Introduced in 1999, the 400-watt, single-input Mackie SRM450 offered monitor quality, wide dispersion and high output in a uniquely shaped composite enclosure. Destined to take the world by storm, the SRM450 began showing up, at events, clubs and stages worldwide. By the mid-2010’s, it was the gold standard for portable composite cabinet loudspeakers. Many of us cut our teeth on SRM450s, but advances in driver technology, Class-D amplification and onboard DSP meant the original SRM450, although popular, was getting a bit tired.
The Mackie SRM V-Class High performance loudspeakers represent the latest tier in the SRM series, offering improved sound quality and tour-ready reliability to give venues and performers a new class of all-in-one professional loudspeakers.
Step Up to the V-Class
SRM V-Class Loudspeakers incorporate advanced DSP with the latest in Class-D onboard amplification. Ruggedly built, they offer rock solid operation and reliability for the most demanding applications. They are available in three models (SRM210, SRM212, SRM215) based on woofer size.
Built with large powerful magnets, SRM V-class woofers incorporate robust voice coils for maximum efficiency and transient accuracy. Additional cooling vents surrounding the voice coils along with directional cabinet porting ensure maximum heat dispersion.
A 1.4” polymer compression driver coupled to a custom Sym-X horn creates a symmetrical flat response for smooth mids/highs. Additionally, the horn loading frequency is set below the drivers LF capability for optimal performance and efficiency at the crossover point.
All three models utilize 2,000-watt Class-D convection-cooled amplifiers delivering 1,800 watts peak to the woofer and 200 watts peak to the HF driver. Intelligent bass management technology maintains tonal balance and output level for a punchy bottom-end even at very high volume.
DSP and Protection
SRM V-Class loudspeakers utilize impulse DSP speaker management. Using FIR (Finite Impulse Response) filters the DSP independently corrects magnitude and phase response before the audio reaches the driver resulting is a smooth natural sound across the entire frequency range.
Advanced speaker protection uses a dedicated amplifier processing module to analyze the audio signal and identify problem areas. Then, it applies multi-band compression to the problem frequencies rather than lowering the overall output. Transparent to the user, this dedicated processing module monitors and protects in real time to maintain sound quality even under heavy limiting.
Additional limiters on each input help keep the source signals under control.
Mix and Control
The built-in four-channel mixer has two mic/line inputs on XLR combo connectors along with a stereo aux level input (1/8” TRS jack). Each XLR input has a dedicated loop out and a separate overall mix out is provided. The aux input can be used to stream signal from a paired Bluetooth device. When Bluetooth is enabled, the 1/8” input is disabled. Bluetooth input supports stereo linking and a Zone mode allows SRM V-class speakers to receive a mono-summed Bluetooth signal. Along with trim and level controls, each rear panel input has a three-band equalizer and high-pass filter.
A high-resolution color TFT display and a push and turn control are used to adjust input mix levels, channel equalization and overall gain. A “Mode” function selects preset speaker voicings as well as an indoor/outdoor configuration. Choosing “outdoor” enhances the voicings to account for the lack of reflective surfaces outdoors.
A crossover function sets a crossover point on the SRM V-series for specific Mackie subwoofers while a “variable” setting enables you to pick the crossover point. When used with a subwoofer the mix out can be set to full range or low pass.
For delay speaker applications, up to 100ms delay can be set. I like that the screen reads out in milliseconds, feet and meters.
All speaker settings can be saved into one of 10 user presets for later recall and there is a system lock with 4-digit passcode to keep unwanted “engineers” from tampering with the settings.
The Mackie SRM Connect app (iOS or Android) allows access over Bluetooth to all mixing adjustments including EQ, Levels, Presets, speaker voicing and user presets. Although the app is intuitive, it can only connect to one speaker at a time.
Built Like a Tank
Like its predecessor, the SRM V-Class has a rugged composite enclosure with 45-degree angled sides for monitor use. Recessed side handles make it easy to place the larger SRM215 on a speaker stand. An additional top handle can be removed revealing two M10 fly points. Use the optional PA-A3 eyebolt kit for hanging the speaker safely. Unlike the SRM450, the V-Class have a full front grille protecting the drivers. This rugged steel grill is backed by a fine mesh to help keep moisture and dust out. Two horizontal LED bars (selectable green or white) can be set to indicate power, signal present or turned off completely.
A dual pole socket allows for straight or angled mounting and rubber feet on the bottom and sides keep the speaker in place on stage.
At the Gig
For this review, I received a pair of SRM215’s and a pair of SRM212’s along with the optional “rollaboard” type carry bags. The bag’s built-in wheels and handles made quick work at load-in, especially with the larger SRM215’s. After the initial shop talk-out, it was off to a gig.
I used the SRM215’s as mains and the SRM212’s as monitors. I appreciated the two side handles as it made it easier to set the 49-pound speaker on my hydraulic stand. With the SRM215’s voicing set for “flat,” I still got a solid low-end without the need for subs. I had more than adequate power to cover the room and as I walked the space, the sound coverage was smooth with no “hot spots.”
The SRM212’s held their own as monitors. With the voicing set for “monitor” I didn’t need much additional EQ, and I had no issues when the vocalist accidentally pointed her mic directly at the speaker.
At another gig, I used the SRM212’s as the stage rig for a prog-rock band’s large synth setup. They easily handled all the synth drum and bass sound with no overload and plenty of output.
I used the SRM Connect app to mix a pair of mics and program music with no issues. However, I wanted to control the overall gain on the second speaker. Although I could see the second speaker was connected, I had to disconnect the first one to get control of the second. It would be beneficial if the app could switch between speakers without the need to “disconnect.”
Not Your Dad’s SRMs
The Verdict? Compared to that 1999 SRM450, these guys are a whole new ballgame. The 2,000 W Class-D amps can shake the walls, the onboard DSP is rock solid, and they have a clean professional appearance that looks good on any stage. From club gigs to corporate events, the SRM V-Class is at the top of its class.
At a Glance
SRM — The Next Generation
Mackie has taken its SRM pedigree to the next level with their SRM V-Class. High-performance sound for clubs, events, DJ’s, HOW and more.
Mackie SRM V-Class Powered Loudspeakers
PROS
- Loud and clear
- SRM215s hold their own without a sub
- Flexible configurations
- Rollaboard bags
CONS
- SRM215 is heavy (48 pounds)
- Switching between speakers on the app is kludgy
SPECS (SRM215 V-Class)
LF Driver: 15”
HF Driver: 1.4” exit compression
Max SPL: 136 dB
Frequency Response: 40 Hz — 20k Hz
Coverage: 90°(H) x 60°(V)
Inputs: (2) Dual XLR/TRS, Stereo 1/8”
Outputs: XLR direct out per channel; XLR Mix out
Weight: 48.9 pounds
Dimensions: 28.8 x 15.4 x 17.6”
Street Pricing: SRM210 V-Class: $749; SRM212-V-Class: $849; SRM215 V-Class: $949
MANUFACTURER: Mackie
More Info: www.mackie.com
