Mackie HD 1801 User Manual

HD1801  
18” Powered Subwoofer  
O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L  
Contents  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
CONTENTS  
2
3
3
3
4
8
11  
12  
14  
THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS  
AC POWER  
CARE AND MAINTENANCE  
APPENDIX A: SERVICE INFORMATION  
APPENDIX B: CONNECTIONS  
APPENDIX C: TECHNICAL INFORMATION  
HD1801 GRAPHS AND DIMENSIONS  
HD1801 BLOCK DIAGRAM  
14  
14  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
FEATURES  
INTRODUCTION  
HOOKUP DIAGRAMS  
REAR PANEL FEATURES  
INS AND OUTS OF POLARITY  
RIGGING  
PLACEMENT  
HD1801 LIMITED WARRANTY  
Features  
Introduction  
1600W of ultra-efficient Class-D Fast  
Recovery™ amplification  
Thank you for choosing the Mackie HD1801  
subwoofer. Mackie HD Series Powered Subwoofers  
provide intense low-frequency extension and punch to  
any Mackie full-range system. Designed and tuned by  
the experts at EAW, HD1801 subs deliver 1600W peak  
power via high-output 18” drivers custom-designed for  
optimal pairing with Mackie full-range loudspeakers.  
The HD1801 incorporates Mackie-standard professional  
components like efficient Class-D Fast Recovery™  
amplifiers and system-optimizing Active electronics so  
that everything sounds great right out of the box.  
800W RMS / 1600W peak power  
133 dB SPL max output (peak @ 1m)  
35 Hz - 145 Hz operating range  
18” high-output woofer with 4” voice coil  
Active electronics provide complete system  
optimization  
Symmetrical Linkwitz-Riley crossover  
(100 Hz, 24 dB/octave)  
Precision tuning filters for ultra-accurate  
bass reproduction  
Phase alignment to perfectly complement  
Mackie full-range loudspeakers  
Premium circuitry includes a symmetrical Linkwitz-  
Riley crossover, precision tuning filters and user-friendly  
features like high pass outputs for stereo operation with  
a single sub. The 15mm birch plywood enclosures  
feature a ported, direct-radiating design for chest-  
pounding punch. Pair the HD1801 with any Mackie  
full-range loudspeaker for an extremely powerful and  
fully high-definition PA solution.  
Ported, direct-radiating design for maximum  
punch and low-frequency extension  
Designed and tuned by Eastern Acoustic Works  
Dual XLR inputs, full-range and high-pass  
outputs for mono or stereo setups  
Level control and polarity invert switch with  
LED indicator  
Paired with a Mackie HD Series loudspeaker, you have  
a complete (and completely affordable) “plug and play”  
system that is ideal for small clubs, DJs and rehearsal  
spaces. The HD1801 has both full-range and high-pass  
stereo outputs for connection to full-range top boxes.  
Just dial in the appropriate level and use the polarity  
switch to make sure the sub is in phase with the  
loudspeakers. The integrated pole-cup can  
Signal / limit and thermal LED indicators  
Integrated protection and limiting circuitry  
Rugged all-wood cabinet (15mm birch plywood)  
Pole mount receptacle for mounting full-range  
speaker  
12 integrated M10 flypoints  
Compact and lightweight (106 lb / 48.1 kg)  
accommodate a standard mounting pole, so your  
favorite speaker has a nice place to sit. You can fly it  
using the integrated M10 flypoints. Or you can just stack  
your full-range box right on top of the sub...the HD1801  
ain’t picky.  
So if you are looking for an extremely powerful,  
affordable PA setup that is simple to use, then you’re in  
the right place. Read on to learn everything you could  
possibly want to know about your new subwoofer.  
3
Owner’s Manual  
Part No. SW0822 Rev. B 01/10  
©2004-2010 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.  
Hookup Diagrams  
SRM450v2  
reproduces all  
frequencies  
SRM450v2  
reproduces all  
frequencies  
above the  
above the  
subwoofer’s  
crossover point  
subwoofer’s  
crossover point  
Line-level  
Line-level  
High Pass  
output B  
High Pass  
output A  
Power  
Cord  
Power  
Cord  
HD1801  
input B  
Left  
HD1801  
input A  
line level  
output  
Right  
line level  
output  
HD1801 subwoofer  
reproduces the  
low frequencies  
Power  
Cord  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9-10  
11-12  
1
2
3
4
CFX12mkII  
Mixer  
This diagram shows the left and right line level outputs of a Mackie CFX12mkII mixer feeding inputs  
A and B of one Mackie HD1801 subwoofer. Two SRM450v2 loudspeaker inputs are fed from the A and  
B High Pass outputs from the subwoofer. Experiment with the HD1801s polarity switch to achieve  
optimum performance. Placement of the subwoofer relative to the full-range loudspeakers will also affect  
performance. See page 10 for more information.  
