What is the peak power rating of the Mackie Thump 15S V4?

The subwoofer features a 1400W peak Class-D power amplifier. This high-efficiency design is intended to provide ample headroom for transient low-frequency peaks without distorting.

How low does the frequency response of this subwoofer go?

The Mackie Thump 15S V4 offers low-frequency extension down to 27 Hz. This allows it to reproduce very deep bass frequencies that standard full-range PA speakers typically cannot reach.

What is the maximum SPL output?

This subwoofer can achieve a maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 132 dB. This makes it suitable for providing significant low-end reinforcement in medium to large indoor spaces.

Does this subwoofer require an external amplifier?

No, the Thump 15S V4 is an 'active' or 'powered' subwoofer. It contains its own internal 1400W Class-D amplifier, requiring only a line-level signal and a power source to operate.

What kind of inputs does the unit have?

The unit features stereo XLR inputs. This allows users to feed a left and right signal from a mixer directly into the subwoofer for internal summing and processing.

Can I connect multiple subwoofers together?

Yes, the Thump 15S V4 includes stereo XLR outputs. These can be used to chain additional subwoofers or to send a high-passed signal to full-range top speakers.

How do the High-Pass modes work?

The selectable high-pass modes allow the user to quickly optimise the crossover frequency. This ensures that the subwoofer and the connected top speakers do not overlap in a way that causes muddy sound or phase issues.

Is there a variable crossover control?

Yes, in addition to preset modes, the unit features a variable crossover option. This allows for precise manual tuning to perfectly match the sub's output to any specific loudspeaker model.

What size is the internal driver?

The unit is equipped with a high-performance 15-inch woofer. This size is generally considered a balanced choice between the speed of a 12-inch driver and the deep displacement of an 18-inch driver.

Is the enclosure designed for touring?

The Thump 15S V4 features a durable enclosure and built-in carry handles. It is designed specifically for the rigours of regular transport by mobile performers and rental companies.

How does it compare to the QSC KLA181?

The QSC KLA181 is a larger 18-inch subwoofer, which typically offers different displacement characteristics. The Mackie Thump 15S V4 is a more compact 15-inch alternative that still provides a high SPL of 132 dB.

Can this be used with the RCF ART 735-A MK5?

Yes, it is highly compatible with 15-inch active speakers like the RCF ART 735-A MK5. Using the Thump 15S V4 allows the RCF tops to focus on mids and highs, increasing overall system clarity and volume.

Gear article

Mackie Thump 15S V4 15" Active PA Subwoofer

The Mackie Thump 15S V4 is a 1400-watt active PA subwoofer designed to extend the low-frequency performance of professional sound reinforcement systems. Featuring a 15-inch high-performance woofer and a Class-D amplifier, it delivers a maximum sound pressure level of 132 dB with frequency extension down to 27 Hz.

See live prices

Overview and Construction

The Mackie Thump 15S V4 is a professional-grade powered subwoofer built to complement full-range PA speakers. It is constructed within a durable enclosure designed to withstand the rigours of regular transport and live performance. The unit features built-in carry handles to facilitate easier load-in and load-out for mobile DJs and touring bands.

The hardware is centred around a high-performance 15-inch woofer, driven by a highly efficient 1400W Class-D power amplifier. This design prioritises high output while maintaining a manageable weight for portability.

Technical Features and Integration

To ensure compatibility with various sound systems, the Thump 15S V4 includes comprehensive I/O and tuning options. The rear panel provides stereo XLR inputs and outputs, allowing for flexible signal routing and the ability to chain additional subwoofers for larger venues.

User-adjustable controls include: * Selectable High-Pass Modes: Preset modes that simplify the process of matching the subwoofer to standard full-range loudspeakers. * Variable Crossover: An adjustable control for more precise system tuning, allowing users to define the specific frequency where the subwoofer hands off to the top speakers. * Stereo Connectivity: Facilitates easy integration into standard stereo PA setups.

Acoustic Performance

The Thump 15S V4 is engineered for strong bass response and high-volume output. It is capable of reaching a maximum SPL of 132 dB, which provides sufficient headroom for medium-sized venues. The frequency response extends down to 27 Hz, ensuring that the 'sub-bass' frequencies often lost in standard 12-inch or 15-inch full-range cabinets are accurately represented.

Market Position and Comparison

Positioned at a typical price point of £619, the Mackie Thump 15S V4 sits in the mid-range of the portable PA market. Compared to larger units like the QSC KLA181 18" subwoofer, the Thump 15S V4 offers a more compact footprint while providing significantly more low-end extension than budget-focused 8-inch or 10-inch units such as the AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer.

It is often paired with high-output top cabinets such as the RCF ART 735-A MK5 or the dB Technologies B-Hype 15" to create a full-range system capable of handling high-energy music genres.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the peak power rating of the Mackie Thump 15S V4?: The subwoofer features a 1400W peak Class-D power amplifier. This high-efficiency design is intended to provide ample headroom for transient low-frequency peaks without distorting.
How low does the frequency response of this subwoofer go?: The Mackie Thump 15S V4 offers low-frequency extension down to 27 Hz. This allows it to reproduce very deep bass frequencies that standard full-range PA speakers typically cannot reach.
What is the maximum SPL output?: This subwoofer can achieve a maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 132 dB. This makes it suitable for providing significant low-end reinforcement in medium to large indoor spaces.
Does this subwoofer require an external amplifier?: No, the Thump 15S V4 is an 'active' or 'powered' subwoofer. It contains its own internal 1400W Class-D amplifier, requiring only a line-level signal and a power source to operate.
What kind of inputs does the unit have?: The unit features stereo XLR inputs. This allows users to feed a left and right signal from a mixer directly into the subwoofer for internal summing and processing.
Can I connect multiple subwoofers together?: Yes, the Thump 15S V4 includes stereo XLR outputs. These can be used to chain additional subwoofers or to send a high-passed signal to full-range top speakers.
How do the High-Pass modes work?: The selectable high-pass modes allow the user to quickly optimise the crossover frequency. This ensures that the subwoofer and the connected top speakers do not overlap in a way that causes muddy sound or phase issues.
Is there a variable crossover control?: Yes, in addition to preset modes, the unit features a variable crossover option. This allows for precise manual tuning to perfectly match the sub's output to any specific loudspeaker model.
What size is the internal driver?: The unit is equipped with a high-performance 15-inch woofer. This size is generally considered a balanced choice between the speed of a 12-inch driver and the deep displacement of an 18-inch driver.
Is the enclosure designed for touring?: The Thump 15S V4 features a durable enclosure and built-in carry handles. It is designed specifically for the rigours of regular transport by mobile performers and rental companies.
How does it compare to the QSC KLA181?: The QSC KLA181 is a larger 18-inch subwoofer, which typically offers different displacement characteristics. The Mackie Thump 15S V4 is a more compact 15-inch alternative that still provides a high SPL of 132 dB.
Can this be used with the RCF ART 735-A MK5?: Yes, it is highly compatible with 15-inch active speakers like the RCF ART 735-A MK5. Using the Thump 15S V4 allows the RCF tops to focus on mids and highs, increasing overall system clarity and volume.