping carton out promptly. More infor-mation on packing can be found in the Servicesection of this manual. Also include a note ex-plaining exactly how to duplicate the problem, acopy of the sales receipt with price and dateshowing, and your return street address (no P.O.boxes or route numbers, please!). If we cannotduplicate the problem or establish the startingdate of your Limited Warranty, we may, at ouroption, charge for service time.3. Ship the product in its original shipping car-ton, freight prepaid to:

MACKIESERVICE DEPARTMENT

One Main StreetWhitinsville, MA, 01588, USA

IMPORTANT: Make sure that the RA number isplainly written on the shipping carton.E. To obtain service from an Authorized MackieService Center:

1. Call Mackie Service at 800/898-3211, 7 AMto 5 PM Monday through Friday (Pacific Time)to get: 1) The name and address of your nearestAuthorized Mackie Service Center and 2) A re-turn authorization (RA). You must have an RAnumber before taking your unit to a servicecenter.2. Make sure that you have a copy of yourloudspeaker’s sales receipt from the store whereyou bought the product. It is necessary to establishpurchase date and thus determine whether or notyour loudspeaker is still under warranty. If you can’tfind it, the Authorized Service Center may chargeyou for repairs even if your loudspeaker is stillcovered by the Five-Year Limited Warranty.3. Make sure that the problem can be duplicated.If you bring your loudspeaker to an AuthorizedService Center and they can’t find anythingwrong with it, you may be charged a service fee.

16220 Wood-Red Road NE • Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA

US 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]

http://www.mackie.com

ContentsSAFETY INSTRUCTIONS INTRODUCTION REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION HOOKUP DIAGRAM CONNECTIONS PLACEMENT AC POWER THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS SERVICE INFORMATION Warranty ServiceTroubleshootingRepair

CARE AND MAINTENANCE SA1521 SPECIFICATIONS Architects and Engineers’ Specifications

FREQUENCY RESPONSE GRAPH SA1521 LIMITED WARRANTY

Documents

SA1521 2-Way Active Speaker System User's Manual · 500 watts of amplifier power, complete active control electronics, and RCF Precision com-ponents. These elements together form