HD1801: 3-WAY SYSTEM - MONO SUBWOOFER WITH SRM450V2 LOUDSPEAKERS  
4
HD1801  
HD1521 reproduces  
all frequencies  
HD1521 reproduces  
all frequencies  
above the subwoofer’s  
crossover point  
above the subwoofer’s  
crossover point  
Line-level  
High Pass  
output B  
Power  
Cord  
Line-level  
High Pass  
output A  
Power  
Cord  
HD1801  
input B  
Right  
line level  
output  
HD1801  
input A  
Left  
line level  
output  
HD1801 subwoofer  
reproduces the  
low frequencies  
Power  
Cord  
1604-VLZ3  
Mixer  
This diagram shows the left line level output of a Mackie 1604-VLZ3 mixer feeding input A of one  
Mackie HD1801 subwoofer. Two HD1521 loudspeaker inputs are fed from the A and B High Pass  
outputs from the subwoofer. Experiment with the HD1801s polarity switch to achieve optimum  
performance. Placement of the subwoofer relative to the full-range loudspeakers will also affect  
performance. See page 10 for more information.  
HD1801: 3-WAY SYSTEM - MONO SUBWOOFER WITH HD1521 LOUDSPEAKERS  
5
Owner’s Manual  
HD1531  
reproduces all  
frequencies  
above the  
HD1531  
reproduces all  
frequencies  
above the  
subwoofer’s  
crossover point  
subwoofer’s  
crossover point  
Line-level  
High Pass  
output A  
Line-level  
High Pass  
output B  
Pole  
Pole  
Power  
Cord  
Power  
Cord  
Mount  
Mount  
HD1801  
input A  
HD1801  
input B  
Left  
Right  
line level  
output  
line level  
output  
HD1801 subwoofer  
reproduces the  
low frequencies  
HD1801 subwoofer  
reproduces the  
low frequencies  
Power  
Cords  
Power  
Cords  
Onyx 1620i  
Mixer  
This diagram shows the left and right line level outputs of a Mackie Onyx 1620i mixer feeding input A  
of two Mackie HD1801 subwoofers. The High Pass output A of each subwoofer then feeds the input of  
each Mackie HD1531 loudspeaker. Be sure to engage the Polarity Invert switch on the HD1801  
subwoofers to optimize performance. See page 10 for more information.  
HD1801: STEREO 4-WAY SYSTEM WITH HD1531 LOUDSPEAKERS  
6
HD1801  
Straps  
Straps  
HD1531  
reproduces all  
frequencies  
above the  
HD1531  
reproduces all  
frequencies  
above the  
subwoofers’  
crossover point  
subwoofers’  
crossover point  
Power  
Cord  
Power  
Cord  
Line level  
High Pass  
output A  
Line level  
High Pass  
output A  
to HD1801  
input A  
to HD1801  
input A  
Power  
Power  
Cord  
Cord  
to HD1801  
inputs A  
Power  
Cord  
Power  
Cord  
Left  
Right  
line level  
output  
line level  
output  
Full Range  
output A  
Full Range  
output A  
HD1801 subwoofers  
reproduce the low  
frequencies  
HD1801 subwoofers  
reproduce the low  
frequencies  
Onyx 1640i  
Mixer  
This diagram shows the left and right line level outputs of a Mackie Onyx 1640i mixer feeding input  
A of two Mackie HD1801 subwoofers. The Full Range output A of each subwoofer then feeds input A of  
another pair of Mackie HD1801 subwoofers. The High Pass output A of these subwoofers then feed the  
input of each Mackie HD1531 loudspeaker. Be sure to engage the Polarity Invert switch on the HD1801  
subwoofers to optimize performance. See page 10 for more information.  
NOTE: It is highly recommended that you use straps to secure your loudspeakers for stacked scenarios  
such as this one. Be sure to loop a strap through each handle going down each side of the cabinet setup,  
as shown above.  
HD1801: STEREO 4-WAY SYSTEM WITH HD1531 LOUDSPEAKERS AND DUAL SUBWOOFERS  
7
Owner’s Manual  
Rear Panel Features  
OUTPUTS  
FULL RANGE  
A
A
B
B
10  
THERMAL  
SETTINGS  
HD1801  
5
18 -INCH HIGH DEFINITION POWERED SUBWOOFER  
POWER  
LIGHT ON  
SIG/ LIMIT  
INPUTS  
HIGH PASS  
A
B
9
7
6
POLARITY  
INVERT  
4
- 6dB  
+6dB  
LEVEL  
3
8
SERIAL NUMBER  
REVISION  
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE  
NE PAS OUVRIR  
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR  
MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.  
