Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (8)
$99.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$99.99
Amazon
4.6 (291)
$99.99 New
$87.58 Used (Like New)
B&H
5.0 (2)
$99.99

Average Price: $100

Budget/Beginner

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Mackie CR Series Monitors". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock the full potential of your studio setup with the Mackie CR Series Monitors, a harmonious blend of precision engineering and user-friendly design. These versatile studio monitors are crafted for musicians who demand nothing less than professional-quality sound. The Class D power amplifier delivers a robust 50W peak output, ensuring your mixes are vibrant and clear, whether you're in a dedicated studio or a cozy home setup.

With a wide frequency range of 70Hz to 20kHz, these monitors provide an authentic and detailed soundscape, perfect for both critical listening and casual playback. The onboard tone control knob allows you to tailor the sound to your liking, effortlessly switching from a flat studio reference to a more colorful listening experience. The CR Series Monitors are equipped with multiple input options, including TRS, RCA, and 3.5mm, making them adaptable to any audio setup you might have.

These monitors not only promise superior sound but also offer intuitive features like switchable orientation modes, ensuring optimal performance no matter where you place them. Plus, the included cables mean you can start enjoying the Mackie CR Series Monitors right out of the box.

Key Features:

  • Class D power amplifier with 50W peak output
  • Frequency range of 70Hz to 20kHz for crystal-clear audio
  • Adjustable tone control knob for customizable sound
  • Multiple input options: TRS, RCA, and 3.5mm
  • Switchable orientation modes for versatile placement
  • Includes speaker wires, power cable, and 1/8-inch cables for immediate setup

Product specs

Powered Yes
Quantity Pair
LF Driver Size 3.5" Woofer
Total Power 50W Class D
Frequency Range 70Hz-20kHz (-3dB)
Maximum Peak SPL 97dB SPL
Input Types 2 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x Dual RCA Stereo, 1 x Bare Wire Terminal, 1 x 1/8"
Output Types 1 x Bare Wire Terminal, 1 x 1/4" (headphone)
Bluetooth v5.0
Power Source IEC C7 power cable
Height 8.1"
Width 7.1"
Depth 5.5"
Weight 7.8 lbs. (each)

FAQs

Are the Mackie CR3.5 studio monitors suitable for home studio mixing?

Yes, the Mackie CR3.5 studio monitors are ideal for home studio mixing, offering a balanced frequency response of 70Hz-20kHz and a 50W Class D amplifier for clear, articulate sound.

Can I connect the Mackie CR3.5 monitors to my computer via Bluetooth?

Yes, the Mackie CR3.5 monitors support Bluetooth v5.0, allowing you to wirelessly connect them to your computer or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

What are the input options available on the Mackie CR3.5 monitors?

The Mackie CR3.5 monitors offer multiple input options, including 2 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x Dual RCA Stereo, 1 x Bare Wire Terminal, and 1 x 1/8" input for versatile connectivity.

Can I use the Mackie CR3.5 monitors for gaming and multimedia purposes?

Absolutely, the Mackie CR3.5 monitors are designed for versatile use, including gaming and multimedia, with features like tone control and a headphone output for immersive audio experiences.

How does the tone control feature on the Mackie CR3.5 monitors work?

The tone control on the Mackie CR3.5 monitors allows you to shape the sound by gradually boosting bass and adding high-end sparkle, making them adaptable for different listening environments and preferences.

MackieTV

MackieTV

Mackie CR Series Monitors - Basic setup

Video thumbnail for Mackie CR Series Monitors - Basic setup by MackieTV

Mackie CR Series Monitors - Basic setup

MackieTV

MackieTV

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mackie CR Series Monitors.

Comparisons

  • The Mackie CR3-X is considered boomy and unclear, especially with guitar frequencies, compared to other monitors in the same price range.

    Source
  • Compared to M-Audio BX3, Mackie CR3-X has a reputation for breaking frequently, influencing some to perceive M-Audio as higher quality.

    Source
  • The Edifier R1280DB is considered a better-sounding alternative to the Mackie CR4BT, with a less flat sound profile, making it more suited for general listening.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the Mackie CR3-X is not suitable for monitoring purposes as Mackie themselves describe them as just speakers, not true monitors.

    Source
  • Users suggest waiting for sales like Prime Day to find better deals on models like the Edifier R1280DB, highlighting price sensitivity and value-seeking behavior.

    Source
  • The CR5-X pair is reported to match well with the Mackie CR8S subwoofer, providing a cohesive audio experience for both casual listening and music production.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some owners suggest saving for higher-end monitors like the Kali LP6, which provide a better frequency response and clarity than the budget CR3-X.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For basic reference or general listening, the Mackie CR3-X may suffice, but they are not recommended for critical mixing or monitoring tasks.

    Source
  • Owners find that the 5" woofers in the CR5-X provide better sound coverage for larger rooms, making them suitable for spaces around 25 m².

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Mackie CR4BT offers Bluetooth capabilities, appealing to users seeking wireless connectivity for music and gaming applications on desktops and laptops.

    Source
  • The Mackie CR5-X monitors produce a barely audible high-frequency hiss, noticeable during quiet hours, which persists despite using high-quality TRS cables.

    Source
  • The CR5-X includes isolation pads, which can enhance sound clarity and accuracy, particularly useful in hobby music-making settings.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Optical outputs are discussed as a superior option for reducing noise in desktop setups, which the Mackie CR4BT may not support natively.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Mackie CR3 Review

noaudiophile.com

The Mackie CR3 Multimedia Monitors are a letdown for anyone seeking quality audio. Despite their popularity, these speakers are marred by flaws. The upper bass is overpowering, while the lower bass is practically non-existent, leading to an unbalanced sound profile. Treble is overly bright and cone breakup results in harsh sounds. The design feels over-engineered in some areas and under-engineered in others, with a questionable crossover setup. While the treble improves with corrections, the mid-bass issues persist. For those intent on using the CR3s, adding a subwoofer or utilizing DSP corrections may be necessary. Overall, these monitors fall short, especially for professional use.

negative

Mackie CR3-X studio monitors review - Higher Hz

higherhz.com

The Mackie CR3-X monitors are a budget-friendly option for beginners and casual users, offering affordability and a compact design. While they're suitable for desktop setups or gaming, their lack of low-end and harsh treble make them unsuitable for any serious music production. Despite some redeeming qualities, like their mobile recording capability, these monitors fall short for professional audio mixing.

We have tested the Mackie CR3 studio monitor! - Perfect Acoustic

perfectacoustic.co.uk

The Mackie CR3 studio monitors strike a balance between affordability and functionality, making them a solid choice for small studios or multimedia setups. With front-panel inputs and a compact design, they are user-friendly and convenient for tight spaces. However, their manufacturing quality and bass response leave room for improvement compared to pricier alternatives. While the mids and highs are clear, the bass is lacking, suggesting a subwoofer might be necessary for bass enthusiasts. The design is rugged yet basic, and longevity could be an issue. Overall, the CR3 offers decent sound for its price, but those seeking higher performance might consider other options.

4.0 out of 5

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