Mackie FR 1400 Power Amps Review

Mackie FR 1400 Power Amplifiers are the middle product in the FR series. The FR 1400 is a dual channel power amplifier capable of producing up to 1400 watts when bridged and put into single speaker operation, or up to 800 watts per channel in the standard stereo mode. This is more than enough power for bands or DJs that perform in small to medium sized concert venues. However, bands that expect to play in very large concert halls may choose to opt for the more powerful FR 2500.

The FR 1400 is equipped with two major features that enable it to be used in a wide variety of applications. The first is a high pass filter at 30 Hz. When enabled, this filter protects speakers from the damage that can be caused by subsonic frequencies that they can not reproduce. The filter can be just as easily disabled, however, enabling the FR 1400 to be operated as an amplifier for a subwoofer or drum kit. The other primary feature is a limiting circuit, which can also be enabled or disabled via a switch at the back of the unit. The limiting circuit automatically detects the transient attacks from bass pops or drum fills that can sometimes cause clipping, and transparently adjusts the input gain to prevent speaker damage. During normal operation, most users will not even be able to detect the fact that the limiting circuit is turned on. However, for quiet environments such as studio usage, the limiter can be disabled.

The FR 1400 is engineered for maximum thermal efficiency, and when installed in the correct rackmount configuration, should never encounter issues with overheating. It is constructed from solid steel, weighing in at a hefty 48.5 pounds. It is backed by a three year limited warranty, in which it is guaranteed by Mackie not to fail or to suffer from any workmanship defects.

Mackie, a producer of sound reinforcement equipment for studio professionals and musicians, has recently expanded its already considerable product line by adding power amplifiers. With its FR series of power amplifiers, Mackie pioneered its exclusive Fast Recovery technology. Traditional power amplifiers, when sent a signal high enough in amplitude to cause clipping, can occasionally remain "stuck" in sending clipped waveforms to the speakers. Fast Recovery prevents this, by isolating and limiting those waveforms, returning quickly to normal operation without offending the ears of your audience.

Mackie FR 1400 Power Amplifiers - Summary:
* Rated to produce a maximum output of 1400 watts (bridged, mono) or 800 watts per channel (stereo, 2 ohm speaker load)
* Features include a 30 Hz high pass filter and limiting circuit, to protect speakers from being damaged due to transient attacks of subsonic frequencies - both can be disabled if desired
* Solidly constructed, and cooled through a forced air induction fan system
* Backed by a three year warranty