POWER  
ON  
2
1
2. POWER  
1. IEC AC Receptacle  
Use this switch to turn the HD1801 on and off. The  
LED above the switch will illuminate when powered on.  
The front panel LED will also turn on, but only if the  
POWER LIGHT ON switch (7) is engaged. Press the  
bottom of this switch to turn the subwoofer off.  
This jack accepts the supplied 3-prong AC power cord.  
Before you plug the AC power cord into the  
powered subwoofer, make sure that the  
voltage of your unit is the same voltage as your  
local AC mains supply. Use only the power  
cord supplied. Also, disconnecting the plug’s ground pin  
is dangerous. Don’t do it.  
As a general guide, powered subwoofers  
should be turned on after the mixer and other  
sources, but prior to full-range speakers.  
Additionally, they should also be powered off  
after the tops, but before the mixer and other sources.  
This will reduce the possibility of any turn-on, or turn-  
off thumps in your speakers.  
8
HD1801  
OUTPUTS  
FULL RANGE  
A
A
B
B
SETTINGS  
10  
5
HD1801  
THERMAL  
18 -INCH HIGH DEFINITION POWERED SUBWOOFER  
POWER  
LIGHT ON  
SIG/ LIMIT  
INPUTS  
HIGH PASS  
7
6
9
A
B
POLARITY  
INVERT  
4
3
-
6dB  
+6dB  
LEVEL  
8
3. INPUTS  
5. FULL RANGE OUTPUTS  
These female XLR connectors accept balanced  
line-level signals from a mixing console or other signal  
source.  
Balanced XLR male connectors are provided for the  
line-level A and B full-range outputs. Connect these  
outputs to the inputs of another powered subwoofer,  
main powered loudspeakers, or to an amplifier powering  
passive loudspeakers.  
If you are connecting a single subwoofer output, or  
LFE (low-frequency effects) output to the subwoofer,  
you may use either the A or B input connector.  
The signal at these outputs is a direct copy of the  
input signals. These outputs allow you to daisy-chain  
multiple subwoofers, and/or send the full-range signals  
to the main loudspeakers.  
CAUTION: NEVER connect the output of an  
amplifier directly to the input of the  
subwoofer. This could damage the input  
circuitry of the powered subwoofer.  
The level control and polarity switch have no effect  
on the full-range outputs. The outputs are separate and  
maintain the stereo separation of the input signals.  
4. HIGH PASS OUTPUTS  
Balanced XLR male connectors are provided for the  
line-level A and B high-pass outputs. The subwoofer’s  
internal active crossover splits the input signals into  
two frequency bands. The low frequency range below  
100 Hz goes to the internal amplifier that powers the  
subwoofer. The frequency range above 100 Hz is sent to  
these line-level output jacks.  
6. POLARITY INVERT  
Press this switch in to invert subwoofer polarity.  
Depending on the placement of the HD1801 subwoofer  
relative to the full-range speakers, you may get a better  
low-frequency response if you invert the polarity of the  
subwoofer’s signal. See page 11 for more information.  
Connect these outputs to the inputs of your main  
powered loudspeakers, or to the inputs of the amplifier  
powering the main loudspeakers. In this way, the main  
loudspeakers will play the range above 100 Hz. If the  
main loudspeakers have good low-frequency response,  
then you may decide to use the full-range outputs (5)  
instead.  
7. POWER LIGHT ON  
Press this switch in to turn on the front panel power  
LED if a visual indicator is preferred. The LED next to  
the switch will light as a reminder.  
If this switch is out, and the HD1801 is turned on, the  
LED on the front of the cabinet will not light, nor will  
the LED next to the switch.  
The level control and polarity switch have no effect  
on the high-pass outputs. The outputs are separate and  
maintain the stereo separation of the input signals.  
8. LEVEL  
This controls the overall signal level at the input to  
the built-in power amplifier. It ranges from –6 dB to  
+6 dB of gain. The center detent is 0 dB (unity gain).  
This control has no effect on the level of the High  
Pass Outputs (4) or the Full Range Outputs (5).  
9
Owner’s Manual  
OUTPUTS  
FULL RANGE  
A
A
B
B
SETTINGS  
10  
5
HD1801  
THERMAL  
18 -INCH HIGH DEFINITION POWERED SUBWOOFER  
POWER  
LIGHT ON  
SIG/ LIMIT  
INPUTS  
HIGH PASS  
7
6
9
A
B
POLARITY  
INVERT  
4
3
-
6dB  
+6dB  
LEVEL  
8
9. SIG/LIMIT LED  
10. THERMAL LED  
This bi-color LED illuminates green whenever there is  
a signal present at the main inputs. It senses the signal  
just after the level control, so adjustments to the level  
control will affect the sig/limit indicator.  
The HD1801 is equipped with a thermal protection  
circuit that monitors the internal temperature of the  
amplifier and heatsink. If the temperature begins to  
exceed a safe operating level, this indicator lights and  
the amplifier output is limited to allow the amplifier to  
cool. If the amplifier becomes excessively hot, the amp is  
muted until it cools, then the HD1801 returns to normal  
operation.  
The HD1801 has a built-in limiter that helps to pre-  
vent the amplifier outputs from clipping or overdriving  
the transducer. The sig/limit indicator lights in yellow  
when the limiter is activated. It’s okay for it to blink  
yellow occasionally, but if it blinks frequently or lights  
continuously, turn down the input level until it only  
blinks occasionally.  
When the HD1801 is in thermal protect mode, the  
power LED (2) will remain lit, indicating that the unit  
is still powered on despite the lack of output. If POWER  
LIGHT ON (7) is engaged, the front panel power LED  
will go out when in thermal protect mode.  
Excessive limiting may lead to  
overheating, which in turn trips the thermal  
protect circuitry and interrupts the  
Activation of the thermal protection circuit  
is an indication that you should take steps  
to avoid continued thermal problems. See  
“Thermal Considerations” on page 14.  
performance. See ‘Thermal Considerations’ on  
page 14 for more information.  
10  
HD1801  
The Ins and Outs of Polarity  
Mackie’s HD-Series Powered Subwoofers include a  
switch that allows you to quickly invert the polarity of  
the subwoofer’s output relative to the input signal it is  
receiving from the mixer or other sound source. But  
what exactly does that mean? A subwoofer works by lit-  
erally pumping air as the woofer cone moves in and out  
The polarity invert switch comes into play when the  
HD1801 subwoofer is paired with a loudspeaker. Ideally,  
the woofer cones of the subwoofer and full-range loud-  
speaker would work together by pushing and pulling in  
unison. HD-Series subwoofers are designed to be used  
in a broad range of applications, and with a wide variety  
with respect to the cabinet in which it is housed. It does of full-range loudspeakers. The flexibility provided by  
so according to the low-frequency portion of the signal it the polarity switch is necessary to ensure that you are  
receives from the sound source.  
receiving the best possible sound from your system,  
regardless of your setup.  
The woofer cone is simply following the waveform  
as seen in the sine wave in Figure 1. As the sine wave  
rises, the woofer cone pushes out. Likewise, as the sine  
wave falls, the woofer cone pulls into the cabinet. A  
Listed below are some recommended configurations  
for pairing a Mackie HD-Series subwoofer (using the  
High-Pass output) with a Mackie full-range  
musical signal is much more complex, of course, but the loudspeaker. These settings are a good start, but be sure  
same principle applies. Movement of the woofer cone  
causes air pressure changes that we perceive as sound.  
to experiment to find the best sound for your venue. The  
loudspeakers may be stacked, pole-mounted, or flown.  
When the Polarity Invert switch [6] is engaged, the  
original waveform is simply reversed 180º (see Figure  
2). Again, the subwoofer cone follows the waveform.  
However, this time the woofer cone starts by pulling into  
the cabinet followed by the woofer cone pushing out. If  
you have ever experimented with a subwoofer polarity  
switch, you may not have noticed any changes to the  
sound regardless of its position, especially if you are  
listening to just the subwoofer. This is normal, as our  
ears perceive them both as the same.  
HD-Series full-range loudspeakers - Engage the  
Polarity Invert switch on the HD1801.  
SRM450v2 full-range loudspeakers - Disengage the  
Polarity Invert switch on the HD1801. Engage the  
Low Cut Filter switch on the SRM450v2 loudspeaker.  
In alternate setups where the full-range loudspeakers  
are not co-located with the subwoofers or are not  
connected to the HD-Series subwoofer’s High-Pass  
outputs, you will need to experiment with the Polarity  
Invert switch to determine which setting gives you the  
desired bass response for your application.  
< - - T i m e - - >  
< - - T i m e - - >  
Figure 1  
Figure 2  
11  
Owner’s Manual  
Rigging Hardware and Accessories  
Rigging  
Rigging Mackie subwoofers will invariably require  
hardware not supplied by Mackie. Various types of  
load-rated hardware are available from a variety of  
third-party sources. There are a number of such  
companies specializing in manufacturing hardware for,  
designing, and installing rigging systems. Each one of  
these tasks is a discipline in its own right. Because of  
the hazardous nature of rigging work and the potential  
liability, engage companies that specialize in these  
disciplines to do the work required.  
HD1801s may be individually flown using M10 x 1.5 x  
37 mm forged shoulder eyebolts.  
WARNING: Installation should only be done  
by an experienced technician. Improper  
installation may result in damage to the  
equipment, injury or death. Make sure that the  
subwoofer is installed in a stable and secure way in  
order to avoid any conditions that may be dangerous for  
persons or structures.  
Mackie does offer certain accessory rigging items,  
primarily for attachment to the hardware integral with  
the subwoofer. Some items, such as eyebolts, may be  
used with a variety of products. While these accessories  
are intended to facilitate installation, the wide variety of  
possible installation conditions and array configurations  
do not permit Mackie to determine their suitability or  
load rating for any particular application.  
WARNING: The cabinet is only suitable for  
rigging via its fly points. NEVER attempt to  
suspend the HD1801 by its handles.  
Rigging Design Practices  
Rigging a subwoofer requires determining:  
1. The rigging methods and hardware that meet static,  
shock, dynamic, and any other load requirements for  
supporting the subwoofer from structure.  
Mackie is not in the business of providing complete  
rigging systems, either as designers, manufacturers, or  
installers. It is the responsibility of the installer to  
provide a properly engineered, load-certified rigging  
system for supporting the subwoofer from structure.  
2. The design factor for and the required WLL  
(Working Load Limit) for this support.  
Mackie strongly recommends the following rigging  
practices:  
Rigging Notes  
The HD1801’s integral mounting points are designed  
to support only the weight of their own subwoofer,  
or in combination with (1) one HD-Series full-range  
loudspeaker, with suitable, external hardware. This  
means that each HD subwoofer, alone or paired with an  
HD-Series full-range loudspeaker, must be supported  
independently of any other HD subwoofer and any other  
loads.  
1. Documentation: Thoroughly document the design  
with detailed drawings and parts lists.  
2. Analysis: Have a qualified professional, such as a  
licensed Professional Engineer, review and approve the  
design before its implementation.  
3. Installation: Have a qualified professional rigger do  
the installation and inspection.  
A minimum of two rigging points must be used to hang  
an HD1801. More may be used for creating the desired  
hanging angle as shown in the illustrations on page 12.  
All mounting points are fully load bearing so any two  
may be used for rigging; no mounting points are  
restricted to angle control only.  
4. Safety: Use adequate safety precautions and  
back-up systems.  
MP=Mounting Point  
12 Fly Points  
MP  
MP  
MP  
HD1801  
MP  
MP  
MP  
MP  
Two on the rear  
Two per side  
Three each on the top and bottom  
12  
HD1801  
Important Rigging Reminder:  
To reiterate, Mackie is not in the business of providing  
complete rigging systems, either as designers,  
manufacturers, or installers. It is the responsibility of  
the installer to provide a properly engineered, load-cer-  
tified rigging system for supporting the subwoofer from  
structure.  
The illustrations provided below are just a couple of  
rigging possibilities.  
HD1801 with a Mackie HD1521 Flown Horizontally  
HD1801 with a Mackie HD1531 Flown Vertically  
Lower Rear  
Fly Point  
(adjusts angle)  
Lower Rear  
Fly Point  
(adjusts angle)  
Bottom  
Fly Point  
Bottom  
Fly Point  
Rear Fly Points  
(adjusts angle)  
Lower Rear  
Fly Point  
(adjusts angle)  
13  
Owner’s Manual  
Placement  
AC Power  
As mentioned in the previous two pages, HD1801  
Be sure the HD1801 is plugged into an outlet that  
subwoofers may be flown. However, they are designed to is able to supply the correct voltage specified for your  
sit on the floor or stage, as well. A socket is  
provided on top of the HD1801 for mounting other  
Mackie loudspeakers. Use a suitable speaker mounting  
pole to mount them on the HD1801. See the hookup  
diagrams starting on page 4.  
model. It will continue to operate at lower voltages, but  
will not reach full power.  
Be sure the electrical service can supply enough  
amperage for all the components connected to it.  
We recommend that a stiff (robust) supply of AC  
power be used because the amplifier places high  
current demands on the AC line. The more power that is  
available on the line, the louder the subwoofer will play  
and the more peak output power will be available for a  
cleaner, punchier bass. A suspected problem of “poor  
bass performance” is often caused by a weak AC supply  
to the amplifier.  
Check to make sure that the support surface (e.g.,  
floor, etc.) has the necessary mechanical characteris-  
tics to support the weight of the loudspeaker(s) and  
subwoofer(s).  
When pole-mounting loudspeakers, be sure that the  
HD1801 subwoofers are stabilized and secured from  
falling over or being accidentally pushed over. For  
stacked scenarios, it is highly suggested that straps are  
utilized. Failure to follow these precautions may result  
in damage to the equipment, personal injury, or death.  
Never remove the ground pin on the power  
cord or any other component of the HD1801.  
This is very dangerous.  
As with any powered components, protect them from  
moisture. Avoid installing the subwoofer in places  
exposed to harsh weather conditions. If you are setting  
them up outdoors, make sure they are under cover if you  
expect rain.  
Care and Maintenance  
Your Mackie subwoofers will provide many years of  
reliable service if you follow these guidelines:  
Avoid exposing the subwoofers to moisture. If  
they are set up outdoors, be sure they are under  
cover if rain is expected.  
Thermal Considerations  
The HD1801 has a powerful built-in amplifier capable  
of producing 800 watts of rms power. As an amplifier  
works, it produces heat. The higher the signal level, the  
louder and hotter it gets. It is important to dissipate the  
heat as quickly as possible. This results in increased  
reliability and longevity for the amplifier.  
Avoid exposure to extreme cold (below  
freezing temperatures). If you must operate the  
subwoofers in a cold environment, warm up the  
voice coils slowly by sending a low-level signal  
through them for about 15 minutes prior to  
high-power operation.  
The amplifier module is cooled by twin  
Use a dry cloth to clean the cabinets. Only do  
this when the power is turned off. Avoid getting  
moisture into any of the openings of the cabi-  
net, particularly where the driver is located.  
thermally-controlled vari-speed fans. In order for this  
cooling system to work efficiently, it is important to  
provide adequate airspace behind the subwoofer. When  
positioning the HD1801, we recommend leaving at least  
six inches of air space behind it.  
In the unlikely event of the amplifier overheating, a  
built-in thermal switch will activate, muting the  
amplifier’s output. When the amplifier has cooled down  
to a safe operating temperature, the thermal switch  
resets itself, and the HD1801 resumes normal operation.  
If the thermal switch activates frequently, try turning  
down the level control a notch or two on the mixing  
console (or the back of the HD1801) to avoid  
overheating the amplifier. Be aware that direct sunlight  
and/or hot stage lights may be the cause of an amplifier  
overheating.  
14  
HD1801  
Appendix A:  
Service Information  
If you think your Mackie product has a problem,  
please check out the following troubleshooting tips and  
do your best to confirm the problem. Visit the Support  
section of our website (www.mackie.com/support)  
where you will find lots of useful information such as  
FAQs and other documentation. You may find the answer  
to the problem without having to send your Mackie  
product away.  
Poor bass performance  
Check the polarity of the connections between  
the mixer and the subwoofers. You may have  
your positive and negative connections reversed  
at one end of one cable, causing one subwoofer  
to be out-of-phase.  
Check your subwoofer polarity switches are  
configured appropriately for your setup. See  
page 10 for more information.  
Troubleshooting  
Poor sound  
No power  
Is it loud and distorted? Make sure that you’re  
Is it plugged in? Make sure the AC outlet is live  
(check with a tester or lamp).  
not overdriving a stage in the signal chain.  
Verify that all level controls are set properly.  
Our next favorite question: Is the power switch  
on? If not, try turning it on.  
Is the input connector plugged completely into  
the jack? Be sure all connections are secure.  
Is the power LED on the rear panel glowing  
green? If not, make sure the AC outlet is live. If  
so, refer to “No sound” below.  
Noise  
Make sure all connections to the powered  
subwoofers are good and sound.  
The internal AC line fuse may be blown. This is  
not a user serviceable part. If you suspect the  
AC line fuse is blown, please see the "Repair"  
section next.  
Make sure none of the signal cables are routed  
near AC cables, power transformers, or other  
EMI-inducing devices.  
No sound  
Is there a light dimmer or other SCR-based  
device on the same AC circuit as the HD1801?  
Use an AC line filter or plug the HD1801 into a  
different AC circuit.  
Is the input level control for the input source  
turned all the way down? Verify that all the  
volume controls in the system are properly  
adjusted.  
Hum  
Is the signal source working? Make sure the  
connecting cables are in good repair and  
securely connected at both ends. Make sure the  
output volume (gain) control on the mixing  
console is turned up sufficiently to drive the  
inputs of the speaker.  
Try disconnecting the cable connected to the  
main input jack. If the noise disappears, it  
could be a “ground loop,” rather than a problem  
with the HD1801. Try some of the following  
troubleshooting ideas:  
Use balanced connections throughout your  
system for the best noise rejection.  
Make sure the mixer does not have a Mute on  
or a Processor loop engaged. If you find  
something like this, make sure the volume/  
gain is turned down before disengaging the  
offending switch.  
Whenever possible, plug all the audio  
equipment’s linecords into outlets which  
share a common ground. The distance  
between the outlets and the common  
ground should be as short as possible.  
Is the thermal indicator lit red on the rear  
panel? Make sure there is at least six inches of  
free space behind the HD1801.  
15  
Owner’s Manual  
Appendix B:  
Connections  
XLR Connectors  
Repair  
For warranty service, refer to the warranty  
information on page 19.  
The HD1801 has two female XLR inputs that accept  
balanced line-level signals. When connecting a balanced  
signal, be sure it’s wired per AES (Audio Engineering  
Society) standards:  
Non-warranty service for Mackie products is  
available at a factory-authorized service center. To  
click “Support” and select “Locate a Service Center.”  
Service for Mackie products living outside the United  
States can be obtained through local dealers or  
distributors.  
If you do not have access to our website, you may call  
the Tech Support department at 1-800-898-3211,  
Monday-Friday, during normal business hours, Pacific  
Time, to explain the problem. Tech Support will tell you  
where the nearest factory-authorized service center is  
located in your area.  
Balanced XLR Connectors  
XLR  
Pin 1 – Shield (Ground)  
Pin 2 – Hot (+)  
Pin 3 – Cold (–)  
There are also two male XLR connectors on the  
HD1801 labeled full range. These are also wired  
according to the AES standards listed above.  
The full range connectors allow you to connect  
several HD1801’s. Simply plug the signal source  
(e.g., mixer output) into the HD1801 input jack, and  
patch that subwoofer’s full range jack to the next  
subwoofer’s input jack, and so on, daisy-chaining  
multiple subwoofers.  
There is a limit to how many you can  
daisy-chain together. A general rule is to  
maintain a load impedance ten times or  
more than the source impedance to prevent  
excessive loading on the source. For exam-  
ple, if your mixer has an output impedance of 120 ohms,  
then you can daisy chain up to nine HD1801s. This is  
a load of 1222 ohms (HD1801 input impedance=11  
kohms; 9 of these in parallel=1222 ohms). Since  
microphones typically have a higher output impedance,  
you should limit daisy-chaining from a mic source to two  
HD1801s (assuming that loudspeakers are also con-  
nected to the subwoofers).  
16  
HD1801  
Appendix C: Technical Information  
HD1801 Specifications  
Acoustic Performance  
AC Power Requirements  
Frequency Response (–10 dB):  
Frequency Response (–3 dB):  
Max peak SPL (calculated)1:  
Max peak SPL (measured)2:  
35 Hz – 145 Hz  
44 Hz – 95 Hz  
133 dB  
US:  
100-120 VAC, 50-60 Hz,  
300 watts  
Europe:  
220-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz,  
300 watts  
129 dB  
AC Connector:  
3-pin IEC 250 VAC,  
15 A male  
Transducer  
Diameter:  
18.0 in / 457 mm  
4.0 in / 102 mm  
Paper  
Voice Coil Diameter:  
Diaphragm Material:  
Magnet Material:  
Construction Features  
Basic Design:  
Rectangular  
Ferrite  
Material:  
15 mm exterior grade  
premium birch plywood  
Power Amplifier  
Rated Power:  
Finish:  
High durability black  
paint  
800 watts rms  
1600 watts peak  
Handles:  
Grille:  
One on each side  
THD:  
< 0.03%  
Class D  
Powder-coated  
galvanized steel  
Design:  
Cooling:  
Active, twin thermally  
controlled vari-speed  
fans  
Fly Points:  
Twelve M10 x 1.5 mm  
Physical Properties  
Height:  
Input/Output  
Input Type:  
23.0 in / 584 mm  
23.0 in / 584 mm  
25.8 in / 655 mm  
106 lb / 48.1 kg  
Female XLR Balanced  
differential  
(stereo left/right)  
Width:  
Depth:  
Input Impedance:  
Full Range Output:  
20 k  
Weight:  
Male XLR Balanced  
(parallel with input)  
High Pass Output:  
Output Impedance:  
Level Control:  
Male XLR Balanced  
300  
Mounting Methods  
Floor mount or fly via 12 integrated M10 mounting points  
(using M10 x 1.5 x 37 mm forged shoulder eyebolts). See page  
12 for more information.  
–6 dB to +6 dB  
Electronic Crossover  
Crossover Type:  
24 dB/oct.  
Symmetrical  
Linkwitz-Riley  
Disclaimer  
Crossover Frequency:  
100 Hz  
Since we are always striving to make our products better by  
incorporating new and improved materials, components, and  
manufacturing methods, we reserve the right to change these  
specifications at any time without notice.  
Protection Features  
Over-excursion Protection:  
40 Hz 24 dB/oct.  
Butterworth High  
Pass Filter  
“Mackie” and the “Running Man” figure are registered  
trademarks of LOUD Technologies Inc.  
Thermal Protection:  
Amplifier mute, auto  
reset, twin thermally  
controlled vari-speed  
fans  
All other brand names mentioned are trademarks or registered  
trademarks of their respective holders, and are hereby  
acknowledged.  
Driver Protection:  
Display LEDs:  
Peak/RMS Limiter  
Power Light ON, Polarity  
Invert, Thermal,  
Sig/Limit, Front Power  
ON  
1 Calculated from peak driver sensitivity and amplifier power, half space.  
2 Measured with swept sine at 1 W within operating range, scaled for max power, half  
space.  
17  
©2010 LOUD Technologies Inc.  
All Rights Reserved.  
Owner’s Manual  
Frequency Response  
10  
0
-10  
-20  
-30  
-40  
-50  
10  
100  
1000  
Frequency (Hz)  
HD1801 Dimensions  
23.0 in /  
584 mm  
25.8 in /  
655 mm  
23.0 in /  
584 mm  
W E IG H T  
106 lb  
48.1 kg  
23.0 in /  
584 mm  
23.0 in /  
584 mm  
25.8 in /  
655 mm  
Correct disposal of this product. This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste, according to the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) and your national law. This product  
should be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and  
human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the effective usage of natural  
resources. For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city office, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.  
18  
HD1801  
HD1801 Block Diagram  
19  
Owner’s Manual  
Mackie Limited Warranty  
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.  
This Limited Product Warranty (“Product Warranty”) is provided by LOUD Technologies Inc. (“LOUD”)  
and is applicable to products purchased in the United States or Canada through a LOUD-authorized  
reseller or dealer. The Product Warranty will not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser of  
the product (hereinafter, “Customer,” “you” or “your”).  
For products purchased outside the U.S. or Canada, please visit www.mackie.com/warranty to find  
contact information for your local distributor, and information on any warranty coverage provided by the  
distributor in your local market.  
LOUD warrants to Customer that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship  
under normal use during the Warranty Period. If the product fails to conform to the warranty then LOUD  
or its authorized service representative will at its option, either repair or replace any such nonconforming  
product, provided that Customer gives notice of the noncompliance within the Warranty Period to the  
Company at: www.mackie.com/support or by calling LOUD technical support at 1.800.898.3211 (toll-  
free in the U.S. and Canada) during normal business hours Pacific Time, excluding weekends or LOUD  
holidays. Please retain the original dated sales receipt as evidence of the date of purchase. You will need it  
to obtain any warranty service.  
For full terms and conditions, as well as the specific duration of the Warranty for this product, please visit  
www.mackie.com/warranty.  
The Product Warranty, together with your invoice or receipt, and the terms and conditions located  
at www.mackie.com/warranty constitutes the entire agreement, and supersedes any and all prior  
agreements between LOUD and Customer related to the subject matter hereof. No amendment,  
modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this Product Warranty will be valid unless set forth in a  
written instrument signed by the party to be bound thereby.  
Need help with your new powered subwoofer?  
• Email us at: [email protected].  
Telephone 1-800-898-3211 to speak with one of our splendid technical support chaps (Monday through Friday, normal business hours, PST).  
20  
HD1801  
16220 Wood-Red Road NE • Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA  
United States and Canada: 800.898.3211  
Europe, Asia, Central and South America: 425.487.4333  
Middle East and Africa: 31.20.654.4000  
OUTPUTS  
FULL RANGE  
A
A
B
B
SETTINGS  
HD1801  
THERMAL  
SIG / LIMIT  
18 -INCH HIGH DEFINITION POWERED SUBWOOFER  
POWER  
LIGHT ON  
INPUTS  
HIGH PASS  
A
B
POLARITY  
INVERT  
- 6dB  
+6dB  
LEVEL  
SERIAL NUMBER  
REVISION  
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE  
NE PAS OUVRIR  
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR  
MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.  
POWER  
ON  

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